All about smart plugs

The smart plug, also called smart plug mentioned, is an indispensable part of the shops. The plugs make devices that are not ‘smart’ still interactive. The smart plug has a corresponding remote control or app. A well-known example is a so-called ‘click on, click off’ system. With a button someone remotely turns their lamp or a group of lamps on or off.

Some smart plugs also measure the energy consumption of a device or can be switched on via a schedule. For example, set the lights to always turn off at 11:30 PM. Most smart plugs are intended for indoor use, but there are also (splash) waterproof smart plugs for outdoor use, for example for garden lamps. Some plugs work together with a voice assistant, for example the Google Assistant. A smart plug can also be linked to a motion sensor.

Smart plugs are widely used for lamps. But other household appliances are also suitable. Think of a coffee machine, a fan or electric heater. So devices that are turned on via a button and immediately turn on when power is available. A kettle where the temperature must first be set via a display is therefore not very suitable. But the sun protection with an on-off button does.

Dozens of brands have smart plugs. Well-known brands but also budget chains. Ikea has the TRÅDFRI. This is a series of smart products, including a smart plug. It can switch on and off up to ten light sources or small devices simultaneously via an app. Lidl has a Smart Home collection with smart devices, including a plug. There are also all kinds of (un)known brands, from Bosch and TP-Link to fantasy names.

Smart plugs are easy to install.

• Plug the smart plug into the wall socket.
• Plug a device into the socket of the smart plug. So, for example, insert the plug of the lamp into the connection of the smart plug.
• If necessary, connect the whole with the remote control or app.

The plug and the connected device are ready for use. Switch on the lamps via, for example, a remote control or Google Nest.

The TRÅDFRI from Ikea is available for 9.95 euros and Lidl has a so-called intermediate plug for just under 10 euros. But there are also plugs that cost more than 50 euros. They then have extra gadgets, such as a luminous ring that indicates the power consumption.

It can be tempting to order smart plugs from AliExpress or another Chinese online store. We don’t recommend that. The plugs are not approved for the European market. So they are not guaranteed to be safe.

• Smart plugs are especially easy. Those who like to switch on lights remotely or open and close the curtains automatically will enjoy it. Also useful for people who are less mobile.
• Some models measure the energy consumption of a device. Good for the electricity bill. The devices that are ‘standby’ normally use power. If there is a smart plug between the device and the socket, this will not happen. This reduces the risk of, for example, fire.

Smart plugs have few drawbacks in themselves. They provide convenience without the need to replace lamps or other appliances. However, there are some downsides to consider:

• Smart plugs from different brands do not work well together. That’s only going to use the same protocol. That is the language with which devices communicate with each other. Often a different app or remote control is required for each type of plug. Or a hub is needed, a device that still connects them.
• Smart plugs are available in all price ranges. So they cost money in exchange for convenience.
• Remotes can get lost. So make sure you have a central place to store them.