SMART PLUGS & SWITCHES BUYING GUIDE

A smart plug is a plug with built-in technology that allows it to be connected to the internet through Wi-Fi. The plug’s power supply, and therefore the power supply of any electrical item plugged into it, can then be controlled remotely through a smartphone or tablet or with a smart speaker using voice commands.

Smart plugs allow users to turn electrical items on and off at any time, automate them with schedules or set timers. They can also be connected to other smart home devices as part of a larger smart home system.

Smart plugs are helpful all around the home. For example, they can be used with lamps to turn lights on when no one’s home. They can provide peace of mind that products such as hair straighteners are switched off. They can turn the radio and a coffee machine on with a voice command in the morning. And they’re ideal for use in hard-to-access plug sockets. Some smart plugs can also monitor energy usage to help control electricity bills.

How do smart plugs work?

Smart plugs work by plugging them into a wall socket, downloading the relevant app on a smartphone or tablet, and following the on-screen instructions to connect them.

Some smart plugs also require a smart hub, which acts as a go-between for the plug and the internet router. Most smart plugs connect to their app through Wi-Fi, while others use Bluetooth.

Once a smart plug is set up, any electrical device can be plugged into it, allowing the user to control the device through the app or a smart speaker. When they’re connected through Wi-Fi, they can be controlled from anywhere in the world as long as there’s an internet connection.

Instead of a smart plug, you can install a smart power socket. It works in the same way but must be wired into the electrics. Smart plugs and sockets do the same thing, so always use one or the other, never both.

Types of smart plugs

Wi-Fi smart plugs

Wi-Fi smart plugs are plugs that connect to the internet through Wi-Fi so they can be controlled using a smartphone or tablet from anywhere in the world. They can also be controlled by voice commands through a smart speaker when the user is at home. Some smart plugs also come with smart remote controls, or these can be purchased separately. They simply plug into a wall socket, with no installation required.

Bluetooth smart plugs

A Bluetooth smart plug is a wireless electric plug that connects to the internet and is controlled through smartphones, tablets, or smart speakers. Instead of using a Wi-Fi connection, it connects to the smartphone or tablet using Bluetooth. This means Bluetooth smart plugs can only be controlled when at home.

Smart switches are wall switches with built-in technology that allows them to be connected to the internet through Wi-Fi. Once set up, the switch can then be controlled remotely. 

Smart switches allow users to turn electrical appliances or lights on and off at any time, from anywhere, and to automate them with schedules or set timers. They can also be connected to other smart home devices as part of a larger smart home system.

Smart switches are ideal for controlling a home’s primary lights or for use with wired-in kitchen appliances controlled with a switch.

Smart switches replace standard switches, so they must be wired into the electrics. Simply download the app and follow the on-screen instructions to connect them.

Types of smart switches

Dimmer - Some smart switches have a dimmer function, so the lights can be dimmed via a smart device or voice command. This is an excellent feature to avoid harsh, bright lights in the evening.

Number of ways - Smart switches can be 1, 2, 3 or 4-way. A 1-way switch is turned on or off from a single switch. 2-way switches are also turned on or off, but they can be controlled by two different switches. For example, lights above stairs are controlled by one switch at the bottom and one at the top.

Number of gangs - The number of gangs on a smart switch refers to the number of switches on a single plate. Each switch operates a different light or appliance.

Finishes and colours - Smart switches come in a range of finishes and colours so you can match with your décor. Some examples are white, stainless steel, black nickel, and chrome.

Screwed or screwless - The front plate of a screwed smart switch must be screwed on, which means the screws are visible. A screwless smart switch has a clip-on front plate which means there are no visible screws.

Brands - Popular brands include Energenie, Philips Hue, and TCP, but many more are available. If you’re buying more than one smart switch, it’s best to stick to a single brand, and always check their compatibility with any existing smart technology in the home.

A smart socket is a device that plugs directly into a standard wall outlet and allows you to control whatever is plugged into it via a smartphone app or voice assistant. They usually connect through your home’s WiFi network or bluetooth. Common uses include; turning on/off your lamps or lighting at home, making coffee (automated) and turning on appliances (such as a fan).

Wi-Fi smart sockets

Wi-Fi smart sockets are plug sockets that connect to the internet through Wi-Fi so they can be controlled using a smartphone or tablet from anywhere in the world. They can also be controlled by voice commands through a smart speaker when you’re at home.

Smart sockets are hardwired in place of a “regular” socket, so installation should be carried out by an electrician. The features available for smart sockets vary but can include built-in energy monitoring, setting timers and schedules, automation, and a countdown function. 

Smart extension leads

 As with a standard extension lead, a smart extension lead allows a single socket to be turned into multiple sockets, with the added benefit of being automated or controlled remotely. Some smart extension leads also come with remote controls. Ports are often surge-protected and can be controlled individually.

Benefits

• Convenient and easy to use - Turn lights and appliances on and off remotely via an app.

• Works with voice commands - Link smart plugs or switches to a smart speaker. You should always check compatibility before purchasing - for example, the product information should say ‘works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit or SmartThings’.

• Increases home security - Check to see if lights or appliances have been left on when you’re not at home or turn lights on when away to deter burglars.

• Helps lower electricity bills - A smart plug with the energy monitoring feature lets you see how much energy is used. So, you can reduce usage or swap energy-guzzling appliances for energy-efficient ones.

• Links with other types of smart devices - Automate multiple, everyday tasks to make life easier. For example, link a smart switch that controls a hall light to a smart motion sensor, so the lights turn on if someone activates the sensor at night. Not all smart home devices work together, so check compatibility before buying.

• Makes hard to reach sockets accessible - Use smart plugs and sockets behind furniture and control them through an app or voice commands. If you’re using a smart plug, check the size fits before buying.

Drawbacks

• Smart plug sizes - Smart plugs are generally larger than standard plugs, so they may be too bulky to fit behind furniture. If that’s the case, use a smart socket instead.

• Digital data security risks - As with all things connected to the internet, smart plugs and sockets could be subject to hacking, and personal data could be shared with unwanted third parties. However, they can be made safer by taking precautions.

• Bluetooth connections limit usage - Wi-Fi smart plugs and sockets can be controlled from anywhere in the world, as long as there’s an internet connection. However, with a Bluetooth connection, users have to be in the vicinity of the plug or socket, so they can only be controlled while at home. If remote control is important to the user, choose a Wi-Fi connected device.