Smart plugs were one of the first things we added to our own connected home setup. At first, we just wanted to see if they worked. But after using them for years, we’ve realized they’re more about total control than anything else.
If you've ever gotten all the way into bed and realized the living room lamp was still on, or wondered while you were on vacation if you left the iron plugged in, you know what we're talking about.
1. It's All About Scheduling
We use smart plugs to manage the small morning tasks. Setting our old-school coffee maker to power on five minutes before we wake up is a simple joy that we've come to rely on every single morning.
2. Creating "Scenes" That Work for You
One of our favorite things to do is create a "Movie Night" scene. With one command, the smart plugs attached to our ambient lighting turn on, the kettle for tea starts up, and the main living room lights go off. It's a small change, but it makes our space feel totally customized.
3. Simple Reliable Control
We've tested plenty of plugs that drop their connection or fail to follow their schedule. That's why we eventually landed on a few models that we actually find reliable. There’s nothing more frustrating than your automation failing right when you need it.
Conclusion
If you’re starting out, smart plugs are a great place to begin. They aren't fancy, but they’ve made our daily lives just a little bit smoother.