How Smart Plugs Can Easily Make Your Home Smarter

Smart plugs are devices that plug directly into any non-switch power outlet which gives you the ability to turn power on/off remotely or on a scheduled basis. This essentially gives you control over any plugged-in device using your home’s Wi-Fi or your security system’s Z-Wave network.

How do smart plugs work?

Was there ever a time when, already in your morning commute, you wondered, “Did I remember to turn off the coffee maker?” Have you ever arrived home after dark, and perhaps knocked your shin against the furniture getting to your living room lamp? An easy solution is to add smart plugs that can help with those scenarios and more.

Smart plugs are a type of smart home device that give you control over your home’s electronics and appliance automation. From lamps to hair straighteners, if there is a device that needs to be plugged in you can make it smart. These can also be programmed to perform certain actions based on schedules or triggers, such as when you leave or arrive home.

Programming a schedule is typically easy when using an app, as a user-friendly interface provides an intuitive way to select the time of day and the day of week the device will turn on or off.

What is the usefulness of smart plugs?

Having a smart plug provides you with the same conveniences as other smart devices. These devices can be controlled using an app, like Brinks Home™ Mobile App, or voice commands through a voice assistant.

Having the ability to turn on and off your appliances and electronics from anywhere that has an internet connection can be especially useful for controlling connected humidifiers, fans, phone chargers, etc. so there’s less wear and tear while nobody is home to use them.

You can also use these to remotely turn items on, such as a radio or lights, to set an atmosphere before arriving home.

How can I use these devices to help with energy efficiency?

Another benefit of smart plugs is energy efficiency.

These devices allow you to monitor and control your energy usage, which can help you save money on your energy bills. For example, you can set a smart plug to turn off your coffee maker when it is not in use or schedule a time to turn off your lights/lamps when you leave home.

Will adding a smart plug offer any security benefits?

Smart plugs can also improve home security. You can set your smart devices to turn on and off lights or appliances at certain times to make it look like someone is home, like when you are on vacation or just away for the night. This can deter burglars and give you peace of mind while you are away from your home.

Why should I add a schedule to a power outlet?

In addition to convenience, energy efficiency, and home security, smart plugs can also be used to create a more comfortable living environment. If you love indoor gardening, but lack ample sunlight, setting a schedule for grow lights can ensure your beloved plants get adequate light daily. Timing these lights to turn off before you get home can spare you from an undesirable bright glow while you’re trying to wind down in the evening.

Integrating smart plugs into your new or existing system:

Luckily, smart plugs are one of the easiest smart devices to install into your home. Most of these devices simply require you to plug them into an outlet and walk through the steps to connect to your Wi-Fi.

Overall, smart plugs are a great addition to any smart home. They offer convenience, energy efficiency, improved home security, and a more comfortable living environment. These devices are easy to install and can be controlled via apps or voice commands, making them accessible and user-friendly.

If you are considering adding a smart plug to your home, contact a Brinks Home Security Consultant to ensure you get the best equipment that will integrate with any new or existing smart home system or security panel.