7 smart plug tricks that instantly made my home feel more automated

2026-01-03 · Source: News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET · Field: Technology & Digital — Internet of Things (IoT) & Connected Devices, Energy Efficiency & Conservation · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, medium

Summary

Smart plugs, modern descendants of devices like The Clapper, offer enhanced convenience and automation for various household applications. These devices allow control of electronics via smartphone apps, voice commands, or schedules, transforming "dumb" appliances into smart ones. Beyond basic light control, smart plugs can bolster security by automating lights to deter intruders or cutting power to garage door openers. They facilitate motion-activated lighting setups, enhance climate control by automating fans or space heaters, and improve safety by remotely managing hot tools like curling irons or soldering guns. Additionally, smart plugs help limit screen time for children by controlling TVs or gaming consoles, contribute to utility bill savings through energy monitoring and vampire device management, and enable remote resetting of older routers. Some smart plugs consume 1-2 watts when idle, while low-energy protocols like Zigbee or Z-Wave draw as little as 0.3 watts.

Key takeaway

For homeowners seeking to enhance security, reduce energy consumption, or simply add convenience, integrating smart plugs into your living space is a practical and cost-effective solution. You can start by automating lighting schedules for security, then expand to managing high-draw appliances or hot tools. Consider smart plugs with energy monitoring to identify and reduce "vampire" power draw, potentially lowering your utility bills.

Key insights

Smart plugs offer versatile automation for security, convenience, energy savings, and transforming traditional devices.

Principles

• Automate for security and convenience.
• Monitor energy to reduce consumption.
• Use occupancy sensors for precise control.

Method

Integrate smart plugs with voice assistants (Alexa, Siri, Google Gemini) and sensors (motion, occupancy, temperature) to create automated routines for lighting, climate, and device control.

In practice

• Automate lights to deter intruders.
• Cut power to garage door openers at night.
• Use smart plugs for hot tools to prevent fire hazards.

Topics

• Smart Plugs
• Home Automation
• Smart Home Security
• Energy Monitoring
• Voice Assistants

Best for: General Interest

Related on AIssential

• 5 easy ways you wouldn't think to automate your home - but you really should — Automating often-forgotten or repetitive tasks with smart devices significantly enhances home convenience and efficiency.
• Google wants partners building Gemini-powered smart home devices — Google is accelerating Gemini's smart home hardware integration through partner programs and validated reference designs.
• I always keep 3 devices connected to a power station - here's why — Proactively use power stations as UPSs for critical devices to ensure continuous operation during outages.
• The Govee smart lamp brightened up my room, and then my life — Small, positive changes in one's environment can significantly improve mental well-being and create momentum for broader self-care.
• Thinking about plug-in solar? It may be coming to your state soon — Plug-in solar offers an accessible, cost-reducing energy solution, facing US regulatory hurdles despite proven international success.
• 10 useful gadgets for your first apartment — Equipping a new studio apartment with smart gadgets enhances safety, cleanliness, comfort, and convenience.

Open in AIssential →

Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET.