Home Automation with Smart Plugs

Intro Into Smart Plugs

8/4/2017

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Both Steph and I really like our app supported smart home devices. I only have a few--some Hue lights and my Ecobee smart thermostat. Some smart devices must be hardwired, like the thermostat, but many others can be retrofitted into existing fixtures, like using smart bulbs in current lamps and overhead lighting.

Some things, like lamps that use speciality bulbs that don't have a smart bulb equivalent, can be made to operate as a smart device with simple adaptations like the switchmate that turns switches into smart ones and using smart plugs in outlets to control whatever is plugged into it. The best thing, is nothing is hardwired--it's simply plug and go! Watch the video above to learn all about smart plugs!

Learn how to plug a light, fan and more into a smart plug to add some home automation to your house.

This outlet is now app enabled with the addition of this smart plug. Anything plugged into it can be turned on and off remotely with an iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, Amazon Alexa and more!

Once a device is plugged into the smart plug and the app is set up, the device can literally be controlled anywhere--from inside your home or miles away.

All smart plugs will have an app where you can setup the device and create the home automation.

This fan is a good candidate for a smart plug. Its got kind of an awkward switch. Plugged into a smart plug would made it usable remotely.

With app enabled lights, Steph can summon Siri or Alexa voice activation to remotely turn on or off ALL lights at the same time in her home.

Yes, she's talking to her phone to control her smart plug, but she could also use her watch to control the plug.

Smart plugs are an easy way to start turning your space into a smart home.

There are many brands and types of smart devices on the market now. Do your research to see what would be best for your needs. Make sure what you choose works with your phone and will work with other smart devices you already have.

You may not feel the need to add these devices to your home, but may want them as you age. I love my smart thermostat where I can change the temperature from my phone without having to physically go to the thermostat. This is a real convience especially during the night so I no longer have to make my way in the dark to change it. And, app controlled lights--there's no turning back for me--they turn on and off at the touch of a button and can be controlled from anywhere.

What kind of smart devices do you have currently? What do you want to install in the future? Let us know in the comments below!

Please note: We are not sponsored by any of the companies/products that we used. These products were picked and bought by us.

FYI: We are not professionals, and we don’t claim to be. This is what we found worked for our project. Yours may need a little different approach. Safety first!

FYI: Affiliate links are being used on this page. Purchasing via these links help support MDP!