WHAT HOME APPLIANCES ARE SUITABLE TO USE WITH SMART PLUGS?
Electrical devices such as standing fans, desk and floor lamps, aquarium and grow lights, electric kettles, coffee makers, phone chargers, air purifiers, dehumidifiers, TV and even holiday decorations are perfect for smart plugs.
However, refrain from pairing smart plugs with high-power appliances such as refrigerators, air-conditioners, washing machines and microwave ovens. These appliances typically require dedicated circuits and can overload a smart plug.
If you’re using a power strip, ensure that the total wattage of the devices does not exceed the smart plug’s rated capacity. Overloading can potentially damage both the smart plug and the connected devices.
Also, devices with sensitive electronics such as computers, gaming consoles and audio equipment may not do well with smart plugs that cut power abruptly as it can lead to data loss or corruption.
It is worth mentioning that “smart plugs might not be suitable for controlling medical or life support equipment as any malfunction could pose significant safety risks”, said Assoc Prof Panda.
WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN SHOPPING FOR SMART PLUGS?
Do you already have a smart home platform such as Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant? If you do, check that the smart plug you have your eye on is compatible with it.
Another consideration is, where do you intend to place the smart plug? Manufacturers have designed them sleeker these days but there are bulky ones around – and they can block access to other outlets.
Furthermore, smart plugs inevitably add a few centimetres to the wall, so if you intend to hide them behind furniture, you have to make space.
