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7 Ways Smart Plugs Can Simplify Your Life (According to ZDNET)
This article from ZDNET highlights seven practical uses for smart plugs, going beyond simple on/off control. Here’s a summary:
- Automate Holiday Lights: Easily control and schedule holiday lights without needing to physically plug and unplug them.
- Control Appliances Remotely: Turn appliances on or off from anywhere using your smartphone or voice assistants like Alexa, Siri, or Google Gemini. The example given is a glue gun.
- Voice Control: Integrate with voice assistants for hands-free control of connected devices.
- Limit Kids’ Screen Time: Control access to TVs, gaming consoles, and even Wi-Fi by scheduling on/off times via a smart plug. The author cleverly hides the plug behind the TV to prevent tampering.
- Save on Utility Bills: Reduce “vampire power” consumption by turning off devices when not in use and monitoring energy usage. Smart plugs use minimal power themselves (1-2 watts vs.5-10 watts for devices in standby). zigbee or Z-Wave plugs can use even less (0.3 watts).
- Make Older Devices Smart: Bring smart functionality to older appliances that weren’t originally designed with it.
- [The article is cut off here, but the image suggests this point is about adding smart functionality to lamps or other devices.]
The article emphasizes the convenience, control, and potential cost savings offered by smart plugs. It also points out the benefits of choosing plugs with low-energy connectivity protocols like Zigbee or Z-Wave for even greater energy efficiency.
