Modern smart home systems include a wide range of electronic devices that provide remote control of ventilation and heating systems. Based on a signal from a mobile phone, computer or tablet, floor heating, air conditioning and electricity systems can be activated or disabled. One of these elements is a “smart socket”.
“Smart” sockets, unlike the complex “smart home” system, are affordable and can be used individually. With their help, you can provide comfortable living conditions for a relatively small fee. These devices will help to monitor the operation of electrical appliances while the owners are away, prepare coffee in advance or turn on the heater 2-3 hours before the owner returns.
This article discusses the types of smart plugs, potential capabilities, technical characteristics, advantages, disadvantages and features of using these devices. In addition, in the article you can find recommendations for choosing a device and the TOP 10 best models of 2022.
What is it and how does it work?
A smart socket is an electrical device that can not only supply power to a particular electrical appliance, but also, at the operator’s command or on a timer, disconnect this device from the power supply. The use of smart sockets in a private home or apartment not only improves the quality of life, but also significantly reduces energy costs.
To remotely control such devices, a computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone can be used, in other words, any gadgets that have free access to the Internet. This can be a landline, mobile or Wi-Fi connection.
Purpose
Remote or program control is used to turn on and off electrical appliances that do not have their own programmable units.
- Lighting fixtures: floor lamp or table lamp;
- fan;
- heater;
- electric heating system for a country house;
- and much more.
For example, by connecting a water supply solenoid valve to such an outlet, you can remotely turn on or off the water supply to the garden irrigation system.
If it is necessary to simulate his presence, the owner can configure the operation algorithm of the smart power supply complex so that it seems that in the evening the inhabitants of the house are walking through the rooms, turning on and off the lights in the rooms.
In the cold season, you can turn on the heating remotely in advance before arriving at the dacha. A smart socket will supply electricity so that the house only warms up slightly in the absence of the owners.
The smart gadget is also useful when connecting the electrical equipment of the aquarium, for automated supply of air and food, and turning the backlight on and off.
How a smart plug works
The operating principle of the device is based on the use of a conventional relay. When receiving a signal from a remote control, smartphone, tablet or other gadget, turns on or off electrical equipment connected to the outlet. The first models of smart plugs required the presence of a SIM card, and they were controlled using SMS or a call on a mobile phone.
Nowadays, Wi-Fi and bluetooth are widely used to monitor and control the socket. The presence of these connections allows you to turn an ordinary smartphone into a remote control; to do this, just install a special program in the gadget that transmits a signal to the device controller.
Smart plug for use in workshop/garage/shed
Charging the tool
Many power tools, such as drills and hedge trimmers, can be cordless with rechargeable batteries. Using a smart plug, you can set the amount of time each tool will charge, allowing you to avoid overcharging and wasting power.
Electric heaters
Working in a cold shop while you wait for space heaters to warm up the space is not ideal. Smart plugs allow you to turn on heaters remotely, so you can walk into a nice, warm workshop and get started on your projects.
What can smart plugs do?
Depending on the design and purpose of the device, a smart socket can perform various useful functions:
- Using such a device, you can remotely control the power supply to household electrical appliances, heating, ventilation and other systems powered by the electrical network. The scope of application of smart sockets is not limited to closing and opening contacts. Some models are equipped with special sensors that allow the device to operate autonomously;
- sockets equipped with a timer are ideal for working with fans, heaters, air conditioners and other devices that maintain a comfortable indoor microclimate. Timely switching on and off of these devices allows you not only to ensure optimal microclimate parameters in your house or apartment, but also significantly reduces energy consumption.
- The presence of a Wi-Fi connection or bluetooth provides the ability to remotely control the power supply using a computer, laptop, tablet, smartphone or any other gadget connected to the Internet. Remote access allows you to turn electrical appliances on or off at the right time and regulate the duration of their operation. So, when leaving work, you can turn on the heater in winter or the air conditioner in summer in advance. In addition, you can always make sure that a working iron or other heating device is not left unattended.
- There are models of smart sockets equipped with voltmeters, ammeters and other measuring instruments that allow you to monitor the operation of the household electrical network. Such devices can monitor the level of electricity consumption of a particular household electrical appliance and notify the owner of excessive electricity consumption or, on the contrary, the cessation of operation of electrical equipment.
- Equipping a smart socket with a temperature sensor allows you to regulate the temperature in the room automatically, without the intervention of the home owner. When the temperature drops, the device automatically supplies power to heaters or other heating devices. When the set temperature is reached, the power supply is stopped.
Creative uses of smart plugs
Deter burglars by making it look like someone's home
By connecting the lights in your home to smart plugs, you can automatically turn them on and off while you're away, creating the illusion that someone is home. This should help deter potential burglars from trying to break in while you're not around.
Novelty doorbell
If you have a smart doorbell, for example, a ring video doorbell, you can use the IFTTT applet to turn on and then turn off the smart plug when the doorbell rings. For example, you can connect Christmas lights to a smart plug and hang them around your front door, which will temporarily flash when the doorbell rings, creating a nice effect for visitors.
Useful IFTTT applet:
If the doorbell rings, turn off and on your WeMo smart plug
Fun weather notifications
If you're really hoping it'll snow this year and want to know right away if it will, a smart plug might be a fun solution. Using a combination of a smart plug, a lamp, free Weather Underground data, and IFTTT, you can make your lamp blink a set number of times when it snows. To do this, you need to create an IFTTT applet that tells your smart plug to constantly turn on/off when Weather Underground data indicates it's snowing in your area.
Motion activated backlight
If your home has motion sensors, such as those that come with an alarmed home security system, you can create an IFTTT applet that automatically turns on a smart plug when motion is detected. This means you can have the hall light turn on automatically if the bedroom door is opened at night, making midnight trips to the bathroom much easier. Another example is to use it to deter burglars by turning on various lights when motion is detected at night.
Useful IFTTT applet:
Turn on WeMo Smart Plug when the ring detects motion at night
Types of smart plugs
All existing modifications of the device can be classified according to two main characteristics:
- by installation method;
- according to the control method.
Let's consider these modifications in detail.
By installation method
According to the type of installation, smart sockets can be:
- internal;
- external.
Built-in
Internal sockets are not removable modules and are installed permanently, like regular sockets. Such devices are part of the electrical wiring common to the entire building.
Internal smart sockets are usually installed together with other elements of the smart home system. Most often, the internal type of sockets are made to order and are quite expensive. It is best to entrust the installation and configuration of these devices to professional electricians.
External
Unlike internal ones, external smart sockets are not part of the wiring, but are a mobile module that can be installed in any regular stationary socket. The advantages of external devices include mobility, affordable cost and ease of operation. Among the shortcomings, the bulkiness and low aesthetic characteristics of the connection are striking.
Interesting. External modifications of smart sockets are much more practical than internal modules. They are affordable and portable; in addition, their installation does not require any special skills or tools. Most often, external modules are used separately from the main elements of the smart home system.
By control method
Based on the control method, smart sockets can be divided into three groups:
- radio controlled;
- with GSM control (control is carried out using SMS messages);
- controlled via the Internet (WI-FI or mobile).
Let us consider in detail each of these modifications.
Radio controlled sockets
The principle of operation of such devices is that the receiver receives a radio signal from a transmitter located in a small-sized mobile control panel. With one remote control you can control the operation of 8 sockets. The range of such a remote control, as a rule, does not exceed 70 m.
The power supply is supplied from the network, the remote control is supplied from batteries. On the remote control, each serviced outlet has two buttons: on/off. After installing the smart socket into a regular one, you need to configure the device. When moving, if the operating mode of the connected device has not changed, there is no need to change the settings.
Some models of radio-controlled smart sockets provide the ability to control not only from a remote control, but also directly from the device itself. For this purpose, there are special keys on the device body. Radio-controlled sockets are produced exclusively in outdoor versions. The advantages of such models include the following factors:
- no need for installation work during installation;
- the ability to control several sockets from one remote control;
- affordable price;
- the ability of the control radio signal to pass through wooden, brick and reinforced concrete walls;
- Smart functions require a small amount of electricity to perform.
Radio-controlled sockets also have disadvantages:
- possible false triggering of controlled household appliances;
- metal and metal-containing building structures significantly reduce the power of the control signal;
- The control radio signal may negatively affect the operation of electronic systems within its range.
Important! The use of smart plugs with radio control is strictly prohibited in medical institutions and in places where people with pacemakers are likely to be present.
Sockets with GSM control
Externally, such devices are similar to radio-controlled models. Some models of GSM sockets allow you to connect 4 consumers simultaneously. Connection to a stationary outlet can be carried out either directly, using a plug, or through a cord having a plug connector at the end. GSM sockets can be equipped with temperature sensors, smoke sensors, gas leaks, and the position of doors and windows of the home.
The socket housing contains a board with a GSM module and a slot for installing a SIM card. Some modifications include a backup power source (battery or capacitor). Such socket models allow you to promptly inform the home owner about the occurrence of an emergency situation and put the connected consumers into sleep mode to save the settings. When purchasing a smart socket with GSM control, you should be guided by the following criteria:
- the number of plug connectors must correspond to the expected number of consumers;
- It is advisable to use the outlet at 70% of the rated power, leaving 30% for unforeseen circumstances;
- a smart socket that controls home heating and climate control systems must be equipped with an uninterruptible power supply (battery or capacitor). In the event of a power outage, this will save the user from having to re-configure the device’s operating program.
Internet controlled sockets
This type of smart plugs is rightfully considered the most high-tech. Using a Wi-Fi connection allows you to monitor the work of consumers in real time and make the necessary adjustments in a timely manner. The Internet allows you to control elements of the smart home system regardless of removal.
Externally, Wi-Fi sockets are practically no different from their GSM counterparts. Such devices are produced both for one consumer and for several household electrical appliances.
Tips for choosing a smart plug
When purchasing a device, special attention should be paid to the following criteria:
Maximum total power of connected consumers
This parameter must be indicated in the technical characteristics of each outlet. It is this characteristic that determines whether it can withstand the connection of a particular consumer.
For modern smart plugs, this figure can range from 1.8 to 3.5 kW, in other words, the maximum current that the device’s internal relay can withstand is from 8 to 16 A.
If the permissible power does not exceed 2.5 kW, the device can withstand connecting a grill or dishwasher. With a permissible power of 3.2 to 3.5 kW, the socket can be used to connect a heater, iron or boiler. The power consumption of each electrical appliance must be indicated in its technical documentation.
Grounding, child lock, overload shutdown
To protect yourself and your children from injury, preference should be given to models with grounding and protective “curtains”. The presence of these protective elements is especially important if there is a small child in the house.
You should also pay special attention to the presence of safety mechanisms that ensure that the device turns off when the temperature rises or a sudden increase in voltage or current. The absence of such protection can lead not only to failure of the consumer and the outlet, but also to a fire.
Energy consumption measurement
The presence of this function allows you to find out whether the outlet is working optimally or is overloaded. Some models can calculate monthly electricity consumption. Thanks to this option, you can find out which appliance consumes a lot of energy and increases your monthly electricity bill.
In addition, this option will help assess the voltage in the network and prevent the failure of expensive household appliances.
Ease of use
You can control it using a remote control, SMS commands or a mobile application. When using GSM sockets, you will need to remember a few simple SMS commands, monitor the SIM card balance and top it up on time. If you use a Wi-Fi connection, you must have a smartphone, tablet or laptop at your disposal.
Support for automatic scripts and schedules. Climate control
Before purchasing a particular model, you need to make sure that it supports the creation of automatic scripts and setting work timers. The presence of these options allows you to enter individual settings.
Thus, the Livicom radio-controlled socket supports 3 types of scenarios that help you use the device with maximum efficiency. Using the script, when leaving home, you can turn off all the outlets at once, leaving one or more outlets if necessary.
The presence of a climate control function allows you to automatically regulate the temperature in the room based on the readings of a temperature sensor mounted in the socket. Depending on the programmed scenario, the smart outlet can turn on the heater when the temperature decreases, and when the temperature increases, activate the air conditioning system.
Manufacturer
The market offers a wide range of products from both domestic and foreign manufacturers. Devices made in Russia are characterized by a standard Euro plug; products from Chinese manufacturers, as a rule, have an Asian plug with an adapter. Chinese smart sockets are equipped with several adapters, but it should be remembered that the use of adapters is undesirable when connecting high-power devices.
Aesthetic characteristics
The vast majority of outdoor sockets are made in white or light colors, which allows them to easily fit into any interior.
Some models have light illumination around the perimeter of the case, while others have the illumination in the form of a small indicator button. In addition, devices can have very different geometric shapes. The choice of a specific model depends on the features of the interior and the preferences of the home owner.
Connection
The first thing worth saying about how to connect a smart socket to Yandex.Station is that you need an account! If you have already registered a profile, simply skip this step. If you have not registered before, be sure to create an account. You can do this here or after downloading the application.
For the initial connection, you need to use the classic Yandex application (can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play Market completely free of charge). Then you can control the device in any convenient way.
Have you downloaded and logged in? We continue to talk about how to connect a Yandex smart socket to Alice:
Don't forget to read about the reasons why Siri doesn't respond!
- Plug the device into the network and press the button on the body;
- Now open the mobile program and find the icon in the form of four squares on the bottom panel;
- Go to the "Devices" section;
- If this is your first device, find the “Connect” button;
- If you are not adding the first device, click on “+”, then “Other”, then “Yandex Smart Plug”;
- Click on the “Continue” button.
We’ve almost finished figuring out how to connect a smart socket to Alice - the last steps remain:
- On the device body, press the power button and hold it until it starts flashing quickly;
- Return to the mobile application - select the desired wireless network from the list that appears and connect to it using your username and password;
- Wait until the phone detects the device - you will receive a corresponding notification;
- Click on the “Go to device list” icon.
That's it, almost over! There is very little left to do, select the necessary parameters, and then start using it.
How to connect a smart plug
Let's look at connecting a smart device to the home electrical network using the example of connecting a Xiaomi outlet. The device is installed in the following sequence:
- Before you start connecting the smart socket, you need to download the Xiaomi Mi Home mobile application.
- After this, connect the device to the mains and wait until the yellow indicator lights up.
- Using the Mi Home application, you need to add a new device by enabling scanning with automatic search.
- As soon as the new device is detected, it is connected to the smartphone using wi-fi. As soon as the indicator lights up blue, the outlet can be used for its intended purpose.
Using a smartphone, the device can be controlled from anywhere in the world, as long as the phone has access to the Internet.
Advantages and disadvantages
Smart devices make using household electrical appliances more convenient and safe. Remote control allows you to use energy more efficiently.
Note! When leaving home, you don't have to worry about the iron being turned on. Firstly, you can set the timer so that the iron only works for a few minutes from the moment you turn it on. Secondly, you can always view the connection status through the application and turn off the electrical appliance.
In hot weather, you can turn on the air conditioning in advance, and the temperature in the house will be comfortable when you return. When leaving home for a long time, you can program the lighting fixtures to turn on randomly. This will create the effect of presence and protect the house from theft.
If the operating parameters of an electrical appliance are outside the permissible values, the smart Wi-Fi socket will disconnect it from the network.
Using the application, you can track the operating time of an electrical appliance and set a switching schedule taking into account energy savings. The use of additional sensors significantly expands the capabilities of home automation.
Note! The use of “smart” devices requires careful attention and does not replace compliance with the rules for safe handling of electricity.
Settings can be stored on the device itself or on the server.
In the first case, even a short-term power outage will reset the settings and they will have to be set again. In the second case, the Wi-Fi outlet will not work as scheduled without an Internet connection.
Some models may not support your home wireless network. To connect them, you will need an invitation from the master.
An Internet-controlled outlet may have time zone settings for the manufacturer's country. Usually in the settings you can change the time to local, but if there is a malfunction or reboot, the time settings return to the factory ones.
If the smartphone is not connected to the Internet, then it is impossible to control the device. To control several models from different manufacturers, you will need to install several applications at once.
Important! If the router's Wi-Fi signal is weak, the outlet may periodically lose connection and become unstable.
Smart plug operating instructions
Since the main characteristics of the devices, although different from each other, have much in common, as an example we will give the operating instructions for the Xiaomi Mi Smart Plug (ZigBee) socket.
Introduction
The Xiaomi Mi smart socket is designed to automatically turn on and off the power supply to household appliances. Together with the control hub, Mi provides such capabilities as: remote control through a special mobile application, scheduling and timer. Along with other smart accessories, it significantly expands the capabilities of a “smart” home. The device can only be used indoors.
Warning
- It is strictly forbidden to cover the device during operation.
- During operation, one should not forget that there is no voltage in the device only if there is no contact with the electrical wiring (the socket is not connected to the mains).
- It is strictly forbidden to insert one socket into another.
- The Xiaomi Mi Smart Plug (ZigBee) socket cannot be used in rooms with high humidity.
Connect to Mi Home or Xiaomi Home app
The product is compatible with Mi Home or Xiaomi Home. Using this mobile application, you can control not only the Xiaomi Mi Smart Plug (ZigBee) smart socket, but also other smart devices. Scan the QR code to download and install the application. You will be redirected to the connection settings page if the application is already installed. Or search for "Mi Home or Xiaomi Home" on the AppStore to download and install the app. Open the Mi Home or Xiaomi Home app, tap "+" in the top right corner and follow the instructions to add a device.
In the European Union, the application is called “Xiaomi Home” (except Russia). The app name that appears on your device should be the default one.
Note
The application version may have been updated. When installing, follow the instructions for the current version of the application.
Additional scenarios
| Turning the fan on/off using a wireless switch Wireless switch + socket + fan |
| Turn off the water dispenser according to a schedule. Smart plug + water dispenser |
| Turning on the table lamp when the door is opened Window and door opening sensor + socket + table lamp |
Description of indicator states
| Indicator color | Indicator status | ||
| Frequent flickering | Infrequent flickering | Continuous glow | |
| Blue | Zigbee network connection in progress | N/A | Zigbee network connected |
| Red | Overload and overheat protection | Zigbee network is not connected | N/A |
Specifications
- Model: ZNCZ04LM;
- Overall dimensions: 60x60x58.5 mm;
- Operating voltage: 220-240V;
- AC frequency: 50-60Hz;
- Rated current: 10A;
- Maximum power: 230 W;
- Operating temperature range: from 0 to +350С;
- Operating indoor humidity: 0-95% (non-condensing);
- Wireless connection: Zigbee;
- Maximum transmitter power: 10.5 dBm;
- Transmitter operating frequency: 2405-2480 MHz.
Model differences
Antenna for a computer to strengthen the Wi-Fi signal
Products from different manufacturers differ in design, design features, and functionality. On the Russian market, these devices are represented by models that can be divided into three categories:
- Inexpensive, equipped with a timer with the ability to turn on and off according to time.
- Average price, has a programmable timer, and additionally has a temperature sensor.
- High price, additionally has one or more USB ports for connecting a motion sensor, atmospheric sensor, video camera, and has an autonomous power supply.
Best GSM socket ZDK GSM SC-1 White
The name of this outlet indicates the presence of a GSM module, which is responsible for remote control of the device. In addition, in the panel of the device you can see a slot for a SIM card. Power management can be carried out via SMS commands or a mobile application. Typically, the product is used as a smart home controller: it provides control of household appliances, doors, gates, surveillance cameras, lighting, etc.
- maximum power – 2 kW;
- overall dimensions – 40x25x15 mm;
- operating voltage – 210-230V;
- AC frequency – 50-60Hz;
- Average cost – 2500 rubles.
Settings
A few words about how to set up a Yandex smart socket with Alice! After adding the device to the list, you will see the “Setup Required” icon. Just click on it!
- Now you can select the name that will be used in voice commands;
- Determine the room the device will belong to;
- If necessary, add the device to the group (for ease of management).
Helpful Tip: If you are planning to connect a lighting fixture, change the type to “Lighting” right away, you will see the option available.
If you have already figured out how to connect a Yandex socket to Alice, buy other devices to form a full-fledged smart home, at the center of which is a voice assistant. You can also purchase a light bulb and a remote control. And if these devices are not enough, study the catalog of compatible equipment from third-party manufacturers.
The best Wi-Fi socket GRITT Smart WFS-01
Supports connection to a Wi-Fi network in the office or home. Easily withstands the power of all household appliances, and also allows you to install several low-power devices. Works successfully wherever there is Internet. Equipped with pre-installed short circuit protection and timer. Turns off all electrical appliances at the first sign of fire.
The average cost of the device is 1700-2200 rubles.
The use of smart sockets can not only improve the comfort of your stay, but also make your home safer. The ability to remotely control household electrical appliances not only reduces energy costs, but also minimizes the likelihood of a fire.
Specifications of Smart Plug with Fi-Fi
| Color | White black |
| Number of nests | 1 PC. |
| Ecosystem | Yandex Smart Home |
| Device width | 5.5 cm |
| Device height | 5.5 cm |
| Device depth | 8.0 cm |
| Ground contact | Eat |
| Rated current | 16 A |
| Rated voltage | 230 V |
| Connecting to a smartphone | Yes |
| Material | Plastic |
| Max. power | 3680 W |
| Communication protocol | WiFi |
| Guarantee period | 12 months |
| Life time | 2 years |
