While a smart plug is convenient for restarting your router, I don't recommend using it to turn your internet connection on or off. Note that if your router has a battery backup, this won't work, but if that's the case, neither would unplugging it - you'd still have to take the batteries out. Use your smart plug to cut power to your router for 30 seconds or so, then turn it back on, effectively restarting it. Or, your router may be easily accessible but on another floor when you need to restart it. Your router could also be tucked away in a closet, depending on where your internet connection enters the home. The top of a bookshelf is a good spot for your router, unless you need to reach it. Remotely restart your routerĮven the best Wi-Fi routers can give you some trouble when you need to access them. While a smart plug won't make it easier to plug something into the outlet, it'll give you control over the devices once you've managed to plug them in, such as a mounted fan in the attic or a fluorescent light in your garage. But some outlets, perhaps in the garage or attic, can be downright difficult to access.
Outlets are generally located in convenient locations until you put a big piece of furniture in front of them. That way, even if someone has the remote to your garage door opener, they won't be able to raise the door. If a thief grabs that, they could also have access to your home.īy plugging your garage door opener into a smart plug, you can cut the power to it when you're away or in for the night. What's worse, many of us leave our garage door remotes somewhere in our vehicles. It won't enable you to open or close your garage door in place of the button, remote or control panel (like a smart garage door opener), but it will prevent others from opening the door.Ĭar break-ins are common. Plug your garage door opener into a smart plug. I came across this tip at Smart Geek Home, and it's too good not to share. You'll appreciate the convenience and the energy savings. Do the same with an indoor plug for the lights on your Christmas tree.
Employ outdoor smart plugs to automatically turn on your Christmas lights - or your arsenal of inflatables, if that's your thing - in the evening, and then turn off at sunrise. Smart plugs can alleviate both holiday hassles.
And next month's power bill? Even less so. But plugging and unplugging them? Not so much. Daniel Van Boom/CNETĪ good Christmas light display makes the season bright. Use outdoor smart plugs to automatically turn your lights on or off and save money on your electricity bill. Use a countdown or the trusty "abracadabra" to really sell it, then hit the button. Have the app for your smart plug ready, then proclaim your uncanny ability to turn the lights on or off at your command. We know how smart devices like plugs and lights work (mostly), but to a child, it's nothing short of magic. Going back to home security ideas, try setting your smart plug to turn on a lamp when your outdoor camera detects activity in the backyard, or automatically set a lamp to turn on at sunset and off at sunrise. You could also do the same with a space heater when the temperature drops. Now we're really talking about "smart." Many smart plugs are built with IFTTT capabilities, enabling you to pair them with other smart devices and automate how they interact.įor example, with a compatible smart plug and thermostat, you could automate a fan to turn on automatically if the temperature gets a little warm and then turn it back off when it's cooler.
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