Smart plug

A smart plug is a power plug and socket (also known as a wall plug, outlet, or electrical connector) which can be fitted between power cords and sockets to function as a remote-controlled power switch. As such, smart plugs can be used to make "dumb" electrical equipment smart, and thereby enable such devices for home automation or building automation purposes.^[1][2]

Display in Rotterdam showing how to use Google Assistant with a smart plug to turn on an electric fan (Dutch: zet de ventilator aan)

Smart plugs can, for example, be controlled via a mobile application, a smart home hub or a virtual assistant.^[3][4] Examples of protocols used for communication with smart plugs include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee and Z-Wave. Many smart plugs have a built-in ammeter so that electric energy consumption (measured in kilowatt-hours) of the connected equipment can be monitored.^[5] Smart plugs often have a slim profile so as not to hinder access to neighbouring sockets in a wall outlet or power strip.

Smart plugs offer several practical advantages that enhance energy efficiency and convenience. They allow users to control appliances remotely through smartphones or smart assistants, which can be particularly useful for switching off high-energy devices like water heaters, air conditioners, or lights when away from home. Many smart plugs also support scheduling and automation routines^[6] — for example, turning on a geyser 30 minutes before a person arrives home or automatically switching off after a fixed period to conserve power. In addition to energy savings, some smart plugs contribute to safety by reducing the risk of electrical fires from unattended appliances.

See also

• Wireless light switch
• Time switch