Smart plugs are one of the simplest, cheapest ways to add convenience and safety to a home — no electrician or rewiring required.

How They Work

A smart plug sits between a regular electrical outlet and whatever’s plugged into it — a lamp, fan, or small appliance — and lets you turn it on or off by voice command, phone app, or schedule.

Useful Applications

• Lamps: turn on a lamp by voice instead of reaching in the dark, or set one on a schedule for consistent lighting.
• Space heaters or fans: turn off remotely if left on accidentally, or set them on a timer for safety.
• Coffee makers: some households use a smart plug to make sure an appliance is fully off after use, for peace of mind.

Setup

Setup involves connecting the plug to home Wi-Fi through an app — a five-minute process that’s easiest with help from a family member the first time. After that, day-to-day use is as simple as flipping a switch or saying a voice command.

What Not to Use Smart Plugs For

Don’t use a smart plug with any high-wattage appliance not rated for it (check the plug’s wattage limit), and don’t rely on a smart plug alone as a safety measure for something like a stove — it’s a convenience tool, not a substitute for basic appliance safety habits.

Next Steps

Pair smart plugs with a voice assistant for the easiest day-to-day control.