Light It Up: Do Smart Plugs Save Energy?

March 06, 2023 By Awanish Kumar

(Image Credit Google)

Image credit: The Verge As kids, you have probably heard your mother scream at you multiple times: “Switch off the lights when you are not in the room!” Back then you must not have understood the value of saving energy, but now we do. As for saving energy, there are plenty of ways to do that too. One of the best ways to save energy is to use smart plugs that automate appliances in your home. Due to the inflection of household bills, gas, tax, etc., the focus has finally shifted to the concerning issue of energy consumption. Most smart plugs typically use far less energy than other plugs and help you save money over time.

How Much Energy Do Smart Plugs Use?

A smart plug typically uses about 1 Watt of power in standby mode since it is connected to something else in your home to work properly. However, if you have a smart plug that connects via Wi-Fi, it's likely to only ever use about 1 to 2 Watts at most each day.

Can Smart Plugs Save You Money?

Technically, yes, smart plugs can save you money. Although you will be spending money on buying smart plugs initially, you will regain your expenses over time due to their energy-saving abilities. It is also crucial to set your smart plugs up correctly, so they switch on and off at the correct times.

Are Smart Plugs Worth It?

Yes, smart plugs are totally worth it simply because they use less energy than other devices. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory and CLEAResult found that using smart plugs saves between 1 and 4.58% of energy usage or about 500-1000 Kilowatts each year. A smart plug will use less energy than the device it is switching on and off. In case a device that is always left in but not in use, it still draws power. This power draw is known as a “phantom load” and each item adds a small amount of power to your electricity bill. This is where a smart plug can help. However, it is crucial to use your smart plug efficiently– set it up so other devices only switch on and off as needed.

What Issues Do Smart Plugs Have?

Before using a smart plug, it needs to pass the same standard safety guidelines as any other electrical device. The other potential risk you may face is hacking. In the early days, some smart plugs were vulnerable to hackers. However, the risk is much lower now due to technological development. It is better to stay on the safe side and make sure to buy the smart plug from a reputable brand to avoid any risk.

By Awanish Kumar

I keep abreast of the latest technological developments to bring you unfiltered information about gadgets.

Light It Up: Do Smart Plugs Save Energy?

How Much Energy Do Smart Plugs Use?

Can Smart Plugs Save You Money?

Are Smart Plugs Worth It?

What Issues Do Smart Plugs Have?

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