Energy Efficient Outlets vs. Smart Plugs: 2024 Savings Guide

Did you know that the average American household wastes about $100 -  $200 per year on vampire energy? That's right - all those devices silently sipping power add up. However, don’t worry, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to expand your energy saving, a smart plug or smart outlet is a great start. These inexpensive devices make it easy to remotely control electricity in your home.

In this article you will help you to understand the differences between smart plug and smart outlet and which one is better for saving energy.

What are smart plugs and smart outlets?

Before we start the comparison, let's start by defining these gadgets are:

Smart Plugs: Plug into standard electrical outlets, then connect via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to your smartphone, which enables you to remotely turn the power to the plug on and off in its companion app.

Smart Outlets: These are inbuilt. This means they replace traditional wall outlets and provide smart functionality without the need for another device.

The key difference is that smart plugs are very portable and easy to set up, whereas smart outlets are a bit more permanent and integrated.

The Pros and Cons of Smart Plugs

Advantages:

• Easy to install - just plug and play!.
• Portable - move them between rooms or even homes.
• Generally more affordable upfront.
• Great for renters or those not ready for permanent changes.

Drawbacks:

• Can be bulky, potentially blocking adjacent outlets.
• Limited to controlling one device per plug.
• May have lower power ratings than smart outlets.

Smart Outlets: Benefits and Drawbacks

Advantages:

• Sleek, integrated look - no bulky adapters.
• Can control multiple devices per outlet.
• Often have higher power ratings.
• Some models offer additional features like USB charging ports.

Drawbacks:

• Require installation - not ideal for renters.
• Higher upfront cost.
• Less flexibility - can't easily move them.

Energy Saving Features: smart plugs vs. smart outlets

Both smart plugs and smart outlets offer similar energy-saving features:

1. Energy monitoring: Track your devices' power consumption in real time.
2. Scheduling: Set devices to turn on/off automatically.
3. Remote control: Power devices on/off from anywhere using your smartphone.
4. Voice control: Compatible with assistants like Alexa or Google Home.
5. Automation: Create rules based on time, weather, or other smart devices in your home.

The main difference is that smart outlets often provide more detailed energy monitoring per outlet, while smart plugs focus on individual devices.

Real-World Energy Savings: What to Expect

Compatibility and Smart Home Integration

Compatibility: Compatibility: Smart plugs and outlets are usually compatible with most home appliances, as well as devices that need common electrical outlets. Nevertheless, you must make sure that the voltage and current rating of the smart plug or outlet matches with the appliance specification. Additionally, some smart plugs are designed specifically for certain regions, so make sure to choose one that works with the electrical standards of your country.

Smart Home Integration: Most smart plugs and outlets can integrate with popular smart home ecosystems, including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and Samusng Smarthings. That would allow a user to control your own devices using voice commands, mobile apps, or automated routines. Many smart plugs also support IFTTT (If This Then That), enabling advanced automation and interaction with other smart home devices, such as lights, thermostats, and security systems. Integration with these platforms typically requires connecting the smart plug to your home Wi-Fi network and using the associated app to set up and manage the device.

Cost of smart plugs vs. smart outlets

Smart Plugs: $10 to $40 per plug.

Smart Outlets: $20 to $100 per outlet.

Though smart outlets are more expensive upfront, they could turn out to be a better deal in the long run if you plan to live in your home for several years.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Consider these factors when deciding:

1. Renting vs. owning: Renters should opt for smart plugs.
2. Budget: Smart plugs are more budget-friendly for getting started.
3. Aesthetics: Smart outlets offer a cleaner look.
4. Power needs: Check the power ratings of your devices.
5. Long-term plans: Smart outlets may be better for permanent residences.

Remember, you don't have to pick just one! Many homeowners use both smart plugs and smart outlets to get maximum flexibility and efficiency.

Conclusion: Plug into Energy Savings!

Whew! Just completed the high-voltage journey through the land of smart plugs and smart outlets. In a word, both options are really quite powerful when thinking about energy savings, but the best one depends on your unique home setup and needs.

Want smart plugs for their flexibility or smart outlets for their seamless integration? No matter which one you choose, you are really making a very smart choice towards having a more energy-efficient home. So, go ahead and plug into the future of energy savings – your wallet (and the planet) will thank you!.