What are smart plug strips?

Answered by Ricardo McCardle

Smart power strips, also known as smart plug strips, are innovative devices designed to help conserve energy and save money by automatically turning off power to unused electronic devices. They are an upgrade from traditional power strips, as they have built-in intelligence and automation capabilities.

These smart power strips are equipped with multiple outlets, allowing you to plug in various electronic devices simultaneously. However, unlike regular power strips, smart power strips have the ability to detect when a particular device is not in use or turned off. When this happens, the smart power strip automatically cuts off power supply to those devices, eliminating standby power consumption.

One of the main advantages of smart power strips is their ability to eliminate “vampire power” or standby power. Vampire power refers to the electricity consumed by electronic devices even when they are not actively being used but are still plugged in. This standby power consumption can account for a significant portion of your energy bill over time.

By using smart power strips, you can effectively reduce your energy consumption and carbon footprint. These devices are especially useful for home entertainment systems, as they can power down components such as DVD players, cable boxes, game consoles, and audio systems when the TV is turned off. This ensures that no unnecessary power is being consumed when you are not actively using these devices.

In addition to energy savings, smart power strips also offer convenience. Many smart power strips come with features such as timers and remote control capabilities. This allows you to schedule specific times for devices to be turned off automatically or control them remotely through smartphone apps, giving you greater control over your energy usage.

Using a smart power strip is relatively simple. You plug your electronic devices into the outlets on the strip, just like you would with a regular power strip. The smart power strip then uses advanced sensors and technology to monitor the power usage of each individual device. When it detects that a device is not in use or turned off, it cuts off power to that specific outlet, preventing vampire power consumption.

Some smart power strips also come with additional features, such as surge protection, USB ports for charging devices, and energy usage monitoring. These features can provide added convenience and protection for your electronic devices.

Smart power strips are an energy-efficient and convenient solution for reducing standby power consumption. By automatically cutting off power to unused electronic devices, they help save energy, lower electricity bills, and contribute to a greener environment. Consider investing in a smart power strip to make your home more energy-efficient and reduce unnecessary power consumption.