What is a smart power strip? How adopting them at home could save you energy.
Last edited
Author
Andrew Blok
Electrification and Solar Writer and Editor
Editor
Andrew Giermak
Solar and Electrification Writer and Editor
Gone are the days when power strips were just simple surge protectors for your fax machine or gaming console.
Today, smart power strips are a powerful tool for automating your home and chipping away at your monthly electric bill. Whether you’re looking to curb vampire energy or simply want easier control over your home's electronics, this guide will walk you through the key benefits, essential features, and top brands to help you make the right choice for your home.
See how much you can save with home energy changes
What is a smart power strip?
Smart power strips make managing your energy use easier and more convenient than it was with older power strips.
Smart power strips have wireless connectivity (via Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or Z-Wave) and intelligence capabilities that makes automating and scheduling devices easier. Some smart power strips come with energy monitoring abilities for identifying vampire energy or tracking your peak and off-peak usage so you can avoid more of the most expensive electricity.
Benefits of smart power strips
Smart power strips can provide multiple benefits around your home.
| Function | Main Benefit | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Surge protection | Safety | Protection against power surges, fires, and damage to devices. |
| Energy tracking | Savings and efficiency | More real-time information gives you more control, see what’s costing you the most and stop energy vampires. |
| Scheduling | Easy automation | Can provide comfort and savings without extra effort. |
| Remote control | Convenience | Have control and oversight of your home’s power from anywhere, anytime. |
Best smart power strip brands and models
Choosing the best smart power strip brand and model requires consideration of a few key factors.
Start with models compatible with your existing smart home system (Google Home, Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, Amazon Alexa, etc.). Then make sure the device matches your needs and tech savviness. And, if you’re going to use a smart strip with high-power-usage devices or appliances, make sure the power strip is rated properly for overload and surge protection.
See how much you can save with home energy changes
Popular smart power strip brands
- TP-Link/Kasa Smart: TP-Link/Kasa Smart smart power strips are easily integratable with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. They are generally known as easy to set up and use. There are indoor and outdoor strips. Outdoor smart power strips add durability and weatherproofing.
- Phillips Hue/Signify: Phillips’ smart power strips are popular amongst people already using Phillips Hue light bulbs. They work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, as well as Phillips’ own app.
- Samsung SmartThings/Aeotec: Popular among users who prefer a central hub system such as Z-Wave, for advanced local automation. Samsung is one of the largest home automation brands.
- Govee: Highly popular, particularly for use with aesthetic lighting. Govee’s smart power strips are known for easy Wi-Fi connectivity and vibrant color integration. Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Govee’s app.
Smart power strips as part of wider home energy savings strategies
Smart power strips, along with devices such as smart plugs, smart thermostats, home energy monitors, smart LED lights, and new energy-efficient appliances, can help you take greater control of your home’s energy and could save you money.
Powering your home with home solar panels could be another huge step toward savings, too.
Whether you’re starting big or small, Palmetto has information and expertise to help you save money by saving energy at home. You can download the new Palmetto app to see ways to save and earn discounts on energy-saving devices, including new smart products. You can also see savings estimates for your home with our Savings Maximizer tool.
See how much you can save with home energy changes
Frequently asked questions
Are smart power strips also surge protectors?
Nearly all smart power strips have surge protection as a function. Look for a power strip’s ETL certification and joule rating to let you know its surge or overload protection capacity. Not all surge protectors are smart power strips or have smart capabilities.
Can I use a smart power strip with high-wattage appliances?
Most smart power strips are rated for a maximum of 10 to 15 amps, a 1,200 watt continuous load or an 1,800 watt maximum peak load. High-wattage appliances like air conditioners, space heaters, toasters, and hair dryers may be unsafe to use plugged into a smart power strip or any power strip.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Palmetto does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors.
