Smart Power Strips: How They Can Save Energy and Money
Last edited
Author
Andrew Giermak
Solar and Electrification Writer and Editor
Editor
Andrew Blok
Electrification and Solar Writer and Editor
Power strips and surge protectors date back to Apple IICs, fax machines, even Ataris. Modern smart power strips can provide important safety functions, remote control and scheduling of attached devices, automation, and even savings on your monthly electric bill.
Here’s a look at the benefits, features, and functions to consider with smart power strips and the best smart power strips on the market.
See how much you can save with home energy changes
What’s a smart power strip?
Smart power strips have many advantages over old power strips that let you manage your energy use better and easier.
Smart power strips have wireless connectivity (via Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or Z-Wave) and intelligence capabilities. Control via an app, smart hub, or voice command lets you turn devices, or whole strips, on and off. You can automate and schedule devices for convenience, safety, and energy-saving reasons. Some smart power strips give you energy monitoring abilities so you identify vampire energy or differences in peak and off-peak period usage so you can further maximize savings.
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, safety, and savings without wasting energy. |
| Remote control | Convenience | Have control and oversight of your home’s power from anywhere, anytime. |
Best smart power strip brands and models
There are many brands and models of smart power strip. One important factor for your use is compatibility 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.
Save money and energy with smart power strips and more
Smart power strips, along with devices such as smart plugs, smart thermostats, home energy monitors, smart LED lights, and new energy-efficient appliances, can be part of saving energy and saving money by going to home electrification. Using more electricity and less gas or other fuels may increase your electric bill, but decrease your overall utility expenses.
Then, powering more or all of your home electricity with home solar panels could be another huge step in savings while using clean, renewable energy.
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 what home electrification can do for you:
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.
