Top 8 Essential Smart Plugs for Winter

As you know, during the winter period, controlling your home energy utilization is often more paramount, and smart plugs are perfect for this. They enable you to control your appliances, and energy usage and provide additional comfort during the chilly months. Generally, smart plugs are expandable with various features for heating system control or holiday light control.

Top 8 Essential Smart Plugs for Winter

1. TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (Best Smart Plug for Home Automation with Alexa and Google Home)

A highly recommended smart plug is the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug as it is reputed to be one of the best smart plugs in the market. Considering it has features that are supposed to make life easier, it can prove very useful during the winter when you wants to ensure you save for energy bills and ensure your home is warm.

Key Features

1. Wi-Fi Connectivity: The TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug connects directly to your home Wi-Fi network without the need for a hub. This makes setup simple and quick, allowing you to control your devices remotely from anywhere using the Kasa app.
2. Voice Control: The plug is compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling voice-controlled operation. In winter, this is especially useful for managing heaters, lights, or humidifiers without having to leave your cozy spot.
3. Remote Control: With the Kasa app, you can control your appliances remotely, whether you’re at work or on vacation. If you’re out and the weather turns cold, you can switch on your heater before you return home, ensuring it’s warm when you arrive.
4. Scheduling and Timer Functions: The scheduling feature allows you to set your devices to turn on and off at specific times. This is perfect for automating space heaters, electric blankets, or Christmas lights, ensuring they run only when needed.
5. Energy Monitoring: Some models of the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (like the HS110) come with energy monitoring capabilities, allowing you to track how much power your devices are using. This is especially helpful during winter, when heating devices tend to drive up electricity costs.
6. Compact Design: The TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug is designed to be compact, ensuring that it doesn’t block other outlets. This is particularly useful when you need to use multiple plugs in a single outlet, such as for heating devices and lights.
7. No Hub Required: Unlike many other smart plugs, the TP-Link Kasa doesn’t require a hub, which simplifies setup and reduces costs. Simply connect the plug to your Wi-Fi and manage it directly through the app.

Pros:

• Easy to set up and use
• No hub required
• Works with both Alexa and Google Assistant
• Scheduling and timer features enhance convenience
• Remote control and energy monitoring help optimize energy usage

Cons:

• Some advanced energy monitoring features only available in specific models
• Limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks, not compatible with 5 GHz

2. Wemo Insight Smart Plug (Energy Monitoring Smart Plugs for Reducing Electricity Bills)

The Wemo Insight Smart Plug is one of the most effective smart home solutions that has more to offer than the possibilities of remote control of household appliances. The main features listed are energy tracking which makes the application suitable for individuals who want to control their consumption of electricity especially during the winter period. In this article, you will find detailed information on the main features, advantages, and how to configure the Wemo Insight Smart Plug.

Key Features

1. Energy Monitoring: One of the standout features of the Wemo Insight Smart Plug is its energy monitoring capability. This plug not only allows you to control appliances remotely but also provides detailed insights into how much energy each device consumes. You can track real-time and historical power usage, which is incredibly useful in winter when appliances like heaters and electric blankets are used more frequently.
2. Wi-Fi Connectivity: The Wemo Insight Smart Plug connects directly to your home Wi-Fi network without the need for a hub. This allows you to control devices from anywhere via the Wemo app, making it easier to manage your home’s heating and lighting even when you’re not around.
3. Voice Control: The plug is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, allowing for voice-controlled operation. You can simply ask Alexa or Google Assistant to turn on the heater, humidifier, or electric blanket, adding convenience to your winter routine.
4. Remote Control: With the Wemo app, you can control your connected devices remotely. This is especially handy during the winter, allowing you to turn on space heaters or lights before you get home or manage appliances while you’re traveling.
5. Scheduling and Automation: The Wemo Insight allows you to create schedules and timers for your appliances, ensuring they only run when necessary. This feature is perfect for automating holiday lights, space heaters, or other seasonal devices, optimizing energy usage and reducing costs.
6. Smart Notifications: The Wemo Insight Smart Plug sends real-time notifications when connected devices turn on or off, or if they have been running for an extended period. This feature is useful for monitoring energy-hungry appliances like space heaters, helping to prevent energy waste and enhancing safety.
7. Away Mode: The Away Mode allows you to simulate occupancy by turning your lights or other devices on and off randomly. This is particularly useful if you’re traveling during the winter holidays, giving the appearance that someone is home to deter burglars.

Pros:

• Energy monitoring provides real-time and historical data on power usage.
• Remote control allows for easy management of appliances from anywhere.
• Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit for voice control.
• Scheduling and automation make it easy to optimize energy usage, especially for heating devices and holiday lights.
• Smart notifications enhance safety and help prevent energy waste.

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than basic smart plugs.
• Wi-Fi connectivity can occasionally be unstable, requiring a reset.
• Lacks support for 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks (only works with 2.4 GHz).

3. Teckin Smart Plug (Smart Plugs with Scheduling Features)

The Teckin Smart Plug is one of the best and affordable choices that people can make to automate their devices in the house. It boasts of the features such as smartphone app control, voice control through the Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, making it more of an effective utilitarian tool for regulating the energy consumption and home automation, specifically in winter.

Key Features

1. Wi-Fi Connectivity: The Teckin Smart Plug connects directly to your home’s Wi-Fi network without the need for a hub. This makes it easy to control your connected devices remotely via the Smart Life app or the Teckin app.
2. Voice Control: The plug is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling voice-activated control. In winter, this is particularly useful for managing space heaters, lights, or other appliances without leaving the comfort of your bed or couch. Simply say, “Alexa, turn on the heater,” and it’s done.
3. Remote Control: With the Teckin app or Smart Life app, you can control your appliances from anywhere. Whether you’re at work or traveling, you can turn on your heater or lights remotely to ensure your home is warm and welcoming when you arrive.
4. Scheduling and Timer Functions: The scheduling feature allows you to create customized schedules for your devices. You can set your heater to turn on before you wake up or program holiday lights to switch on at sunset. This ensures that your appliances are only used when needed, saving energy.
5. Energy Monitoring: Some versions of the Teckin Smart Plug come with energy monitoring capabilities, providing insights into how much power your devices are consuming. This is particularly helpful in winter when heating appliances tend to use more energy, allowing you to track and optimize usage.
6. No Hub Required: The Teckin Smart Plug is easy to set up and use without the need for a separate hub. All you need is your Wi-Fi network and the mobile app to get started.
7. Compact Design: Its sleek and compact design ensures it doesn’t block adjacent outlets, which is useful when you need to plug multiple devices into a single wall socket, such as holiday lights or space heaters.

Pros:

• Affordable and easy to use.
• No hub required, making setup quick and simple.
• Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.
• Remote control via Smart Life or Teckin app from anywhere.
• Scheduling and timer functions enhance energy savings and convenience.
• Compact design fits easily into outlets without blocking others.

Cons:

• Some models lack energy monitoring, which can be a downside for those looking to track usage.
• Only works with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, not 5 GHz, which could be limiting for some users.
• The app can occasionally be slow to respond, especially when switching between networks.

4. Gosund Smart Plug (Top-Rated Smart Plugs with Remote Control)

The main features of the Gosund Smart Plug include the ability to control the connected device remotely, create a schedule for a device, or use voice commands. The compatibility of the App with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant enhances convenience in regulating the devices, valuable during winter, for smart heating and lighting.

Key Features

1. Wi-Fi Connectivity: The Gosund Smart Plug connects directly to your home’s Wi-Fi network without requiring a hub. This makes it simple to set up and control appliances from anywhere using the Gosund app or Smart Life app.
2. Voice Control: The Gosund plug is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for hands-free voice control of connected devices. You can turn on your heater or electric blanket with just a command, making it a convenient feature during cold winter months.
3. Remote Control: Using the Gosund app, you can remotely manage your appliances from anywhere. Whether you’re at work, on vacation, or just in another room, you can turn on or off space heaters, lights, or holiday decorations with ease.
4. Energy Monitoring: Some models of the Gosund Smart Plug come equipped with energy monitoring, allowing you to track the power usage of your devices. This is especially beneficial in winter when heating appliances typically consume more energy, helping you optimize their usage to save on electricity bills.
5. Scheduling and Timer Functions: The scheduling feature lets you automate the on/off times of your appliances. You can set your heater to warm your space before you wake up or schedule holiday lights to turn on at sunset. This ensures energy efficiency and convenience during winter.
6. Compact and Space-Saving Design: The compact design of the Gosund Smart Plug ensures it won’t block adjacent outlets, making it easier to use multiple plugs on the same outlet strip. This is particularly useful for connecting several holiday lights or heaters simultaneously.
7. No Hub Required: Like most smart plugs in its class, the Gosund Smart Plug does not require an additional hub. All you need is the plug, your Wi-Fi network, and the app to get started.

Pros:

• Affordable and easy to set up.
• No hub required, simplifying the installation process.
• Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.
• Remote control and scheduling for improved convenience and energy efficiency.
• Compact design fits neatly into most outlets without blocking others.
• Energy monitoring available on some models.

Cons:

• Only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks, which could be limiting for some users.
• Some users report occasional connectivity issues that may require resetting.
• Energy monitoring is not available on all models, so you need to check compatibility.

5. Amazon Smart Plug (Smart Plugs Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant)

A recommended product that is compatible with Amazon Alexa is the Amazon Smart Plug since it is easy to integrate with the device. This smart plug will enable voice control of appliances, scheduling, and remote management of the appliances through the Alexa app. It is best used during winter since one is able to manipulate heater, light and other apparatuses to ensure optimised use of energy and also comfort.

Key Features

1. Seamless Alexa Integration: The Amazon Smart Plug is optimized for use with Amazon Alexa devices, such as Echo, Echo Dot, and Echo Show. It doesn’t require a separate hub or app; all control happens directly through the Alexa app. This makes it one of the easiest smart plugs to set up and use, especially for those already in the Alexa ecosystem.
2. Voice Control: Once connected to Alexa, you can control the Amazon Smart Plug with voice commands. For example, you can say, “Alexa, turn on the heater,” or “Alexa, turn off the lights,” to manage your home appliances effortlessly—particularly useful during the cold winter months.
3. Remote Control via Alexa App: With the Alexa app, you can remotely control your plugged-in devices from anywhere. Whether you’re at work or traveling, you can turn on or off appliances like space heaters, holiday lights, or electric blankets with ease, ensuring your home is warm and welcoming when you arrive.
4. Scheduling and Automation: The scheduling feature lets you automate appliances to turn on or off at specific times. You can set a heater to warm your room before you wake up or automate outdoor holiday lights to turn on at sunset. This helps you save energy and adds convenience to your winter routines.
5. Compact and Space-Saving Design: The Amazon Smart Plug has a compact design that doesn’t block adjacent outlets. This is useful when you want to use multiple smart plugs in one area, such as controlling both a heater and a lamp from the same outlet.
6. Energy-Saving Mode: While the Amazon Smart Plug doesn’t have built-in energy monitoring, you can use the scheduling and timer functions to control when appliances are on, helping reduce unnecessary energy consumption during winter.

Pros:

• Seamless integration with Amazon Alexa, requiring no additional apps or hubs.
• Easy setup, ideal for those already in the Alexa ecosystem.
• Voice control via Alexa allows for hands-free operation.
• Scheduling and automation features add convenience and save energy.
• Compact design ensures it doesn’t block other outlets.
• Offers remote control via the Alexa app, so you can manage devices from anywhere.

Cons:

• No native energy monitoring feature, which limits detailed tracking of electricity usage.
• Only works with Amazon Alexa (not compatible with Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, or other smart home systems).
• Lacks advanced features like group control for managing multiple devices simultaneously.

6. Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug (Best Outdoor Smart Plug for Garden Lights)

The Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug by TP-Link is one of the highly recommended outdoor plug and play devices because of its weather-resistant build. From holiday lights to garden lights and even outdoor heaters this smart plug has the functionality to the remote control, voice command function plus scheduling for use in winter weather to control and automate.

Key Features

1. Weatherproof Design: The Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug is rated IP64, making it resistant to dust, rain, and snow. This means you can confidently use it outdoors during the winter months, controlling your holiday decorations, heaters, or patio lights without worrying about the elements.
2. Dual Outlets: The smart plug comes with two individually controllable outlets, allowing you to manage two different devices at the same time. This is useful for controlling separate outdoor appliances, such as holiday lights and outdoor heaters, with one device.
3. Wi-Fi Connectivity: Like other TP-Link smart plugs, the Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug connects to your home Wi-Fi network (2.4 GHz) without the need for a hub. This makes it easy to control your outdoor devices via the Kasa Smart app or voice commands through your preferred virtual assistant.
4. Voice Control: The plug is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling hands-free control of your outdoor appliances. You can easily say, “Alexa, turn on the patio heater,” or “Google, turn off the garden lights,” providing convenience during cold winter evenings.
5. Remote Control via Kasa App: With the Kasa Smart app, you can control your outdoor appliances from anywhere. Whether you’re inside or traveling, you can ensure that your outdoor lights or heaters are on or off according to your needs. This is especially helpful for winter setups like outdoor lighting, Christmas displays, or keeping walkways illuminated during long nights.
6. Scheduling and Timer Functions: The scheduling feature allows you to automate when your outdoor devices turn on and off. You can set your holiday lights to switch on at sunset or program an outdoor heater to turn off after a specific time. These automated schedules make it easy to manage energy usage, even when you’re not home.
7. Energy Monitoring: While the Kasa Outdoor Smart Plug does not have built-in energy monitoring, its scheduling and timer functions help you optimize power consumption by ensuring appliances only run when needed.
8. No Hub Required: Like other Kasa devices, the outdoor smart plug does not require an additional hub. Simply connect it to your Wi-Fi network and control it directly through the app or voice assistant.

Pros:

• Weatherproof (IP64 rating), making it suitable for outdoor use in various weather conditions.
• Dual outlets allow control of two devices independently.
• Voice control through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
• Remote control and scheduling via the Kasa Smart app.
• No hub required, simplifying setup and control.
• Compact design, minimizing clutter on your outdoor outlets.

Cons:

• No built-in energy monitoring, limiting insights into power usage.
• Only works with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks, which could be restrictive for some users.
• The app interface, while robust, may have a learning curve for first-time users.

7. Etekcity Smart Plug (Affordable Smart Plugs with Energy-Saving Modes)

In this sense, the Etekcity Smart Plug is an effective device for anyone who wants to have smart plugs at an affordable cost. As a wireless plug that enables you to turn appliances on/off, set time and even connect with voice assistants, this smart plug is beneficial in controlling heating, lighting, etc during winter.

Key Features

1. Wi-Fi ConnectivityThe Etekcity Smart Plug connects directly to your home Wi-Fi network (2.4 GHz) without the need for an additional hub. This straightforward setup allows for easy control of your devices through the Etekcity app or compatible voice assistants.
2. Voice ControlThe smart plug is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for hands-free control of your connected devices. Simply use voice commands to turn on heaters, lamps, or other appliances without needing to physically interact with them.
3. Remote Control via Etekcity AppThe Etekcity app enables you to control your devices from anywhere. Whether you’re at work or away on vacation, you can easily turn devices on or off, ensuring your home stays comfortable and secure.
4. Scheduling and Timer FunctionsThe scheduling feature allows you to set specific times for devices to turn on or off. This is especially beneficial for heating devices and lights, letting you automate their operation to match your routine and conserve energy.
5. Compact DesignThe compact design of the Etekcity Smart Plug means it won’t block adjacent outlets. This makes it easy to use multiple smart plugs on the same power strip or outlet.
6. Energy MonitoringSome models of the Etekcity Smart Plug offer energy monitoring capabilities, allowing you to track the energy usage of connected devices. This can help you manage and reduce your electricity bills, especially during the energy-intensive winter months.

Pros:

• Affordable and easy to set up.
• Voice control compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
• Remote control via the Etekcity app for managing devices from anywhere.
• Scheduling and timer functions to automate operations and save energy.
• Compact design that doesn’t block other outlets.
• Energy monitoring available on select models.

Cons:

• Only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, limiting some users.
• The app interface may require some time to get used to for new users.
• Some users report occasional connectivity issues that may require resetting.

8. Meross Dual Smart Plug (Best Smart Plug for Controlling Multiple Devices)

The Meross Dual Smart Plug is a new technological advancement that can make your home automation much better. This smart plug thus includes two outlets over which you have individual control thereby allowing you to manage two different devices from a single smart plug. As a result, I find it ideal to use during winter to automate the appliances to promote comfort and energy conservation.

Key Features

1. Dual Outlets: The Meross Dual Smart Plug features two separate outlets, allowing you to control two devices independently. This is ideal for managing different appliances, such as a heater and a lamp, without needing multiple plugs.
2. Wi-Fi Connectivity: This smart plug connects directly to your home Wi-Fi network (2.4 GHz), eliminating the need for a hub. This simplifies setup and lets you control your devices via the Meross app or through voice commands.
3. Voice Control: The Meross Smart Plug is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. This allows for hands-free control of your devices, enabling you to operate them with simple voice commands, such as “Alexa, turn on the heater.”
4. Remote Control via Meross App: With the Meross app, you can manage your connected devices from anywhere. This feature is particularly beneficial during the winter when you want to ensure your home is warm and inviting before arriving.
5. Scheduling and Timer Functions: The scheduling feature allows you to set specific times for devices to turn on or off, making it easy to automate your winter routines. For example, you can schedule a heater to start warming your room before you wake up.
6. Energy Monitoring: Some models of the Meross Dual Smart Plug come with energy monitoring capabilities, enabling you to track the energy consumption of your devices. This helps you manage electricity usage and potentially reduce your bills during the winter months.
7. Compact and User-Friendly Design: The compact design of the Meross Dual Smart Plug means it won’t obstruct other outlets. This is especially useful when you want to use multiple smart plugs simultaneously.

Pros:

• Dual outlets allow control of two devices independently.
• Voice control compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
• Remote control via the Meross app for managing devices from anywhere.
• Scheduling and timer functions for automation and energy savings.
• Compact design that doesn’t block adjacent outlets.
• Energy monitoring available on select models.

Cons:

• Only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, which might not suit all users.
• Some users may find the app interface less intuitive compared to others.
• Occasional connectivity issues were reported, requiring resets.

Key Features of Smart Plug

• Wi-Fi Smart Plug

A Wi-Fi smart plug connects to your home’s Wi-Fi, allowing you to control connected devices remotely. As winter arrives, you can preheat rooms by turning on space heaters before you get home or manage holiday lights effortlessly from anywhere using your smartphone.

• Voice-Controlled Outlet

With a voice-controlled outlet, powered by Amazon Alexa or Google Home, you can activate appliances without lifting a finger. Say goodbye to cold mornings by simply asking Alexa or Google Assistant to turn on your electric blanket or heater with a voice command like “Alexa, turn on the heater.”

• Remote Control Socket

A remote control socket allows you to operate your devices from afar. Whether you’re out running errands or traveling, you can turn on your home’s heating system or lights remotely, ensuring your home is warm and energy-efficient when you return.

• Energy Monitoring Smart Plug

An energy monitoring smart plug tracks the electricity usage of each connected device. This feature becomes especially useful in winter, when heating systems tend to consume more energy. Monitoring usage helps reduce your overall winter energy costs by identifying power-hungry appliances and adjusting their usage accordingly.

• Alexa-Compatible Plug and Google Home Smart Plug

Smart plugs that are Alexa compatible or work with Google Home seamlessly integrate into your existing smart home system. This winter, automate your heaters, Christmas lights, or humidifiers using simple voice commands. The ability to control your home’s devices with either voice assistant ensures a streamlined, hands-free experience.

Winter Home Automation Made Easy

Smart plugs play a key role in making smart home automation effortless during winter. You can program your devices to switch on and off automatically based on your schedule, optimizing energy consumption and enhancing comfort.

• Timer Function Smart Plug

A timer function smart plug allows you to set your devices to power on or off at specific times. This is particularly useful for turning on space heaters in the morning or switching off holiday lights at night, helping you save energy and reduce manual effort.

• Smart Outlet with App

A smart outlet with app control gives you the power to manage your devices via your smartphone. From turning on the heater while still in bed to managing your home’s lighting from a distance, smart outlets allow you to remain comfortable and energy-efficient throughout winter.

• Energy-Saving Features of Smart Plugs

Many smart plugs come with built-in energy-saving features, helping to lower your electricity usage during winter. By setting schedules and monitoring energy consumption, these plugs ensure that devices only run when needed, reducing waste and unnecessary costs.

Benefits of Using Smart Plugs During Winter

• Energy Efficiency

One of the biggest benefits of using a smart plug in winter is energy savings. Many winter appliances, such as space heaters, electric blankets, and holiday lights, can consume a significant amount of energy. Smart plugs allow you to monitor and control when these devices are in use, preventing unnecessary energy consumption and lowering your electricity bill.

• Remote Control of Devices

With a smart plug, you can control your appliances remotely via a smartphone app. This is incredibly useful during winter, as you can turn on your heating system or electric fireplace before you get home, ensuring your space is warm and inviting without running the heater all day.

• Voice-Activated Convenience

Smart plugs integrated with Amazon Alexa or Google Home allow for voice-controlled operation. In the cold winter months, you can manage devices like heaters, lights, or humidifiers without having to get out of bed. Simply say, “Alexa, turn on the heater,” and enjoy instant warmth with minimal effort.

• Scheduling and Automation

Smart plugs enable you to set up schedules or timers for your devices. You can program heaters to switch on before you wake up or set your holiday lights to turn off at a certain time, improving both comfort and energy efficiency. Automation ensures that devices operate only when needed, eliminating energy waste.

• Energy Monitoring

Some smart plugs come with energy monitoring features, which provide insights into how much power your devices are using. This is especially helpful during winter, as it allows you to track high-energy appliances like heaters and adjust their usage to prevent excessive electricity costs.

• Enhanced Safety

Using smart plugs during winter can enhance safety in your home. You can turn off heaters, electric blankets, and other high-energy devices remotely if you forget to switch them off before leaving the house, reducing the risk of fire hazards.

• Holiday Lighting Control

During winter, smart plugs are perfect for automating holiday lights and outdoor decorations. You can schedule lights to turn on at dusk and switch off at bedtime, ensuring they don’t run all night, saving both energy and time.

• Weatherproof Outdoor Use

Many smart plugs designed for outdoor use are weatherproof, making them ideal for controlling outdoor lighting or holiday decorations. Even in rain, snow, or freezing temperatures, you can manage your outdoor lights and other devices without stepping outside.

• Home Automation Integration

Smart plugs fit seamlessly into your smart home automation system. You can create routines that integrate with other smart devices, such as having your heater turn on when your smart thermostat detects a temperature drop, ensuring optimal comfort during winter.

• Travel Peace of Mind

If you’re traveling during the winter, smart plugs allow you to control your devices from afar. You can turn off appliances you accidentally left on or even set your lights to a schedule to give the impression that someone is home, adding an extra layer of security.

Conclusion

Smart plugs are essential tools for winter, offering convenience, energy savings, and smart automation for your home. Whether you need to control heating systems, holiday lights, or other appliances, a smart plug ensures you stay warm, save energy, and enjoy the benefits of a fully connected home.