Do smart plugs actually save energy?

Smart plugs can save energy, but the savings depend entirely on what you plug into them and how you use them. Most smart plugs consume 1-3 watts continuously just to stay connected to your WiFi, so they need to eliminate more than that to provide net savings.

Smart plugs save the most energy when used to eliminate phantom loads - the power devices consume when plugged in but "off." Many electronics continue drawing power for features like instant-on, clocks, or standby modes. A cable box might draw 15-20 watts when off, gaming consoles can pull 10-15 watts, and older TVs often consume 5-10 watts in standby. By completely cutting power to these devices when not in use, smart plugs can eliminate these phantom loads.

Scheduling features provide the biggest energy savings. You can program smart plugs to turn off entertainment centers overnight, cut power to computer peripherals during work hours, or ensure space heaters and fans aren't accidentally left running. The automation removes human error from the equation - no more wondering if you left something on when you're away from home.

However, smart plugs won't save energy on devices that need to stay powered. Don't use them on refrigerators, security systems, or anything with a clock you want to keep. They're also not cost-effective for low-power devices like LED lamps that only draw 8-10 watts when on.

In New Brunswick's climate, smart plugs work particularly well for seasonal equipment. You can schedule block heaters to run only when temperatures drop below freezing, or automatically control dehumidifiers during humid Maritime summers. With NB Power's rate structure, even small savings add up over Maritime winters.

The real value often comes from convenience and peace of mind rather than dramatic energy savings. Being able to remotely turn off a space heater or check if you left the iron on provides safety benefits that go beyond the electric bill.

For significant electrical energy savings, focus on bigger items first - upgrading to a heat pump, improving insulation, or switching to LED lighting throughout your home. Smart plugs are a small piece of an overall energy efficiency strategy.

Need help with larger electrical efficiency upgrades like heat pump installations or whole-home LED conversions? New Brunswick Electrical can match you with local electricians who specialize in energy-efficient electrical solutions.