Smart plugs turn appliances and lights on or off in your home or office at any time through a smartphone, tablet, or voice command.
With many devices you can plug into a smart plug, you might be concerned that it could be overloaded.
But is it possible to overload your smart plug?
It is possible to overload a smart plug like any other electrical outlet. You should make sure not to overload electrical sockets with smart plugs in order to prevent fires. Smart plugs should also not be used with high-power electrical devices.
This article will discuss the possibility of overloading a smart plug and whether you can plug a power strip and a surge protector into it.
We will also provide you with some safety tips when using smart plugs.
What happens when you overload a smart plug
Unlike traditional electrical sockets, a smart plug automatically shuts off if it detects an overload.
This happens when too many appliances are plugged in or if a device requiring a higher wattage is plugged into the smart plug.
To be safe, you should only use up to 80% of the wattage to prevent any untoward incident.
However, this feature is only available in some smart plugs on the market.
If your smart plug has no overload protection feature, it will overheat and cause a fire.
Can smart plugs overheat?
While it is normal for smart plugs to radiate heat while being used, your smart plug can overheat when it becomes overloaded, has a fault, or is damaged. To prevent fires, stop using the smart plug and replace it accordingly.
To avoid overheating your smart plugs, do not plug any appliance or device that exceeds the plug’s wattage.
You should also keep your smart plug away from heat or sunlight.
Can you plug a power strip into a smart plug?
You can plug a power strip into a smart plug as long as the appliances connected to the power strip do not exceed the wattage the smart plug can handle. You should be able to do this without overloading the smart plug or seeing any other issues.
Additionally, although this isn’t always possible, occasionally, you can put a smart plug into a power strip.
You will have to make sure that the smart plug will not exceed the wattage the power strip can handle.
Choose a power strip that has a built-in surge protector.
I recommend using WANDOFO 2 Prong Power Strip.
This power strip is made with copper in a fire-resistant casing and has eight power outlets and three smart USB charging stations.
It also has a 1050J surge protector and integrated circuit breaker that protects your devices from surges and overload.
Can you plug a surge protector into a smart plug? (PAA)
Like plugging a power strip, you can connect surge protectors to a smart plug without overloading or encountering other issues. Ensure that the wattage of the appliances connected does not exceed the limit of the smart plug.
It is also possible to connect a smart plug to a surge protector.
But it is not usually done because the smart plug can take up more space.
Again, the smart plug should not exceed the wattage of the surge protector to avoid overheating and fires.
If you’re looking for a surge protector, I recommend HANYCONY Surge Protector Power Strip.
It has eight power outlets on three sides which can simultaneously power up to 12 devices with 125V.
This surge protector also has four USB ports. It can absorb at least 900 joules of energy and has a flame retardant that can withstand 1382°F (750°C).
Safety tips when using smart plugs
Here are some tips for using your smart plug safely:
- Know the ampere rating of the smart plug to ensure its compatibility with your house’s electrical system. Connecting your smart plug to an outlet with a different ampere rating could cause it to overload or malfunction and ignite fires.
- Avoid plugging your smart plug into an extension cord or power strip as much as possible. While connecting a smart plug to a power strip is possible, doing so can increase the risk of fires. You may want to plug your smart plug into the wall socket instead.
- Ensure your smart plug fits perfectly into the wall socket. Look at the wall socket where you will place your smart plug to see if you can safely plug it in. You may have to call an electrician if it doesn’t fit perfectly or the wall socket has been damaged.
- Do not plug your smart plug near flammable materials. Ensure there is a space between a piece of furniture, curtain, or other flammable materials and the smart plug to prevent fires.
- Consider using smart plugs with an outdoor rating if you plan to use them outdoors. Outdoor smart plugs are designed to protect their internal components from cold weather. Smart plugs meant to be used indoors may function as they should outside, but they can cause fires or electric shock.
- Only plug-in appliances that meet the power requirements of your smart plug. Plugging a device that exceeds the wattage of your smart plug may cause it to overheat, overload, or spark fires.
- Use a strong WiFi password and regularly update your software, firmware, and apps. This prevents hackers from taking advantage of your devices.
Final thoughts
Smart plugs can be overloaded if the device to be plugged exceeds its power requirements.
It can overheat and result in electrical shock or fires.
Also, do not plug too many appliances as it may exceed the wattage your smart plug can accommodate.
You can safely plug power strips and surge protectors into a smart plug, provided these meet the plug’s wattage.
While it is possible to plug smart plugs into power strips and surge protectors, it is recommended that you should only connect smart plugs to a wall socket for your safety.