Smart plugs

[MysterG]

I currently have a couple of plugs behind cupboards with extension leads out to the front. They are controlled by Energine (or something like that) remote plugs from a normal looking remote. Uses RF I believe as no line of sight.
Recently this has all been playing up with the plugs getting harder and harder to switch on and off. Changed remote battery, no improvement.
I also have a couple of Amazon branded smart plugs which are great, but you have to have an internet connection for them to work, you can't control them from your phone if internet is down.
I also have a smart light bulb which works with Alexa, but if the internet is down (we're in the sticks) you can still control them from the manufacturers app via your local Wifi.

Looking to buy some more smart plugs, want to get 4 so that in future I can use more without having to potentially get a different brand or install a different app.
Anyway ...

Anyone using smart plugs which can still be controlled from your phone app even if internet is down, but can use Alexa the rest of the time??

 

[gaz1]

smart yet not so smart

rather use an extension with switches on it and turn them off myself

simple no playing up

no batterys needed

no stupid apps

no wifi needed

 

[voipio]

The issue with the remote plugs might well stem from RF interference coming from other digtal crap-generating hardware that we're forced, by advertising, to think should be part of modern day living!! I'm with Gaz regarding switched extensions.

 

[gaz1]

oh and another simple way

is a pattress box

Axiom Pattress Box

A strong and sturdy pattress box for use with double sockets. This 25mm back box from Axiom is robust, reliable and easy to work with - it comes in a classic white finish to blend in with any home interior.• 2 gang pattress box with a depth of 25mm• Knockout on the side and base for cable entry•...

www.toolstation.com

with a usb dual switched plug

https://uk.farnell.com/pro-elec/2213u/switched-socket-2-gang-13a-250v/dp/2832135?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_cGplbK68gIVhO_tCh1LpASQEAQYBCABEgJ3vPD_BwE&mckv=_dc|pcrid|505528697456|plid||kword||match||slid||product|2832135|pgrid|118014581206|ptaid|pla-57456869290|&CMP=KNC-GUK-GEN-SHOPPING-SMART-PRIVATELABEL-Test726&gross_price=true

with wire and a plug on the end of it is ample enough to be used as an extension has loads of uses and only takes 2 screws into the wall

 

[MysterG]

Okay, I don't want a switched extension, as the extension is not readily accessible either.

Yep could be RF interference, but I doubt it as there's nothing new nearby. I think the remote is on its way out as the indicator light does not light with every button press.

So does anyone use smart plugs which work with Alexa, and via a phone app and LAN when t'internet is down?

 

[gaz1]

so why post your compaint about them then?

Recently this has all been playing up with the plugs getting harder and harder to switch on and off. Changed remote battery, no improvement.
I also have a couple of Amazon branded smart plugs which are great, but you have to have an internet connection for them to work, you can't control them from your phone if internet is down.
I also have a smart light bulb which works with Alexa, but if the internet is down (we're in the sticks) you can still control them from the manufacturers app via your local Wifi.

you either put up with it or sort around it

 

[rikrobson]

I use Meross smart plugs, but these need an internet connection and are connected to Alexa. my internet is stable, but I also have two different lines so its unlikely that both will be down at any one time.

 

[MysterG]

so why post your compaint about them then?


you either put up with it or sort around it

My complaint was that my RF system is dying and that Amazon branded smart plugs require the internet to work.
My smart light bulbs do not require the internet to work so I suspect other brands of plugs don't either, and maybe someone here has some and could help.

A simple enough request I thought.

 

[Fraserb]

My complaint was that my RF system is dying and that Amazon branded smart plugs require the internet to work.
My smart light bulbs do not require the internet to work so I suspect other brands of plugs don't either, and maybe someone here has some and could help.

A simple enough request I thought.

We've a couple of plugs controlled by alexa and an app, I've never actually tried them without Internet though, an experiment may be coming.

 

[rikrobson]

you can get zigbee plugs, which need a local controller. All the "smart" devices need some controller, either a local one or one on the interwebs. If you have lightbulbs that have a local controller the same system should have plugs available

 

[MysterG]

We've a couple of plugs controlled by alexa and an app, I've never actually tried them without Internet though, an experiment may be coming.

Be helpful to know if you get the chance.
Internet is up most of the time here, but it would be nice to still have control of awkward to get at smart plugs without it.

you can get zigbee plugs, which need a local controller. All the "smart" devices need some controller, either a local one or one on the interwebs. If you have lightbulbs that have a local controller the same system should have plugs available

The light bulb (LIFX) has nothing but the phone app, unless there is something in the bulb itself? They only make lighting products not plugs.

 

[veesix]

Have a look at IKEA Tradfri.

 

[ajlelectronics]

Be helpful to know if you get the chance.
Internet is up most of the time here, but it would be nice to still have control of awkward to get at smart plugs without it.

The light bulb (LIFX) has nothing but the phone app, unless there is something in the bulb itself? They only make lighting products not plugs.

Ewelink kit seems to be controllable over a LAN. I haven't tried it out but they have issued firmware updates that support it.