In today's competitive business landscape, small businesses always look for ways to save money and streamline operations. One cost-saving and time-efficient solution that has gained popularity in recent years is using smart plugs for small businesses. Smart plugs, also known as smart outlets, are devices that plug into traditional electrical outlets and allow users to control the flow of electricity to whatever is plugged into them.
For small businesses, smart plugs offer a variety of benefits. They can help reduce energy bills by automatically turning off appliances and devices when they are not in use. Additionally, smart plugs for small businesses can provide greater control over electricity usage.
This article will discuss the best smart plugs for small businesses and what factors to consider before buying. So, let's dive into the details!
- Why Small Businesses Should Choose Smart Plugs?
- Considerations when Choosing Smart Plugs for Small Businesses
- Examples of Smart Plugs for Small Business
Why Small Businesses Should Choose Smart Plugs?
According to Oberlo, around 33.2 million small businesses are in the US. Most of these businesses seek energy-efficient devices to reduce their energy bills. Let’s discuss why smart plugs can be a great addition to your business;
1. Cost-Effective
Smart plugs are relatively inexpensive compared to other smart home devices, so small businesses can invest in them without breaking the bank. With the help of these plugs, you save money in the long run by decreasing energy consumption.
For example, if a business owner forgets to turn off the lights or equipment before leaving the office, they can use a smart plug to turn them off remotely. Additionally, some smart plugs come with energy monitoring features that allow businesses to track the energy consumption of their devices. This helps them identify opportunities for further savings.
2. Remote Control
Smart plugs allow business owners to control their devices remotely. This can be especially helpful for small businesses with employees working off-site or requiring remote access to devices. For example, a small manufacturing company can use smart plugs to turn on and off equipment remotely without having to be at the site physically.
3. Increased Convenience
Smart plugs for small businesses can be set up to turn devices on and off automatically based on a schedule. This feature is great for small businesses with devices that must be turned on and off at specific times, such as lights or security systems. Moreover, businesses can use these plugs to save time by eliminating the need to manually turn on devices and focus on other tasks.
4. Improved Safety from Electrical Mishaps
These smart plugs for small businesses have safety features that can help to protect your business from electrical fires and other hazards. For example, some smart plugs have built-in surge protectors that can protect devices from power surges. Additionally, smart plugs can be used to turn off devices in an emergency, such as a fire.
5. Increased Security
Smart plugs can also help increase the security of your small business. With smart plugs, you can schedule your lights and other electrical devices to turn on and off at specific times, even when you are not in the office. This can help create the illusion that someone is still in the office, even when it is empty, which can deter potential burglars.
Considerations when Choosing Smart Plugs for Small Businesses
Let's discuss the things that a small business should consider before buying smart plugs:
1. Installation
Another essential factor to consider when selecting smart plugs for small businesses is installation. The ease of installation is crucial, especially for businesses that do not have technical personnel to handle the installation. In this case, it's important to opt for smart plugs that are easy to install and do not require technical expertise. Additionally, businesses should consider the compatibility of smart plugs with their existing electrical infrastructure.
2. Security Features
Security is a significant concern when it comes to smart plugs, and businesses must ensure that their smart plugs are secure. This is particularly important for businesses that deal with sensitive information or have critical operations that rely on electricity. When selecting smart plugs, businesses should consider the security features of smart plugs, such as password protection, encryption, and multi-factor authentication.
3. High Power Rating and Compatibility with Other Smart Devices
Another important factor to consider when selecting smart plugs for small businesses is compatibility with other smart devices. Smart plugs are designed to work with other smart devices, such as smart assistants, hubs, and home automation systems. Compatibility with these devices is essential to ensure seamless integration and control of the smart plugs. Not only this, but you should also look at the power ratings before making any decision.
It's because some smart plugs have a limited power rating, which means that they can only handle devices that consume less power. If the devices used in the business consume more power than the smart plugs can handle, it can result in the smart plugs malfunctioning or even causing electrical fires. Therefore, it's mandatory to go with those smart plugs for small businesses that have high power ratings and extensive compatibility.
4. Cost
Cost is an important factor when selecting smart plugs for small businesses. Smart plugs are available in different price ranges, and businesses should consider their budget constraints before selecting a smart plug. However, it's important to note that the cost of a smart plug should not be the only determining factor. Some cheaper smart plugs may not have all the features required by the business or may not be reliable.
In contrast, some expensive smart plugs may have features that your business might not need, resulting in unnecessary costs. Therefore, you should carefully evaluate the features offered and compare the cost to determine the best value for your money. It's also essential to consider the installation and maintenance cost of the smart plugs when evaluating the overall cost.
Examples of Smart Plugs for Small Business
Here are examples of smart plugs for small businesses so you can pick the best option:
1. Evvr Smart Energy Monitor Plug and Relay
Evvr has made it possible to turn your desire for an energy-efficient business ecosystem into reality with their Energy Monitoring Smart Plug and Relay. With its compatibility with Homekit, this device seamlessly connects all your new and old devices without delays. Moreover, you can manage and control your connected devices remotely from anywhere and anytime. This easy-to-install device is compatible with 2-core or 3-core cables.
This switch is designed to help you save on your home's energy consumption by regularly updating your hourly usage. It consumes 90% less energy than other devices in the same category. In addition, its split-type design complements your living space perfectly and gives you access to hidden switches. What sets this energy-monitoring smart plug apart is its thermal and overload protection feature, which ensures employees' safety from electrical shocks.
Key Features:
- Split-type design that doesn't take up much wall space
- Controlled via Evvr app and Siri, compatible with Homekit smart plug
- Easy setup suitable for DIY enthusiasts
- Compatible with 2-core or 3-core cables to manage multiple appliances up to 16 amps
- 90% more energy-efficient magnetic relay compared to similar products
- Provides hourly energy consumption information and predicts energy usage behaviors
2. Wemo Smart Plug
Wemo Smart Plug is a smart home device that allows you to control your electronic devices remotely. It plugs into any standard electrical outlet, and then you can plug your devices into the Wemo Smart Plug. You can then use the Wemo app on your smartphone or tablet to turn the devices on or off, set schedules or timers, and monitor energy usage.
The Wemo Smart Plug is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, so you can also control it with your voice. It also works with IFTTT, which allows you to create custom automation with other smart home devices and services.
Key Features:
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit for voice control
- Works with IFTTT to create custom automation with other smart home devices and services
- Enables you to control electronic devices remotely using the Wemo app on your smartphone or tablet
3. Tp-Link Kasa Smart Plug
The TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Mini Plug EP10 is a smart plug that allows you to control your electronic devices from anywhere using your smartphone or voice commands. It's compatible with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Microsoft Cortana. With the Kasa app, you can remotely turn on/off any device plugged into the EP10.
Additionally, you can set schedules and timers to automate your devices and monitor energy usage to save money on your electricity bill. Overall, the TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Mini Plug EP10 is a convenient and versatile tool for managing your home electronics.
Key Features:
- Can carry current up to 12 amp
- Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Smart things for voice control
- It supports up to 12A of power, making it suitable for most household appliances and electronics
Conclusion
Smart plugs are an excellent investment for small businesses looking to save money and streamline their operations. With smart plugs for small businesses, you can enjoy convenience, improved safety, streamlined operations, and cost-effectiveness.
Evvr Smart Energy Monitor Plug and Relay is the best in this regard and offer versatile features. It can carry up to 16 amps and protect your employees from potential electrical risks. Not only this, but Evvr also offers other smart home business gadgets. These include Evvr Hub, Evvr Center Lite, Evvr Pad S, etc.
So, get in touch now and get the best small business automation tools!
