Hi - I'd like to plug an oil filled electric radiator into a smart plug that I can use with a timed schedule to turn on and off automatically.
I've tried a few different models but they always fail, I think, because of the spike in power when it turns on. So I was wondering if anyone had any recommendations for smart plugs that can operate with that kind of load?
The radiator has a power rating of 2500W.
Cheers
I use the MyLocalBytes smart plugs https://www.mylocalbytes.com/ they are rated to 16A and do work to these higher loads (unlike the GivEnergy ones that are 16A peak, 10A continuous).
I have a couple of them with oil radiators as well. No issues.
I use a Tapo P110 for my car without issue - it’s rated at 13A and regularly draws 2.2kW. Tech specs suggest max load 2.99kW: https://www.tapo.com/uk/product/smart-plug/tapo-p110/
I have also been recommended Shelly plugs also which are API controllable.
The Shelly Plus (Bluetooth / WiFi) says it can handle 2.5kW: https://shellystore.co.uk/product/shelly-plus-plug-uk/
The Shelly Qubino (Zigbee) says it can handle 3kW. https://shellystore.co.uk/product/shelly-qubino-wave-plug-uk/
In my experience it’s the wall socket that fails before the device plug or smart plug.
Brilliant, thank-you. That was fast!
In my experience it’s the wall socket that fails before the device plug or smart plug.
Worrying if British Standard sockets! 13A is 3kw and wired in 2.5mm2
General advice.....
What you need to check for all timers is the inductive load it can supply. This is normally (but not always) shown as something like 13(5)A where the figure in the brackets is the maximum current the switch can supply to an inductive load.
Basically an inductive load needs beefier relays otherwise the contacts will weld themselves closed.
Inductive loads are things like motors so anything with a pump is likely to be an inductive load. The more expensive the motor/pump then the more likely that attention has been paid to power factor correction. Cheap crap is cheap for a reason. There's also a lot of inductive lighting but that's not usually domestic.
The alternative option (and recommended) is to use a contactor box. This basically has a chunky relay inside which is controlled by your existing timer/switch so the timer/switch sees minimal load.
Make sure you're sure about the device you are using...
An interesting thread
https://community.givenergy.cloud/d/4047-givenergy-smart-plug-nearly-burned-down-my-house
I have only just bought Tapo P110. Data sheet says Max Load: 2990 W, 13 A General Use, 1/6 HP Motor and instructions with item say 13 A resistive load. The main reason I chose P110 is that they now monitor power as well and you can get a history graph.
I use BG Smart Sockets all Alexa controlled with either a voice command or programmed. One program is an automatic switch on X minutes before dusk.
I've got 3 x unused GE Smart plugs going gash if anyone wants them - price for postage only.
I bought them a while ago but apart from one I never found a use for the other 3.
CGoode Hi sounds good...I'll be interested in taking them off your hands.
Annaka Sorry I've only just seen your reply (I forgot to follow this thread!) Are you still interested? If so let me know how you want to play this.
[unknown]
If Annaka is no longer interetsed, I would be
If Annaka is no longer interetsed, I would be
wrighar Hi...i went for Zigbee in the end, fill your boots
Hi CGoode . I would be interested in these if they are still available. I use them for very low-power items and they work fine for my use. I have had two fail recently due to the cheapness of their parts, but I suspect that is a control failure, rather than an electrical one
Bit late and while slightly more pricey, the Eve Energy plugs are rated to max. 13A/2900 W for the UK (from the Eve website). Current models are Matter compatible too.
When I first was in the market, I had a hard time finding one which could work for my needs and tolerate a load like this, so maybe this helps someone. I found some are only design for lights, like the Philips Hue ones.
R0ss
Hi I use Kasa plugs for many years on 2 oil filled rads easy to use, easy to set up!
I've now gone to Giv plugs harder to set up, but not energy graphs
[unknown] I have 3 plugs & possibly 2 takers. Did you want all 3?
Either way I will need postage details / addresses. Not sure how that can be done securely on this site?
[unknown] I have 3 plugs & possibly 2 takers. Did you want all 3?
Either way I will need postage details / addresses. Not sure how that can be done securely on this site?
wrighar I have 3 plugs & possibly 2 takers. Did you want all 3?
Either way I will need postage details / addresses. Not sure how that can be done securely on this site?
Some weird stuff going on when I try & post.
[unknown]
Yes please!
[unknown] OK