Skip to content 
A few months ago, I opened my electricity bill and almost spilled my coffee. It leaped once more, and I knew not why. I had the same appliances, my habits did not change, but the numbers were gradually increasing.
You can save money with cheap smart plugs by monitoring how much energy each appliance uses and identifying devices that waste electricity. These plugs let you schedule on/off times so appliances run only when needed, reducing unnecessary power use. Many also show real-time energy data, helping you adjust habits and lower your monthly bill.
What Exactly Does a Smart Plug Do?
Think of a smart plug as a middleman between your appliance and the wall socket. You only need to plug it in, attach it to the Wi-Fi and manage it via an app on your cell phone.
It can:
- Turn devices on or off remotely.
- Track how much energy each one uses.
- Schedule when something should run.
You don’t need to be a tech expert either – setup usually takes a couple of minutes. Once connected, it’s like giving every device in your house its own switch you can control from anywhere.
Why Tracking Energy Use Actually Matters
Electricity prices keep rising, and most of us have no clue which devices are the biggest culprits. Many electronics – even when “off” – still draw power in standby mode.
That small trickle adds up over time. Smart plugs with energy monitoring expose those silent power hogs.
When you see the numbers, it’s almost impossible not to make a change. You start turning things off sooner, scheduling smarter, and using only what you need. It’s simple awareness that quickly turns into savings.
How Cheap Smart Plugs Help You Save Money
Even low-cost smart plugs can make a real dent in your bill. Here’s how they quietly go to work for you:
1. Find the Hidden Energy Eaters
Every home has a few. Maybe it’s the old heater or the console that’s always plugged in. Smart plugs show you exactly how much power each device uses, so you can make informed choices instead of guessing.
2. Automate Your Routine
You can set timers so lamps turn off at midnight, or the coffee maker powers down once you leave for work. No more foetting things on your plug takes care of it.
3. Stop Wasting Standby Power
That “off” TV box or sound system might still be sipping electricity. Smart plugs can cut that flow completely, saving you a few dollars each month without you even noticing.
4. Track and Adjust in Real Time
Most apps show live data – so if something’s running more than it should, you can switch it off instantly from your phone.
5. Use Off-Peak Hours Wisely
Some plugs let you schedule appliances to run when electricity is cheaper. A small shift in timing can mean noticeable savings over the year.
A Real-Life Example
Here’s what happened in my case:
I plugged my space heater into a smart plug and realized it was using way more power than I thought – about 1.5 kWh every hour. By scheduling it to turn off automatically after 30 minutes, I shaved about $20 off that month’s bill.
That’s the magic of small habits plus smart tools. You don’t have to overhaul your lifestyle – just make a few tweaks that stick.
Are Cheap Smart Plugs Actually Any Good?
Surprisingly, yes. You don’t need the pricey models to get great results. Well-known budget options from TP-Link (Tapo or Kasa), Gosund, or Meross offer the same essential features:
- Real-time energy monitoring
- Simple app controls
- Compatibility with Alexa or Google Assistant
- Scheduling and timers
- Built-in overload protection
They’re reliable, safe, and beginner-friendly – exactly what you want when you’re starting out.
How to Get the Most Out of Smart Plugs
Once you’ve got them connected, try these simple habits to stretch your savings:
1. Start with Big Power Users
Use smart plugs for heaters, irons, or entertainment systems – things that use a lot of power quickly.
2. Build Smart Schedules
Automate lamps to switch off before bedtime or have your coffee maker stop heating after breakfast.
3. Use Voice Commands
Connect to Alexa, Google, or Siri. It’s oddly satisfying to say, “Hey Google, turn off the TV plug,” and watch it happen.
4. Check Your App Weekly
Most apps show a graph or report of your energy usage. Spend a minute reviewing it — you’ll start spotting patterns fast.
5. Unplug When You Travel
Heading out for a weekend? Turn everything off on your phone. It’s an easy peace of mind and guaranteed savings.
Helping Both Your Wallet and the Planet
Using smart plugs isn’t just about saving a few bucks. Cutting unnecessary power also means using fewer resources overall. Less demand on the grid means fewer emissions – a win for your wallet and the environment.
It’s one of those rare cases where saving money and being eco-friendly go hand in hand.
Common Misconceptions About Smart Plugs
“They’re too expensive.”
Not really — many good ones cost under $15 and pay for themselves in months.
“They’re complicated.”
Most take less than five minutes to set up — seriously.
“They use more power than they save.”
A smart plug’s own energy use is tiny (usually less than 1 watt). It saves much more than it consumes.
FAQs
1. Do smart plugs really lower your bills?
Yes. They help you see and control what’s wasting power, and that control naturally leads to lower costs.
2. Are cheap models safe?
If you stick with known brands that have CE or UL certifications, they’re perfectly safe.
3. Can they work without Alexa or Google Home?
Absolutely. Most work through their own mobile apps, no smart hub required.
4. How accurate is the energy tracking?
Usually accurate enough for home use. You’ll clearly see which devices are power-hungry.
5. What devices shouldn’t I plug in?
Avoid heavy-duty tools or large appliances unless the plug is rated for high loads.
Final Thoughts: Small Gadgets, Real Savings
Solar panels and putting up fancy upgrades are not required to begin saving on electricity. In some cases, all you need is a smart plug that measures energy and some interest in how power is actually being consumed at home.
When you look at the numbers, you’ll begin to make wiser decisions without contemplating them.
It is just a little measure to a smarter and greener and cheaper house, one plug at a time.
