If you can get IKEA where you are the INSPELNING line has Zigbee smart plugs with energy monitoring for only like $12. I believe they have a UK variant as well.
this post was submitted on 16 Oct 2024
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This like most plugs in this format is not for inductive loads so it can only handle 300W with such:
It might be OK if the AC units are small enough.
Wow...I was not aware of this. It's not THAT small, I think 2000W rated. I'm afraid this won't do. Anyway INSPELNING seems not to be available in this location yet.
To clarify for others, that's just for motor and AC loads. Rated capacity for resistive loads is 1800 W (15 A). Aside from a portable induction stovetop and possibly portable AC units, this is likely fine for most things people will connect to it. Its probably not a good fit for OP though.
How the average quality from those IKEA plugs?
In my experience Ikea quality in electronics range from ok to a big ball of crap without any apparent way to distinguish in which side they are.
If you're switching low power inconsequential things like LED lights, they're OK.
I'm not sure if they're available with UK plugs, but I've got a pack of Thirdreality Zigbee plugs that monitor energy use and have a button on them to toggle power.
I've got them connected to Home Assistant. Two do a bit of climate control in a coldroom, the others are for occupancy lighting.
This! If you can get them for UK voltages and plow style. They are inexpensive and handle 15A, and give the power consumption data as well.
If you're gonna be switching AC units, you likely want a plug that can switch inductive loads. Most can't. Well they can but their relays crap out quickly. Here's an example of a unit rated for inductive loads. It's for NA and uses Z-wave so it's not what you're looking for. They explicitly call out it can be used for AC motors. Some units explicitly say they can't be used for inductive loads but many don't and you learn the hard way.
I think something like this would do? You can search the list of supported devices there. Search by exposes power.
I can whole-heartedly recommend the Aqara Power Plugs. They are Zigbee, has energy monitoring, works flawlessly with Home Assistant via ZHA and come in US/EU/UK formats. I have about 10 of these and I have not been disappointed in the 5 years I have had them.
Thanks! I'm going to look them up. Did you use them for any heavy loads?
I have some on freezers, and one on an air fryer that does 2400W. That's the biggest loads I have.
I don't think I need them over 2000W. Thanks!
I have some SmartThings plugs that work similarly, I think they have a UK version.
Thanks! I'll check it.
You can buy Tuya Zigbee plugs, they're cheap and work with Home Assistant
Thanks! The more i check them, the more likely I'll end up just getting these.