Page last updated on 16th March 2026
What are smart plugs and do energy-saving plugs work?
In this guide, we’ll address questions like “How do smart plugs work?”, “do smart plugs save energy?” and what to look out for if you’re interested in smart tech to save energy at home.
What's on this page?
- Smart plugs vs. smart meters - what’s the difference?
- What does a smart plug do?
- Do smart plugs save energy?
- How do energy-saving plugs work?
- Do energy-saving plugs work?
- Simple ways to save energy at home
When energy costs are on the rise, you may have searched for ways to cut down on your electricity bills. You might have come across terms like “smart plug” or “energy saving plug” as potential energy-saving solutions, but what exactly do smart plugs do? And are smart plugs worth it? Are “energy-saving plugs” as effective as they claim? Read on to find out.
Smart plugs vs. smart meters: what’s the difference?
While both devices can be classed as smart tech, smart plugs and smart meters are completely different devices and don’t rely on each other to work.
What are smart meters?
Smart meters are devices installed by your energy supplier which measure how much gas and electricity you’re using. Readings are then sent automatically to your energy supplier. You can also monitor your energy usage in near real-time via the in-home display.
What are smart plugs?
A smart plug is a plug adapter that connects to the internet, allowing users to remotely control the energy supply to the devices plugged into it - like kettles, lights, and electric blankets - via a smartphone app or voice assistant.
So essentially, both devices are to do with energy. Smart meters are about measuring energy, while smart plugs can help you control when it’s used.
What does a smart plug do?
Smart plugs are devices that can enable you to switch plugged-in appliances on and off, even when you're not at home. For instance, if you accidentally leave a lamp on, if the lamp is plugged into a smart plug, you can switch it off from anywhere using the app (as long as you are connected to the internet).
Many smart plugs also offer scheduling features, allowing you to set times for your appliances to turn on and off. Some may even be able to integrate with smart home systems.
Do smart plugs save energy?
Smart home technology, like smart plugs, might be useful for those looking to automate their home energy system. However, when evaluating their potential energy savings, it’s important to consider: are smart plugs worth it for your household?
Energy efficiency
Do smart plugs save energy? It’s important to note that smart plugs should not be viewed as a solution to high energy bills by simply being plugged in. While they can help you control when you use energy, Energy Saving Trust, who are an impartial and trusted organisation for energy efficiency, have warned against relying on smart plugs.
Smart plugs stay on standby mode, waiting for a specific signal to turn on and off. This means that even when you have switched the device off, a little bit of energy is still being used by the plug.
Smart plugs might be more helpful for people who want to use smart scheduling features, such as setting times and schedules for their appliances, for a more automated home system.
Controlling home appliances remotely
Smart plugs can automatically switch appliances, such as devices accidentally left on and porch lights, on and off when you’re not home. This could help with home security and safety.
Energy monitoring
Some smart plugs with energy monitoring capabilities can help you track how much electricity your appliances use while it’s connected to a smart plug. This could help you adjust your usage and help you save on energy bills.
But there are other ways to monitor your energy use, like smart meters.
Smart meters allow you to see your energy consumption in near real-time via the in-home display, giving you a glimpse into how much you’re spending on your gas and electricity in pounds and pence. It monitors overall household energy usage, rather than just one specific appliance, and can be a useful tool for home budgeting.
Request a smart meter from your energy supplier today to start tracking your energy usage.
Time of use tariffs
Some households use smart plugs alongside time-of-use tariffs, which offer fluctuating energy prices that vary depending on the time of day, or on different days, if you're able to shift your energy usage. With a smart plug, appliances can be turned on or off at scheduled, off-peak hours, helping you avoid peak charges.
However, keep in mind that smart plugs are ‘always on’ and use some power even when switched off. It may be simpler to unplug everything when not in use.
How do energy-saving plugs work?
In contrast to smart plugs, ‘energy-saving’ or ‘power-saving’ plugs are marketed as devices that save energy simply by being plugged into a socket. Manufacturers often claim these products work by electricity by “stabilising voltage” or “improving appliance efficiency” across household appliances. However, these claims can be vague and not backed up by evidence.
Do energy-saving plugs work?
Do plug-in power savers really work? In reality, devices sold as energy-saving plugs are often unregulated and lack proper certification. When purchasing any electrical devices, electrical safety charity Electrical Safety First recommends choosing reputable brands with proper electrical certifications to ensure the compatibility and safety of your device. Avoiding products that make energy-saving claims which are not backed up by evidence can help you make sure you're saving energy safely and effectively.
Simple ways to save energy at home
While some smart plugs offer features like remote scheduling, they still draw a small amount of power in standby mode and should not be relied on as an energy-saving solution.
If you’re looking to reduce your household energy usage, consider adopting some of these simple energy-saving habits:
- Unplugging appliances when they’re not in use and turning off sockets at the wall.
- Purchasing appliances with a high energy efficiency rating (Grade A).
- Regularly maintaining your high-energy appliances, such as radiators and washing machines.
- Getting a smart meter. With a smart meter, you can track your energy usage with the in-home display for accurate energy monitoring. What’s more, your bills will be based on your actual usage rather than estimated figures.
For some households that are looking to save on their energy bills, smart plugs can work as a complementary tool to manage energy usage. However, it’s important to consider if they are right for your household, and not to rely on them as the only energy-saving solution.
For more energy-saving tips refer to our guide here.
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