How to Set a Timer on Amazon Smart Plug to Automatically Turn Devices On/Off

Key Takeaways:

• The Amazon Smart Plug allows you to control devices plugged into it using Alexa voice commands or the Alexa app
• You can set timers and schedules to automatically turn devices on and off at specific times
• Creating routines in the Alexa app enables automating the smart plug based on time, voice commands, or other triggers
• The smart plug is easy to set up and use but lacks some advanced features like energy monitoring

The Amazon Smart Plug is a convenient way to make any device “smart” by allowing you to control it remotely using Alexa. One of the handiest features is the ability to set timers and schedules, so your devices automatically turn on and off at preset times. Here’s how to set it up.

Setting Up the Smart Plug

First, make sure your Amazon Smart Plug is connected and set up with the Alexa app. Plug it in, open the app, and follow the simple instructions to get it connected to your Wi-Fi network. Once set up, you can start creating timers and routines.

Creating a Timer or Schedule

1. Open the Alexa app and go to the “Devices” tab
2. Select “Plugs” and choose the smart plug you want to control
3. Tap “Create a Routine”
4. Hit the “+” button and select “When this happens”
5. Choose “Schedule” and set the time, date, and frequency for the plug to turn on or off
6. Select “Add action” and choose the smart plug
7. Set the desired state (on or off) and tap “Create”

You can create multiple routines to have the plug turn on and off at different times. For example, you could have a lamp plugged in set to turn on every evening at sunset and off at 11pm.

Automating with Other Devices

The real power of the smart plug comes when you integrate it with other Alexa-enabled devices and sensors. Some ideas:

• Have the plug turn on when a motion sensor detects movement
• Turn on a fan if a temperature sensor reads above a certain level
• Toggle the plug on or off when you say a specific voice command to Alexa

To set up these automations, create a new routine and choose the triggering device or voice command instead of a schedule. Then add the smart plug action as described above. The possibilities are nearly endless!

Limitations and Downsides

While the Amazon Smart Plug is great for basic on/off control and scheduling, it does have some limitations compared to more advanced smart plugs:

• No energy monitoring to track power usage over time
• Lacks an “away mode” that turns devices on/off randomly to simulate occupancy
• Only works with Alexa – no direct integration with Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, etc.

However, if you’re already using Alexa and just want a simple way to automate lamps, fans, or small appliances, it’s an affordable and easy-to-use option.

FAQ

Can I use the Amazon Smart Plug without an Alexa speaker?

Yes, you can control it through the Alexa smartphone app even without an Echo or other Alexa speaker. However, you won’t be able to use voice commands in that case.

How many devices can I control with the smart plug?

The plug has one outlet, so you can control one device plugged directly into it. However, you could plug a power strip into the smart plug to control multiple devices together.

Can I set the plug to turn on and off at sunrise and sunset?

Yes, when creating a routine/schedule, you can choose “sunrise” or “sunset” as the trigger time instead of a fixed clock time. It will automatically adjust based on the season.

What happens if my Wi-Fi goes down?

If your home Wi-Fi is offline, you won’t be able to control the smart plug remotely or via voice commands. However, any existing schedules/timers will still function, since they are stored on the device itself. You can also turn the plug on or off manually with the button on the side.