My old smart plug just bricked itself at 3 AM and woke the whole house

It was a cheap one I bought two years ago for my living room lamp. Last night, it started clicking on and off by itself, then let out a loud pop and a burning smell. I had to pull it from the wall and open a window. Now I'm looking for a reliable brand that won't freak out in the middle of the night. Anyone have a smart plug that's lasted more than a few years?

3 comments

3 Comments

hugo_robinson252mo ago

That loud pop and burning smell is a real fire hazard, way worse than just a dead plug. Honestly, you should check if that brand has a recall notice, because that's not normal failure. I've had good luck with plugs that have physical on/off buttons as a backup, seems like the simpler ones last longer. Maybe look for ones that are certified by a real safety lab, not just the cheapest option.

dianaanderson2mo ago

Real safety lab" makes me think of my smoke alarm test button, which I only find by accident.

dixon.iris2mo ago

Just press that test button monthly when you change your clocks.