Guide to Outdoor Smart Home Power Sockets \ Outlets

If you’re looking to make your outdoor space smarter, safer, and easier to manage, outdoor smart power sockets (or outlets) are a great place to start. These handy devices give you remote control over your outdoor electronics, help manage energy use.

This guide covers everything you need to know, what they are, how they work, and what to look for when choosing the right one for your setup.

What Are Outdoor Smart Sockets

Outdoor smart sockets are weatherproof power outlets designed for external use. Like indoor smart plugs, they connect to your home Wi-Fi  or smart home system and allow you to control plugged-in devices from your phone, tablet, or voice assistant (like Alexa or Google Assistant).

They’re great for powering and automating:

• Garden lights (for security and pleasure)
• Water features
• Outdoor heaters
• Christmas decorations \ lights
• Pond pumps

Main Benefits

• Remote Control: Turn devices on or off from anywhere using your phone.
• Scheduling & Timers: Set timers or daily schedules for automatic control.
• Voice Control: Use a voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant.
• Energy Efficiency: Track usage and reduce unnecessary power drain.
• Safety: Waterproof and overload-protected for outdoor safety.

What to Look For When Buying

• Weather Resistance (IP Rating): IP44 is the minimum; IP65 or higher is ideal for exposed areas.
• Number of Outlets: Choose a model with enough sockets for your needs. If you think you need one, get two, if you think you need two get four. Better to have them an not need them, than not have it and need it.
• Compatibility: Most outdoor smart plugs use 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, however other wireless smart home tech like Zigbee and Bluetooth are also popular. Check if the socket needs a smart hub or can connect directly to your WiFi network.
• App Features: Look for scheduling, grouping, usage stats.
• Voice Assistant Support: Compatibility with voice assistants like Alexa, Google, or Apple HomeKit can be useful
• Build Quality: Go for trusted brands with durable, waterproof designs.

Installation Tips

• Positioning: Place the socket where it’s shielded from direct exposure to the elements, especially those sockets with a low IP rating.
• Mounting: Wall-mounted or freestanding options, choose based on your layout.
• Signal Strength: Be sure that where you locate the socket within in range of a  WiFi signal or other smart home wireless signal
• Pro Install: Get a professional to install the socket. To make sure it is safe and certified. Setting up the smart component is usually straight forward and can be done by anyone

Conclusion

Outdoor smart power sockets are a small upgrade that can make a big difference in how you use and enjoy your outdoor space. Whether you’re adding a bit of convenience, cutting down energy use, or just avoiding another trip outside in the rain, they’re well worth the investment.

At Smartout, we stock a range of reliable, weatherproof smart sockets to suit different outdoor needs. If you’re not sure what’s right for your setup, feel free to get in touch.