Learn how to control your fan or other devices from your cell phone, using smart plugs. It's very simple!
Nowadays, it is possible to control several devices from your cell phone with the use of smart plugs. One example of this is being able to control a fan, which is a very good and practical strategy to make the environment more ventilated on hot days, especially with the heat wave that Brazil has been experiencing in recent days.
Smart plugs allow users to control regular, non-smart fans remotely and even through voice commands on their cell phones. Devices connected to these plugs can also be programmed and incorporated into smart home routines.
Smart outlets allow users to schedule specific times for the appliance to turn on and off, which provides convenience and contributes to energy efficiency by avoiding unnecessary operation. Many of these outlets are compatible with voice assistants such as Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri, making it even easier to control the devices.
Discover now how to install smart sockets and control conventional fans in your home remotely!
Smart sockets
Smart plugs operate by incorporating network and remote control technologies. They provide an interesting alternative to incorporating conventional ventilation devices into the smart home routine.
When connected to a smart plug, the device can indirectly enjoy network connectivity, as this type of plug is designed with a wireless communication module, which allows connection to the Wi-Fi network or directly to mobile devices (Bluetooth). In addition, the sockets have a processing unit, which processes received commands and sends signals to connected devices.
Controlling the fan via cell phone
1 – Connect your socket
First of all, choose a socket that is compatible with your devices and needs. Among the most popular options are smart plugs from Positivo and Elgin. Confirm that the model is compatible with the voltage in your home. To install it, simply plug the smart plug into a socket and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
2 – Download the manufacturer or brand’s app on your cell phone
Make sure the app provided by the plug manufacturer is available for your mobile platform. Apps are usually available on both the App Store and the Google Play Store. Most apps require you to create an account to use all features.
3 – Pair your outlet with the app
Once you’ve accessed the app, look for an option to add a new device and select the type of appliance you’re connecting. There’s usually a specific category for smart plugs in the menu.
4 – Connect your socket to the Wi-Fi network
To connect the smart plug to the network, you must follow the instructions in the app to access the plug in setup or pairing mode. This procedure is important because, within the network, the plug can communicate with other devices connected to the same network.
5 – Connect your fan
Once you’ve set up your outlet, plug your fan into it. Then, go to the outlet’s app and give your fan a name. This is important so that you don’t confuse it with other devices you might automate in the future.
6 – Connect your socket to the speaker
Connecting your outlet to a smart speaker can add an extra layer of convenience to controlling devices in your home. Device integration typically involves using voice assistants. This means you can control the fan using just a voice command, without having to do the action via your cell phone.
