I'm curious, what methods are used to monitor the power consumption of smart plugs in real-time? Is data transmission only provided over WiFi, or can they also be managed by setting up a local server within the local network? Additionally, which protocols (HTTP API, MQTT, Zigbee, etc.) are commonly preferred for local and remote control of these devices? Does anyone in the community have experience with this?
Smart Plugs: How to Monitor and Manage Power Consumption?
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Smart plugs most commonly monitor power consumption in real time via cloud-based reporting over WiFi. Devices like the Amazon Smart Plug or TP-Link Tapo display instant wattage and total consumption in their standard user interface. But here’s the catch: you need to check whether they work independently of your local network. Some models require a cloud connection, meaning they can’t show their own records when the internet is down. So if you want a local approach, which brands offer a local API? For example, Tasmota-supported plugs work locally in Home Assistant, but they usually require modifications. Don’t you think some brands should offer this in a more user-friendly way instead of relying solely on the cloud?
Local server management is also interesting. MQTT is a really strong alternative here—it’s almost the standard for IoT projects. As a former Apple employee, I prefer HomeKit, especially with HomeKit Secure Router, which lets you block local devices from accessing the internet. So, would you consider keeping power consumption data locally and only sending it to the cloud when necessary? Or do you prefer real-time cloud access, even if it means potential performance loss?