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iDevices Switch Impressions

iDevices Switch Impressions

After years of using traditional Christmas light timers, this year when we pulled the timers out of the light box, we couldn't find the pins that turn the lights on and off. I was not sad. Instead, I saw this as an opportunity to try out a smart plug. After doing some research I found that the best deal to be had on an Apple HomeKit friendly smart plug was to buy an iDevices Switch from Lowe's. They are 30% off though December 31st. As a bonus when you setup your plug, you can choose to have it register with iDevices, at which point they will send you 30% off anything on their website (I'm looking at the thermostat). For the purpose of Christmas decorations I bought 2, one for the Christmas tree, the other was placed inside my garage, where my outside lights are plugged in. These particular plugs are not recommended for outdoor use, iDevices makes a different switch for use outdoors. After 2 weeks I can say that they are working flawlessly! When setting them up, I had no problems with the tree outlet, as it is in the same room as my router. For the outlet in the garage, I found it easier to do the initial setup while plugged into an outlet inside my home, then move the switch out to the garage. One of the added benefits to these devices is that they track electricity usage so that I know exactly how much my Christmas lights are going to contribute to my electric bill this month (less than $1!). While $35 each is very expensive compared to traditional timers, I am hoping to recoup some of that by using them in other areas of my home throughout the rest of the year.    

Introducing the iDevices Switch, the world's most advanced connected plug. Control, monitor and schedule your home from wherever you are using the iDevices Connected app. Use Siri voice commands to control your home or set schedules based on your daily routines. Switch On Your Home. Available at Lowe's Stores and Lowes.com October 2015.

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Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

Snowkhana 5 coming this Thursday!

Snowkhana 5 coming this Thursday!

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