It’s pretty common in the US to have wall receptacles where either the top or bottom outlet is switched via a switch on the wall. Usually this is used so that a dumb lamp can be plugged into the switched outlet and controlled by the dumb switch at the wall.
There are many people who rent in the US, and are unable to modify their wall switch. Here’s a product idea for Zooz (but, also something that could be built by anyone in a work box and plugged into the original outlet):
Basically, the device would just plug into the existing wall outlet, where one of the two outlets is switched (the device could itself have a switch so that it’s able to work with both bottom- and top-switched outlets). You would then be able to use the wall dumb-switch to control the built-in outlets without any modifications needed to wiring.
The entire thing could be housed in a small package that plugs into both outlets, something like this.
Sometimes I miss the obvious, but the switch already controls the outlet? Why this over just a smart plug?
The dumb switch normally controls the outlet. This over a smart plug because it turns the switch into a smart switch, that can now control either the attached load (which can also be controlled remotely), or other automations.
Basically: this = dumb switch to smart switch conversion, without rewiring, plus two built in smart plugs.
Currently, we do not have any plans to introduce a smart outlet. Smart outlets can be more difficult to offer than smart switches or plug-in devices for a few key reasons.
First, they need to meet strict electrical code and safety requirements. That includes being tamper-resistant, handling a full 15A or 20A load safely, and passing more extensive testing than other types of smart devices.
Another challenge is space. A smart outlet has to fit all the internal components—like the Z-Wave chip, relay, antenna, and power supply—into a standard wall box, while still making room for two plug connections. That makes heat management and safety more difficult compared to smart switches or external smart plugs.
They also usually require a neutral wire to function properly, which isn’t available in many older homes. That limits where they can be used and can lead to installation confusion.
Smart outlets can also present safety issues after installation. Unlike a switch or a plug-in device where the load is usually known or fixed, people can plug almost anything into a smart outlet—including appliances or motor loads the device may not be rated for. That creates a risk of overloading the internal relay or damaging the device.
Finally, smart outlets are less flexible than other options. They’re permanent once installed, and they typically control either one half of the outlet or the entire outlet, depending on wiring. Many users prefer smart switches to control lighting or smart plugs for convenience, since they’re easier to install and more versatile.
For all these reasons, there are fewer smart receptacle options on the market, and most users find better results with switches or plug-in devices instead.
The concept is great and would be a super easy solution for users with a switched receptacle where they don’t need to touch any wires, I agree! The main concern from product development standpoint here is the size since the relay would need to be powerful enough to handle larger loads (anything one can plug into a receptacle). So the device itself would be bulky and because it’s specific to a single use case (a switched receptacle only), we’re worried the demand wouldn’t cover the development and certification costs. But we’ll be watching for similar requests and if there’s more, we’ll definitely consider it! Thanks so much for sharing the project in such detail
