Are Smart Outlets Safe to Leave On 24/7?

Are Smart Outlets Safe to Leave On 24/7?

Smart outlets are designed for continuous operation and are safe to leave powered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — provided they are quality devices installed correctly and used within their rated specifications. Here is what you need to know about smart outlet safety.

Smart Outlets Are Designed for Continuous Use

A smart outlet is an electrical device, just like any outlet in your home. The electronics inside — a Wi-Fi or Zigbee radio, a relay, and a small power supply — are designed to operate continuously. Quality smart outlets use low-power standby electronics that generate negligible heat during idle operation.

Use CSA-Certified Devices

In Canada, electrical devices sold for use in homes must be certified by a recognized testing body. Look for the CSA, UL (with the c-UL mark for Canada), or ETL certification mark on the device and its packaging. Uncertified smart outlets sold online — particularly those without any certification markings — have not been tested to Canadian safety standards and may pose a fire risk. Always purchase smart outlets from recognized brands and verify the certification mark before installation.

Load Limits and What Not to Plug In

Every smart outlet has a maximum rated load — typically 15 amps (1,800 watts) for a standard 15-amp outlet. Never connect a load that exceeds this rating. High-draw appliances to avoid plugging into a smart outlet include:

• Space heaters (typically 1,500 watts — close to the limit but generally acceptable; check the device’s rating)
• Electric kettles and toasters (high draw for short periods — typically fine)
• Window air conditioners (check starting wattage against the outlet rating)
• Power tools (starting surge can exceed ratings)

For heavy loads, a smart outlet rated for 20 amps (installed on a dedicated 20-amp circuit) is the appropriate choice.

Standby Power Draw

Smart outlets draw a small amount of electricity continuously to maintain their Wi-Fi connection and standby state — typically 0.5 to 2 watts per outlet. This is negligible in terms of energy cost but worth noting if you have many smart outlets throughout the home.

Signs a Smart Outlet Should Be Replaced

Regardless of brand or certification, replace a smart outlet immediately if you notice:

• The outlet or plug feels hot to the touch
• You see scorch marks or discoloration around the outlet face
• You smell burning plastic or electrical odour from the outlet
• The outlet sparks when you plug something in
• The outlet makes crackling or buzzing sounds

Smart Outlet Installation in Ontario

Replacing an existing outlet with a smart outlet is straightforward wiring work. In Ontario, replacing an outlet on an existing circuit as a like-for-like swap typically does not require an ESA permit. However, any new circuit installation or panel work requires a licensed electrical contractor and an ESA permit.

EZSMART installs smart outlets for residential and commercial properties across Ontario. Contact us if you need new circuits or professional smart outlet installation.

Amir Azimipour

Electrician Since 2008 Journeyman Electrician Designated Master Electrician at EZSMART Corp