Use Smart Plugs in Roof Cavity?

kranix on 16/06/2019 - 13:06
Last edited 16/06/2019 - 13:15

I've got a ducted gas heater and air purifier in my roof. I would like to have some stats on how much energy they are using and possibly even turn them off if I'm not using them for a while. Would it be reasonable to use them with smart plugs? Would the conditions in the roof be hostile to such electronics?

I don't have any experience with smart plugs, but I'm experienced enough with networking. Can the smart plugs be 'set and forget' so that I don't have to crawl into the roof again?

I live in Geelong and my roof is made of Colourbond without any sarking.

Electrical & Electronics Smart Plug

Comments

  • Melb69 on 16/06/2019 - 13:13

    If there's no sarking the space will get damp. Great thought, but over the long term the smart plug will corrode. IMO. You could probably try it short term to get an idea of your power usage.

  • dcep on 16/06/2019 - 14:43
    +1

    depends how hot is your roof space during summer heat

  • poboy on 16/06/2019 - 16:42

    I have a smart plug in my roof for 1-2 years, to measure the electricity consumption of my gas ducted unit. My views are:

    • Don't leave any exposed plugs, otherwise dust may cause an issue. Check the IP rating of the switch to see how much protection it offers.

    • My main unit is outside my house and that will pull 3-5,000W in total. The subset electricity usage for the fans in my roof is only about 800W

    • While all systems are different, I would be hesitant to recommend turning anything off related to air conditioning. The units require some always on power to remain functional otherwise they may experience costly damage

Login or Join to leave a comment
Login Join