Unexpected Devices You Can Automate

You can automate far more than lights and thermostats—think coffee grinders, analog cameras, and even your toilet. This article covers surprising but practical home automation ideas, how they work, what to buy, and pitfalls to avoid.

Why Automate the Unexpected?

Most people think of smart bulbs and plugs, but the real value of home automation comes from devices you don’t usually consider. Automating them saves time, reduces waste, and adds convenience in ways that surprise you. For example, a smart plug on a coffee grinder lets you grind beans fresh at 6:30 AM without touching it. A water sensor on a washing machine can alert you to leaks before they flood your floor. These small wins add up.

How Automation Works

At its core, automation involves three components: a trigger, a condition, and an action. Triggers can be time-based (e.g., sunset), sensor-based (e.g., motion detected), or manual (e.g., voice command). Conditions filter when the action should run (e.g., only if you’re home). Actions are what the device does—turning on, off, sending a notification, etc. Most smart home hubs (like Home Assistant, SmartThings, or Apple HomeKit) let you create these rules with a visual editor or simple code. You don’t need to be a programmer; you just need to understand the logic.

Surprising Devices to Automate

Here are some unexpected but genuinely useful devices you can automate:

• Analog camera (time-lapse) – Use a smart plug to power a camera on and off at set intervals to capture long-term projects.
• Toilet bidet – Set a schedule to pre-warm the seat before you wake up.
• Fish tank lights – Simulate sunrise/sunset with a smart plug to regulate fish sleep cycles.
• Soldering iron – Turn it off automatically after you leave the workshop (with a presence sensor).
• Humidifier – Trigger it when a humidity sensor drops below 40%.
• Garden sprinkler – Water based on soil moisture, not a fixed timer.
• Electric blanket – Preheat your bed 30 minutes before bedtime, then off.
• Vacuum robot – Start it when you leave the house, not when you’re trying to work.

These devices usually require a smart plug, a smart switch, or a sensor. The key is to think about what you do repeatedly and could be automated safely.

How to Choose the Right Smart Device

When automating an unexpected device, you need to consider the following:

• Power type – Is it plug-in, hardwired, or battery? For plug-in, a smart plug works. For hardwired, you need a smart switch (and often an electrician).
• Communication protocol – Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Bluetooth. Wi-Fi is simplest but can clutter your network. Zigbee/Z-Wave need a hub but are more reliable.
• App compatibility – Does it work with your existing ecosystem (Alexa, Google, HomeKit)?
• Power rating – Check the wattage. A smart plug typically handles up to 1800W (15A). For high-power devices like space heaters, use a heavy-duty smart plug.
• Safety certifications – Look for UL, CE, or similar marks to ensure it meets electrical safety standards.

Common Problems and How to Avoid Them

Automating unexpected devices can hit snags. Here are the most common issues:

• Device doesn’t turn on – Many devices have a physical switch that must be left in the “on” position for a smart plug to control them. If it’s off, the smart plug can’t power it.
• Wi-Fi interference – Too many devices on the same network can cause drops. Use a mesh network or move to Zigbee/Z-Wave.
• No neutral wire – Smart switches often require a neutral wire. Check your wiring before buying.
• Firmware updates – Some devices lose automation after an update. Keep your hub and device firmware current.
• Safety hazards – Never automate a device that could be a fire risk if left on (e.g., hair straighteners, space heaters) unless you have a reliable schedule and presence detection.

Costs and Energy Considerations

The upfront cost of smart plugs and sensors is low—typically $10–$30 per plug. Hubs cost more if you need one. The ongoing cost is electricity for the devices themselves, plus a small amount for the smart plug’s standby power (about 1–2 watts). For example, automating a coffee grinder for 1 hour a day adds about $0.30 per month at $0.10/kWh. That’s negligible compared to the convenience.

Safety First: What Not to Automate

While automation is fun, some devices should never be automated without extreme caution:

• Space heaters – they can cause fires if left on unattended. If you must automate, use a smart plug with a built-in temperature sensor and only turn it on when you’re home.
• Irons or hair straighteners – same fire risk.
• Medical devices – never automate anything that could affect your health.
• High-power tools – ensure the smart plug can handle the current and that the tool has a safety lock.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for both the device and the smart plug. If in doubt, consult an electrician.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I automate a device that has a physical switch?

Yes, but you need to leave the physical switch in the “on” position. The smart plug then controls power. If the device has a soft-touch button (like many modern coffee makers), it may not work because the button needs to be pressed physically—not just powered. In that case, look for a smart switch that can simulate a button press, or use a smart button that physically presses it.

Do smart plugs work with all appliances?

Most smart plugs work with any plug-in device up to their rated wattage (usually 15A/1800W). However, devices with motors (like fans or vacuum cleaners) can cause power surges—ensure the plug is rated for inductive loads. Also, some devices have a “soft start” that a smart plug might not handle well.

What if my Wi-Fi goes out?

Most smart plugs rely on the cloud, so if your internet drops, schedules may not run. However, many hubs (like Home Assistant) can run locally, meaning automations continue even without internet. Check if your system supports local control before relying on it.

Can I automate a device that uses a remote control?

Yes, you can use an IR blaster (like a Broadlink) to send infrared signals to the device. This works for TVs, ACs, and some fans. The blaster connects to your Wi-Fi and can be triggered by schedules or sensors.

Is it safe to automate a device that draws high power?

It’s safe if the smart plug is rated for that power and you follow safety guidelines. For high-power devices like heaters, use a plug rated for at least 15A and never exceed the manufacturer’s limit. Also, avoid automating devices that are meant to be supervised.

How do I get started with minimal cost?

Start with one smart plug and a simple schedule. Use it on a lamp or a coffee maker. Once you’re comfortable, add sensors and more complex automations. Many smart plugs cost under $20, so you can experiment without a big investment.

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