Schedule, Timer or Away Mode Not Working on Tapo and Kasa Smart Devices

This page covers troubleshooting steps for Tapo and Kasa smart devices where the schedule, timer, or away mode is not working — specifically when it cannot be edited in the app, does not take effect, or triggers at the wrong time. If the schedule, time, or away mode is not working as expected, the fixes below cover the most common causes: updating the app and firmware, re-syncing device time, and updating router DNS settings.

Key Takeaways

• If schedule, timer, or away mode is not working, first ensure the Kasa or Tapo app and device firmware are up to date.
• For Kasa devices, re-syncing device time can be done in the Kasa app under Me > Settings > Location and Time.
• For Tapo devices, confirm the correct time zone is set on the mobile device, then factory reset the smart device and re-add it to the Tapo app.
• Changing the router's DNS server to 8.8.8.8 or 8.8.4.4 and rebooting the router may resolve the issue.

Troubleshooting Steps for Schedule, Timer or Away Mode Not Working

Step 1. Update the App and Device Firmware

Ensure you are using the latest App and the Smart device has the latest firmware.

Step 2. Re-Sync the Device Time

For Kasa devices: Launch the Kasa App > Me > Settings > Location and Time. Confirm the Time Zone and Re-synchronize the Kasa device’s time by tapping Location > Sync Location.

For Tapo devices: Please ensure the location and time zone of your mobile phone/tablet are correct. Factory reset the smart device following the instructions in the quick installation guide and add it to the Tapo App again.

Step 3. Change the Router DNS Server

Try changing your router's DNS server to 8.8.8.8 or 8.8.4.4, then save the settings.

Step 4. Reboot your Router

Step 5: Contact TP-Link Support

If the suggestions above fail, please contact TP-Link support with the following information.

• Screenshots of the Schedule/Timer/Away Mode settings, or the error message.
• Your TP-Link ID (email account used in the Tapo/Kasa App).
• Model and MAC address of your smart device.

To learn more about each function and configuration, please visit the Download Center to download the manual for your product.