TP-Link Smart Plug and Smart Switch: Common Questions Answered

This page covers common questions about TP-Link smart plugs and smart switches, including compatibility, installation, voice control, and safe usage. It is a comprehensive resource page with links to setup instructions and related FAQs for users who need deeper guidance beyond what is answered here.

Key Takeaways

• It is not recommended to plug a power strip or extension cord into a smart plug. Doing so can create an overload risk without your awareness.
• TP-Link smart plugs and switches can control multiple lights or devices as long as the total wattage and amperage does not exceed the device's rated limits.
• EP25, KP125, and KS220 support Apple HomeKit.
• TP-Link smart switches work with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. No smart bulbs are required.
• The HS200 requires three wires (Live, Load, and Neutral) and does not work on a two-wire circuit.
• The HS220 is a dimmer switch using incandescent/halogen forward phase control (TRIAC-based) and supports two-way wiring only.

Kasa Smart Plug and Switch Setup Resources

For basic/advanced settings of Smart Plug/Switch, please refer to the following FAQs:

• How to Set Up a Kasa Smart Plug via the Kasa App
• What is a TP-Link ID and How Do I Create One?
• Set Up Schedule, Away Mode, and Timer for Kasa Smart Plugs, Bulbs, and Switches
• How to update firmware of Smart Devices in Kasa App?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I plug in a power strip to the smart plug?

It is not recommended to plug a power strip into a smart plug. A smart plug has a lower maximum load capacity than a power strip. Connecting a power strip — or plugging a smart plug into an extension cord or surge protector — creates the risk of overloading the smart plug without realizing it, which can cause product damage.

Q2: Can a Smart Plug or Switch Control Multiple Lights?

Yes, they can as long as the total current draw and wattage does not exceed the rated amperage and wattage of the Smart Plug/Switch.

For example, you can use it to control outdoor Christmas tree lights.

Q3: Does the Smart Plug Block Both Outlets on the Socket Panel?

Possibly it does. Due to the design of the Smart Plug, it is recommended to place it in the top outlet so that the bottom one is usable. However, we do offer a new mini-plug HS105. This model is designed to keep the 2^nd outlet on the socket panel free. Placing the smart plug in the top outlet is recommended because it keeps the bottom outlet accessible for other use.'

Q4: Can I Control My TV With a Smart Plug and Alexa?

Most TVs enter standby mode rather than fully powering off. Because the smart plug cuts all power to the outlet, the TV will need to be manually powered on after the plug is switched back on

Q5: Which TP-Link Smart Plugs and Switches Support Apple HomeKit?

Apple HomeKit compatibility lets you control your smart plug or switch through the Apple Home app and Siri without a separate hub. EP25, KP125, and KS220 support Apple Home Kit.

Q6: Can I Ask Alexa to Turn On a Light After a Delay?

Yes, Alexa has a built-in timer function that will perform the desired action after you tell it to wait an “x” amount of time.

To set this up, create a Routine in the Alexa app — for detailed instructions, refer to Alexa support.

For example

1. Open the Alexa app and go to Routines.
2. Set the trigger to a voice command (example: "Alexa, turn on the bedroom light after 10 minutes").
3. Add Action 1: Wait — set the timer to 10 minutes.
4. Add Action 2: Device — turn on the bedroom light.

When you say the voice command “Alexa, turn on the bedroom light after 10 minutes”, the bedroom light will be turned on after 10 minutes.

Q7: Do I Need Smart Bulbs to Control Lights With Alexa?

No smart bulbs are not needed. The switch will control whatever is on the circuit that it's installed on, and Alexa will provide voice control for that device.

Q8: Is the HS200 or HS210 KIT a Dimmer Switch?

No, HS200/HS210KIT does not have a dimmer feature. HS220 is a dimmer switch, but it’s only two-way.

Q9: Can I Manually Control Devices Through the HS200?

Yes, when the HS200 is connected to the electrical system properly, you will be able to control the lamp/other devices in the system manually.

Q10: Does the HS200 Work on a Two-Wire Circuit?

No, you will need at least three wires: Live, Load, and Neutral for the HS200 to work properly.

Q11: Can the HS200 Work on a Two-Pole Switch?

This may be possible with circuit modification, but TP-Link does not recommend it and cannot provide technical support for this setup. If you choose to proceed, hire a licensed electrician.

Q12: Can the HS200 Be Used in a Three-Way Switch Combination?

This may be possible with circuit modification, but TP-Link does not recommend it and cannot provide technical support for this setup. If you choose to proceed, hire a licensed electrician.

Q13: Can I Use the HS210 KIT With an Ordinary Three-Way Switch?

Yes, but you have to connect only one HS210 to the line wire and the ordinary three-way switch to the load wire. Only one HS210 connects to the Line wire because that unit handles the live electrical input — the second unit connects to the Load wire and controls the light output.

Q14: What Dimmer Type Does the HS220 Use?

The dimmer type for our HS220 is Incandescent/Halogen (forward-phase control), based on TRIAC.

Q15: Can I Install a TP-Link Smart Switch in a 2 or 3 Gang Switch Box?

All of our TP-Link smart switches are designed for one-gang use, and each comes with its original plate in the package. TP-Link does not currently sell 2-gang or 3-gang wall plates. Generally speaking, if each switch in the 2-gang, 3-gang, or more-gang switch box can control one light or a row of lights individually, then it should be okay to install the TP-Link smart switch in that box instead. Before installing it, we suggest checking the smart switch's specifications on our official website first and confirming that the gang box's size is compatible with our switch.

Q16: What Relay Type Do Kasa Smart Plugs and Switches Use?

The HS220 dimmer switch uses an SRC relay, while other Kasa smart plugs and switches use a mechanical relay.