Why Does My Smart Plug Randomly Turn On at Night (Without Any Schedule)?
Some users report that their smart plug turns on randomly at night, even though no schedule or automation is set. This unexpected behavior is usually linked to residual routines, cloud sync errors, or power state settings in the smart plug’s app.
Smart Plug Turning On at Night With No Schedule? Here’s Why
If your smart plug turns on randomly during the night — even without a schedule or scene — you’re not alone. This issue is common with brands like TP-Link Kasa, Gosund, Tuya, and Meross.
Top 5 Reasons Why Your Smart Plug Activates Unexpectedly
- 1. Forgotten Scenes or Routines: Some routines may be cloud-synced from Alexa, Google Home, or SmartThings.
- 2. Power-On State: Many smart plugs allow you to set a “Power-On Behavior” — often defaulting to “ON” after a power loss.
- 3. Cloud Sync Errors: If your plug syncs with multiple assistants, conflicts can cause false triggers.
- 4. Firmware Bugs: Outdated firmware can cause the plug to reset or misbehave.
- 5. Shared Control: If someone else shares access (e.g., spouse, child), they might be triggering it unknowingly.
How to Fix a Smart Plug That Turns On by Itself
- Check Linked Services: Open Alexa, Google Home, or SmartThings and verify if the device is in a routine or automation.
- Adjust Power-On Settings: In your smart plug’s app, set “Restore Last State” instead of “Always On.”
- Update Firmware: Open the plug’s app > Device Settings > Firmware > Check for updates.
- Unlink Unused Platforms: If the plug is linked to platforms you no longer use, remove them.
- Check Access Permissions: In the app, check who has shared control and remove unknown or inactive users.
Bonus: Enable Activity Logs (If Available)
Some smart plug apps let you view activity logs or “Last triggered by…” notifications. This can help you pinpoint the cause of unexpected activations.
Conclusion: Your smart plug may be turning on at night due to invisible routines or default power settings. With a few tweaks, you can take back full control of your smart home.