I've got a TP-Link smart plug that I bought recently and I want to plug my fridge and washing machine into it. Can I use it with any appliance or are some not compatible? I'm worried something might get damaged.
Smart plugs work with almost any appliance, but there are two things you need to keep in mind: high-powered appliances like fridges and washing machines draw a lot of current and can overload the smart plug (many models can't handle more than 16-20 amps). Best thing is to check your TP-Link's specs and compare them with what those appliances consume (it's on the back plate), because if you plug them in you could burn it out and lose control of the plug, or worse, create a fire hazard. If they're not within the limit, better not use them with it.
Technically yes they work with almost anything, but the real problem isn't compatibility but power: your TP-Link has a consumption limit (usually around 3,680W), and both the fridge and washing machine can exceed it, especially when the compressor or motor starts up. If you plug them in and the smart device overloads, it'll just cut the power to protect itself, so nothing gets damaged, but you'd lose the functionality. What I'd actually recommend is checking your plug's technical specs to see exactly how many watts it can handle, and comparing that to what your appliances consume (it's usually on the device's label). For things like that it's better to get a plug with higher capacity or just leave them plugged in normally without a smart controller.
Log into answer.
