Timer socket with override?

[SpellowHouse]

Does anyone know where I can find an electronic 24hr timer socket with a manual override? I have some mechanical timers and some electronic ones but although the electronic ones are more flexible, they don't have a manual override. Or at least not one that is nice and easy to operate when you are reaching down the back of a cabinet!

 

[Semple]

This would be extremely easy going down the smart switch route.

 

[Deleted User 298457]

Smart switch for sure. I use TP Link Kasa stuff (HC100 iirc) and it has timer and manual on/off. Currently using it on my immersion heater (lols).

 

[Lopéz]

I use Tapo smart plugs for this, can't go wrong really.

 

[jpaul]

I'd get a mechanical smart wall switch put in a wall box and wire it inline - can be a dimmer too eg https://sonoff.tech/product/smart-wall-swtich/m5/
I've wired dimmers into existing standard lights in this manner.
(led bulb compatability with dimmers is still an issue though)

not sure I'd use a smart switch for a 3KW immersion heater long term (3Kw anything ! my pressure washer too say a big reactive load lol),
mechanical relay with heavy currents, what could go wrong.

 

[Gav_r26]

Another vote for TP-Link Kasa stuff. Got both types of plugs, extension leads and bulbs. Can override from App or Alexa and the like. Also really like the sunset / sunrise option so it auto adjusts as the evenings draw in / go out.

Not much more expensive than mechanical ones either as often on offer.

 

[katie279]

TP Link Kasa - you can also get ones with energy monitoring built in (I use these and link to home assistant for all the control/stats etc!)

 

[Demon]

Deffo use smart sockets...

I had a raft of TP Link / Samsung and Amazon smart sockets.

I would say that heavily used (10 times per day), I've had 3 TP Link HS100's effectively stop working after around 3 years of heavy use, they are working in so far as they appear in the app, and you can hear the internal relay click when it tries to power on/off but there is no mains coming out the socket.. This is after 3+ years of use.

I've not abused the other brands enough yet to figure out if they also suffer, but 3 years heavy use for £30 isn't that bad, the others TP LInk sockets are still in use today (5+ years old now) and working a treat.