Reliability of Sub-$5 Smart Switches/Plugs from AliExpress for High Load Use

Question

Hi, So I've acquired a few smart switches and plugs from AliExpress. I've been playing around with them and have been enjoying it. Now, how reliable these really are? These are rated for 10A and up to 20A. Can I really use them at that much load for a long time? Such as AC? What is the highest...

yarix2 · Accepted Answer

hi
i have few devices like that, i use them only for lighting, 1-2 bulb, usually LEDs (totally less than ~40 Watts).
so far i was using the simple mini-switches, with 1 relay. Those switches comes with relay for 10A, 200V, the kind of blue relay you will find in most switches. I'm running those devices for more than a year. so far, so good 🤞

Recently, i got a 3-gang mini switch, this device have 3 slim relays marked for 5A... i don't know how reliable it is. i flashed it today, and installed it for additional lights.

I wouldn't connect any of the mini switches to high power consumer such as AC or a Boiler (I had luck once... https://www.elektroda.com/rtvforum/topic3917316.html#20176463 )

DeDaMrAz · Accepted Answer

@Advian1

Currently testing one of such devices with 1600W load (water heater), the one thing I noticed is a good amount of heat overall but will report back with more details after some time.
Internal module temp get's from around 35-40 to around 65 under load.
Also your device is only as good as the relay and your contacts are so have that in mind.

miegapele · Accepted Answer

Use something passing safety standards like Shelly. If using Ali stuff, replace relay with some good name brands (if they make such size relays).

Other than that capacitors from these sockets are known to fail pretty often, can be replaced with good brands for reliability.

lopr_pol · Accepted Answer

Preferably no more than 50% of the claimed current by the Chinese and better still 30% For me at ~50% load the relays started to fail after a time of ~1.5 years.

miegapele · Accepted Answer

No, Ali is always a lottery. You need to use some trusted local suppliers

Advian1 · Answer

I intend to use the 3 gang switch with a 20w LED and a 5w LED. That is a very little load, I hope it won't be an issue then. I intend to use the Aubees power monitor switch with a pump. It shows about 700w, so approx 4Amps max. Will it be safe? Problem is, the internal temperature sensor is not that reliable. Otherwise I could automate shutdown when the temperature reaches a threshold. Added after 2 [minutes]: Wow! That's scary. The relay inside the plug has a 20A label, but from the size of it, I wouldn't trust it.

yarix2 · Answer

I don't know.... it's cheap Chinese staff. I would go with Shelly devices. I find them as more reliable products ( )

Advian1 · Answer

Great! Would like to know the result when you are done.Added after 2 [minutes]:That's a good idea. Is there any good name brand available on ali? For capacitor and relay?Can you name some? I've no idea which ones are good.

p.kaczmarek2 · Answer

I think we've had somewhere a topic showing a melted down relay of Aliexpress 16A switch (maybe it's the same link that @yarix2 posted) The conclusion was just as the other users said, try to aim for a higher current rating, keep a large safety margin.

Advian1 · Answer

Thanks. I was looking for this info.What will be maximum safe load for these devices.So 4A should be safe, right?. It's 25% of rated 16A.Will see if I can find any reputed local supplier for relay.I don't think I'll be able to though.Can anyone help me with following?How can I show/use internal temp value in home assistant?

Reliability of Sub-$5 Smart Switches/Plugs from AliExpress for High Load Use

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