The Budget-Friendly Harbor Freight Remote System Homeowners Are Loving

The promise of intuitive, streamlined technology isn't always fully realized in the smart home gadgets marketed to make our lives easier than ever. The products may look great on paper, but a clunky setup process can really put a damper on smart home innovations. When every plug, light, or device needs Wi-Fi connectivity and a unique login on a separate app to work, making your home smarter quickly turns into a headache. Not only that, but modern home technology advances also leave people questioning whether these devices are putting people's privacy at risk as data collection and tracking become increasingly commonplace.

Whether you are concerned about privacy or you're just a stubbornly analog person looking for basic, no-frills smart home innovations to make your home a little smarter without becoming more complicated, Harbor Freight's Indoor Wireless Remote System is for you. This simple, affordable set equips three plugs around your home with remote access from anywhere in the house. Instead of using your smartphone, this system uses a remote control that comes pre-programmed for the plugs to put the power at your fingertips. All you have to do is plug the polarized and grounded receivers into a standard wall outlet, then plug in your desired device into the receiver. That's it. You're done. Your home is now smarter, and so are you for utilizing such a simple and straightforward solution, all for only $20.

People aren't shy about loving this remote system. In fact, a whopping 98% of the more than 1,400 customers who reviewed the product on Harbor Freight's website say they recommend it. It's highly rated for its value, quality, and ease of use. Reviewers say they use the plugs for anything and everything, from shop vacs to holiday lights to hard-to-reach lights and outlets. One reviewer even uses theirs to operate an evacuation pump, and it's been a game-changer. "No more going out in the pouring rain to turn on the pump," they said, "just hit the button to turn on or off." 

Customers also praise the product's longevity. In fact, one reviewer uses the system in their woodshop and raves over it, saying, "...it has worked for over 10 years perfectly." Additionally, the plugs don't hinder the usability of the outlet like some smart plugs do. As another reviewer points out, "I also like the design that allows access to the other outlet on the box it's plugged into." (via Harbor Freight)

However, there are some smart plug features you'll forgo if you choose this system. The plugs only work in conjunction with the remote, so if you lose it, you'll need to buy another set. These plugs cannot be programmed on a schedule like other smart plugs, nor can you operate them when you're away from home. Still, the convenience, affordability, and reliability of this wireless remote plug system make it a great smart home alternative to the Wi-Fi and smartphone-dependent plugs on the market, not to mention helping make your utility bills more affordable.