TP-Link Kasa Wifi Timer - max 10A load but maximum heating 1500W?

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timmmay

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#284618 5-May-2021 08:25

I just got another couple of the TP-Link Kasa timer switches, new model KP105. They advertise 10A maximum load but the small leaflet in the box says maximum load for a heater is 1500W. Anyone know why that might be? I purchased them specifically for using with heaters.

I've had the older model HS100 / HS110 running a 2.1kw heater for a year with no issues. It only gets slightly warm. I don't know if that model has the same restriction.

OmniouS

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#2702676 5-May-2021 22:54

The HS110 comes with a small leaflet that has a section on the bottom with a list of 'Supported Load Types'.

e.g. Heater: 1500W, Iron: 1500W.

It's not clear if these are examples or maximum loads but you'd think that if the device is rated at 10A, it should be able to support a load of up to 2400W.

This is also what put me off using them with a couple of fan heaters.

Does the new model allow the use of the bottom socket in a 2-gang vertical socket? I'd buy at least 2 if that's the case.

timmmay

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#2702757 6-May-2021 07:35

Yeah it seems odd that it has a 10A rating but says 1500W for a heater. I've been using the HS110 for a year with a 2200W heater with no issues, it doesn't get hot. The new ones have thermal protection, I wonder if the HS110 doews.

With the new model in the top plug of a two plug outlet you can plug a standard size plug in underneath. I got mine from Mighty Ape in a two pack. Their shipping took a bit longer than they said but didn't matter.

richms

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#2702838 6-May-2021 10:18

Its probably a holdover from the US version where they have to derate things to 80% for loads that are a long term thing rather than short term like powertools and hairdryers, and they just copied the list over for other markets.

Richard rich.ms

timmmay

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#2702861 6-May-2021 11:13

richms:

Its probably a holdover from the US version where they have to derate things to 80% for loads that are a long term thing rather than short term like powertools and hairdryers, and they just copied the list over for other markets.

Thanks Rich. It's 1500W in the docs. The US is 110V @ 15A is 1650W, derated 80% would be 1300W. But that sounds like a reasonable explanation.

Bung

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#2702866 6-May-2021 11:29

Sounds like something inserted by lawyers. I think the manual has even more restricted examples just to cloud the issue. A room fan less than 100w. Break it open and see what relay they've fitted😁

timmmay

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#2702879 6-May-2021 12:03

Bung: Sounds like something inserted by lawyers. I think the manual has even more restricted examples just to cloud the issue. A room fan less than 100w. Break it open and see what relay they've fitted😁

Yeah could be right. I don't think I'll open it up, I'll just use it 5A for a while and check it's not overheating before I use 10A.