This guide will help you troubleshoot smart plug issues with Sense. If you're new to using smart plugs with Sense, check out our How Do I Use Sense With Smart Plugs for an introduction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do when Sense Labs asks me to list Tapo app credentials but I use TP-Link/Kasa smart plugs?
In adapting to the new relationship between the two companies, Sense Labs asks for your Tapo login information. You can merge your Kasa account information into a Tapo account. There should be no reason to create a new account.
- Tapo plugs do not support the Kasa app, but Kasa supports Tapo. This means you can log into the Tapo app with your Kasa account information (email and password) on your first try, which helps streamline things but can also be a bit confusing (they continue to be separate apps as well).
- Sense will accept the login credentials (email address + password) from the Kasa app even if you have not merged it with a Tapo account. The Kasa app offers you the chance to do this in the app, so choose this option if offered.
- Once you merge your Kasa and Tapo accounts, re-enter your credentials into the Labs section of the Sense Home app even though the credentials haven't changed.
What if I have trouble entering my username when I log in to Sense Labs?
Sense will accept the login credentials (email address + password) from the Kasa app even if you have not merged it with a Tapo account. If you are asked for a username, use your email address.
What if my HS-300 loses connection with Sense after 1.1.2 update?
If an HS-300 smart plug suddenly loses connection with Sense after updating its firmware to 1.1.2, you may be able to restore the connection as follows:
- Go to your Tapo app
- Go to Third Party Services and open Settings
- Enable Third-Party Compatibility in the user settings
What do I do if I change the device plugged into my smart plug?
- Open the Sense app and go to Device Settings > Manage
- Tap "What’s plugged into this?" near the bottom of the screen
- Uncheck the previous device and select the new one
- If switching from one "Other" device to another, you can simply edit the device name and type
What happens if I plug in a device that Sense has already detected?
- In Device Details, you’ll see a What’s plugged in? option. Use this to merge smart plug data with an already detected device.
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For power strips with multiple devices (e.g., TV, DVR, game console):
- If any of these devices were previously detected by Sense, they will now be grouped as a single device in the app.
- If you want to keep an individual device separate (e.g., a TV), do not merge them—but note that this could result in double counting.
Will Sense remember my devices if I remove them from the smart plug?
No. For the best experience, keep your smart plug assigned to a device and in place. The data collected by smart plugs also helps improve Sense’s device detection models over time.
Why are my wattage numbers incorrect?
- Ensure your smart plug firmware is up to date via the Tapo/Kasa or Wemo apps.
- If the issue persists, contact Sense Support.
How many smart plugs can I connect to Sense?
- The number of smart plugs is mainly limited by your Wi-Fi network bandwidth.
- Most users can connect up to 25 smart plugs without issues.
- For TP-Link HS300 power strips: Each outlet counts as one smart plug.
How do I remove a smart plug from the Sense app?
- To remove a single smart plug, you need to disable the smart plug integration for Sense. This will remove all associated plugs.
- After disabling, you can re-enable the integration, and Sense will rediscover only the active plugs.
- Alternatively, rename inactive plugs, but note that their historical data will remain.
What are the differences between On, Off, and Standby?
- On – The device is actively drawing power.
- Off – The device is inactive, drawing little to no power.
- Standby – The device is drawing some power but isn’t fully active (e.g., a TV using 5W when idle but 200W when on).
Use Standby mode to understand idle energy consumption and decide if unplugging a device is worthwhile.
I’m getting too many timeline notifications for a smart plug. How do I fix this?
- Adjust notification frequency and bubble behavior using the Standby Threshold setting in the Sense app.
- Learn more about customizing Standby settings here.
Compatible Smart Plugs
Sense currently supports the following smart plugs:
- TP-Link Kasa KP-115
- TP-Link Kasa KP-125
- TP-Link Kasa HS-300
- TP-Link Kasa EP25 (v1.6)
- Note: The Kasa HS110 may also technically work with Sense integration-wise but is not supported. It is end-of-life and no longer officially supported by Kasa. Functionality may be limited.
Newly added Tapo/TP-Link smart plugs for use only in Sense Labs in homes with a Sense Home Energy Monitor installed in the electrical panel:
- Kasa KP125M
- Kasa EP25 (v2.6)
- Tapo EP25
- Tapo P115M
- Tapo P110M
For further assistance, reach out to Sense Support.