Socket swithces

[MikeyZo]

So on my biocube, I have all the plugs on a good power surge protector. But every time I want to shut my return or UV off, I have to physically reach behind and unplug them, and then fight to plug it back in, etc.

There really isn’t anyway to put smart plugs on the socket die to how they’re lined up on the surge protector. I know they make power strips with a switch for each socket, (I have one for my power tool chargers) but I don’t know how good they are for surge protection.

Side from dropping $$$ on an apex, is there anything else people use that is more inexpensive?

 

[GardenofZoas20]

So on my biocube, I have all the plugs on a good power surge protector. But every time I want to shut my return or UV off, I have to physically reach behind and unplug them, and then fight to plug it back in, etc.

There really isn’t anyway to put smart plugs on the socket die to how they’re lined up on the surge protector. I know they make power strips with a switch for each socket, (I have one for my power tool chargers) but I don’t know how good they are for surge protection.

Side from dropping $$$ on an apex, is there anything else people use that is more inexpensive?

Kasa Smart Plug Power Strip HS300, Surge Protector with 6 Individually Controlled Smart Outlets and 3 USB Ports, Works with Alexa & Google Home, No Hub Required , White​

I have been fairly pleased with these. I don’t know how thoroughly the surge protection has been tested, but no issue so far. Reasonably reliable to connect and pretty easy to set up and do basic logic. At this price point I can’t complain.

 

[Gtinnel]

You can buy things that plug into the outlet before your equipment and have a chord coming off going to a switch. I’ve never used this exact one or brand but here is an example that I quickly found on Amazon
Amazon product ASIN B0CSWR3GZ6
However I also have almost all positive things to say about the Kasa power strips and IMO they are the next best thing to having an aquarium controller. I have an apex on my tank and I still have some of my equipment powered by a Kasa power strip.

 

[MikeyZo]

Awesome. Thank you!

 

[Joe31415]

I have an apex on my tank and I still have some of my equipment powered by a Kasa power strip.

I have three Kasa outlets taking care of my water changes on one of my tanks. One on the ATO, one on the drain pump and one on the fill pump (which is down in my basement).
And you can consider this another vote for Kasa outlets, just in general.

Back to the OP, they do make power strips with remote (but wired) on/off switches. Another option is to get an outlet or power strip with a non-smart remote. (Edit: Rereading the OP, you're looking for a switch for each device, not one for the entire power strip, so ignore this idea)

As far as how good a smart power strip is for surge protection, those two things are unrelated. A smart power strip isn't inherently any better or worse than a non-smart strip when it comes to surge protection. That's like being concerned that a car with a remote starter won't protect you as well in an accident.

Just about every power strip has some type of surge protection. I'd be more concerned about GFI protection.

Another option, which is going to make a

 

[MikeyZo]

dang, I ordered the Kasa strip this morning and Amazon just delivered it. Huzzah!