One beginner tip I learned recently: before using a smart plug with an appliance, unplug the appliance while it’s running, then plug it back in and see what happens.
I recently tried this with a floor lamp and a fan. The lamp turned back on automatically when power was restored, so it works perfectly with a smart plug. The fan, however, stayed off because it has an electronic power button. A smart plug can restore power, but it can’t “press” that button for you.
It’s a really simple test, but it can save you from buying a smart plug only to find out that your appliance can’t actually be automated with it.
So before buying a smart plug, test how your appliance behaves after a power cycle!