Title text:
It's important for devices to have internet connectivity so the manufacturer can patch remote exploits.
Transcript:
[A store salesman, Hairy, is showing Cueball a dehumidifier, with a "SALE" label on it. Several other unidentified devices, possibly other dehumidifier models, are shown in the store as well.]
Salesman: This dehumidifier model features built-in WiFi for remote updates.
Cueball: Great! That will be really useful if they discover a new kind of water.
Source: https://xkcd.com/3109/
Just use a power timer or whatever those devices are called.
They just said the smart timers/meters don't work. Maybe a non internet one with some regular timers. I have grow lights that have 12, 6, or 3 hour timers that repeat the start time daily as long as a power outage doesn't reset them.
Lower tech solution that would probably work for them, but someone would still have to make it. Not sure if they exist but wouldn't be surprised if they do.
You need a smart button pressing device. Something like :
https://amzn.to/40vd8SN
I have not used this personally, but I have a home assistant setup that does operate based on real time energy prices and it’s awesome.
Hah, that's a cool solution [no pun intended]