Unplugging certain appliances when they are not in use is a simple habit that can save you money, extend the life of your devices, and reduce safety risks. Many household electronics continue to draw electricity even when switched off, adding to your utility bills. This “phantom” energy consumption also impacts the environment. More importantly, leaving some appliances plugged in can increase the risk of electrical fires or damage during power surges. By making it a routine to disconnect these devices, you can protect your home and wallet while also reducing unnecessary energy waste. Here are eight appliances worth unplugging.
1. Coffee Makers Can Be Power Thieves
Coffee makers are small but can consume surprising amounts of energy when left plugged in. Many models have built-in clocks, warming plates, or standby features that draw electricity constantly. Even if you brew coffee only once or twice a day, keeping the machine plugged in around the clock wastes energy. In addition, residual heat and electrical components can wear out faster when powered continuously. Unplugging your coffee maker after each use not only saves electricity but also reduces wear and tear, extending its lifespan. It’s an easy step that helps both your energy bill and your appliance last longer.
2. Microwaves Use Energy Even When Idle
Microwaves are convenient kitchen essentials, but they consume electricity even when not heating food. The digital clock display and standby mode require a continuous power supply. While the amount may seem small on a daily basis, over weeks and months, it adds up. Moreover, leaving a microwave plugged in during electrical storms increases the risk of damage from power surges. Unplugging the microwave when it’s not needed, especially if you use it only occasionally, can lower your utility costs and protect its internal components from unnecessary strain. This small change can make a noticeable difference in energy usage.
3. Chargers Drain Power Without Charging
Phone, laptop, and tablet chargers are among the most common energy culprits in homes. Even when not connected to a device, a plugged-in charger still draws a small but steady stream of electricity. This is known as standby power consumption. Over time, these wasted watts can contribute to higher electricity bills. Additionally, heat buildup from constant power flow can shorten a charger’s life. Simply unplugging chargers when they’re not in use prevents energy waste and reduces the risk of overheating. It’s a quick habit that can save money and keep your charging accessories in good working condition for longer.
4. Toasters Consume Energy Quietly
Toasters may not seem like a big source of energy waste, but many modern models include LED indicators or digital settings that draw electricity even when not in use. Over time, this standby power consumption adds up, especially in homes where the toaster is plugged in all day but used for just a few minutes. Unplugging your toaster when you’re finished can also prevent accidental burns or fire hazards caused by malfunctioning switches. It’s a small safety measure that ensures your appliance is only using power when it’s actually toasting, not sitting idle on the counter pulling electricity.
5. Gaming Consoles Stay Active in Standby
Gaming consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch have standby features that allow quick startup, background updates, and remote activation. While convenient, this also means they continuously use electricity even when not in active play. Some consoles can draw nearly as much power in standby as they do when running light tasks. If you only game occasionally, unplugging the console or turning off standby features can significantly reduce energy use. Not only will this save on your electricity bill, but it can also help prevent overheating issues and extend the lifespan of your gaming system’s components.
6. Printers Remain On Alert
Printers are designed to stay in a ready-to-print mode, which means they draw power constantly when plugged in. This standby consumption can be particularly wasteful if you print infrequently. In addition, leaving printers connected during thunderstorms or power surges can damage their sensitive internal parts. Unplugging your printer when not in use, or at least switching it off at a power strip, is a simple way to reduce unnecessary electricity use and protect the device. You’ll also save a bit of money each year without sacrificing the convenience of printing whenever you actually need it.
7. Televisions Draw Power When Off
Modern TVs, especially smart TVs, are designed to be ready at a moment’s notice, which means they continue drawing electricity even when turned off. Standby mode powers features like quick startup, software updates, and remote activation. While convenient, this continuous draw can noticeably add to your annual electricity costs. If you’re going away for a few days or do not watch TV often, unplugging it or turning it off via a surge protector can save energy and reduce wear on internal components. It’s also a good safeguard against damage from sudden voltage spikes during storms.
8. Desktop Computers Consume Constantly
Even when shut down, many desktop computers still draw a small amount of electricity to power features like motherboard lights or USB charging ports. This can be avoided by unplugging the computer or switching off the power supply at the back of the unit. Monitors, speakers, and other connected accessories also contribute to phantom energy use if left plugged in. For those who use their computer infrequently or have a separate work laptop, disconnecting it entirely when not in use can lower energy bills and help keep the system’s components in better condition over the long term.
