Heading out on vacation soon? Make sure to unplug these common household appliances to avoid wasting energy and reduce the chance of damage, so you can fully relax during your time away.
- Unplug devices to cut phantom energy consumption.
- Avoid leaving lithium-ion chargers connected.
- Smart plugs allow remote and scheduled power control.
What happened
Many travelers experience worry over whether they left household appliances switched on before leaving for vacation. Common items such as Wi-Fi routers, game consoles, smart home devices, chargers, and kitchen appliances often remain plugged in unnecessarily. Experts highlight that even when switched off, appliances can consume standby power that adds to energy bills and potentially increases risks of electrical issues.
Electrical professionals advise unplugging devices during extended absences to prevent hazards like thermal runaway in lithium-ion chargers and damage from voltage spikes. Beyond safety concerns, turning off or unplugging appliances helps reduce standby energy consumption, contributing to improved energy efficiency at home.
Why it feels good
Unplugging appliances before leaving home offers peace of mind, knowing that risks of fire or electrical damage are minimized. It also helps save energy by stopping vampire power draw from devices that consume electricity even when turned off. This small action contributes to lowering your overall energy consumption and can indirectly improve your home's energy performance certificate (EPC) rating over time.
Many people find that removing the uncertainty of whether devices are still on lets them fully enjoy their vacation without distraction. Using smart plug technology for controlling appliances remotely or setting schedules adds convenience and reassurance, blending safety with modern ease.
What to enjoy or watch next
For those managing multiple electronics, smart power strips or individual smart plugs compatible with voice assistants like Alexa are excellent tools for remote control and energy management. These devices let you create on/off schedules and monitor energy use from a distance, enhancing convenience and safety during prolonged absences from home.
As part of pre-vacation home preparation, consider unplugging all heat-generating or warm-feeling devices such as fans, purifiers, lamps, and large electronics. These steps provide added protection against electrical surges and help extend your appliances’ lifespan while reducing your environmental footprint.