10 Household Devices You Should Unplug When You’re Not Using Them

Many household electronics continue to consume a small amount of electricity while plugged in, even when they appear to be switched off or are sitting in standby mode. This “standby power” is generally modest for an individual device, but the energy can add up across a home. Unplugging selected electronics can reduce unnecessary energy use, while unplugging heat-producing appliances can also be an important safety precaution. The key is to focus on devices where unplugging is practical and worthwhile rather than constantly disconnecting everything in your home.

Phone and Laptop Chargers

A charger can consume a small amount of electricity when it remains plugged into an outlet without charging a device, although the amount varies considerably by charger and design. Modern chargers generally use very little standby power, so the savings from unplugging a single charger are likely to be small. Still, disconnecting chargers you rarely use can eliminate that standby consumption altogether. More importantly, replace damaged chargers, frayed cables or adapters that become unusually hot, since those conditions can create safety concerns.

Coffee Makers

Coffee makers with digital clocks, programmable features or warming plates may continue using electricity after brewing is finished. If you have a basic machine without an automatic shutoff or regularly leave a warming function running, unplugging it after use can reduce unnecessary consumption. Many newer models include automatic shutoff features, so check your owner’s manual rather than assuming the appliance stays fully powered. If you’re leaving home for an extended period, unplugging the coffee maker is a simple precaution.

Toasters and Toaster Ovens

A conventional toaster generally uses little or no electricity when it is not actively toasting, but electronic models with displays or controls may consume standby power. Toaster ovens can have additional electronics, clocks and standby features that remain powered while the appliance is plugged in. Because these appliances contain heating elements, it’s also sensible to make sure they are switched off and unplugged when they won’t be used for an extended period. Always allow a toaster oven to cool properly and keep it away from combustible materials.

Microwaves

Microwaves with digital clocks and electronic controls typically draw some standby power even when they aren’t heating food. The amount is usually small, but a microwave that remains plugged in around the clock can contribute to a home’s overall standby electricity use. If you’re trying to minimize that consumption, you can unplug the appliance when it’s convenient, although doing so may reset the clock and programmed settings. For built-in or hardwired microwaves, follow the manufacturer’s instructions rather than attempting to disconnect them yourself.

TVs and Home Entertainment Systems

Many televisions, soundbars and streaming devices remain in a low-power standby state so they can respond quickly to a remote control or network command. Gaming and smart-home features can also affect how much standby electricity a device uses. A properly rated power strip can make it easier to disconnect several entertainment devices at once when you’re finished using them. Avoid cutting power to equipment that needs to remain connected for scheduled recordings, updates or other functions.

Hair Tools

Curling irons and straighteners contain heating elements, making them a much more important safety concern than an ordinary phone charger. Always turn heated styling tools off and unplug them after use, and never leave them unattended while they are heating. Hair dryers should also be unplugged when you’re finished, particularly around sinks, bathtubs or other sources of water. Allow hot tools to cool on a heat-resistant surface before storing them.

Slow Cookers and Electric Pressure Cookers

Slow cookers and electric pressure cookers can have electronic displays, timers and other controls that draw a small amount of standby electricity when the appliance is plugged in. Once cooking is finished and the appliance is no longer needed, unplugging it eliminates that standby consumption. It also prevents accidentally leaving a device powered on after the meal is over. Never unplug an appliance while it is actively operating unless the manufacturer’s instructions specifically indicate that doing so is safe.

Electric Toothbrush Chargers

An electric toothbrush charger can use a small amount of electricity while it remains connected to the outlet, depending on its design. For most households, the potential energy savings from unplugging a single charger will be quite small. If you want to reduce standby consumption, however, you can unplug it after the toothbrush has finished charging or use a timer-controlled outlet designed for the purpose. Keep charging equipment dry and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, especially when the charger is used in a bathroom.

Gaming Consoles and Accessories

Gaming consoles often use standby power so they can respond to controllers, download updates or support other connected features even when they appear to be off. Accessories such as charging docks and VR equipment can also consume electricity while connected. Check the console’s power settings first, since energy-saving modes can reduce standby consumption without requiring you to unplug the system every time. If you won’t use the equipment for an extended period, disconnecting it from power is another option.

Space Heaters and Small Fans

Space heaters deserve particular attention because they produce substantial heat and should never be left operating unattended. Turn a space heater off and unplug it when you leave the room or when it is no longer needed, unless the manufacturer’s instructions specifically provide otherwise. Fans generally present a much lower fire risk, but they should still be switched off when unattended and unplugged when they won’t be used for an extended period. For any appliance, inspect the cord and plug regularly and discontinue use if you notice damage, overheating or unusual odors.

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