According to the U.S. Fire Administration, around 23,700 house fires originated from electronic devices within homes in 2023.
As you load your luggage and get ready for well-deserved vacation It’s easy to overlook a minor yet significant chore: disconnecting appliances. Even though this might appear insignificant, recognizing what should be unplugged versus left connected can help cut costs, lessen ecological footprint, and—most crucially—ensure the safety of your residence.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration In 2023, around 23,700 house fires were triggered by electrical appliances, leading to 305 fatalities and causing $1.5 billion in damage.
Below is a list of items you should consistently unplugging — along with those that are best kept powered on.
Items That Require Constant Disconnection
Televisions, Gaming Systems, and PCs
We all enjoy our gadgets, yet they can significantly drain power when left connected. Even though items such as televisions, video game systems, and PCs might appear innocuous when turned off, these devices continue to use electrical power in their stand-by modes, as stated by the source. Department of Energy Disconnecting these electronic devices before departing can aid in reducing unwarranted energy consumption.
Small Kitchen Appliances
It's simple to overlook minor kitchen gadgets, yet they can act as energy hogs when continuously connected to an outlet. According to Amanda Nelson, who co-owns Young Cardinal Electric, devices like toasters, blenders, microwaves, and coffee makers ought to be disconnected when not in use. Homes & Gardens Not only does this conserve energy, but it also removes the chance of unintentional failure occurring when you're not around.
Hair Care Equipment and Cosmetic Devices
Hair dryers, straighteners, curling irons Electric razors should always be unplugged whenever you step away from them, as advised by Nelson. Such devices can lead to potential fires due to malfunctions or unintended activation. Make sure to disconnect these appliances every time you finish using them—be it during vacations or even quick trips to the supermarket.
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Lamps and Lights
Leaving the lights on to create an occupied appearance is a typical home security strategy; however, this method probably isn’t advisable if your absence extends beyond 24 hours. Disabling lights and disconnecting electrical devices helps avoid excessive energy consumption as well as reduces the chance of fires, according to Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Space Heaters
According to CPSC Space heaters contribute to over 1,000 residential fires annually, and the National Fire Protection Association noted that these incidents comprise approximately 46% of home heating-related fires. Since space heaters can still present a fire hazard even when you're at home, it's essential to ensure they are unplugged whenever you leave the premises for any period of time.
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Heating Blankets (particularly those from earlier models)
According to Electrical Safety Foundation International Each year, approximately 500 home fires are linked to electric blankets, with nearly all incidents involving blankets older than ten years. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure these blankets are unplugged whenever you're away from home and to have supervision when they are being used.
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Washers and Dryers
Although these devices consume less energy compared to several others, washers and dryers It should also be disconnected when you're going on a long journey. This not only helps conserve energy but also reduces the risk of malfunctions or fires, particularly if they'll remain unused for a prolonged time. Better Homes & Gardens .
Items That Should Stay Plugged In
Refrigerator and Freezer
This point might appear straightforward, but ensure your refrigerator and freezer remain connected to maintain the safety of your food. You could also think about switching to energy-efficient temperatures. Furthermore, if you anticipate being away for over a month, General Electric suggests emptying your refrigerator and freezer completely before disconnecting them to help reduce your electricity costs.
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Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alerts
These security measures require being connected and completely functional when you're not around. They assist in protecting your house against smoke, fires, and gas leaks; therefore, it's essential to make sure that these gadgets remain continuously powered on.
Safety Measures and Intelligent Gadgets
If you have a home security system When it comes to security cameras or smart home devices, they ought to remain plugged in and switched on. Such systems aid in safeguarding your residence and enable you to monitor activities within when you're not around, as well as notify you of anything requiring instant action.
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