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Your bags are packed, the lights are off, and you’ve locked the door, but did you remember to unplug your electronics? This often-overlooked step may not seem important, but it can save you from paying higher energy bills or having to file a costly home insurance claim. Keeping devices plugged in draws standby energy and presents a fire risk. We’ll list all the devices you need to unplug before walking out the door for vacation or another extended absence.
Key Takeaways
- Electrical fires caused 425 deaths, over 1,200 injuries, and $1.6 billion in property damage a year between 2015 and 2019.
- Unplugging appliances before you leave your home can prevent accidental fires and help you save on your energy bill.
- Unplug small appliances such as toasters, hairdryers, and gaming systems, as well as larger appliances such as your washer and dryer.
Why You Should Unplug Devices When You’re Away
There are a few simple reasons why you should reach for the plug: You’ll save money on your energy bill and can reduce the risk of fire while you’re gone. Consider that in 2023, fire departments across the U.S. reported 23,700 house fires caused by electrical malfunction. The National Fire Protection Association estimated that every year between 2015 and 2019, 425 people died, 1,279 people were injured, and $1.6 billion in direct property damage resulted from electrical fires.
What Insurance Covers
Fortunately, standard homeowners and renters insurance usually covers fire damage caused by appliances. However, if your belongings are insured on a named perils basis, insurance will only cover damages if they were caused by a listed peril such as a fire or a power surge.
Insurance might not cover the damage if the appliance wasn’t maintained or it suffered an age-related breakdown.
Regardless of whether or not you’re covered by insurance, you don’t want your home and personal belongings to burn. Note that if you need to file a home insurance claim for fire damage, you’ll likely see your home insurance premium spike at renewal.
What Devices Should You Unplug When Not in Use?
Unplug any devices that are capable of overheating or starting fires. Small appliances could have frayed cords, powerful batteries that can overheat, or damaged parts that are at risk of igniting. These appliances include:
- Small kitchen appliances: toasters, coffee makers, blenders, air fryers
- Washer and dryer
- Dishwasher
- Hair dryers and styling tools
- Space heaters
- Chargers
- Power strips
- Entertainment devices: TVs, gaming consoles
- Computers
- Candle warmers
- Electric warmers and blankets
You’ve probably heard you should unplug devices during a storm to prevent damage caused by electrical surges. This is good advice, but it also applies to everyday life. If you’re not using a small appliance, it’s generally better to unplug it. You’ll save on energy costs and won’t have to act fast to protect your device from sudden electrical damage.
Note
Unplugging a power strip completely disconnects a device from the power source. If you leave a power strip plugged in but turned off, a small amount of power is still available to the device.
The Bottom Line
We understand—unplugging devices might be low on your to-do list before you walk out the door for vacation, but it’s just one way to keep your home a little more secure and prevent a costly insurance claim down the road. Plus, you may be able to save a bit on your energy bill and who doesn’t love that? While you’re at it, consider adjusting your thermostat, lowering the temperature of your water heater, and putting your lights on a timer so they only come on at key times during the day. Your post-vacation self will thank you.
