Leaving Home? Never Forget to Turn Off These 5 Appliances (or Risk a Disaster)
Quick guide for U.S. homeowners and renters: small habits before you leave can save energy, reduce fire risk, and keep your devices in good shape.
Why this matters
Turning off or unplugging certain appliances before leaving home helps in three important ways:
- Safety: most house fires caused by appliances are preventable when devices are properly powered down.
- Energy savings: standby power (also called vampire load) wastes electricity and increases your utility bill.
- Longevity of devices: unplugging sensitive electronics during storms or long absences can protect them from power surges.
1 — Microwave
Why turn it off / unplug?
Microwaves can draw standby power and — more importantly — they contain internal components that could cause issues if the unit is faulty or a short occurs. If you use a timer or leave food in the microwave, turn it off and remove food before leaving.
Practical tip
If unplugging is inconvenient, at least unplug the power strip it's connected to or avoid leaving food inside with auto-cook timers set while you're away.
2 — Clothes dryer
Why turn it off / unplug?
Dryers are one of the most common causes of home fires when lint builds up or when a dryer runs unattended. Never run the dryer when you plan to leave the house.
Practical tip
Clean the lint trap after every load and periodically check the vent duct for obstructions. Always stay home while a load is running.
3 — Space heaters (and heating precautions)
Why turn it off / unplug?
Portable space heaters are high-risk if left unattended. Even modern models with safety features should be switched off and unplugged when you leave. For centralized heating, set the thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature rather than leaving heat at full blast.
Practical tip
Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable items and never use an extension cord. Consider a programmable or smart thermostat for HVAC to control temperature remotely.
4 — Smart TV & entertainment systems
Why turn it off / unplug?
TVs, soundbars, game consoles, and streaming boxes consume standby power and are vulnerable to power surges. Unplugging or using a switched power strip prevents phantom energy draw and shields equipment during storms.
Practical tip
Use a single power strip with an on/off switch for your entertainment center — flip it off when you leave or at night.
5 — Kitchen appliances (coffee maker, toaster, slow cooker)
Why turn them off / unplug?
Small countertop appliances are often left plugged in and can overheat or short if malfunctioning. Never leave a slow cooker or similar appliance running unattended for long periods unless it's specifically designed for that use and you trust it.
Practical tip
If you rely on a slow cooker for timed meals, use models with automatic warm/auto-off functions and place them away from curtains or paper products.
Quick checklist before you walk out
- Unplug small kitchen appliances (coffee maker, toaster).
- Do not run the clothes dryer or oven unattended.
- Turn off space heaters and unplug them.
- Switch off TV/game consoles or use a master power strip.
- Close garage and ensure large appliances (washing machine, dishwasher) are off and empty.
- Set HVAC thermostat to an appropriate away temperature.
- When away long-term: shut off the main water valve and consider unplugging non-essential electronics.
Interactive Checklist
Conclusion
A few minutes of preparation before you leave can reduce risk and lower your electric bill. Prioritize unplugging or turning off the microwave, dryer, space heaters, entertainment systems, and small kitchen appliances. These small steps are simple, practical, and effective for U.S. households of every size.
Important resources
For more safety and energy guidance, check resources from U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), U.S. Department of Energy, or consumer advice from Consumer Reports.
Note: appliance models and local codes vary — always follow the manufacturer's instructions and local safety regulations.
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