That headline is a home-safety and energy-saving tip, but it can be misleading if it implies that every appliance must always be unplugged. Some devices need continuous power for clocks, settings, cooling, or safety functions.
5 appliances/devices worth considering unplugging
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Toasters and toaster ovens
Unplugging them after use can reduce standby electricity use and eliminates a plugged-in heating appliance when unattended. -
Hair dryers and styling tools
These are high-temperature devices. Unplug them after use rather than relying only on the power switch. -
Coffee makers
If your model doesn’t need to remain powered for a clock or scheduled brewing, unplugging it can avoid standby consumption. -
Chargers and power adapters
Chargers can consume a small amount of electricity even when they aren’t actively charging a device. Unplugging unused ones also reduces unnecessary equipment left connected to the mains. -
Space heaters
These are high-power heating appliances and should generally be switched off and unplugged when finished, unless the manufacturer specifically requires otherwise.
What you don’t necessarily need to unplug
Refrigerators, freezers, routers, security systems, medical equipment, and appliances that need programmed settings generally should remain connected unless the manufacturer says otherwise.
Bottom line: Unplugging selected appliances can improve safety and eliminate some standby electricity use, but the biggest household energy savings usually come from reducing the energy consumed while appliances are actually operating.
