When to Unplug Appliances to Save Energy (and When It Doesn't Matter!)

santacruzappliance
Apr 7
2 min read

Many homeowners are looking for ways to cut down on their electricity bills, and one common question is whether unplugging appliances actually saves energy. While some appliances continue to draw power even when turned off, others don’t make much of a difference. So, when should you unplug, and when is it unnecessary? Let’s break it down.

1. Appliances That Should Be Unplugged

Certain appliances use phantom power (also known as standby power), meaning they still consume electricity when plugged in but not in use. These include:

Small Kitchen Appliances – Toasters, coffee makers, and microwaves with digital clocks use minimal power but add up over time. Unplugging them when not in use can save a few dollars each month.
Chargers and Adapters – Phone chargers, laptop power bricks, and other adapters draw power even when they aren’t actively charging a device.
Entertainment Devices – Game consoles, DVD players, and streaming devices often remain in standby mode, ready to turn on quickly. If you don’t use them daily, unplug them.
Computers and Printers – Desktop computers and printers consume power even when turned off. Unplugging them overnight or when not in use for extended periods can reduce energy waste.

2. Appliances That Can Stay Plugged In

Not all appliances need to be unplugged to save energy. Some are designed to remain plugged in for functionality and efficiency:

Refrigerators and Freezers – These must stay plugged in to preserve food. Unplugging them temporarily can lead to spoilage and increased energy use when turned back on.
Washing Machines and Dryers – While they do consume some standby power, unplugging and replugging frequently doesn’t make a significant difference.
Smart Home Devices – Items like security cameras, smart thermostats, and Wi-Fi routers are designed to stay on at all times for proper operation.
Ovens and Stovetops – These appliances don’t consume much standby power and should remain plugged in for safety and convenience.

3. The Best Energy-Saving Alternatives

Instead of unplugging everything manually, consider these alternatives to reduce energy waste:

Use Smart Power Strips – These automatically cut power to devices when they are not in use, making it easy to save energy.
Enable Power-Saving Modes – Many modern appliances have eco-modes that reduce standby power consumption.
Schedule Usage Times – Smart plugs can be programmed to turn off devices at night or when you’re away.

Conclusion

Unplugging unused appliances can help reduce your electricity bill, but it’s important to focus on the right devices. Small appliances, chargers, and entertainment systems are the biggest energy wasters, while essential appliances like refrigerators and smart home devices should stay plugged in.

Looking for more energy-saving tips or need help with appliance maintenance? Santa Cruz Appliance Repair is here to assist! Contact us today for expert advice and professional appliance services.

📞 Call us now to schedule an appointment!