Ensuring the safety of your home while you’re away is crucial. Many household appliances can pose risks if left running unattended, from fire hazards to unnecessary energy consumption.
This guide highlights 10 specific appliances you should always consider turning off before leaving your house.
Not only will this help protect your home, but it also contributes to energy savings and peace of mind.
Explore each item to understand the potential risks and learn actionable tips to secure your living space.
1. Coffee Maker
Leaving your coffee maker on can be more hazardous than you think. While many models come with an automatic shut-off feature, it’s best to unplug them before leaving.
Residual heat from the heating plate or potential electrical malfunctions may cause fires.
Additionally, turning off your coffee maker helps save energy and prolongs the appliance’s lifespan. Just imagine returning to a fresh brew without worrying about potential risks.
Ensure your coffee maker is unplugged or safely switched off before stepping out.
2. Space Heater
Space heaters provide comfort during cold months but pose significant fire hazards if left unattended.
They can overheat, especially when fabrics or other combustibles are nearby.
Always turn off and unplug space heaters before leaving home. This simple action prevents accidents and conserves energy.
For added safety, consider models with tip-over and overheating protection features. A warm welcome home is possible without the risks associated with leaving space heaters running.
3. Iron
Irons are notorious for potential fire hazards if left plugged in. Automatic shut-off features might not be foolproof. Always double-check before leaving.
The heat can ignite fabrics or damage surfaces, leading to dangerous situations.
Ensure your iron is unplugged, allowing it to cool down on a heat-resistant surface. This practice keeps your home safe and prevents energy waste.
Enjoy peace of mind knowing your iron won’t pose a threat while you’re away.
4. Television
Televisions, particularly older models, can be energy vampires when left on standby. Even new models can overheat if there’s poor ventilation.
Switching off and unplugging your TV not only conserves energy but also reduces fire risks.
Ensure that all connections are secure and the area is ventilated.
This small step makes a big difference, letting you leave your home with confidence that your devices aren’t silently draining power or posing threats.
5. Washing Machine
Washing machines should never be left running unattended. Leaks or electrical malfunctions can cause severe water damage and short circuits.
Always complete your laundry cycle before heading out. This habit ensures your home remains safe from potential flooding issues.
Additionally, it prevents mold growth caused by damp clothes left inside.
Prioritizing safety and efficiency, make sure your washing machine is off and doors open for ventilation.
6. Dishwasher
Dishwashers, though convenient, can malfunction and cause flooding or electrical hazards when left unattended.
Before stepping out, ensure your dishwasher completes its cycle and is switched off.
This approach not only mitigates risks but also conserves energy.
Regular maintenance checks can prevent blockages and leaks, ensuring a safe kitchen environment.
Enjoy coming home to clean dishes without the worry of unexpected appliance failures.
7. Electric Oven
Electric ovens, if left on, can overheat and become fire hazards. Even residual heat poses a risk when unattended.
Double-checking that your oven is off before leaving is essential. This simple precaution prevents potential mishaps and saves energy.
For a safe and energy-efficient home, ensure the oven door is closed and all dials are turned to the off position.
Enjoy peace of mind while you’re away, knowing your kitchen is secure.
8. Hair Straightener
Hair straighteners are notorious for being accidentally left on, posing fire risks. Always unplug them after use to avoid potential accidents.
These devices can reach extremely high temperatures, which might ignite nearby materials.
For added safety, place them on heat-resistant surfaces to cool down before storage.
By forming this habit, you ensure your bathroom remains safe and free from fire hazards, letting you leave home without worry.
9. Electrical Chargers
Electrical chargers, when left plugged in, consume energy even if they’re not actively charging a device. This phantom load contributes to your electricity bill.
Unplugging chargers reduces this waste and prevents overheating, which can lead to electrical fires.
Organize your charging station to make plugging and unplugging quick and easy.
This habit promotes safety and efficiency, ensuring your home is both eco-friendly and secure while you’re away.
10. Toaster
Toasters, while essential for breakfast, can be fire hazards if left plugged in. Residual crumbs inside can ignite, leading to dangerous situations.
Always unplug your toaster and clean out the crumb tray regularly. This simple practice prevents fire risks and prolongs the appliance’s lifespan.
Embrace the habit of ensuring all kitchen gadgets are off and unplugged before leaving. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your kitchen is safe from potential hazards.