05/24/2026
Before you head out to the beach.
As you get ready for your well-deserved vacation, it’s easy to get caught up in packing and last-minute errands. But before you head out the door, there’s one more thing that can make your time away a lot more relaxing: unplugging certain household appliances. Not only does this help protect your home from fire hazards and water damage, but it’s also a great way to conserve energy and save on your electricity bill.
Here’s a simple checklist to help you enjoy a worry-free trip and avoid any unpleasant or costly surprises when you return:
First, remember to unplug small kitchen countertop appliances such as coffee makers, microwaves, and toasters. These are often left plugged in for convenience, but they don’t need to be powered while you’re away. Next, disconnect your TVs, cable boxes, and Wi-Fi routers, even in standby mode; they continue to draw energy, and occasionally unplugging them can actually help with their maintenance.
Don’t forget your computers! Both desktops and charging laptops should be unplugged to protect them from power surges and reduce the risk of overheating or fire. This also applies to any accessories like printers. Speaking of electronics, make sure to unplug all chargers, laptop chargers, vacuum chargers, and more. Chargers can be a fire hazard if left plugged in unnecessarily.
Gaming consoles are another energy drain, so they should also be unplugged before you leave. Essentially, any appliance that isn’t essential to your home’s basic operation can be safely disconnected.
In the kitchen and laundry room, unplug your dishwasher and consider turning off the water supply to avoid leaks or water damage. Leave the dishwasher door slightly open for ventilation. It’s also wise to unplug your washer and dryer, and make sure the dryer is clean of lint and dust, which can be a fire risk if left to build up.
For appliances like air purifiers and fans, which aren’t crucial while you’re away, take a moment to unplug them. In the bathroom, unplug electric toothbrushes and their chargers, unless you’re taking them with you.
And finally, if you use space heaters during the winter, be sure they are all unplugged—these are especially risky if left unattended.
Taking these steps only takes a few extra minutes, but it can make a big difference in keeping your home safe and your mind at ease while you’re away. Safe travels and enjoy your vacation!