Unplugging your appliances after use may not seem like a big deal, but this simple habit can protect your home, reduce fire hazards, and lower your electricity bill. Many household devices continue to use power even when they’re turned off—a phenomenon known as phantom or standby power. Over time, this idle energy use can amount to nearly 10% of your home’s total electricity consumption.

Beyond the cost, standby power poses a safety risk, especially during power surges or storms when plugged-in devices become vulnerable. Fortunately, it takes just a few seconds to unplug appliances and enjoy long-term benefits like reduced wear and improved safety. Let’s start with toasters and toaster ovens, which are found in nearly every kitchen. These small appliances can overheat if crumbs accumulate and a malfunction occurs. They also continue drawing power when not in use, which adds up over the year. Older models without built-in safety features pose an even greater risk. Toasters can short-circuit from damaged plugs, and if flammable materials like napkins or plastic are nearby, that’s a recipe for disaster. Getting in the habit of unplugging and occasionally cleaning your toaster can help it last longer and reduce potential hazards.

Another appliance that deserves attention is the coffee maker. While it’s convenient to have hot coffee ready each morning, many machines stay powered on to maintain internal clocks or preheat water. This constant low-level energy use wears on internal parts and increases your utility bill. If a coffee maker overheats while plugged in, especially near flammable items like paper or cloth, it could lead to smoke or fire. Auto shutoff features only stop brewing—they don’t eliminate standby power. Unplugging your coffee maker after each use is a safer, smarter habit that also helps preserve its longevity. Air fryers are modern kitchen favorites, but they come with hidden energy costs.

Even when not in use, air fryers with digital displays or memory functions continue pulling electricity. Residue or grease near the plug can increase the chances of a short circuit, and if the heating element malfunctions, it might activate unexpectedly. These units often sit near towels, paper, or other flammable kitchen items, adding to the danger. Always let your air fryer cool down, then unplug it to reduce fire risk and save on electricity. Space heaters are another must-unplug item. They’re helpful for warming small spaces but are notorious for causing house fires, especially if tipped over or accidentally bumped. Even when switched off, many space heaters draw power and pose a risk.

Older units may lack auto shutoff or temperature sensors, which are critical safety features. Plugging them into extension cords or crowded power strips increases the chance of circuit overload. Always unplug space heaters when not in use to keep your home safer and your electrical system from overloading. Microwaves are surprising culprits when it comes to phantom power. The clock display alone consumes energy around the clock, and internal components stay partially active for quick use. If the microwave has food splatters or grease inside and malfunctions, it could cause a fire. Surrounding it with paper towels or books only increases the risk. Unplugging your microwave helps prevent this and reminds you to clean it more regularly, keeping both your kitchen and your wallet safer. Along with unplugging these key appliances, there are additional ways to enhance home safety. Check cords and plugs regularly for signs of damage like fraying or discoloration. Replace damaged parts immediately, and avoid overloading outlets or power strips—especially with heat-producing items. Use surge protectors to defend electronics during storms and make sure every room with appliances has a functioning smoke detector. Change detector batteries twice a year and keep flammable materials far from heat sources. Educate kids on appliance safety and store manuals where you can quickly find them if needed. On top of improving safety, adopting energy-efficient habits can also reduce your bills. Switch to LED bulbs, which last longer and use less power than traditional ones. Adjust your thermostat just a few degrees to ease strain on your HVAC system. Wash clothes in cold water and only run full loads to maximize washer efficiency. Keep your refrigerator between 37 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit and use ceiling fans to circulate air more effectively. Smart power strips are great tools that shut off electricity to devices in standby mode, helping you reduce waste automatically. And always unplug chargers and small gadgets when they’re done—even when not in use, they continue to pull electricity. In conclusion, unplugging appliances like toasters, coffee makers, air fryers, space heaters, and microwaves is a simple way to protect your home, save energy, and reduce the risk of fire. It’s a habit that costs nothing but offers big benefits. When paired with basic safety checks and energy-saving tips, this practice becomes a powerful way to lower expenses and improve peace of mind. Start small—choose one device to unplug daily, and soon it’ll become part of your everyday routine. Your home will be safer, your devices will last longer, and your future self will thank you.