It’s easy to assume that turning something off is enough—but many household devices continue to draw power even when they’re not in use. This “phantom energy” quietly adds up, often costing households an extra $100 to $200 a year. Beyond the financial impact, keeping certain appliances plugged in unnecessarily can also increase safety risks, especially when heat or electrical faults are involved. Building the habit of unplugging is a small change that delivers meaningful long-term benefits.

Start with high-risk appliances. Space heaters should always be unplugged when not in use, as they are a common source of home fires if they overheat or come into contact with nearby materials. The same goes for hair tools like flat irons and curling wands, which can stay dangerously hot even after being switched off. Kitchen devices such as toasters and toaster ovens also deserve attention—crumb buildup can smolder, and older models may pose additional risks if left plugged in continuously.