Appliance Expert Reveals 3 ‘Vampire Appliances’ You Should Unplug Before Going on Vacation

Before we go on a vacation or staycation, we always need to do some final, pre-vacation checks. And the first thing is to check our home security systemswe often forget about less obvious things.

According to experts, some household appliances should always be unplugged before going on vacation. They still use electricity even when switched off and are commonly known as “vampire appliances” or “phantom power.” This can not only help reduce your energy bills this summerbut it will protect your home from the risk of fire caused by electrical installations.

So which kitchen appliances should you unplug before you head off on holiday? We asked an expert to reveal them all.

1. Kitchen appliances

Braun brew sense in the kitchen

(Photo source: Amazon)

If you use regularly Coffee machine to make your daily cup of coffee, you probably won’t even think about unplugging it (ever!). But before you go on vacation, you need to unplug your machine.

In addition, some coffee makers and microwaves have a digital clock that will continue to run when not in use, so you can unplug them and reset them when you return. The same goes for other small appliances, such as electric kettles and toasters.

“Smaller kitchen appliances such as kettles, microwaves and coffee machines should always be switched off at the plug before a holiday,” says Ian Palmer-Smith, a home appliance repair expert at National and general.

“These devices continue to draw electricity even when they are turned off, which is why they are sometimes called ‘vampire devices.’”

What’s more, it will also help reduce your carbon footprint and increase energy efficiency.

2. Washing machines and dishwashers

Laundry room with washing machine, laundry basket, chair, plant and shelves

Laundry room with washing machine, laundry basket, chair, plant and shelves (Photo source: Shutterstock)

Large appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers should also be unplugged before going on holiday. “Appliances like washing machines and dishwashers use a lot of energy because of their water requirements,” says Palmer-Smith. “They use more energy than others in standby mode because they have to be ready to heat water on demand.”

In fact, experts suggest turning off your water supply if possible. “Coming home to flooding is a common problem for homeowners, so the easiest way to avoid this risk is to temporarily turn off your water supply. This step is often skipped, but it’s worth doing, especially if you’re going to be away from home for an extended period of time. To do this, find your shut-off valve—usually in the cabinet under the sink—and turn it off.”

3. Stoves

best gas stoves

best gas stoves (Photo source: Samsung)

Do you have gas stove Or electric cookerour cookers can still draw electricity even when we’re not cooking up a feast. Experts advise unplugging cookers before you go on holiday to minimise the risk of electrical faults. “Switch off and unplug all non-essential electrical appliances, not only to save money but also to reduce the risk of fires due to electrical faults.”

Equipment that should not be disconnected from the power supply

Of course, there are some appliances that you should never turn off or unplug before you go on holiday. “Do not turn off or unplug appliances such as the fridge/freezer as water will leak out when defrosting, which is a potential fire hazard and will make food unsafe to eat.”

In addition, it is advisable to deep clean your fridge and get rid of unpleasant odors before taking off. Besides, no one likes coming home to spoiled food or an unpleasant smell. “Depending on the length of your trip, I would recommend emptying the fridge of fresh food to avoid mold growth.

Think about what food could be moved to the freezer to avoid unnecessary food waste, and wipe down all surfaces with antibacterial cleaners. That way, you’ll come home to a hygienic kitchen, ready to fill the fridge with fresh food.”

So, be sure to add unplugging your electrical appliances to your to-do list before you head to your destination this summer!