How to Unplug Kitchen Appliances to Save Energy

Look first for appliances with clocks, indicator lights, remote controls, Wi-Fi features, chargers, or touch panels. The U.S. Department of Energy explains that standby power is electricity used while a product is plugged in but not doing its main job, and Berkeley Lab notes that many homes have several products drawing power all day.

Once the coffee is made and the warming plate is off, unplug the coffee maker instead of leaving the display or ready light powered all day. The Department of Energy specifically lists coffeemakers among equipment to unplug when they are not in use.

Let the appliance cool completely, shake out crumbs as the manual allows, and then unplug it. The U.S. Fire Administration advises people to unplug small appliances when they are not being used, and this habit fits toasters especially well because they are brief-use, heat-producing appliances.

Air fryers, electric pressure cookers, slow cookers, and rice cookers often have electronic controls that stay ready while plugged in. After the cooking cycle ends, the appliance is off, and the unit has cooled, unplug it and store the cord neatly so it stays away from hot surfaces and water.

Unplug chargers for phones, rechargeable milk frothers, mini vacuums, scales, or other kitchen gadgets when nothing is charging. ENERGY STAR recommends using a central turn-off point for electronics because devices can use small amounts of electricity even when they appear to be off.

A countertop microwave with a clock or display can draw standby power, and Berkeley Lab includes microwave ovens among products that may use power around the clock. If the outlet is easy to reach and you do not rely on the clock, unplugging it between uses can make sense.

Do not unplug a refrigerator or freezer that contains food just to save electricity. FoodSafety.gov says refrigerators should stay at 40 F or below and freezers at 0 F or below, and the U.S. Fire Administration says major appliances should be plugged directly into wall outlets rather than extension cords.

A switched strip can be useful for low-power kitchen electronics, such as chargers or a smart speaker, because one switch cuts power to the group. Do not overload power strips, and remember that Berkeley Lab warns most consumer meters are not suited for measuring high-watt heat appliances above about 1300 watts.

Before adding any unplugging routine, inspect plugs, cords, and outlets for looseness, fraying, heat marks, or cracking. Health Canada advises keeping cords away from heat and water, checking them for damage, and not leaving heat-producing electrical products plugged in when they are not in use.