8 Household Appliances You Don't Need to Unplug After Every Use

Washing Machines and Dryers

Despite the fact that keeping an appliance plugged in still requires some degree of electrical current, larger appliances—like washers and dryers—are better off left alone. “These [appliances] are typically hardwired or use heavy-duty plugs,” explains Hodnicki. “Constantly unplugging them is inconvenient and could cause unnecessary wear on the plug or outlet.”

Another consideration is that there are often helpful diagnostic systems built into modern washer and dryer models that keep track of usage or mechanical failure, notes Atkinson. This data would be lost if you were to remove the plug.

Refrigerators

Certain appliances are intended for constant use or rely on internal mechanisms that function with an uninterrupted power supply—and refrigerators are among them. When unplugged, "the temperature inside starts to increase very rapidly," explains HVAC technician Alex Atkinson, "which can translate to rotten food and bacterial growth."

Additionally, when plugged back in, refrigerators have to work extra hard in order to re-stabilize their internal temperature. This can lead to higher electric bills, as well as increased wear and tear on the electrical components, adds Hodnicki.

Dishwashers

“Like a clothes washer or refrigerator, dishwashers often come with an electric control panel, which must always have power in order to maintain memory settings,” explains Atkinson. And like washing machines, dishwashers are also wired for frequent, stable use.

Licensed electrician and appliance technician David Moloshev adds that since dishwashers don’t consume significant power when not in use, disconnecting them can only do more harm than good. "Unplugging can actually disrupt the built-in timers or electronic diagnostics on new models," he says.

Microwaves

When unplugging your smaller appliances around the kitchen, you can confidently skip over the microwave. It not only poses an inconvenience (especially when built in), but it's unnecessary. As Moloshev explains, modern microwaves use a minimal amount of standby power. “Unplugging and replugging them constantly can wear out the plug socket and internal components over time,” he warns.

While the digital clock will draw a small amount of energy if left plugged in, it's preferable to having to reset the clock and compromise your microwave’s efficiency as a whole.

Wi-Fi Router or Modem

In order to keep your Wi-Fi running smoothly and uninterrupted, do not unplug your router or modem. Even though these items are smaller in stature, they need to stay plugged in for optimal performance. According to Moloshev, “These devices are meant to be continuously operational. Power-cycling them too often can reduce their lifespan, interrupt the service, and create unnecessary wear on the power adapters.” 

Moloshev adds that the exception to the rule is if you're troubleshooting a faulty connection. In this case, unplugging and replugging your router and modem may prove helpful.

Oven or Electric Stove

According to Moloshev, ovens and electric stoves are built to remain powered safely. “These are often hardwired or use a high-capacity outlet,” he explains. “Disconnecting them after each use is impractical and can pose a safety risk because of the size and the current of the connection.”

HVAC System or Space-Saving Mini Split Units

Unplugging your air conditioner between uses is something else you don’t have to worry about. According to Hodnicki, HVAC systems and mini split units should “always remain plugged in or powered at the breaker, as they maintain temperature regulation and sometimes even humidity or air purification.” The last thing you need is to endure major temperature fluctuations, especially during the winter and summer months.

Water Heater (Tank or Tankless)

This is yet another giant appliance in your home that should be left plugged in for consistent, efficient functioning. Since we rely on our water heaters throughout the entirety of the day, constantly unplugging it would be detrimental and impractical.

“Unplugging them regularly could cause inconsistent water temperatures and stress the heating element,” warns Hodnicki.