As record-breaking heat waves become more frequent, finding ways to stay cool while minimizing energy consumption is crucial. The average U.S. household spends about $2,000 per year on energy bills.1
During a heat wave, unplugging certain appliances can not only help you save on electricity costs but also protect your devices from potential damage caused by power surges.
By strategically choosing which appliances to unplug and when, you can reduce your home’s energy usage, lower your bills, and contribute to a more stable power grid. Here are 15 household appliances you should consider unplugging during a heat wave.
1. Dryers
Dryers pose a significant fire risk during heatwaves. The heating elements can ignite if overheated, especially if the lint trap isn’t cleaned regularly.
To reduce the risk, unplug your dryer when not in use and take advantage of the sunny weather to line-dry your clothes instead. Not only will this save energy, but it will also give your laundry a fresh, natural scent.
2. Small Kitchen Appliances
Toasters, coffee makers, electric kettles, and food processors can quickly overheat in cramped, poorly ventilated kitchens. These appliances are some of the biggest energy drainers and pose a significant risk during heatwaves.
Consider unplugging these devices when not in use and opting for cold meals or beverages to reduce the strain on your kitchen appliances and keep your home cooler.
3. Refrigerators
While refrigerators are essential during heatwaves, they work overtime to keep food cold, increasing the risk of overheating or electrical shorts. Regularly clean the coils behind your fridge to prevent compressor overheating, which can be a fire hazard.
Additionally, avoid opening the fridge door frequently, as this allows cool air to escape and forces the appliance to work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
4. Televisions & Entertainment Systems
Televisions, gaming consoles, and sound systems generate a significant amount of heat, especially when used for extended periods. Unplugging these devices when not in use can help reduce the overall temperature in your living room.
Consider limiting screen time during heatwaves and opting for outdoor activities or reading instead. This will not only keep your home cooler but also encourage a more active lifestyle.
5. Computers & Laptops
Like televisions, computers and laptops generate heat and can contribute to an already warm room. When not in use, unplug these devices and store them in a cool, dry place.
If you must use your computer during a heatwave, consider investing in a cooling pad or stand to help dissipate heat and prevent overheating. Remember to dust your device regularly to prevent dust buildup, which can hinder proper ventilation.
6. Printers & Scanners
Printers and scanners are often overlooked but can generate a surprising amount of heat, especially when used frequently. Unplug these devices when not in use, and consider consolidating your printing tasks to reduce the overall runtime.
If possible, place your printer or scanner in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or other heat sources, to minimize the risk of overheating.
7. Lamps & Light Fixtures
Incandescent light bulbs waste a significant amount of energy through heat emission. Switching to compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or LED bulbs can help reduce the heat generated by your light fixtures.
During heatwaves, unplug any unnecessary lamps or light fixtures and take advantage of natural light whenever possible. This will help keep your home cooler and lower your energy bills.
8. Hair Dryers & Styling Tools
Hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons generate intense heat and can quickly raise the temperature in your bathroom. Unplug these devices when not in use and consider embracing your natural hair texture during heatwaves.
Opt for heat-free alternatives like rollers or braids, or style your hair in a cooler room to minimize the impact on your home’s overall temperature.
9. Electric Blankets & Space Heaters
While electric blankets and space heaters are essential during colder months, they have no place in your home during a heatwave. Unplug and store these devices in a cool, dry place until the weather cools down.
If you find yourself needing extra warmth during a heatwave, consider using a lightweight blanket or wearing breathable, layered clothing instead.
10. Vacuum Cleaners
Vacuum cleaners, especially older models, can generate a significant amount of heat during operation. Unplug your vacuum cleaner when not in use, and consider postponing deep cleaning tasks until the heatwave passes.
If you must vacuum during a heatwave, opt for a cooler time of day, such as early morning or late evening, and take breaks to allow the device to cool down between uses.
11. Electric Fans
While electric fans can provide relief during a heatwave, they can also contribute to the overall heat in your home if left running continuously. Unplug fans when not in use and consider investing in a ceiling fan, which can help circulate air more efficiently.
Place a fan near an open window to draw in cooler air from outside and create a cross breeze. This will help maximize the fan’s cooling effect while minimizing energy consumption.
12. Dishwashers
Dishwashers generate heat during operation and can raise the temperature in your kitchen. During a heatwave, consider handwashing your dishes or running the dishwasher only when it’s full to reduce the overall runtime.
If possible, run your dishwasher at night when temperatures are cooler, and avoid using the heated dry cycle, which can contribute to the overall heat in your home.
13. Ovens & Stoves
Cooking can generate a significant amount of heat, making your kitchen feel like a sauna during a heatwave. Consider unplugging your oven and stove when not in use and opting for cooler cooking methods, such as grilling outdoors or preparing no-cook meals.
Try to cook during cooler times of the day and use the exhaust fan to help remove hot air from your kitchen.
14. Washing Machines
Like dishwashers, washing machines generate heat during operation and can contribute to the overall warmth of your home. During a heatwave, consider running your washing machine at night when temperatures are cooler or using a cold water cycle to reduce the heat generated.
If possible, hang your clothes to dry outside instead of using a dryer, which can generate more heat and consume significant energy.
15. Phone & Device Chargers
Phone and device chargers may seem small, but they can generate a surprising amount of heat, especially when plugged in overnight. Charge your devices in the morning when it’s cooler and you’re awake.
This will reduce the heat generated in your bedroom and save energy, as most devices don’t need to be charged for the entire duration of your sleep.
By unplugging these 15 household appliances during a heatwave, you can help keep your home cooler, reduce your energy consumption, and minimize the risk of surges and overheating. A little proactive maintenance can go a long way in protecting your devices and ensuring a comfortable living space during extreme weather conditions.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.