As the warm weather continues, it’s easy to forget how heat can affect your household electrical items. Here are the appliances you should always unplug during the summer
UK households are being cautioned not to leave mobile phones charging overnight during the summer months. The arrival of summer brings with it the delight of warmer weather and longer days, but it’s easy to overlook the impact heat can have on your home electrical items.
Specialists advise that electrical goods require extra care during the summer months, as some frequently used appliances can become excessively hot.
This not only poses a risk of damage to the devices but also presents a serious safety hazard. It comes after an expert revealed what really happens when you leave your charger plugged into the wall throughout the day.
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With the potential for fires in your property in severe cases, James Harrison, an electrician at Fusion Electrical, shares his expert guidance on the five appliances you should always disconnect during the summer when they’re not in use. Adopting these can significantly improve both your energy bills and home safety.
“Disconnecting appliances during the summer is a sensible practice that safeguards your devices, saves money, and minimises fire risks,” James states.
Mobile phone and headphone chargers
“It’s usual to leave mobile phones or headphones charging overnight, but in hotter months this can cause them to become warmer than normal – which is a warning sign,” says James.
“Most devices only need a few hours to fully charge, so avoid leaving chargers connected all night to prevent unnecessary energy consumption and overheating.”
Electric hair tools
“Hair straighteners and other electric hair gadgets can reach even higher temperatures in warm weather, increasing the risk of overheating,” warns James.
“Always unplug these items rather than just switching them off, especially in summer. They can cause burns or damage surfaces if left on accidentally.”
Small kitchen appliances
“Devices like kettles, toasters and microwaves can overheat if left plugged in, especially when close together or used frequently,” states James, who instructs households to “unplug small kitchen appliances when not in use helps reduce energy consumption and can lower your bills during the summer”.
Fans
“Fans are vital for keeping homes cool, especially since most UK houses don’t have air conditioning,” James points out. “However, it’s best to unplug fans when not in use or when you’re out, as dust build-up inside can strain motors and increase fire risk, particularly in hot weather. Switch fans off before going to bed”.
TVs, computers and entertainment systems
Lastly, James explains how “many electrical devices use power even when turned off, known as standby mode. He tells users that “unplugging your TV, games consoles, PCs and other entertainment systems when not in use can reduce energy waste and lower your electricity bills, especially during the summer holidays when usage rises”.