Vacation Ready: The Household Items You Should Always Unplug

Unplugging isn’t just busywork. Here’s what to unplug, what to leave in, and the real reasons why.

You’ve got your bags packed, your out-of-office email turned on, and the pet sitter all squared away. But just before you head out the door, here’s a question worth asking: what’s still plugged in around your house?

Unplugging appliances before vacation might feel like one of those optional chores you can skip. And hey, most of the time, you’d be right. Most folks leave home without unplugging a thing and return to find everything just as they left it. But if taking five extra minutes to unplug a few key items can save you from a fire, a fried device, or an inflated electric bill—why not?

Here’s a room-by-room guide to help you figure out what can stay in, what should come out, and why it matters.

In the Kitchen

Let’s start with the most appliance-packed room in the house.

Countertop appliances like toasters, air fryers, electric kettles, coffee makers, and microwaves should be unplugged before you leave. Not only do many of these have heating elements that could pose a risk if there’s a malfunction, but they also use standby power even when they’re off. That little clock on your microwave? Yep, it’s still sipping electricity. And anything with grease buildup or crumbs sitting near a heat source is one power surge away from becoming a hazard.

Now, your refrigerator should stay plugged in unless you’re planning to be away for more than a month and have time to empty and clean it out. For shorter trips, just make sure it’s at least half full (water jugs work in a pinch) so it doesn’t have to work as hard to stay cool.

Living Room + Office Area

Entertainment centers are sneaky energy vampires. Your TV, streaming box, game consoles, and even cable boxes all draw power even when they’re powered off. And while the cost adds up over time, the bigger concern here is protecting your pricey electronics from power surges while you're not around. Lightning strikes or grid fluctuations can do a real number on your home theater setup if it’s still connected.

Before heading out, unplug everything you can in this area. If they’re all on one power strip, even better—just flip the switch.

Same goes for computers and accessories. Unplug desktops, laptops, printers, and anything else with a battery or sensitive circuit board. If you’re someone who’s got backups running, make sure they’re finished, then go ahead and unplug.

Courtesy of Brayear Rodriguez.

And if you’re still on the fence? Just imagine returning from a relaxing trip to find your hard drive fried by a surge. That mental image is usually enough motivation to reach for the plug.

Bedroom + Bathroom

Here’s where some of the most common fire hazards live: hair styling tools. Whether it’s a curling iron, flat iron, or hair dryer, these should always be unplugged when not in use—and especially before a trip. A single damaged wire or faulty switch can lead to smoldering parts even when the device is off.

Battery chargers, especially for lithium-ion devices (think: cordless vacuums, electric toothbrushes, camera batteries), should also be removed from outlets. These can pose a fire risk if left charging for too long or if they’re damaged in any way. One of the most frequent causes of battery-related fires is unattended overcharging, so err on the safe side.

Nightstand lamps and alarm clocks? Up to you. They don’t pose a major risk, but unplugging them can still reduce phantom energy use.

Utility Room or Laundry Area

This one surprises people: your washer and dryer should be unplugged too. Dryers, in particular, are one of the leading sources of appliance-related fires. If you're leaving for more than a few days, it’s worth the extra 30 seconds to reach behind and unplug them. Lint buildup inside dryers is no joke—combine that with a random power surge and things can go downhill fast.

Courtesy of planetcar

And if you really want to go the extra mile, you can even turn off the water supply to the washer. It’s not a bad habit—especially if your washer hoses are older or you’ve had a leak before. A cracked hose while you're out of town can go from minor annoyance to major water damage in no time.

Water heater? No need to unplug entirely. Most modern models have a "vacation" or "low" setting, which keeps them operating efficiently without turning them off altogether.

The Essentials to Leave Plugged In

Not everything should be unplugged. Your refrigerator (as mentioned) stays. So do your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and any home security systems. If you use smart home features like thermostats, lights, or cameras, your Wi-Fi router and modem also need to stay powered on. That connectivity can make all the difference if something goes wrong and you need a heads-up. Plus, if your router's online, it's one way to verify whether your home's still got power at all.

If you have a sump pump or a radon abatement system, those are non-negotiable. They need to stay running while you're away, period.

Bonus Tip: Skip the Breaker Panel

courtesy of Harry Strauss.jpg

Some people prefer to flip circuit breakers instead of unplugging items room by room, but this comes with risks. Unless you’re absolutely sure what’s on each circuit, you could end up turning off something essential, like your fridge or sump pump. Plenty of breaker panels are mislabeled or include hidden connections you’d never guess. Better to be precise than sorry.

At the end of the day, unplugging before vacation is about prevention, not paranoia. Your home likely won’t burst into flames because you left your toaster plugged in—but why take the chance? Plus, it’s a small step that saves energy, protects your electronics, and gives you a little extra peace of mind while you’re away.

And once you’re home again, plugging everything back in will feel like a gentle re-entry. Welcome back!

If something doesn’t power on quite the way it used to—or worse, if you return to an appliance that’s acting up—our team at Appliance Rescue Service is here to help. From troubleshooting strange behavior to handling post-vacation surprises, we’re just a call away. Safe travels, and know we’ve got your back when you get home. 

A Trusted Label in Jeopardy: The Fight to Save Energy Star

This simple, voluntary label has helped millions—so why is it on the chopping block?

If you’ve ever shopped for a new fridge, dishwasher, or even a box of lightbulbs, you’ve probably seen that familiar little blue label: Energy Star. Quietly tucked into the corners of packaging and stats pages, it's a beacon. It has been helping people make smarter energy choices since the early ’90s. No pressure, no mandates—just a gentle nudge toward products that use less power and save you money.

Now, after over 30 years of proven impact, that helpful label is in danger of disappearing.

The Energy Star program is facing a growing push for elimination. It is part of a broader shift in federal climate and energy policy under the current Administration. While  hasn’t been officially ended—yet— the warning signs are blinking. If it goes, the effects will ripple through households, businesses, and even local building codes.

So how did we get here? What did Energy Star actually do? And what happens if it’s gone?

Let’s break it down.

Why Was the Energy Star Program Started?

The Energy Star program launched in 1992, born out of a simple but powerful idea: what if the federal government made it easier for people to choose appliances and electronics that used less energy?

It was started under President George H. W. Bush as a collaborative effort between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and later, the Department of Energy. At its core, the program was designed to test, certify, and label products that met high standards for energy efficiency. Products that earned the Energy Star label had to pass third-party certification and ongoing post-market testing to make sure they truly delivered on their promises.

But Energy Star didn’t stop at appliances. Over the years, the label expanded to cover homes, commercial buildings, and industrial plants. The program even helped shape local building codes and tax incentives—making energy efficiency not just an individual choice, but a widespread cultural standard.

And perhaps most importantly: participation in the program was always voluntary. Manufacturers could opt in. Consumers could decide whether or not to buy Energy Star–certified products. The only requirement? Perform well enough to earn the label.

The Energy Star program has long been one of the federal government’s most popular and effective voluntary initiatives. 

What Did the Energy Star Program Achieve?

The results speak for themselves. According to the EPA’s 2024 report, Energy Star has helped Americans save more than five trillion kilowatt-hours of electricity since it began. That’s the equivalent of preventing four billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions—an environmental impact hard to ignore.

But the program’s benefits weren’t just green; they were financial, too. A typical household saves about $450 a year on energy costs simply by choosing Energy Star–labeled appliances. Every year, more than $100 billion worth of certified products are sold. And for every dollar the EPA spent on the program, it spurred $230 in private investment in energy-saving infrastructure and services.

With over 89% of American households recognizing the label, Energy Star became one of the most trusted symbols on store shelves. It helped level the playing field for consumers trying to make better choices—and gave manufacturers a reason to push for more efficient design.

In the words of the EPA, it’s “one of the most successful voluntary U.S. government programs in history.”

Has the Energy Star Program Actually Been Ended?

Not yet—but it’s under real threat.

In April 2024, media reports began circulating that the EPA, now under the second Trump administration, planned to dismantle the Energy Star program. This sparked swift backlash. Over 1,000 companies and organizations signed a letter urging the agency to keep the program, citing its effectiveness, affordability, and popularity.

Lawmakers from both parties have also weighed in. A group of 22 senators, including Bernie Sanders, Amy Klobuchar, and John Fetterman, sent a May 20 letter stating that the program is protected under the Energy Policy Act of 2005—meaning it cannot be legally shut down without Congressional approval.

So, no—the program hasn’t officially been ended. But behind the scenes, the groundwork for its elimination is being laid.

Why Is the Energy Star Program Under Threat?

According to statements from inside the EPA, programs like Energy Star are being “de-prioritized and eliminated” as part of a broader rollback of federal climate protections. That includes executive orders discouraging wind energy expansion, lawsuits aimed at state-level climate initiatives, and a general focus on fossil fuel development over emissions reductions.

In this political climate, even programs that align with cost-saving goals and industry support are on the chopping block.

Critics of the move—ranging from bipartisan lawmakers to energy nonprofits—point out that scrapping Energy Star makes little fiscal sense. The program costs only $32 million a year to run but saves more than $40 billion annually in consumer energy bills.

If the concern is government overreach, it’s worth remembering: Energy Star is voluntary. No one is forced to participate. It simply makes energy-efficient choices easier and more visible.

So why is it being targeted? The answer may be less about the program itself and more about an overarching strategy to dismantle anything linked to climate policy—regardless of its popularity or effectiveness.

What Are We Going to Do Now?

If Energy Star disappears, there will be ripple effects.

Consumers will lose a reliable, trusted label that helps them make informed purchases. Manufacturers will face a confusing patchwork of state-level standards. And utilities, cities, and green building initiatives will lose a central benchmark they’ve built policy around.

There are other certifications—LEED for buildings, or product specs from the Consortium for Energy Efficiency—but none are as widespread or federally backed. Most importantly, none are as easy for everyday people to recognize and trust.

Energy experts say it’s likely some form of replacement will emerge—but it may take time. And it probably won’t have the same national reach or impact.

If you care about saving money, reducing waste, or simply being able to find reliable information about what your appliances are doing behind the scenes, this is a moment to pay attention.

Whether or not you’ve ever paused to notice that little blue label on your washing machine or lightbulbs, chances are it’s already saved you money. Energy Star has quietly made American homes more efficient for decades—without fanfare, mandates, or complicated rules.

Losing it would mean more than just one less logo. It would mark the loss of a smart, simple system that worked.

Let’s hope it’s not too late to keep the lights on.

If you'd like to arrange an appointment with us, you can reach out via our contact page or by giving us a call. Appliance Rescue Service is always here to keep your home appliances maintained and running smoothly.

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Appliance Red Flags: What Strange Noises, Smells, and Sounds Are Trying to Tell You

A practical homeowner’s guide to what's normal—and what’s not—when it comes to appliance noise.

Let’s be honest—most of us don’t give our appliances much thought until they stop working altogether. But what if they’ve actually been dropping hints all along? Clanks in the laundry room, buzzes in the kitchen, and even subtle hisses can be signs that something’s not quite right.

Think of it as appliance whispering. By learning to listen for what’s normal—and what definitely isn’t—you can stop small issues from snowballing into big, expensive repairs. Below, we break down the sounds and smells your appliances might be using to ask for a little TLC.

Refrigerator Noises

What’s Normal

A well-running fridge doesn’t sound like a library. Expect a low, steady hum as the compressor kicks in, a soft click when the defrost cycle starts, and an occasional gurgle or hiss from the refrigerant doing its job. If your ice maker is active, you’ll also hear periodic buzzing as it fills.

What’s Worrisome

If the usual hum turns into more of a growl, or the buzz starts sounding like a bee on a mission, your fridge could be working overtime. Repeated clicking might mean the defrost system is glitching, and constant gurgling might hint at a refrigerant issue that’s worth watching.

What’s a Red Flag

Courtesty USDA.

Hear a grinding sound? That could be ice building up near the evaporator fan. A rattling noise might mean the condenser fan or compressor is loose—or on its way out. And a squeal coming from behind the fridge? That’s your cue to call a technician, stat.

Freezer Noises

What’s Normal

Expect a quiet whir as fans circulate cold air, along with the occasional pop or crack as the interior expands and contracts with temperature changes. Soft hissing or gurgling from the refrigerant is also totally normal.

What’s Worrisome

If your freezer sounds like it’s trying too hard—loud clicking, persistent buzzing, or a whine—something may be stressing the motor or fan. These aren’t full-blown emergencies, but they do deserve a closer look.

What’s a Red Flag

Sharp squealing often means a fan motor is giving out. Grinding could mean something’s stuck or broken inside. And any hissing accompanied by reduced cooling could be a refrigerant leak, which calls for professional help.

Dishwasher

What’s Normal

A working dishwasher is a symphony of soft, productive sounds: gentle swishing of water, light clicks as it changes cycles, and a low hum when it drains.

What’s Worrisome

If you hear a grinding or deep humming, it may be debris stuck in the pump—or a pump that’s wearing down. Longer-than-usual cycles can point to a clogged filter or a sensor that's struggling to do its job.

What’s a Red Flag

Pooling water on your floor is never a good sign. Neither is a burning smell, loud clanging, or the kind of rattle that makes you step back mid-load. If your dishes are still dirty after a cycle, that’s another signal your dishwasher is due for a checkup.

Oven / Stove / Range

What’s Normal

Clicking as your gas burner lights is perfectly expected. So is a quiet fan hum during and after cooking—especially with newer convection ovens.

What’s Worrisome

When that clicking doesn’t stop, it’s time to investigate. The igniter may be failing or the burner could be dirty. And if your food is suddenly cooking unevenly, your heating element might be the culprit.

What’s a Red Flag

Courtesy of RDNE Stock project

If you smell gas but nothing’s turned on, stop reading and turn off the main gas valve. Then call your gas company. Other big warnings: buzzing noises, burning smells, or a door that won’t close properly (especially if your oven seems to be struggling to stay hot).

Washing Machine

What’s Normal

Expect a lot of sloshing, a few clicks, and maybe a light thump if the load is slightly off-balance. The hum of the motor and a gurgle as the machine drains are all standard fare.

What’s Worrisome

A loud thump that doesn’t stop could mean a suspension rod is worn out. Grinding might mean something’s stuck between the tubs. And a hissing sound could indicate a leaky water hose.

What’s a Red Flag

Courtesy of stevepb

If your washer is screeching, vibrating violently, or leaking, don’t press your luck. Shut it off and take a closer look—or better yet, call someone who can.

Dryer

What’s Normal

You’ll hear a steady whir as the drum turns, a few clicks as the timer advances, and maybe a soft thud when zippers or buttons hit the inside.

What’s Worrisome

If it’s taking multiple cycles to dry your clothes, you might be dealing with a clogged vent or a failing heating element. A new rattle could mean a belt is wearing out or something’s loose inside.

What’s a Red Flag

Courtesy of Planet care

Any kind of burning smell or overheating sensation should be treated seriously—it could be a lint blockage or faulty coil, and that’s a fire risk. If your clothes are coming out scorched, shut it down and unplug it.

The truth is, your appliances are always talking to you. The question is—are you listening? Whether it’s a squeak, a buzz, or a thud, unusual sounds and smells are often your first clue that something’s not quite right. Catching these red flags early means fewer breakdowns, lower repair costs, and way less stress.

And when things go from “huh, that’s weird” to “okay, that’s bad,” Appliance Rescue Service is just a call away. Our expert team can diagnose the issue, make the fix, and get your home back to humming (the normal kind).

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That Dishwasher’s a Lie: What to Know About Pre-Owned Appliances

The red flags no inspector will catch—but your wallet definitely will

Congratulations on your new house!
We apologize for the dishwasher-shaped disaster.

Courtesy of Schluesseldienst

Many of us have been there. You think you’re getting a bunch of fantastic appliances as part of the package for your new home. You’ve got the inspector’s stamp of approval. And then? You find out—yeah, it runs. Right into a $2,000 floor replacement.

This week, we’re looking at some of the things people wish they’d been told before signing on the dotted line.

The Problem with “It Works”

When “functional” means “barely alive.”

Here’s the problem: a home inspector is meant to identify structural problems in a home before it’s sold. Their job is to check for gaping leaks, mold, or giant holes that may or may not lead to Narnia. Or to flag any potential red flags in the home’s history—like that one time the stairs had to be replaced due to termites.

But if appliances are included in the sale, their job stops at “does it turn on?”

As we’ve said over and over: an appliance can technically function and still be struggling—causing inefficiency, damage, or real safety hazards.

Important takeaway: If appliances are included, inspect them yourself. Make sure they work the way you want them to.

Red Flags & Real Costs

What they won’t show you up front (but you’ll absolutely pay for later).

This isn’t about calling anyone out—unless we’re writing a recall post. But it’s worth remembering: a realtor’s job is to show you how the house is now, not walk you through its full appliance history.

Here are some common problem spots:

• Refrigerator – Cooling issues, signs of refrigerant leaks, unsealed gaskets

• Oven/Range – Inconsistent heating, faulty burners, safety concerns

• Dishwasher – Leaks, pump issues, water damage you can’t see

• Washer/Dryer – Mold, clogged vents, odd noises, lint buildup

• HVAC – Mold, rust, hidden costs from poor maintenance

And just because something looks clean doesn’t mean it was deep-cleaned or that hidden issues aren’t still lingering. You can wipe up mold blooms, but depending on the type, it may still be thriving inside the walls.

Questions to Ask Before You Buy

Because the seller sure isn’t volunteering this info.

If the appliances are included, ask yourself: Why are they being left behind?
It could be convenience. It could be generosity. Or it could be that the seller’s tired of dealing with them.

Either way, a few friendly questions can go a long way—and they can be phrased as light conversation to keep things smooth with the seller and agent.

Try asking:

• Can I test the appliances during a showing or second visit?

• How old are they, and can I see proof of maintenance?

• What’s the plan for disposal or replacement if they die tomorrow?

Strategy, Not Sentiment

Don’t fall in love with the fridge (or anything else).

It’s easy to get caught up in the look of the kitchen suite—but appliances can fail between closing and move-in. Rather than falling in love, think strategy.

If you don’t like the appliances, consider negotiating them out. Ask the realtor. Ask the seller.

Some buyers even find success casually suggesting they’d prefer the appliances removed in exchange for a lower sale price. Not every seller will go for it, but if the units are old or visibly failing, some will be understanding.

If removal isn’t an option, it’s time for a family strategy session:

• What’s on your must-have list?

• What are you willing to live with?

Does the kitchen suite need to match? Can you deal with mismatched finishes? Do you have to have a working fridge on day one? Your answers will be different from someone else’s, but having that clarity up front helps keep expectations grounded.

Know What Comes With the House

Don’t assume. Verify. Then verify again.

If you’ve never bought a home before, hear this loud and clear: verify everything. If you have bought a home before, well, you probably already learned this the hard way.

Don’t assume anything—from your move-in date to the status of the appliances to who’s paying what in closing costs. Talk through all of it with your realtor, and keep notes.

That includes:

• Who’s doing the inspections?

• Who pays for problems that arise?

• Do those problems affect the sale price?

• When is your final walk-through, and what should still be in the house at that point?

We’ve heard more than one horror story about buyers expecting a washer and dryer that never materialized. Sometimes it was never part of the deal. Other times, the seller just changed their mind last-minute. If it’s not in writing, it’s not guaranteed.

Think Past Move-In Day

Eventually, everything breaks. Be ready.

It’s unfortunate but true: every appliance has an expiration date. Even if they seem perfect on move-in day, that doesn’t mean they’ll last the year.

Start by asking about local disposal rules. Some cities offer curbside pickup. Others require you to schedule in advance—or fine you for putting appliances out unannounced. Your realtor should be able to get that info quickly.

Even if the appliances seem solid, you’ll rarely get a maintenance binder or history log. So assume nothing. Just because it’s running today doesn’t mean it will be next spring. That’s why we always recommend: as soon as you move in, start budgeting for replacements.

They may be new to you, but they won’t stay new forever.

Your Future Self Will Thank You

If you’re feeling even slightly unsure after reading this—walk away. If you’ve seen sketchy signs, especially involving water or fire, walk away. Your wallet will thank you. Your future self will too.

There’s no reason to be stuck with someone else’s grime. And more importantly, you shouldn’t be stuck with their safety hazard.

If you’ve recently purchased a home and didn’t get a chance to ask all the right questions, we can help. Schedule a maintenance appointment with us. One of our technicians will do a full walkthrough of the appliances in your home, let you know what issues we find, what to watch for, and how to keep everything running in tip-top shape.

You can reach us through our website or give us a call.

Appliance Rescue Service — helping you keep your home running, whether it’s old or new, so that you can keep running too.

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Exploding Lids? What You Need to Know About the Ninja Foodi Recall

When you think of appliance recalls, you probably imagine something like a faulty fridge compressor or a microwave that sparks. But every so often, one hits closer to home—and this one is a serious safety risk. Recently, a major recall was issued for the Ninja Foodi pressure cooker and air fryer combo, and it’s not just a technical glitch. Over a hundred people have suffered burns, including severe injuries. Even if your unit has been working fine so far, this is not a warning to brush off.

We are back with another recall for you to be aware of. Unlike most of our recalls, though, this one is not for one of your major appliances, but one of your minor appliances. The one we are talking about is one that is also our most dangerous yet. If you haven't seen the news SharkNinja, have issued a recall for their Ninja “Foodi” Op300-Series Pressure Cookers/Tendercrisp Air Fryers on May 1, 2025.

Courtesy of SharkNinja

Courtesy of SharkNinja

Understanding the Recall

SharkNinja has issued a recall for their Ninja Foodie OP300-series pressure cooker / tender crisp air fryers. 

This is the 6.5 quart capacity model. They were sold at walmart, costco, Sam's club, amazon, and Target from January of 2019 through to March 2025 for $200 on average. 

The model numbers are: 

OP300, OP301, OP301A, OP302, OP302BRN, OP302HCN, OP302HAQ, OP302HW, OP302HB, OP305, OP305CO and OP350CO.

If while looking at your model number, you see an additional code such as op301 i07, that second number is irrelevant the model number is op301. 

The Problem: 

The lids on the pressure cookers can be opened even while the model is under pressure this resulting in burns and explosions. As of the time of writing, 106 reports of burns have been filed officially, more than 50 are for second and third degree burns to the face and body. 26 lawsuits have been filed. 

SharkNinja themselves claim that the unit is not supposed to be able to open while in use. According to both their user manuals and YouTube videos; “Once your unit has reached a high enough level of pressure, the lid will lock for your safety, and you will not be able to unlock it until the pressure has been released.”

What Should I Do? 

Even if you haven't had an issue previously, if your model number matches, do not continue using the pressure cooker option. Additionally, dispose of the pressure cooker lid. From there, you can use one of the links to get a new pressure cooker lid at no cost and without shipping charges. Alternatively, if you have sustained injury due to your Ninja Foodi, you might consider seeking legal coucil*. 

We don't usually cover recalls on smaller appliances, because it's usually about a minor issue. This one though has the potential for major harm, and we wanted people to be aware.  

To that end, we want to explore a bit about why pressure cookers are dangerous and why, if you have one of these models, you shouldn't keep using the pressure cooker feature. 

Speaking of exploding, let’s talk pressure cookers. Unfortunately, there are people who don’t pay enough attention to directions when it comes to using these amazing tools. Or, it could just be that people get busy, or distracted by pets or small children. Both are viable answers. Either way, if you don’t pay enough attention to them, your pressure cooker can explode. The damage here can range from burning you and the people around you, to flat-out explosion with the lid becoming embedded into your ceiling. Don’t believe us? Check out this Google search for ‘exploded pressure cooker.’

We don’t bring you recall alerts for every kitchen gadget, there are just too many. But when an everyday appliance becomes a safety threat, it’s important to say something. If you or someone you know owns one of the OP300-series, check it today. And remember, if the number matches, don’t keep using it, go ahead and throw the lid away today. 

At Appliance Rescue Service, we’re here to help you keep your home running safely and smoothly—whether that means repairing your major appliances or helping you navigate risks like this one.

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*Important to note, we at Appliance Rescue Service are not legal counsel and do not pretend to be such. We are just informing you that the option is there. 

Additional Reading

Explosion Source

Navigating The Frigidaire Recall

The OP300-series has been recalled due to a dangerous lid malfunction.