Why unplugging can damage your inkjet printer, OLED TV, and router
We all care about saving energy, but turning off certain devices might cause problems. Find out why inkjet printers, OLED TVs, and Wi-Fi routers should remain plugged in and what else should not be disconnected from power.
Many of us unplug various devices from outlets in an attempt to save energy. Nonetheless, specific household devices might not handle this treatment well. As noted in an article from focus.de, created in collaboration with futurezone.de, three critical devices should stay connected to power.
Three things you should not unplug
Unplugging inkjet printers can lead to problems. When you turn off the printer by cutting power instead of using the power button, the device remains in standby mode and does not enter sleep mode. Turning it back on triggers automatic head cleaning, significantly increasing ink consumption.
Modern OLED TVs that are regularly unplugged can suffer damage. The pixels in these screens are responsible for automatically updating the background image, and interrupting this process negatively affects image quality. It is worth consulting the manufacturer to avoid issues on whether the device should be completely turned off or use the power button.
Routers provide a constant internet connection, which is convenient and necessary for the operation of many devices. Unplugging routers at night may only be beneficial if other essential devices, such as landline phones or smart home devices, are not using them. Otherwise, there could be problems with their operation after reconnecting the router. A stable internet connection is particularly crucial for remote work and smart homes.
Devices that should always stay connected
Some devices require constant power, regardless of the situation:
- Refrigerators and freezers: unplugging them can lead to spoiled food.
- Security systems and alarms should always be on to ensure continuous protection.
- Smart thermostats: disconnecting them can affect the operation of heating and cooling systems.
- Life support systems: medical devices like oxygen therapy must remain plugged in.
In summary, saving power by unplugging devices can be beneficial, but paying attention to their specifics is essential. For inkjet printers, OLED TVs, and Wi-Fi routers, it is better to use the power button rather than unplugging the cord. Remember that some devices, such as computers or TVs, may require a unique way of turning off to avoid damage or data loss.
