Should You Unplug Your Appliances Before Going on Vacation?

Summer is finally here! A time for sunshine, relaxation, and getting away. Whether you're heading to the beach, the mountains, or just visiting family, vacation season is the perfect opportunity to disconnect from daily life. But before you close the door and set off with peace of mind, it's essential to think about your home’s safety... and that includes your appliances! At Ateliers G. Paquette Inc., we understand the importance of preparing your home before an extended absence. Unplugging your appliances isn't just about saving energy; it's also a smart way to prevent a range of potential issues.

Why Unplug Appliances Before You Leave?

Unplugging your appliances before you leave offers several key benefits. First, it protects against power surges or outages that could damage your equipment. Summer storms, for example, often cause voltage spikes that can harm the electronic circuits inside your appliances. An appliance left plugged in may also suffer damage during a prolonged power outage, which, in the case of a refrigerator or freezer, could result in spoiled food.

Additionally, many appliances continue to draw electricity even in standby mode. Unplugging your dishwasher, washer, dryer, or built-in oven helps reduce your energy bill while you’re away. Finally, in case of a water leak or short circuit, having your appliances unplugged limits potential damage and reduces fire risks.

Which Appliances Should Be Unplugged?

It’s a common question: should you unplug everything or just a few specific appliances? The answer depends on how long you’ll be away and which appliances are involved. If you’re leaving for just a weekend, there’s no need to empty and unplug your fridge or freezer, unless they’re nearly empty. But for absences longer than five days, it’s best to empty, defrost, and clean them, and leave the doors slightly open to prevent mould growth.

Other appliances like your washer, dryer, dishwasher, built-in oven, stove, wine cellar, portable air conditioner, or dehumidifier should be unplugged as a general rule. This helps you avoid unpleasant surprises upon return, such as unpleasant odours, breakdowns, or water damage. Don’t forget about smaller kitchen appliances either, coffee makers, toasters, and microwaves are often overlooked, but just as vulnerable to electrical risks.

The Risks of Leaving Appliances Plugged In

Leaving appliances plugged in during a long absence means you’re gambling with the possibility of returning to a broken machine, a leak, or a lingering smell. Power outages can damage sensitive components, sometimes requiring costly repairs. Water leaks can lead to major damage if no one is around to catch them early.

At Ateliers G. Paquette Inc., we often see clients return from vacation only to discover that their washer or dishwasher has leaked, or their refrigerator has stopped working. In such cases, a professional diagnosis is crucial to assess the damage and replace any faulty components. Calling in an expert ensures a safe, long-lasting repair and helps extend the life of your appliance.

Tips for Preparing Your Appliances Before Vacation

Before leaving, take a few minutes to unplug your appliances and check for any signs of water leaks or strange smells. If you need to move an appliance, handle it carefully, avoid laying it down or shaking it. Clean the filters, empty any water tanks, and leave doors slightly open to promote ventilation. If something seems wrong when you return, avoid trying to fix it yourself: contact Ateliers G. Paquette Inc.

Our specialized technicians respond quickly to repair washers, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, stoves, built-in ovens, dishwashers, wine fridges, and more. We also carry a large inventory of replacement parts for various appliance models.

For questions, expert advice, or repair services, trust Ateliers G. Paquette Inc. and leave with peace of mind. Call us today for fast, reliable, and professional service across Quebec!