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Why should I unplug appliances when I'm not using them? |
Some appliances and electronics use power even when we turn them off. By unplugging them, we can save energy and save money. Unplugging them should be left to grown-ups though. The electrical outlets that the appliances are plugged into can be dangerous because there is electricity flowing through them.
So why are the appliances still using power if they are off?
Appliances like microwaves and coffee makers that have clocks on them still use power to run those clocks. TVs need power when they're off to sense for signals from the remote controls and to keep any special settings we might have saved. Most toasters however, don't use any power when they're off, so it's not very helpful to unplug them when they're not on. They only use power when they need to heat up!
SAVING ENERGY
Even though unplugging appliances should be left to grown-ups, there are still plenty of ways for you to help save energy in your home. Saving energy is good for the environment and saves your family money when it comes time to pay the bills. Grown-ups will be very impressed if you help to save energy!
When you leave a room, do you leave the lights on or turn them off? Turning them off is a pretty easy way to save energy. Also, turn the TV off if you're not watching it. Even though it may use a little bit of power when it's off and plugged in, it still uses a lot less energy than it does when it's turned on.
What other ways can you think of to save energy? Ask the grown-ups in your life. They'll probably have some really good ideas!