Düsseldorf – September 07, 2026 -- German energy provider Grünwelt Energie is urging households to unplug idle electronics before long trips, a move it says cuts both power bills and storm-related damage risk.
Standby devices still drain power even when switched off
Televisions, game consoles, computers and charging stations for large appliances continue to draw electricity in standby mode. Grünwelt Energie recommends disconnecting these fully before departure, which also protects the equipment from surge damage caused by summer thunderstorms.
Water heaters and fridges rank among the biggest energy drains
Boilers and heating systems that keep water hot around the clock consume significant energy during an absence, so lowering the temperature or shutting the system off is advised. Upon returning home, Grünwelt Energie recommends running roughly ten liters of water through every tap to prevent Legionella buildup. The company notes this drained water is unsafe to drink but works well for watering plants.
Refrigerators and freezers deserve particular attention before a trip. Even a thin layer of ice in the freezer compartment raises electricity use, so defrosting beforehand is recommended. For maximum savings, an emptied fridge should be switched off entirely with its door left slightly open.
Some devices must stay plugged in for safety reasons
Certain equipment should remain connected regardless of travel plans: medical refrigeration units, alarm systems, timer switches for lights or irrigation, security cameras and aquarium technology. Grünwelt Energie points out that devices relying on WiFi need their router left running to keep functioning. The company also warns against carelessly flipping the main switch on a home's fuse box, since doing so can shut down essential systems.