Experts: Unplugging certain devices is a mistake

Many people habitually unplug electronics to save electricity or protect them from power surges, but experts warn this can be detrimental. Cutting power abruptly can disrupt essential background processes, potentially shortening a device's lifespan or causing problems when it's next powered on.

Printers, for instance, perform crucial tasks like completing print cycles and preparing for standby mode when turned off normally. Unplugging them mid-process can lead to them initiating unnecessary functions like print head cleaning upon restart, consuming more ink. This is according to City Magazine.

Internet routers, now central to many smart homes, manage connections for various devices. Frequent unplugging can delay internet restoration and disrupt dependent gadgets. While occasional restarts can fix connectivity issues, daily unplugging is not recommended, as noted by Nova.

OLED televisions have a unique feature: they continue to operate in the background after being turned off. They automatically run a pixel refresh cycle to maintain picture quality and prevent screen burn-in. Disconnecting power immediately halts this vital process, which can impact the panel's performance over time.

Experts recommend using the device's power button whenever possible. This allows the electronics to safely complete their shutdown sequences, ensuring more reliable operation and a longer service life. However, unplugging remains advisable during thunderstorms, extended absences from home, or when there's a risk of power surges.