Shut down computer while on vacation?

[netfiltering]

If you're only going to be gone for just one day, then most say to shut it down also. However, this is constantly being debated. One side talks about using less energy and the other talks about the initial surge that takes place on the electrical components and the wear and tear that the surge causes. I can find you expert links that take up both sides of this one.

But don't the experts work at offices where the power is running all of the time? It doesn't seem like any offices ever unplug the power to their machines.

I always turn off the computer, but I haven't unplugged the power chord. It's something to think about though, although I'd have to know what I'm actually saving before doing it.

 

[ace2000]

But don't the experts work at offices where the power is running all of the time? It doesn't seem like any offices ever unplug the power to their machines.

I always turn off the computer, but I haven't unplugged the power chord. It's something to think about though, although I'd have to know what I'm actually saving before doing it.

I'm not sure what you're exactly asking, but the reason you would want to unplug the power cord is because if you have a lightning strike on your house or somewhere very near you would prevent that surge from going through to your computer.

Even a decent surge protector will not fully protect you in the event of a lightning strike very close or on your home. Therefore, only unplugging the cord (and even unplugging your modem cable) would deter damage to your computer.

 

[ace2000]

For those that want to really dig deep into this discussion, here is a very good source...

http://michaelbluejay.com/electricity/computers.html

Edit: Note the difference in cost of placing your computer on standby mode vs. constantly on. These settings are located in the Control Panel (in your Start Menu) and then under Power Options.

 

[Twinkstarr]

I don't always remember to unplug my desktop but think it's a good idea. My house chimney got hit by lightning a few years ago and a lot of things that were plugged in were fried - not just my computer. Insurance covered most of it, but it was still a big pain.

Brian

My retractable awning wind detector took a lighting hit 3 yrs ago. Fried one computer, cable modem, all my cordless phones , 2 tv's, plus the motor for the awning.

Cable company replaced modem no charge, had to get a new computer, but was able to recover all data from old one. .

Insurance covered everything(minus my deductable) and were very helpful.

 

[PeterS]

For those that unplug everything...

Do you also disconnect the cable wires?

A lightning strike could enter your home via the cable/phone connection and fry the same cable boxes, TVs, cable modems and PCs...
Did anyone who had their equipment fry confirm whether it came in from the electric wiring or the cable/phone wiring?

Also, I recently read an article that suggested grounded outlets may be more prone to lightning strikes as they usually enter through the ground.

Pete

 

[Htoo0]

The strike I had actually came through the telephone (now DSL) line. But no, although I do have it going through a surge protector I don't disconnect the line. I suspect in most cases I would only lose the router and any connected phone base should it reoccur and I can live with that.

 

[mas]

When you go on vacation, do you pull the electrical cord after shutdown?
Thanks

It would be pretty hard to use "logmein,com" if my computer was shut off. I use it to program my PVR remotely.