Unplugging cellphone chargers

**Derlyn** · 02-Mar-25, 01:49 PM

I have on a number of occasions heard of people being told by their electricians to unplug their cellphone chargers when not in use, apparently for safety reasons.

Can someone explain why it is unsafe not to unplug these chargers ?

**AndyD** · 02-Mar-25, 08:41 PM

I have to admit to being a charger and battery paraniod type person, I've seen the aftermath of a few fires caused by chargers and lithium batteries. I've also seen the insides of many chargers and some of the cheap ones are just so poor quality with so much corner cutting with the design that they're a fire waiting to happen. I always unplug chargers when they're not in use, i also don't leave battery powered items plugged in or on charge once they're fully charged plus I go out of my way to make sure everyone else in the house does the same.

**Derlyn** · 02-Mar-25, 10:16 PM

If chargers can catch alight, the question must be asked, what about non switched socket outlets with incorporated usb chargers ? Are they safer ?

**GCE** · 03-Mar-25, 09:07 AM

As far as I am aware the USB sockets are designed to switch the live off when the plug is removed - either the shutter or usb plug activates a limit - It was a SABS requirement on the insistence of Eskom
One or 2 USB chargers left on at home do noting to the electricity bill but when you have 60million of them drawing power from the grid it adds up

**Derlyn** · 03-Mar-25, 10:58 AM

Thanks Andy and GCE.

I was thinking about the safety aspect.

I was not aware that the usb chargers incorporated into socket outlets actually switch off when nothing is plugged in. Interesting.

Maybe the same technology must be incorporated in stick cellphone chargers. I think that this will go a long way in improving the safety of these devices.

Just a thought.

**AndyD** · 07-Mar-25, 12:21 PM

I think most chargers that are supplied with recognisable brand name devices are safe, the chargers that scare me are the cheap nasty generic aftermarket ones you get. These are the ones that are designed and manufactured to a price point rather than a safety standard and will combust you house as soon as look at you.