In Europe, it is generally safe to leave electrical appliances on standby when not in use. European standards and regulations regarding energy efficiency and safety have evolved to address the issue of standby power consumption. As a result, many modern electrical appliances sold in Europe are designed to consume very little power in standby mode.
The European Union has implemented energy-saving regulations and guidelines, such as the Ecodesign Directive and the EU Energy Label, which set minimum energy efficiency requirements for various appliances. These regulations have helped reduce the standby power consumption of electronic devices, making them more energy-efficient even when left in standby mode.
However, it is still a good practice to unplug electrical appliances if they are not going to be used for an extended period or when you're leaving home for an extended period, such as a vacation. This helps eliminate any potential risk of power surges, electrical faults, or energy consumption from devices that might not have the most efficient standby modes.
Keep in mind that while modern appliances are designed with safety features and energy efficiency in mind, older appliances may not be as efficient in standby mode. In such cases, it's a better idea to unplug them when not in use.
Overall, the risk associated with leaving electrical appliances on standby in Europe is relatively low, but unplugging them when possible can help save energy and eliminate any residual risks. Additionally, investing in newer, more energy-efficient appliances can further reduce standby power consumption and promote sustainability.