If you leave an electric stove on but unplugged, the heating elements (coils) will continue to radiate heat until they cool down. The stove will not draw any additional electricity because it's unplugged, but the residual heat from the active heating elements can still pose some risks and consequences:
Fire Hazard: The residual heat from the heating elements can cause nearby flammable objects, such as paper, cloth, or other combustible materials, to catch fire. This can lead to a potential fire hazard if these objects are left too close to the active heating elements.
Burns and Scalds: The stove's surface, especially the heating elements, will remain hot for some time after it's unplugged. If someone accidentally touches the hot surfaces, they could suffer burns or scalds.
Damage to Countertops: If the stove is placed on a countertop, the intense heat from the active heating elements can damage the countertop's surface or cause discoloration.
Energy Waste: Leaving an electric stove on while unplugged can lead to unnecessary energy waste. The stove will continue to emit heat and consume energy until it cools down.
To prevent these potential hazards and conserve energy, it's essential to always ensure that your electric stove is turned off and unplugged when not in use. Additionally, practice proper stove safety by keeping flammable materials away from the stove, using pot holders or oven mitts to handle hot cookware, and being cautious around the stove's hot surfaces. If you accidentally leave the stove on and realize it later, make sure to turn it off immediately and allow it to cool down before touching or moving it.