is it recommended to leave the trainer plugged in when it's not in use for a long time, or is it better to unplug it and leave it unplugged for long periods?
Thx
is it recommended to leave the trainer plugged in when it's not in use for a long time, or is it better to unplug it and leave it unplugged for long periods?
Thx
I don't know about recommendations, but I've been using Neo trainers since December 2015 (59,000 km ridden) and I turn off the power supply at the wall after each training session. I have had warranty replacements in those years, but nothing that would be attributed to the power supply. :
Power draw when idle is 4.5W from my power brick. It remains the same whether the power supply is plugged into the trainer or not. This would add up to roughly £6.00 per annum (40kWh) when plugged in 24x365.
Power draw is less than 5 watts (and probably much less) at idle.
Since there is only rare firmware updates via the app, there is no background updating to be expected. Though the new 3-series might be different. Additionally, always being plugged in exposes any electronic device to potential electrical surges.
Saying that, I purchased a box of smart plugs and had one to spare. I wanted them for some floor fans and the like. Adding one to the Tacx was an easy add. Now I power it on/off along with the primary fan. Additionally, I bought a wall receptacle surge protector for that specific outlet. $25 to protect an expensive trainer. Which in my use case means I don't have to unplug and I can easily power it down.
There's no downside to disconnecting it if not on a surge protector other than convenience. When not in use a voice activated power solution and a surge protector is nerdy or slick depending on your personal view.