Leaving my amplifier on ok?

In the Link is the comments made on a Respected Amplifier Manufacturers Web Site.

https://support.hegel.com/product-articles/frequently-asked-questions#can-i-leave-my-hegel-amp-on-all-the-time

Off course in relation to this Brands advisory, such guidance can be overlooked by the owner of a product, and the guidance discovered within a forum can be the one chosen.  

@highend64, like most things in audio, it depends.

Obviously class A amps will run hot so best not to leave on but Class AB can and IMO should be left on all the time.

You'll probably remember the old incandescent light bulb that mostly failed on switch on because the filament is cold and at its lowest resistance and pulls most current = blown.  This is stressful for amps at switch on.

When a hot amp cools down there is condensation so the PCB is contracting in the presence of moisture providing the ingredients for failed solder joints and corrosion on anything with some ferrous content. Class AB in its quiescent state draws very little power and does not get hot so just leave it on.

Of course if it is to be out of use for a long period then best to turn off.

Valve amps can also be left on if HV to the power tubes is interrupted by relay and the heater voltage to driver is reduced to 2/3 of nominal. So 6.3V can be reduced to about 4.2V via a standby switch thereby avoiding cathode poisoning. Flipping from standby to on will very quickly bring the heaters up to nominal V while the HV is delayed for 20 to 30 seconds before connecting.

Some but not many commercial tube amps provide this feature. Easily done using an LM 317 adjustable voltage regulator for less than $2

REL recommended that I leave my subs on continuously. I have not reached out to McIntosh yet for their advise on SS gear.

Other than @cakyol, who else out there has an amp that dims the lights when you turn it on?

There is only one rule that apply universally and in all case:

Love God above all...

And the prime numbers distribution law after God ...

Amplifiers differ and human habit too , climate, house grid , etc then there is NO ONE RULE for all and every amplifier and for each one of us..

«Next subject if there is one»-- Groucho Marx 🤓

 Electronic components don't wear out like for example mechanical components. But a mains voltage spike or lightning strike - that'll fry your amp and perhaps other components - nicely. Maybe unplug your system if you're not using it for long periods.

@bishop148 

Electrolytic capacitors and relays definitely have a life expectancy, so there are components in audio equipment that need to be replaced.

Dam! Don't you hate being wrong!

However out here in the boonies, lightning strikes are frequent and without a very fast over voltage protection it can and will damage your gear.

I have left my Class D amps turned on for years. 

@bishop148  Try an isolation transformer. Not only does it protect your equipment, but it improves the sound more than a high end power cable.

@invalid  It's heat that's the main enemy. If the caps don't get hot, they'll last and last.

Leaving your amplifier on all the time can indeed have both positive and negative effects on its reliability and lifespan, depending on the specific type of amplifier you have.

1. Solid-State Amplifiers (Class A, high current bias):
Solid-state amplifiers generally consume less power compared to tube amplifiers and are more tolerant of being left on for extended periods. They have a lower risk of wearing out quickly due to excess heat or power consumption. In fact, some audio enthusiasts prefer to leave their solid-state amplifiers on continuously, as they believe that the constant temperature and operating conditions might contribute to more stable performance over time.

2. Tube Amplifiers:
Tube amplifiers (especially Class A and high current bias designs) can draw significant power and generate substantial heat during operation. Leaving them on continuously might accelerate the wear and tear of the tubes and other components. Tubes have a limited lifespan, and operating them for long durations continuously can lead to more frequent replacements. Additionally, excessive heat can degrade electronic components and may reduce overall reliability.

In conclusion, leaving a solid-state amplifier on all the time might not be a significant issue for reliability, but with tube amplifiers, it's generally better to turn them off when not in use. Modern tube amplifiers often have standby modes, which allow the tubes to warm up gradually before being fully powered on, reducing stress on the components during startup.

If you're concerned about extending the life of your amplifier, the best practice is to follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding usage and maintenance. Here are some general tips to improve amplifier longevity:

1. Proper ventilation: Ensure the amplifier has adequate airflow to dissipate heat effectively.

2. Cool-down period: If your amplifier has been operating for an extended period, give it a few minutes to cool down before turning it off.

3. Clean and service: Regularly clean the amplifier's exterior and, if necessary, have it serviced by a professional to keep it in good condition.

4. Use a power conditioner: A power conditioner can protect the amplifier from power surges and voltage fluctuations.

5. Turn it off when not in use: If you know you won't be using the amplifier for an extended period, it's better to turn it off to conserve energy and reduce wear on components.

Remember that each amplifier is unique, and consulting the manufacturer or an audio expert regarding your specific model is always a good idea for personalized advice.