I just know if I leave even a 386 home alone it will burn down the house just because I did.
For years.... SOP at work (DOD) was
all computers off at the end of the day.
Then the world flip-flopped (
we didn't everyone about that part)... and the
computers needed to be left ON so they could be updated, patched, and scanned.
I still (I am retired) make sure the case is on any (and every) computer I run. And that monitors are off when not being viewed. I run my HA PC on metal shelving away from much that is combustible. But... it isn't like it was in the old days anyway. The cable box and cable modem, The router, and switcher, the DVD and the receiver/amplifier they don't turn off. Even when I push the off button (
if they even have one)... they continue to run on some level... consuming electric and posing a risk. I even have a remote control (that also has a processor) that sets in it's own charging cradle 24/7.. so it's always fully charged.
I know many hesitate about running a PC 24/7... and
the concept of a dedicated HA Computer hasn't caught on with everyone yet ether. But IMHO.... it's worth it. Even if you don't run BVC... AHP (with the CM15A) gets a whole lot smarter when connected to a working PC.