If you own an Amazon Fire TV streaming device like the popular Firestick, Fire TV Cube, or Fire TV Stick 4K, you may be wondering how to properly turn it off or put it into sleep mode.
Powering down your Fire TV device can help resolve performance issues, save energy, and prolong the life of your hardware. In this detailed guide, I’ll outline 3 easy methods to turn off or sleep Firestick and Fire TV models.
I’ll also answer frequently asked questions, share insider tips for improving sluggish Firesticks, and explain the auto sleep feature. Follow along and soon you’ll be sleeping and waking your Fire TV like a pro!
Why Should You Turn Off or Sleep Your Firestick/Fire TV?
Before jumping into the step-by-step instructions, let’s first go over some of the benefits of powering down your Firestick, Fire TV Cube, Fire Stick 4K or other model:
Restart to Fix Software Issues
Like your smartphone or computer, the Fire TV software can sometimes get glitchy. Turning it off completely gives a fresh reboot, clearing any stuck processes. This “turn it off and on again” fix can resolve random app crashes and other odd Fire TV behavior.
Clear Memory and Storage
Putting your device into sleep mode closes all open apps and clears temporary memory used by programs and processes. This frees up RAM and storage space for improved performance.
Save Power and Electricity
Even when powered on but idle, your Firestick uses electricity to maintain WiFi connections, run background apps, and keep the system active. Sleep mode disengages unneeded components to conserve energy.
Prolong Hardware Lifespan
Consumer electronics like the Firestick work hard when powered on continuously for streaming media, gaming, and using apps. Giving the hardware a periodic rest by powering down into sleep can extend its operational lifespan.
Quick Fix for Buffering Issues
If you notice your Firestick buffering, lagging, or losing connectivity, quickly cycling the power off and back on can often resolve temporary network or performance problems.
Now let’s dive into the specifics on how to manually turn off or sleep Firesticks and Fire TV models.
Method #1: Put Firestick/Fire TV to Sleep with Remote
The fastest way to put your Fire TV device into sleep mode is by using the Alexa remote that comes included with it.
Here are the simple steps to sleep your Firestick with the remote:
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While your Firestick or Fire TV is on, locate the circular directional pad on your Alexa voice remote.
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Press and hold the round center home button on the directional pad for 3-5 seconds.
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After a few seconds, a pop-up menu will appear on your TV screen.
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Using the remote, highlight and select the “Sleep” option.
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The Firestick or Fire TV will now sleep, powering down into a low power state.
This shortcuts having to navigate through the settings menus to sleep the device. The remote essentially functions as a power button for your Fire TV.
To wake the device back up, simply press any button on the remote again like select or the home button. The Firestick will boot back up in about 30 seconds.
Using the Alexa Voice Remote to quickly sleep Firestick and Fire TV devices
Some older generation Fire TV remotes lack a dedicated home button. If yours doesn’t have one, you can still put your device to sleep using the next method.
Method #2: Put Firestick/Fire TV to Sleep in Device Settings
If your remote does not have a home button, you can access the sleep option through the Firestick or Fire TV settings menus:
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From the Fire TV home screen, use the remote to navigate up and select the settings gear icon.
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In settings, go to the “My Fire TV” or “Device” section.
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Scroll down and select “Sleep” to put the device into sleep mode.
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Your Firestick or Fire TV will power down into sleep just like using the remote method.
This way might take a few more clicks to navigate through the menus, but works reliably on any Fire TV model. It also gives you more sleep customization options.
For example, within the sleep settings you can set an auto-sleep timer like “Sleep after 15 minutes of inactivity”. This will automatically put your Firestick to bed after your chosen idle time.
Accessing the Sleep option through Fire TV device settings menu
Using the settings to sleep your Fire TV is handy if you want to set a recurring auto-sleep schedule. But for quickly powering down on demand, the remote method is superior.
Method #3: Turn Off Firestick/Fire TV by Unplugging Power Cable
The last way to turn off your Firestick or Fire TV is by unplugging it from the power outlet or surge protector power strip:
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If plugged into the wall, locate the Fire TV power cable and unplug it from the outlet. If using a power strip, unplug it from there.
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Unplugging the Firestick or Fire TV will immediately power it down since the device is no longer connected to power.
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To turn your Fire TV back on, plug the power cable back into the outlet or power strip.
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Wait about 30 seconds for the device to boot back up after being unplugged.
Pulling the power cable works as a quick and foolproof way to force shut down your Firestick. It also gives the hardware a “hard reset” which can resolve software issues.
However, constantly unplugging devices risks damaging the connectors. So reserve this method for occasional troubleshooting reboots rather than daily sleep needs.
Firestick/Fire TV Auto Sleep & Screen Saver
Newer Fire TV devices also include auto sleep capabilities to reduce power consumption after periods of inactivity:
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20 Minute Default Auto Sleep – By default, Firesticks and Fire TVs automatically enter sleep mode after 20 minutes of no remote or other user input. This helps conserve electricity when idle.
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Adjustable Auto Sleep Timer – You can customize the auto sleep delay in Fire TV device settings. Options are typically 15, 30, 60, or 120 minutes before auto sleep activates.
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Screen Saver – Along with auto sleep, Fire TVs display an aesthetic screen saver with photos and graphics after a few minutes of inactivity. This prevents burn in on TV screens before auto sleep engages.
So even if you don’t manually sleep your device, Firesticks will automatically slumber party themselves when you aren’t actively streaming or using apps!
FAQ About Turning Off Firesticks and Fire TV
Let’s review answers to some frequently asked questions about turning off Amazon’s Fire TV devices:
Does turning off delete apps and data on my Firestick?
No, putting your Firestick or Fire TV into sleep does NOT delete any apps, settings, or other data. The content and information remains safely stored.
What is the best way to turn off Firestick and Fire TV?
Using the Alexa remote by pressing the home button, then selecting sleep is the quickest method. For scheduled sleep, use device settings to pick an auto-sleep timer.
Should I unplug Firestick when not using?
While safe to leave plugged in, unplugging when traveling or not using for extended periods helps avoid phantom draw. The sleep mode disengages unnecessary functions already.
Is it bad to never turn off Firestick?
It won‘t damage the device, but can impact performance over time. Occasionally sleeping the Firestick helps clear memory, steadies software, and gives the hardware a much needed break!
Does Firestick use electricity when off?
When powered off into sleep mode or unplugged, the Firestick will only draw a tiny bit of phantom load electricity, less than 10 watts.
Troubleshooting Slow or Laggy Firestick Performance
Beyond just turning it off and on again, here are some other troubleshooting tips if your Firestick or Fire TV is lagging or buffering:
Check Internet Connection – Slow internet speeds can manifest as buffering and laggy performance. Run a speed test and upgrade your WiFi if needed. Or try wired ethernet.
Close Background Apps – Apps running in the background contend for memory, storage, and processing power. Force close or disable apps not in use.
Clear App Cache & Data – Over time, temporary app files and old data can accumulate. Clearing it returns free space and resources.
Remove Channels & Apps – Get rid of lesser used apps and live TV channels to declutter your Firestick and keep it snappy.
Disable App Auto-Updates – Auto updating apps on multiple devices can bottleneck internet speeds and resources. Disable auto updates and manage them manually instead.
Check for System Update – Install the latest Fire TV software update for performance improvements, bug fixes, and new features. Updates occur automatically or manually.
Factory Reset Device – For severely sluggish Firesticks with performance issues, a full factory reset will give a clean slate. You‘ll have to reinstall apps afterwards.
If your Firestick or Fire TV is still laggy after trying these troubleshooting tips, contacting Amazon support for a replacement may be needed if under warranty.
Give Your Firestick a Rest
As you can see, putting an Amazon Firestick or Fire TV device like the Cube into sleep mode is super quick and easy. The remote shortcut, device settings, or unplugging the power cord will do the trick.
Restarting your Fire TV streamer gives sluggish software a kick and clears memory for optimal performance. Plus, a nice power nap saves electricity and avoids wear and tear when not streaming.
Here’s a quick recap of how to turn off Firestick and Fire TV units:
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Press Remote Home Button – Quickest way is to hold the remote home button, then select sleep option.
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Use Device Settings – Alternatively, navigate to sleep in the Firestick settings menus.
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Unplug Power Cable – Full shutdown by disconnecting the power cord until ready to use again.
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Auto Sleeps Idle Device – Firesticks automatically sleep after 20 minutes idle, adjustable in settings.
So give your hardworking Firestick or Fire TV a well-deserved break once in a while for smooth streaming and happy hardware! Let me know if you have any other questions.
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