I keep it on while I'm working on something, like if I pause to cut or iron. I keep my machine and a gooseneck floor lamp plugged into a serge protector, so I turn machine off, then surge protector off when using my singer. When using my Kenmore, switch has been broken for years, so have to turn off and on with plug or surge protector switch. Have had to change bulb in old Kenmore once, also keep iron plug close so when I'm finishing up a seam and want to heat iron up, just reach down to floor and plug iron in without having to get up!