What happens when I leave the key in the first position? Does the battery go dead?

background: had the ignition replaced (under warranty) d/t sticky, but they must have used a used part or not even really changed it out. Started sticking not long after I got it back
Ignored it. A month ago it was stuck and no matter what I couldn't turn the key.
Tried a few times over the last month…no go
Today it finally turned and started right up. Couldn't help myself, I turned it completely off, and it turned completely on and off like butter. BUT I left it in the #1 position (at least I think where it is in #1)

I know, though, that it couldn't refuse to turn on the next try, and I intend to fix it myself and get rid of the spring. In the meantime, i left it in the #1 position as advised so I don't have to drill/dremmel the pin out

How long can I leave it in #1 position, what is it doing to the car? Do I need to disconnect the battery? Cant work on it right away but on one hand, afraid it will get stuck before I get it fixed! On the other hand, worried about leaving the key in and turned. No radio or dash instruments on right now