Identifying Common Sources of Energy Waste in Your Home
Electricity costs continue to rise each year, and no matter which utility provider you choose, your monthly bill might be higher than expected. Even if you believe you’re not using much power, the reality could be quite different. If you’re looking to cut down on your energy expenses, investing in energy-saving technology is an option. However, there’s a simpler first step: identifying where you might be unintentionally losing energy around your home.
Many electronic devices and appliances create what’s known as phantom loads—energy that continues to be drawn from outlets even when the device is not in use. This can include smart plugs, which may still consume a small amount of power when turned off. Additionally, poor management of appliances, such as using outdated machines or forgetting to unplug devices after use, can significantly increase your energy costs.
To start reducing energy waste, there are three key appliances you should consider unplugging when not in use. At the same time, some devices can safely remain plugged in without contributing to unnecessary energy consumption.
TVs: A Hidden Source of Phantom Power
When you turn off your TV, it seems like it’s completely powered down. However, this isn’t always the case. Modern smart TVs typically use between 100 watts or less per hour, but even when they’re shut off, they still draw some energy. According to TCL, a leading TV manufacturer, these devices can consume anywhere from half a watt to 3 watts while in standby mode.
You may have noticed a small light that remains on 24/7, which is a clear sign of energy usage. Adjusting your TV’s settings, such as enabling it to go into sleep mode after a certain period of inactivity, can help reduce overall energy use. Still, the only way to ensure zero energy consumption when the TV is off is to unplug it entirely.
Internet Routers: Constantly Connected, Constantly Using Power
Internet routers are often left plugged in all the time because people rarely think about turning them off. After all, who knows when you might need internet access? Plus, many household devices rely on a constant connection for their functions.
However, leaving your router on at all times may not be the most energy-efficient choice. Depending on the model, your router could use between 5 to 20 watts per hour. With average electricity rates in the U.S. hovering around 13 cents per kilowatt-hour, turning off your router at night can lead to noticeable savings. In areas with higher electricity costs, such as California, the savings add up even faster.
If you’re going on vacation or leaving the house for an extended period, it’s wise to turn off your Wi-Fi router to save even more energy.
Device Chargers: Not Always Off, Even When Not in Use
Device chargers are another common source of phantom power. Even when not actively charging a phone or other device, chargers can still consume energy. While the amount is relatively low, it can accumulate over time, especially if you leave cords plugged in all the time.
Leaving a device plugged in once it’s fully charged can also result in trickle charging, which uses a small amount of power to maintain the battery at 100%. Additionally, there’s a safety risk associated with low-quality or counterfeit chargers, as they can pose a fire hazard if left plugged in unnecessarily.
Power Strips: Understanding Which Ones Are Safe to Leave On
Power strips and surge protectors can be useful tools for managing energy use. Surge protectors, in particular, offer added protection for expensive electronics. However, not all power strips are created equal.
Power strips with on-off switches allow you to control whether connected devices are drawing power. If the switch is in the “on” position, the strip may still consume energy. Power strips with lighted switches, on the other hand, will continue to draw power even when not in use. These should be turned off or unplugged to prevent unnecessary energy loss.
While you can leave switch-operated power strips plugged in all the time, it’s important to avoid plugging in certain high-power appliances, such as those that generate heat, have motors, or use compressors.
The Exception: Old-School Toasters
Some appliances are safe to leave plugged in indefinitely without causing energy waste or safety concerns. An old-school toaster, for example, does not require power unless it’s actively being used. Since it doesn’t have a digital screen or any internal circuitry that consumes energy when off, it won’t draw power from the outlet until you press the lever to start toasting.
This makes it one of the few appliances that can stay plugged in without contributing to your energy bill. Unlike modern devices, it doesn’t leak energy when not in use, making it a safe and efficient choice.