Shut off this device immediately. It's consuming your finances.
In today's digital age, our homes are filled with an array of electronic devices that consume energy even when they are turned off. This standby power consumption can account for 5% to 10% of household energy use, leading to increased electricity bills and unnecessary energy waste. Here are some key strategies to help you reduce your electricity costs and extend the lifespan of your appliances.
Firstly, unplug devices that are not used daily, such as printers, game consoles, and chargers. This simple action can stop the phantom power drain and help you save money on your utility bills.
Secondly, use power strips with switches to conveniently turn off multiple devices at once. This practice prevents standby power usage and makes it easier to manage your home's energy consumption.
Thirdly, consider installing smart plugs or outlets. These devices let you schedule or remotely control when devices get power, reducing unintended energy use. Good-quality smart plugs save energy; however, be aware that low-quality ones may use a small amount themselves, so choose carefully.
Maintaining your appliances is another crucial aspect of managing energy consumption. Regularly updating firmware/controls can disable unnecessary always-on features and ensure efficient operation.
Be aware that devices with LED displays, remote controls, or warm adapters usually draw standby power and benefit most from these strategies.
Other common "invisible" consumers of electricity include TVs with set-top boxes, computers, laptops, and chargers for phones and tablets. A microwave uses up to 3W per hour even when not in use, and a TV turned off only with a remote uses about 25W per day. A washing machine in standby mode adds up to 30W daily, and chargers for gadgets aren't harmless; each uses about 1.5W per day.
If left on or in sleep mode all night, consumption for devices such as microwaves can double. Not replacing old electricity meters or installing modern multi-tariff ones can lead to a 50% increase in your electricity bill. Old heaters, boilers, and air conditioners can pose a fire risk due to potential overloads.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce electricity waste from always-on devices, helping to lower your utility bills while extending appliance lifespan. Experts estimate that a family could overspend several thousand rubles a year due to forgotten unplugging. By taking control of your home's energy consumption, you can save money and contribute to a more sustainable future.
[1]: Source 1 [2]: Source 2 [3]: Source 3 [5]: Source 5
Adopting a lifestyle that includes unplugging devices not used daily and utilizing power strips with switches can help reduce home-and-garden energy waste. For instance, smart plugs or outlets can also be beneficial for scheduling or remotely controlling devices, leading to decreased electricity bills.
