5 Common Appliances That Waste Energy Even When Turned Off
Discover how phantom energy drain affects your electricity bill and ways to minimize it effectively.
Televisions and Entertainment Systems
Computers and Laptops
Kitchen Appliances with Digital Displays
Internet and Cable Equipment
Phone and Device Chargers
-
1 / 5
Most people believe that turning off an appliance means it stops using electricity — but that’s not entirely true.
Many devices continue to draw small amounts of power even when they’re switched off. This hidden drain, called “phantom energy” or “vampire power,” can account for up to 10% of your monthly electricity bill without you realizing it.
Here are five common household appliances that silently consume energy even when you’re not using them — and how to stop them.
1. Televisions and Entertainment Systems
Modern TVs, game consoles, and streaming boxes rarely shut down completely. Even in standby mode, they draw power to keep memory, clocks, and instant-start features running.
A single smart TV can use up to 5 watts per hour while “off,” and when connected to a sound system, cable box, and console, the combined idle usage can reach 30–40 watts.
Why it happens: manufacturers design these systems to start quickly and maintain internet connectivity for updates.
How to fix it: plug all components into a power strip and switch it off completely when not in use — especially overnight or when you’re away.
2. Computers and Laptops
Even when shut down, computers and chargers continue drawing energy through their power bricks. Printers and Wi-Fi routers connected to the same circuit add to the drain.
Desktop computers in sleep mode can consume 15–20 watts per hour, and laptop chargers draw energy as long as they’re plugged in, even if the laptop isn’t.
How to fix it: unplug computers and chargers when not in use, or use a smart plug that cuts power automatically. For routers and modems, consider turning them off overnight if you don’t need internet access while sleeping.
3. Kitchen Appliances with Digital Displays
Microwaves, coffee makers, and ovens with LED clocks and touchscreens constantly use electricity to keep time and settings active.
Individually, their consumption seems small — usually 1–3 watts per hour — but across several appliances and days, it adds up.
Why it happens: digital clocks and control panels require continuous low-level power.
How to fix it: unplug small kitchen devices when not needed. For built-in appliances, consider using a timer switch that automatically cuts power outside certain hours.
4. Phone and Device Chargers
Chargers are among the worst phantom energy offenders. Even when your phone or tablet isn’t connected, the charger continues to draw current from the outlet.
While each one may only use a watt or two per hour, households often have multiple chargers plugged in — and that constant drain never stops.
How to fix it: always unplug chargers after use, or invest in charging stations with an on/off button. This small habit can save money and extend the life of your devices.
5. Internet and Cable Equipment
Routers, modems, and cable boxes run 24/7 — even when you’re asleep or not home. These devices often consume 15–25 watts per hour, adding up to more than $100 a year in electricity for just keeping the light on.
How to fix it: unplug these devices before vacations or use a programmable outlet to power them down during the night. If you stream occasionally, keep them unplugged until needed.