Electricity consumption is a growing concern. We often don’t realize that some appliances continue to consume energy, even when they are turned off.

Known as “phantom energy”, this waste occurs when the appliance remains plugged in. In order to avoid this, it is essential to know the main appliances that consume the most electricity in this situation and take measures to avoid this unnecessary consumption.

8 appliances that use electricity even when turned off

Below are 8 appliances that continue to consume energy, even when turned off, and tips on how to save:

1. Computer

A computer, whether a desktop or a laptop, is indispensable these days. Even when turned off, it can continue to consume energy if it is plugged in. This is because some internal components are in standby mode, ready to be quickly reactivated when the computer is turned on again.

For example, in standby mode, a computer can consume up to 21 watts per hour. When it is fully turned on, this number can reach 80 watts. To avoid this unnecessary consumption, it is best to unplug the computer when not in use. Small actions like this can generate significant energy savings at the end of the month.

2. Video games

Video game consoles, which are very popular in many homes, are also energy-consuming villains. Even when they are not in use, if they remain plugged in, they continue to consume energy. Many gamers avoid unplugging their consoles so as not to lose game settings or data, but this convenience comes at an energy cost.

A video game console, when turned off, consumes about 1 watt per hour. If the console is in standby mode, this number can be even higher. Unplugging the console or using power managers that reduce standby consumption are great ways to avoid this waste.

3. Stereo System

Stereo systems are also known for continuing to consume energy, even when turned off. This happens because many of them are in standby mode, ready to be activated by remote control or other commands.

In standby mode, a stereo system can consume around 15 watts per hour. To save energy, the most effective solution is to unplug the device from the socket when not in use. This way, you not only save energy, but also increase the lifespan of the device.

4. Laptop

Although many people think that closing the lid of their laptop is enough to save energy, this is not true. Even with the lid closed, the laptop can continue to consume energy, especially if it is plugged in.

Depending on the model, a laptop can consume more than 15 watts per hour when in standby mode. The best way to avoid this consumption is to unplug it from the socket when it is not being used. Another tip is to set your laptop to go into complete shutdown mode when you close the lid, saving even more energy.

5. Cordless phone

With the increase in the use of smartphones, traditional cordless phones have fallen into disuse, but they are still present in many homes. Even when the device is removed from the base and not being used, the base connected to the socket continues to consume energy.

A cordless phone can use about 3 watts per hour when connected to the base. Although it may seem small, this constant consumption adds up over time. The best way to avoid this expense is to unplug the base from the socket when the phone is not in use.

6. Microwave

The microwave is one of the most used appliances in the modern kitchen. However, many people leave the device plugged in, even when they are not using it. This results in continuous energy consumption, even when the microwave is on standby.

The average consumption of a microwave in standby mode is about 3 watts per hour. To avoid this waste, the tip is simple: unplug the microwave from the socket when it is not in use. In addition to saving energy, this practice can also help extend the life of the appliance.

7. Television

Modern televisions are designed to be more energy efficient during use. However, many models continue to consume energy when turned off, especially those with features such as light panels and automatic sensors.

In standby mode, a TV can consume about 3 watts per hour. To avoid this unnecessary waste, it is best to unplug the television from the socket when you are not watching it. In addition, you can adjust the energy saving settings on the TV to further reduce consumption.

8. Cell phone charger

Many people have the habit of leaving their cell phone charger plugged in, even when not in use. Although it is a small consumption, it happens constantly and can be easily avoided.

A cell phone charger can consume about 0.26 watts per hour when not charging the device. If the cell phone is plugged into the charger and the battery is already full, this consumption can vary from 1 to 5 watts. The solution is simple: unplug the charger from the wall outlet when not in use. This helps to save energy and extend the life of the charger.