Plenty of devices keep drawing power even when they're “off” — the so-called standby or “vampire” load. Individually it's tiny, but across a whole house it adds up on your bill. Here's what's costing you and how to cut it.
What draws standby power
- TVs, set-top boxes and games consoles in rest mode.
- Chargers and power bricks left plugged in.
- Microwaves, ovens and coffee machines with clocks and displays.
- Broadband routers and smart speakers, always listening.
How much it adds up to
Standby loads can quietly account for a noticeable slice of a home's electricity use over a year. The exact figure depends on how many gadgets you have — but the fix is simple and free-to-cheap.
Easy ways to cut it
- Switch off at the wall for things you don't use daily.
- Use a smart plug to schedule devices off overnight — see smart home.
- Unplug finished chargers — they sip power even with nothing attached.
- Choose energy-efficient appliances with low standby draw when you upgrade.
What to leave on
Leave fridges, freezers and (usually) your router running — switching those off causes more hassle than it saves.
Final thoughts
A few switched-off sockets and a smart plug or two are the easiest savings in the house. Browse smart home online or ask in any of our 60+ stores.
