As an energy efficiency company in the UK, we’re committed to helping people save energy and reduce their carbon footprint. One of the simplest ways to achieve this is by turning off appliances when they’re not in use.
Many people don’t realise that leaving appliances on standby can still consume energy, sometimes even up to 75% of the energy they would use when fully switched on.
Let’s take a look at some of the worst appliances to leave on standby in the UK and how much you could save by switching them off.
1. Televisions
Televisions are among the worst offenders when left on standby. Modern LED TVs can consume between 2–5 watts, while older models may use 10–20 watts in standby mode. This can add up over time, costing you approximately £4–£34 per year . Switching off your TV completely when not in use can lead to significant savings.
2. Game Consoles
Game consoles are another major culprit regarding standby energy consumption. Some consoles can use between 3–7 watts when left on standby, translating to an annual cost of £5–£12 . Ensure you switch off your game console completely or unplug it from the wall when not in use.
3. Set-Top Boxes
Set-top boxes, such as Sky or Virgin Media boxes, can use a significant amount of energy in standby mode. Some models consume up to 30 watts but on average 7 – 10W costing up to £17 per year. To reduce your energy consumption, switch off your set-top box when it’s not in use.
4. Chargers
Chargers for phones, laptops, and other devices often remain plugged in even when the device is fully charged. While each charger may use a small amount of power individually, collectively, they can add a noticeable amount to your energy bill over time. Unplugging chargers when not in use is a simple way to reduce this waste.
5. Smart Speakers
Smart speakers consume between 3–5 watts continuously, costing £5–£8 per year . Unplugging them when not in use can contribute to energy savings.
6. Microwave
Microwaves with digital clocks consume energy even when not in active use, typically between 3–5 watts. This standby power can cost you £5–£8 per year . Unplugging the microwave when not in use can help reduce this unnecessary consumption.
7. Printers
Printers in idle mode can use between 5–10 watts, leading to an annual cost of £8–£17 . Turning off printers completely when not in use can help reduce energy waste.
Tips to Reduce Standby Power Consumption
- Unplug Devices: Disconnect appliances when they’re not in use.
- Use Smart Plugs: These allow you to control power usage remotely and schedule devices to turn off automatically.
- Turn Off at the Socket: Ensure devices are switched off completely, not just left in standby mode.
- Utilise Smart Meters: Monitor your energy usage in real-time to identify and address high-consumption devices.
By implementing these strategies, you can reduce your annual energy bills and contribute to a more sustainable environment.
*Figures taken from Free Price Compare