Leaving devices on standby mode might seem like a convenient way to save time, but it can quietly drain energy and increase your electricity bills. While standby mode reduces energy consumption compared to when a device is fully powered on, many gadgets continue to draw electricity even when they appear inactive. Over time, this adds up, contributing to energy bills that are already on the rise this winter.
In this blog, we’ll highlight the top 5 devices you should never leave on standby. By switching them off properly when not in use, you can make a big difference to your energy bill and reduce your household’s carbon footprint.
Top 5 Energy-Draining Devices Adding To Your Bill
1. Games Consoles
High-powered gaming consoles come with energy-saving features, but they also have their downsides. These devices often include an on/off switch that puts them into a low-power standby mode.
However, many users either forget to fully switch them off or turn off the TV while leaving the console running, which can lead to unnecessary costs. According to experts, gaming consoles account for around 6% of a typical household’s energy bill.
While this may not seem significant, over time, turning off your console can lead to considerable savings. The Energy Saving Trust also recommends keeping consoles updated, as this can enhance energy efficiency.
2. Satellite Boxes
Satellite boxes are common household devices, but many don’t realise the impact they can have on their energy bills. These devices often feature a standby mode, but leaving them in this low-power state can still consume a surprising amount of energy.
Many people forget to completely power off their satellite boxes, thinking that standby mode is enough. However, simply switching off your TV while leaving the box on standby can lead to unnecessary energy use, which adds up over time. Satellite boxes, even in standby, can be sneaky energy drainers. Turning them off properly when not in use can make a noticeable difference to your energy bill.
3. Older Appliances
Older appliances are often less energy efficient than newer ones. Especially when appliances have broken or malfunctioning parts, they can require more energy to run properly. A classic example is an old fridge.
Old fridges, especially those over 10-15 years old, tend to be less energy-efficient than newer models, consuming significantly more electricity. On average, an old fridge can use between 100 to 200 kWh per month. This translates to roughly 1,200 to 2,400 kWh per year, depending on the age, model, and condition of the appliance.
To put this into perspective, at an average UK electricity rate of about 34p per kWh, running an old fridge could cost you around £408 to £816 per year. Newer, energy-efficient models can use half as much energy, leading to potential savings on your electricity bill.
If your fridge is over a decade old, it might be worth considering an upgrade to a modern, energy-efficient model, as the savings can quickly add up.
4. Microwaves
Leaving your microwave on standby might seem harmless, but it can quietly add to your electricity bill over time. Microwaves, like many other appliances, continue to draw power even when not in use. Although the energy consumption in standby mode is low, it still adds up.
According to estimates, a microwave left on standby can cost you around £3 to £6 per year in electricity. While this might not seem like much, switching it off at the wall when not in use can contribute to long-term savings, especially when combined with other energy-efficient habits around the home.
5. Desktop Computers
Although leaving a desktop computer on standby mode can make logging into work quicker, it can quietly increase your energy costs. Even when not in use, desktop computers still consume power in standby mode, which adds up over time.
On average, a desktop computer left in standby can cost around £10 to £15 per year in electricity. Though this might seem like a small amount, turning off your desktop completely when you’re not using it can lead to noticeable savings. Over time, these small changes can make a big difference to your overall energy bill.
Avoid Standby Mode, Start Saving
Ensuring these devices and others around the home are unplugged properly when not in use can amount to huge savings long-term. Another way to make significant savings is with the help of government-backed schemes and grants. This support helps people across the UK to access energy-saving home upgrades to power their homes more cheaply and sustainably.
To find out more about this support, click the button below.
