Saving money on your electricity bill can be easier than you think. Many common household items use power even when not in use. By unplugging these energy hogs, you can cut costs and reduce waste. Here are 22 items to unplug to see a difference in your electricity bill.
Chargers
Phone and laptop chargers continue to draw power even when not in use. This constant trickle, known as phantom energy, can add up over time. Unplugging chargers when not needed can save a few dollars each month. It’s a simple habit that can lead to noticeable savings.
Microwave
Even when not cooking, microwaves consume electricity for their digital clocks and standby functions. This standby power can cost around $3-$5 per year. Unplugging the microwave when not in use can eliminate this unnecessary expense. Plus, it’s easy to plug it back in when needed.
Coffee Maker
Your coffee maker is a hidden energy consumer when left plugged in. The clock and warming plate can use up to $1 per month. Unplugging it after your morning brew can help cut this small, but cumulative, cost. It’s a simple step to make your kitchen more energy-efficient.
Television
Modern TVs, especially those with instant-on features, draw power even when turned off. This can add up to $10 annually. Unplugging the TV when you’re not watching can help lower your bill. It’s also a good idea to use a power strip to make it more convenient.
Computer
Desktop computers and their peripherals, like printers and monitors, consume power in standby mode. This can cost up to $40 a year. Shutting down and unplugging your computer when not in use can lead to significant savings. Plus, it prolongs the lifespan of your devices.
Game Consoles
Game consoles often have features that consume power even when they’re not actively being used. This standby power can cost about $25 annually. Unplugging them when not in use can help reduce this expense. A smart power strip can make this even easier.
Toaster
Toasters, like other small kitchen appliances, use power for indicator lights or digital displays. While it might seem minimal, it can add up over time. Unplugging it when not in use can save a bit on your bill. Plus, it’s a safer practice to prevent electrical hazards.
DVD Player
DVD players consume energy even in standby mode. This small but constant draw can add up to $1-$2 per year. Unplugging it when not watching movies can save this unnecessary cost. It’s an easy way to make your entertainment setup more energy-efficient.
Stereo System
Home stereo systems can use power even when turned off for features like clocks or remote control sensors. This can cost around $5 per year. Unplugging it when not in use can save this energy. Using a power strip can make this more convenient.
Cable Box
Cable boxes are notorious for consuming a lot of standby power. They can add up to $8 per month to your electricity bill. Unplugging the box when not watching TV can significantly cut this cost. Consider using a timer to automatically turn it off at night.
Digital Clocks
Clocks on ovens, microwaves, and other appliances constantly use electricity. Each clock might only cost a few cents per month, but it adds up across multiple devices. Unplugging or using battery-operated clocks can save this minor expense. It’s a small step towards greater savings.
Printer
Printers, especially those with Wi-Fi, consume power even when not in use. This can cost about $2-$5 annually. Unplugging the printer when not needed can save this energy. It also helps in maintaining the printer’s longevity.
Electric Kettle
Electric kettles use power for indicator lights or keep-warm functions. This can add a small but unnecessary cost to your bill. Unplugging the kettle when not in use can help reduce this. It’s also safer to prevent potential electrical hazards.
Air Purifier
Air purifiers can consume significant power if left running continuously. This can add up to $10-$20 per year. Turning off and unplugging the purifier when not needed can save this cost. It also extends the life of the filter.
Electric Toothbrush Charger
Electric toothbrush chargers use a small amount of power even when the toothbrush isn’t on it. This can add up to a few dollars a year. Unplugging the charger after your toothbrush is charged can prevent this waste. It’s a simple habit for energy savings.
Hair Dryer
Hair dryers often have lights or displays that use power when plugged in. While the cost is minimal, it’s still unnecessary. Unplugging it after use can save a bit on your bill. Plus, it’s a safer practice to prevent potential electrical hazards.
Humidifier
Humidifiers, especially those with digital displays, consume power even when not actively humidifying. This can cost a few dollars a year. Unplugging it when not in use can prevent this waste. It also helps in maintaining the appliance.
Blender
Blenders with indicator lights or digital displays use power when plugged in. Unplugging the blender when not in use can save a small but cumulative amount of energy. It’s a simple step for a more energy-efficient kitchen. Plus, it’s safer to prevent accidental starts.
Portable Heater
Portable heaters can consume significant power if left plugged in, even when not running. This can add up to $5-$10 annually. Unplugging the heater when not in use can help reduce this cost. It’s also a safer practice to prevent accidental overheating.
Tablet Charger
Tablet chargers use power even when the tablet isn’t charging. This phantom energy can add a small but unnecessary cost. Unplugging the charger when not needed can prevent this waste. It’s an easy habit to adopt for energy savings.
Lamp
Lamps with built-in clocks or timers use power even when the light is off. This can add up over time. Unplugging lamps when not needed can save a small but cumulative amount of energy. It’s a simple step for greater energy efficiency.
Fan
Fans, especially those with remote control sensors, consume power in standby mode. This can add a few dollars to your bill annually. Unplugging the fan when not in use can prevent this waste. It’s also safer to prevent accidental starts.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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