Think you’ve turned everything off before you leave the house? And yet, your electricity bill keeps rising? The culprit may well be hiding in your electrical outlets. Because yes, some appliances continue to consume energy without your knowledge… even when switched off! Intrigued? Here’s the truth about this phantom consumption that weighs on your budget (and the planet).
What is phantom consumption?
Also known as phantom power, this form of waste refers to the electricity used by a device that remains plugged in but inactive. This may seem negligible on the scale of a single device… But accumulated over several weeks, it makes all the difference. And the good news? You can act very easily!
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The computer: expensive monitoring
Even when turned off, a computer often remains asleep, ready to restart instantly. As a result, up to 21 watts per hour can be consumed without you doing anything.
The right reflex: unplug it completely or use a power strip with a switch to turn off the power with a single movement.
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The game console: a player hidden in the shadows
Modern consoles often stay connected to the internet or ready to pick up where you left off. On standby, they can consume more than 1 watt per hour.
The clever trick: turn on the built-in power-saving settings or unplug them after each session.
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The audio system: always listening
Hi-fi systems and Bluetooth speakers are waiting for their remote control to turn on instantly… priced at 10 to 15 watts per hour.
Simple solution: unplug them or turn off the power via a connected socket.
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The laptop: the lid is not enough
Even when closed, if it remains plugged in, a laptop continues to consume up to 15 watts per hour.
The useful reflex: unplug it as soon as the battery is full or set it to turn off completely when you close it.
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The cordless telephone: discreet but constant
Its base stays plugged in continuously, consuming an average of 3 watts per hour, even if you’re not using it.
Small gesture, big effect: unplug the base during your prolonged absences or at night.
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The microwave: not so harmless on standby
The simple time display on the digital display consumes about 3 watts per hour.
Energy saving idea: unplug it after use or use a power strip with a switch in the kitchen.
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Television: on standby, but still active
Your newer TV can consume about 3 watts per hour in standby mode, especially if it’s connected to the internet.
Smart setting: Turn off hibernation and remember to unplug it overnight.
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The phone charger: a mini energy thief
Even without a phone plugged in, a charger continues to consume (about 0.26 watts per hour). What if the phone is still plugged in while the battery is full? The consumption can climb to 5 watts.
Easy to do: always unplug the charger after use. It’s good for your bill… and its lifespan!
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