Unplug and Save: How Standby Power Affects Your Electricity Bill
Do you want to reduce your energy bills without changing your lifestyle? You might be surprised to learn that simply unplugging appliances in standby mode can make a big difference. This hidden electricity usage, known as standby power or phantom energy, could be costing you more than you think.
In this article, we’ll explore how standby power works, which appliances consume the most energy when not in use, and how unplugging them can save you money every month.
What Is Standby Power?
Standby power is the electricity consumed by electronic devices and appliances even when they are turned off or not actively in use. These appliances are often in “sleep mode,” “standby mode,” or have lights, clocks, or sensors still running.
This may seem like a small amount, but it adds up over time — especially if you have many devices plugged in around your home or office.
How Much Can Standby Power Cost You?
On average, standby power accounts for 5–10% of a household’s electricity usage. In Spain, that could mean €60–€150 per year depending on your electricity tariff.
| Appliance | Average Standby Power (Watts) | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| TV | 5W | €10–€15 |
| Wi-Fi Router | 7W | €12–€18 |
| Microwave (clock display) | 3W | €5–€7 |
| Laptop Charger (plugged in) | 4W | €7–€10 |
| Coffee Machine | 1–2W | €2–€5 |
Multiply this across a household and you’re paying real money for unused electricity.
Common Appliances That Use Standby Power
Here are some of the most common culprits:
- TVs and sound systems
- Game consoles
- Computers and monitors
- Phone chargers
- Microwaves and ovens with digital clocks
- Wi-Fi routers and modems
- Printers and scanners
- Coffee machines and kitchen gadgets
👉 Tip: If an appliance has a remote control, LED display, or warm power adapter, it’s probably using standby power.
How to Reduce Energy Bills: Unplug Appliances in Standby
Here are practical tips to cut down on standby electricity use and lower your monthly energy bill:
✅ 1. Unplug devices you don’t use regularly
If you only use your printer once a week or a coffee machine on weekends, unplug it between uses.
✅ 2. Use power strips with switches
Group devices (like TV, game console, and speakers) on one strip. Turn it off with a single switch when not in use.
✅ 3. Invest in smart plugs
Smart plugs allow you to schedule on/off times or control devices remotely through your phone — great for forgetful users!
✅ 4. Unplug chargers after use
Phone and laptop chargers continue to draw power even when not connected to a device.
✅ 5. Check appliance settings
Some devices let you disable standby or sleep modes — explore your settings menu.
🌍 Save Energy, Save the Planet
Reducing phantom energy not only lowers your electricity bills, it also reduces your carbon footprint. Using less power helps decrease the demand on the energy grid and supports a more sustainable future — especially when you’re using 100% renewable energy from Evergreen Eléctrica.
Bonus Tip: Monitor Your Energy Usage
If you’re serious about saving energy, consider installing a smart energy meter or using an electricity usage monitor. These tools show real-time consumption, so you can track which devices are costing you the most.
Ready to Cut Energy Waste for Good?
At Evergreen Eléctrica, we help households and businesses in Spain optimize their energy consumption with personalized advice and green electricity plans. Whether you want to eliminate standby power or switch to more efficient tariffs, we’ve got you covered.
📩 Contact us today for a free consultation and start lowering your energy bills — the smart and sustainable way.
❓FAQs: Reducing Energy Bills by Unplugging Appliances
Q: How much can I save by unplugging appliances in standby mode?
A: Depending on your household, you can save between €50 and €150 per year by eliminating standby consumption.
Q: Is it safe to unplug appliances regularly?
A: Yes, most modern appliances are designed to be unplugged without issues. Just make sure you turn off devices before unplugging.
Q: Do all appliances use power in standby mode?
A: Not all, but many do — especially those with LED lights, displays, remotes, or chargers. It’s best to check manuals or use a power meter.
Discover More Tips on Our Blog
Want to learn how to save even more on your electricity bill? Our blog is full of expert insights, energy-saving tips, and guides to help you reduce consumption at home or in your business.
