Does Unplugging Appliances Really Save Electricity? A Look at “Vampire Power”

Vampire power goes by a few different names, including “phantom load,” “standby power,” and “leaking electricity.” It is the energy that devices use when they are not actively in use but are still plugged into an outlet. This happens for several reasons:

• The device is “off” but is still connected to a power source.
• The device is in “standby” mode, like a television waiting for the remote control signal.
• The device has features that require constant power, such as digital clocks, indicator lights, or an “instant-on” feature.
• A charger is plugged into the wall, but nothing is connected to it to charge.

Some of the most common “culprits” of this energy drain are everyday items you might not think about. These include phone and laptop chargers that are plugged into the wall with no device attached, smart TVs, soundbars, and gaming consoles. Also on the list are coffee makers with digital clocks, computers, printers, and microwaves—”hello, glowing clock.” Even chargers for small items like electric toothbrushes and cordless vacuums can be drawing power when you’re not using them.

It might seem like a small amount of electricity, but all these tiny energy draws add up. In fact, these devices can consume between 5% and 10% of the total electricity used in your home each year. This is like paying for a part of your house that you never even use. It’s a waste of energy and money that can be easily avoided.

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