Many UK households are unknowingly wasting hundreds of pounds each year due to everyday appliances that guzzle energy even when not in use. Experts warn that leaving certain devices on standby or plugged in unnecessarily can significantly inflate your energy bills.
The Silent Energy Drainers in Your Home
Recent research has identified six common household items that could be costing you far more than you realise:
- Gaming consoles - Left on standby, these can add £40+ annually to bills
- Set-top boxes - Constantly running, they consume power 24/7
- Smart speakers - Always listening means always using electricity
- Phone chargers - Left plugged in, they continue drawing power
- Desktop computers - Sleep mode still uses considerable energy
- Microwaves - Digital clocks and standby modes add up
How to Fight Back Against Energy Vampires
Energy experts recommend several simple solutions:
- Use smart plugs to completely cut power to devices when not in use
- Unplug chargers when devices are fully charged
- Enable proper power-saving modes on computers and consoles
- Consider using a power strip with an on/off switch for multiple devices
With energy prices remaining high, these small changes could save the average household over £100 per year. The Energy Saving Trust suggests conducting regular energy audits to identify other potential savings in your home.
