Millions of British households are unknowingly adding hundreds of pounds to their energy bills through a common mobile phone habit, experts have revealed.
Energy specialists at Uswitch have issued an urgent warning about the costly mistake of leaving devices plugged in overnight, as the nation grapples with soaring electricity costs.
The £300 Million Nighttime Drain
Research shows that nearly half of UK mobile users leave their phones charging throughout the night, creating a massive national energy drain. This collective habit is estimated to be costing households a staggering £300 million annually.
Ben Gallizzi, energy expert at Uswitch, explains: "Many people don't realise that chargers continue to draw electricity even when devices are fully charged. Overnight charging means phones are sitting connected for hours after reaching 100% - and that wasted energy adds up significantly."
Simple Switch, Significant Savings
The solution is remarkably simple. Switching to charging during waking hours could save the average household substantial amounts on their annual energy bills.
Key recommendations include:
- Charge devices during the day rather than overnight
- Unplug chargers immediately after devices reach full capacity
- Use timers or smart plugs to automate charging schedules
- Consider energy-efficient charging equipment
Broader Energy Saving Opportunities
Mobile phones represent just one area where households can reduce energy waste. Experts note that many electronic devices continue consuming power when left on standby mode.
"The average home contains around 40 electronic devices," adds Gallizzi. "Being mindful of phantom energy drain from games consoles, computers, and kitchen appliances can lead to even greater savings."
With energy prices remaining historically high, these small behavioral changes could make a meaningful difference to household budgets across the country.
