Household equipment left in standby mode "quietly drains energy and increases your electricity bills", according to experts from the Energy Advice Helpline. As energy bills remain high, homeowners are seeking ways to lower costs, but many do not realise that certain items can push up bills even when switched off.
Satellite boxes are among the main offenders. Even on standby, they are described as "sneaky energy drainers". Switching them off completely when not needed can substantially cut your energy bill.
Desktop computers, increasingly common with remote working, can also inflate bills. A desktop left idling can add between £10 and £15 to annual electricity costs, despite many models having energy-saving features.
Gaming consoles are another culprit. Most have a standby mode, but users often forget to switch them off entirely. Specialists estimate consoles account for about six percent of a typical household's energy use. The Energy Saving Trust recommends keeping consoles updated to improve efficiency.
The experts advise: "By switching them off properly when not in use, you can make a big difference to your energy bill and reduce your household's carbon footprint."
