Leaving electronic devices plugged in, even when turned off, is a common practice in many homes, but it could be having a significant impact on energy bills.
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According to studies, the “phantom consumption” of these devices can represent up to 9% of the total electricity bill. In view of this, get to know the main villains of this waste of energy that is weighing on consumers' pockets.
1. Electronic devices: television on standby
At the top of the list is the TV, present in countless homes around the world. Even when turned off, it continues to consume considerable amounts of electricity, especially in smart models, due to the internal systems and the indicator light in standby mode. With more than 100 million televisions installed in Brazil, disconnecting these devices can result in significant savings.
2. Microwave: panel consumes energy
Surprisingly, the microwave is a huge energy consumer even when it is not in use. The integrated panel on the front of the device constantly consumes electricity. Therefore, unplugging it from the socket when not in use is a simple practice that can result in considerable savings in the long term.
3. Fire risk and charger waste
Leaving the cell phone charger in the socket after use is a common practice, but it can generate energy consumption in standby mode of 1 to 5 watts. Furthermore, it is important to highlight that the charger may pose a fire risk due to the heat it generates. Unplugging the charger when not in use not only saves energy but also reduces safety risks.
4. Electronic devices such as the computer: turned off, but connected
Meanwhile, experts warn that even when turned off, the computer can consume up to 21 watts per hour, having a significant impact on the energy bill. The same applies to notebooks, which can consume up to 18 watts just by being connected. Unplugging these devices when not in use is an effective way to reduce energy consumption.
5. Air conditioning: the enemy of your wallet
Despite the comfort it provides, air conditioning is known for being a real “enemy of your wallet”. Unplugging the device from the socket, especially during prolonged periods of absence, can result in substantial savings, especially in more modern models with automatic programming.
6. Sound system: illuminated speakers spend more
Finally, popular speakers, especially newer models with built-in lighting, also consume energy when they are plugged in, even when not in use. Connecting these devices only during use is a practice that can save energy and, consequently, the consumer's money.
Electronic devices not in use: keep them unplugged
In short, unplugging these appliances from the socket when not in use not only helps reduce energy consumption, but also contributes to safety and environmental preservation. After all, a simple change in habits can result in significant savings at the end of the month.
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