Here is a 500-word English article based on the topic "5 Devices to Unplug When Not in Use to Avoid Skyrocketing Electricity Bills":

---

5 Devices to Unplug When Not in Use to Avoid Skyrocketing Electricity Bills

In many households, electricity bills can quietly increase without warning, even when it feels like no extra power is being consumed. The culprit? “Vampire power” or “phantom load” — the energy that electronic devices consume when they are plugged in but not actively in use. These sneaky power drains may seem minor, but over time, they add up to significant energy waste and higher bills. The good news is that you can reduce this unnecessary cost by simply unplugging certain devices when they’re not being used. Here are 5 of the biggest offenders you should unplug right away:

---

1. Televisions

Modern TVs, especially smart TVs, consume power even when turned off. That’s because they remain in standby mode, ready to receive remote commands or software updates. While the standby mode may only use a small amount of electricity, keeping multiple TVs plugged in 24/7 can significantly increase your energy usage. Unplugging them or using a smart power strip can help eliminate this phantom power drain.

---

2. Game Consoles

Gaming systems like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch are notorious for drawing power even when idle. Many stay connected to the internet, perform background downloads, or wait in “rest mode.” These features might be convenient, but they can cost you more in electricity over time. Always turn off and unplug your console when not in use — or disable the "instant-on" or "rest" modes in the settings.

---

3. Chargers (Phone, Laptop, Tablet)

Phone and laptop chargers continue to draw electricity when plugged into the wall, even if the device is not connected. These “energy vampires” may not consume much individually, but in a household full of devices, the cost quickly adds up. Make it a habit to unplug chargers once you're done using them, or plug them into a power strip you can switch off.

---

4. Kitchen Appliances with Digital Displays

Appliances like microwaves, coffee makers, and toaster ovens often have digital clocks or standby lights that constantly use electricity. While the draw is small, it’s continuous — 24 hours a day. Unplugging these devices when they’re not in use, especially if they’re not part of your daily routine, is a simple way to save money.

---

5. Desktop Computers and Printers

Even when turned off, desktop PCs and printers often remain in standby mode, drawing power. This is especially true for older models. If you don’t use your home office equipment every day, it’s best to shut them down completely and unplug them. This also helps reduce wear and tear on the components.

---

Bonus Tip: Use Smart Power Strips

If manually unplugging devices feels like a hassle, consider investing in smart power strips. These strips automatically cut power to devices that enter standby mode, making energy-saving effortless.

---

Conclusion

Cutting down your electricity bill doesn't always mean major lifestyle changes — sometimes, it's as easy as unplugging a few devices. Start by targeting these five energy-draining items, and you may be surprised at how much you save each month.

---

Would you like a Vietnamese version of this article as well?