Many people assume that once an appliance is turned off, it stops using electricity completely. However, that is not always the case. Modern homes are filled with electronic devices that continue drawing small amounts of power even when they appear to be switched off. This phenomenon is commonly known as "standby power" or "phantom energy."

While the electricity consumed by a single device may seem insignificant, the combined impact of multiple electronics operating around the clock can contribute noticeably to household energy consumption over time.

Understanding which devices commonly consume standby power can help homeowners make informed decisions and potentially reduce unnecessary electricity use.

Here are 5 common household devices that may continue using energy when left plugged in.

What Is Phantom Energy?

Phantom energy refers to electricity consumed by electronic devices when they are not actively being used.

Many modern appliances remain partially powered to support features such as:

• Remote controls

• Digital clocks

• Wi-Fi connectivity

• Automatic updates

• Memory settings

• Quick startup functions

Although convenient, these features often require a continuous supply of electricity.

Why Reducing Standby Power Matters

Reducing unnecessary energy consumption may offer several benefits.

Potential Advantages

• Lower electricity bills

• Reduced environmental impact

• Improved energy efficiency

• Less wasted electricity

While unplugging devices alone will not dramatically transform household energy use, small savings can accumulate over time.

1. Television Sets

Modern televisions often remain in standby mode even after being turned off.

Why TVs Continue Using Power

Many televisions maintain power for:

• Remote-control activation

• Instant startup features

• Software updates

• Internet connectivity

Signs Your TV Is Using Standby Power

Common indicators include:

• Small LED lights remaining illuminated

• Network activity indicators

• Connected smart features

What You Can Do

If the television will not be used for an extended period, unplugging it or using a power strip may help reduce standby energy consumption.

2. Cable Boxes, Streaming Devices, and Media Players

Entertainment devices are among the most common sources of phantom energy.

Examples include:

• Cable boxes

• Streaming sticks

• Media players

• Satellite receivers

Why They Consume Power

Many remain active to:

• Download updates

• Maintain network connections

• Record scheduled programs

• Support instant-on functionality

Energy Use Adds Up

Because these devices often remain plugged in continuously, their annual energy consumption may be higher than many people realize.

3. Phone and Laptop Chargers

Chargers are frequently left plugged into wall outlets even when no device is attached.

What Happens?

Many chargers continue drawing a small amount of electricity while connected to power.

Although the amount is generally small, millions of households leaving chargers plugged in continuously can contribute to unnecessary energy use.

Common Chargers

• Smartphone chargers

• Tablet chargers

• Laptop power adapters

• Smartwatch chargers

Best Practice

Unplug chargers when not in use, particularly if they remain idle for extended periods.

4. Desktop Computers and Computer Accessories

Computers often continue using electricity even after shutdown.

Devices That May Draw Standby Power

• Desktop computers

• Monitors

• Printers

• Speakers

• External hard drives

Why?

Many electronics remain partially powered to support:

• Sleep mode

• Automatic updates

• Network access

• Quick startup features

Potential Savings

Turning off power strips connected to computer workstations may help eliminate unnecessary standby consumption.

5. Coffee Makers and Kitchen Appliances With Digital Displays

Many kitchen appliances contain clocks, timers, and electronic control panels.

Examples include:

• Coffee makers

• Microwave ovens

• Toaster ovens

• Air fryers

• Rice cookers

Why They Use Electricity

The digital displays and internal electronics require continuous power to maintain settings and display information.

Small but Constant

Although each appliance may consume only a small amount of energy, multiple devices operating continuously can contribute to overall electricity usage.

Other Common Sources of Standby Power

In addition to the five devices above, several other electronics may continue consuming energy.

Common Examples

• Gaming consoles

• Smart speakers

• Wi-Fi routers

• Sound systems

• Smart home hubs

• Security cameras

• Wireless printers

Many connected devices are designed to remain partially active at all times.

How Much Electricity Does Standby Power Use?

The amount varies depending on:

• Device type

• Age of the appliance

• Energy efficiency standards

• Usage patterns

Some modern devices are designed to consume very little standby power, while older electronics may use considerably more.

When dozens of devices operate continuously throughout the home, the total impact can become significant.

Practical Ways to Reduce Energy Waste

Fortunately, reducing phantom energy does not require major lifestyle changes.

Use Smart Power Strips

Smart power strips automatically cut power to certain devices when they are not in use.

Unplug Rarely Used Electronics

Devices used only occasionally can be unplugged between uses.

Enable Energy-Saving Modes

Many modern appliances offer built-in energy-saving settings.

Upgrade Older Electronics

Newer devices often meet stricter efficiency standards.

Turn Devices Off Completely

Whenever practical, shut down electronics instead of leaving them in standby mode.

Are There Devices You Should Not Unplug?

Yes.

Some appliances are generally best left connected.

Examples Include

• Refrigerators

• Freezers

• Medical equipment

• Home security systems

• Internet equipment required for essential services

Always consider the device's purpose before disconnecting power.

Environmental Benefits of Reducing Energy Waste

Reducing unnecessary electricity consumption can help lower demand on energy systems.

Potential environmental benefits include:

• Reduced greenhouse gas emissions

• Improved energy efficiency

• Lower resource consumption

Although individual actions may seem small, widespread adoption can have meaningful effects over time.

Common Myths About Phantom Energy

Myth 1: Turned-Off Devices Use No Electricity

Many electronics continue drawing power while in standby mode.

Myth 2: Only Large Appliances Matter

Small electronics can collectively contribute significantly to household energy consumption.

Myth 3: Standby Power Is a Major Household Expense

While phantom energy contributes to electricity use, heating, cooling, water heating, and large appliances often account for a much larger share of household energy bills.

Building Better Energy Habits

Creating energy-efficient habits does not require drastic changes.

Simple actions may include:

• Unplugging unused chargers

• Using power strips

• Turning off electronics completely

• Purchasing energy-efficient devices

Over time, these habits can become automatic.

The Bigger Picture

Reducing phantom energy is only one part of an energy-conscious household.

Additional ways to improve efficiency include:

• Using LED lighting

• Improving insulation

• Maintaining appliances

• Using energy-efficient heating and cooling systems

• Managing water usage

Together, these measures can contribute to long-term savings and sustainability.

Final Thoughts

Many household devices continue consuming electricity long after they appear to be turned off. Televisions, streaming devices, chargers, computers, and kitchen appliances with digital displays are among the most common sources of standby power.

While the electricity used by any single device may be relatively small, multiple electronics operating continuously can contribute to unnecessary energy consumption over time. By understanding which devices commonly draw phantom power and adopting simple energy-saving habits, homeowners may be able to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and potentially lower electricity costs.

Sometimes the easiest way to save energy isn't buying new technology—it's simply paying closer attention to the devices already plugged into the wall.