Over the past two years, energy bills have fluctuated significantly. Although they are no longer at the record highs witnessed in late 2023 and early 2024, they remain high and unaffordable for many households. One habit that could be preventing households from saving as much as possible on their energy bills is leaving certain home appliances on standby. Even when not in use, some devices can still consume electricity if left plugged in, with some being more culpable than others.
Experts at Eclipse Energy have identified three appliances that should “never be left on standby mode”. In this context, “standby” refers to leaving appliances plugged in with the socket switched on. They said: “By turning off these appliances completely instead of leaving them on standby, you can reduce your energy bills significantly as well as your carbon footprint.”
1. Televisions
Televisions are “one of the worst appliances to leave on standby”, according to the energy experts.
They can consume up to 20 watts of energy when on standby mode, which can add up over time.
Based on findings from The Energy Saving Trust, the pros said: “If you switch off your TV completely when you’re not using it, you could save around £30 per year on your energy bill.”
2. Satellite TV boxes
Set-top boxes, such as Sky boxes or Virgin Media boxes, can also use a “significant amount” of energy when left on standby.
Some set-top boxes can use up to 30 watts of energy when in standby mode.
To reduce your energy consumption, make sure to switch off your set-top box when you’re not using it. By doing this, “you could save around £20 per year on your energy bill”.
3. Game consoles
Game consoles are another “big culprit” when it comes to standby energy consumption. While high-powered gaming consoles come with energy-saving features, they also have their downsides.
Some of these devices can use up to 45 watts of energy when left on standby.
If you’re not using your game console, make sure to switch it off completely or unplug it from the wall. By doing this, “you could save around £30 per year on your energy bill”.
