Electricity Bill Saving Tips: In today’s world, electricity is no longer limited to just fans and light bulbs. Homes have TVs, Wi-Fi routers, laptops, mobile chargers, smart speakers, and many other devices that remain plugged in day and night. Surprisingly, many of these devices continue to consume electricity even after being switched off. This is why people don’t understand why their bill is so high despite low usage.

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What is Phantom Load?

Phantom load refers to the electricity consumption that continues even after a device is switched off. Many electronic devices don’t completely shut down but go into standby mode. While in standby mode, they continue to draw power to maintain remote signals, internet connections, or keep the display on. A mobile charger is the most common example. Even after the phone is removed, the charger remains plugged in and continuously draws power.

Which devices cause the most phantom load?

Smart TVs, set-top boxes, gaming consoles, music systems, desktop computers, printers, and Wi-Fi routers in the home are major sources of phantom load. Devices with digital displays or internet connectivity, in particular, continuously consume electricity. Older electronic devices generate more phantom load compared to newer technology.

How much does phantom load increase electricity consumption?

According to the US Department of Energy and other research, phantom load can account for 5 to 10 percent of a household’s total electricity consumption. This percentage may seem small, but over the course of a year, this amount translates into thousands of rupees. Even a small radio or music player consumes several watts of electricity even when switched off, which becomes a significant loss in the long run.

How to save money by reducing phantom load

The most effective way to reduce your electricity bill is to unplug unnecessary devices. Keep devices that are not used daily unplugged. Make it a habit to unplug the charger from the socket after charging is complete. If unplugging it frequently seems inconvenient, you can use a surge protector or a smart plug. A smart plug allows you to automatically switch off the device at a set time, saving electricity without any extra effort.

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Significant savings are possible with a little awareness

Phantom load is invisible, but its impact is directly reflected in your electricity bill. If all members of the household become aware of this and stop unnecessary electricity consumption, the monthly expenses can be significantly reduced. This is not only beneficial for your budget but also a positive step towards energy conservation and environmental protection.