Most people don’t realize that many everyday appliances continue to use electricity even when they’re turned off. These “energy vampires” silently add to utility bills, costing the average household between $100 and $200 every year. Beyond wasted money, they can also increase the risk of household fires.
A simple example is a phone charger. Left plugged in, even without charging, it can waste about $9 a year. With multiple chargers, that number can quickly climb to nearly $50 annually.
Small kitchen appliances are another hidden drain. A coffee maker that remains plugged in can waste around $22 a year, while slow cookers or Instant Pots may draw $25 or more, even when not in use.
Entertainment systems are some of the biggest offenders. Gaming consoles in standby mode can drain over $100 annually, especially in households where they’re left connected all the time.