By ‘Vampire devices’ cost UK households £147 a year
UK households could save an average of £147 per year by switching off so-called vampire devices that drain power even when they are on standby.
British Gas research indicates households in the UK are spending £2.2bn annually just by leaving vampire devices on standby.
This comes to £147 a year for the average household which works out as two months’ electricity charges.
Energy UK deputy director Dhara Vyas told BBC News that bills could rise even higher: “We’re seeing really high price rises at the minute.”
“We don’t know yet for sure, because global gas prices continue to be volatile.
“Some estimates do say that we’re looking at bills of up to £3,000 this winter.”
Many people are already tightening their purse strings as bills and the cost of living climb higher and higher.
If a device is still plugged into the wall, it will still be draining power unless turned off such as smart speakers, laptops, and internet routers.
Research suggests that leaving a TV on standby overnight to turn on in the morning costs £24.61 per year, plus a further £23.10 for a set-top box.
Games consoles on standby work out at an average of £12.17, while computers could cost about £11.22.
And there’s more:
Microwave: £16.37
Shower: £9.80
Washing machine: £4.73
Printer: £3.81
Phone charger: £1.26
British Gas energy expert Marc Robson recommends adding devices to an extension lead that can be switched off at night – or using smart plugs.
“There are smart plugs you can buy which will let you check everything is turned off from your phone,” he says.
“At night, or when not in use, try switching off devices at the mains rather than switching to standby, as even the standby light on a television uses energy.
“Try not to overcharge your mobile phone and laptop unnecessarily.
“As soon as your device is charged, try and get into the habit of unplugging it.
“Not only will this save energy but it also prolongs battery life.
“A smart meter’s in-home display can help to identify how much energy is used at different times of the day, so you can see where energy is wasted.”
