Do you turn off your appliances at the power point? And should you? When it comes to energy savings, leaving appliances on standby can account for at least ten percent of your electricity bill. This means you’re essentially paying for energy you’re not actually using. Naturally, you can’t switch off all appliances—your fridge, for instance, needs to stay on even if it’s only partially filled. The key is to focus on turning off the appliances that drain the most power when not in use, and those that can be turned off without causing disruption. Let’s look at some common appliances around the house.

Your TV and gaming consoles

Old TVs are among the worst offenders when it comes to power consumption. In contrast, newer TVs, especially those manufactured in recent years, adhere to stricter energy standards and are more energy-efficient. Despite this, it’s still a good practice to switch off your TV when not in use, as it can help save a bit of money each month.

Gaming consoles and sound bars, on the other hand, are much bigger culprits when it comes to energy usage. These devices can significantly increase your electricity bill if left on standby. Try to get into the habit of turning them off at the power point to save energy and reduce costs.

Washing machine, dishwasher, and microwave

You won’t be using these devices every day, and even when you do, it won’t be all day. If their power points are easily accessible, you can switch them off when not in use. Since they consume a lot of energy, adopting this habit can lead to noticeable savings on your energy bill. Wondering when the best time is to run appliances? Read more here.

Your internet and Wi-Fi connections

It’s easy to assume that most people don’t switch off their Wi-Fi because it’s in constant use. However, if you make a habit of turning it off while you sleep and ensuring your wireless modem is off when you’re away on holiday, you could save some money.

Your computer monitors and phone chargers

“Monitors are constantly drawing power. Battery chargers and charging devices are not regulated, so [their stand-by power use] depends on the decision that the company has made, whether they want to make an efficient device or not,” – Denis Gallagher, CHOICE’s home products expert. Phone chargers, however, aren’t a huge power drain, unless they are smart devices that connect to Wi-Fi.

You can’t turn off all your appliances at the power point, but you can switch off more than you might realise. Developing the habit of turning off appliances when they’re not in use can make it feel less like a chore and more like a routine part of your day. This small effort can lead to significant savings on your electricity bill, making it a worthwhile practice.

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Established in 2020, Tropical Solar and Electrical Services is a locally owned and operated company servicing homes and businesses throughout Mackay and surrounding areas including Moranbah, Sarina, Proserpine and Rockhampton. Whether it’s power on the roof or within the property, we’ll ensure it’s running as it should. Get in touch with our electrical experts today for a free quote. We’re available 24/7 for your convenience.