How much electricity do devices consume when they are turned off but connected?

Chances are, you have a few electronic devices in your home that are contributing to your energy bills even when they’re turned off. This type of power consumption is commonly referred to as “vampire current,” although we prefer the term “background consumption.” Either way, here’s how much power your off-but-plugged-in devices use, and which ones are the most common, so you can perhaps unplug some and give your pocket and the planet a break.

How much power does the device consume when turned off?

According to the International Energy Agency, “background” electricity consumption accounts for between 5% and 10% of total household consumption. And while we think some devices on this list are or should be plugged in (like your router, although there are some exceptions), others may well be unplugged most of the time.

TV

A 55-inch LCD screen with full illumination usually consumes about 180 watts, however, many models usually have a standby mode that is activated when we “turn off” the TV and consumes about 2 watts.

microwave oven

Without a doubt, this is one of the most energy-consuming appliances: its power is 1400 watts. However, when it is not in use, but plugged in, it consumes 3 watts. And if you are the kind of person who leaves the door open to ventilate and prevent odors from lingering, well, it consumes about 26 watts.

electric grill

An electric grill typically uses about 340 watts per burner when lit. However, if it remains plugged in, a standby mode is activated that uses 4 watts.

Air conditioner

Air conditioning is another major consumer of electricity and, paradoxically, a major contributor to global warming, with an average consumption of 3,000 to 3,500 watts. However, when it is turned off but plugged in, it consumes one watt.

Router

A DSL router consumes about 5 watts, but if it is turned off and connected to the network, it consumes about 1.5 watts, which is quite low. By the way, here we talk about the reasons why it would be a good idea to unplug it from the network, as well as why it is worth leaving it on.

PC

A desktop computer typically uses around 200 watts, but if your computer has a latest-generation graphics card, it can consume up to 600 watts. In sleep mode, PCs typically consume around 20 watts, and when turned off but plugged in, around 2.8 watts.

Laptop

A laptop’s power consumption is typically between 30 and 70 watts depending on the type of laptop, with gaming laptops consuming the most power. In standby mode, its consumption drops to 3 watts, and when turned off but plugged in, it consumes around 0.2 watts. Just remember that there are important reasons not to leave it on.