For most people turning off an appliance at its power button or via its remote is the norm.
When walking away from televisions, cell phone chargers or laptop computers we don’t think twice about leaving these appliances in standby mode and what it means.
And most of us don’t consider that when a light is still glowing on an appliance it’s still using power.
Here are some appliances standby myths so people can save a bit going into the new year issued by Eskom Integrated Demand Management.
Myth one: It uses no power
Standby mode was originally created so that appliances can power up quicker. In other words, big appliances such as televisions don’t have to be powered up from scratch and, instead, can be switched on faster. However, while an appliance in standby mode doesn’t use the same amount of electricity as it does when completely powered up, it still draws current.
Myth two: It’s cheaper to leave appliances in standby mode
According to research in the United Kingdom, leaving appliances in standby mode can account for about one-fifth of the energy usage reflected on a monthly electricity bill. Instead of wasting this money, simply unplug your appliances to ensure they are properly switched off and don’t use any electricity.
Myth three: Some devices draw less current, anyway
This is not the point about leaving devices in standby mode. Instead, the focus should be on the cumulative effect of having a range of devices in standby mode. If you start counting the television, or any type of entertainment device it begins to add up. So, yes, although it’s true that some appliances draw less current than others it’s even more true that switching off and unplugging appliances saves you money.
Myth four: It’s just a habit that can’t be broken
Prior to the Power Alert warnings on television, many people did not bother to switch off unnecessary lights, geysers and appliances. But now many do when they see a Power Alert. The same applies to unplugging appliances at the socket: It has to become a habit.
· There are, however, devices that can help you: Smart power strips cut power to anything plugged into it in standby mode, saving you energy and reducing your electricity bill. Whether in the office or at home, these strips are perfect to control the energy use of many appliances ranging from computers, laptops and televisions to printers, copiers and coffee machines.
Myth Five: Once your gadgets and appliances are charged they stop drawing current
We all think that once our laptops, tablets and smartphones are fully charged they stop drawing current. This is definitely a myth. A small amount of current is still being drawn if the devices are plugged in. Again, to avoid running up energy costs, charge your devices before going to bed and unplug chargers at the wall socket when done.
Myth Six: I don’t even know which appliances are on standby
Taking a walk around your home and making a list of the appliances in standby mode will help you to get into the habit of “switching off and unplugging at the wall socket”. Appliances that usually remain in standby mode include televisions, home theatre systems, computers, cordless phones, microwaves, and any other device with a remote control.
Final tip:
Remember that by unplugging at the wall socket, you will also prevent damage to devices should there be a power surge.
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