The question of whether household appliances consume hidden power when on standby has sparked widespread concern and debate. One person might suggest, "It's best to unplug the device after turning it off," while another quickly counters, "But repeatedly plugging and unplugging can damage the appliance." So, how much electricity do these devices really use in standby mode? Should you unplug them or not? It’s a confusing topic.
Before leaving home, you might remember to turn off the lights, water, and air conditioning, but one thing you often forget is unplugging your devices. You may think that simply switching off the appliance is enough, but in reality, as long as the plug remains in the socket, the device is still in standby mode—consuming power quietly. Over the course of a year, this could add up to hundreds of yuan in extra electricity costs. Worse yet, leaving devices plugged in can also pose a fire hazard. Therefore, it’s safer to unplug appliances when they're not in use.
But is it necessary to unplug every single appliance? Many people believe that using a remote control to turn off a TV or air conditioner is sufficient. However, even with the remote, the device remains in a live state, continuing to draw power. Some appliances, like set-top boxes, consume significant energy in standby mode. In fact, some devices are designed to stay "on" for convenience, which means they’re actually in a false standby state. These devices can waste over 100 kWh per year, costing an additional 50 yuan in electricity.
For example, if an air conditioner uses 1.11 watts in standby, it will consume 9.72 kWh annually, costing about 4.8 yuan. A washing machine with 2 watts of standby power would use 17.5 kWh, costing around 8.8 yuan. A computer host with 4.8 watts of standby power would use 42 kWh, costing 21 yuan. While each appliance may seem insignificant individually, the total cost across all devices in a home can be quite high.
Experts warn that some appliances, like air conditioners and water dispensers, are especially dangerous when left plugged in for long periods. Their high power consumption and heat generation can lead to overheating, insulation damage, and even fires. Air conditioners, in particular, can become a fire risk if left unattended for extended periods.
However, not all appliances need to be unplugged. Devices with physical power switches, such as fans, ovens, and televisions (when the power switch is turned off), typically don’t consume much power in standby. But for devices with remote controls—like air conditioners, Blu-ray players, and set-top boxes—the receiver remains active, continuously drawing power.
To avoid unnecessary energy waste, consider using smart sockets that allow you to cut off power remotely. This way, you can save money and reduce risks. Also, during thunderstorms, always unplug devices to protect them from lightning surges.
In summary, while some appliances are safe to leave plugged in, many others can silently drain electricity and pose safety hazards. Unplugging devices when not in use is a simple yet effective way to save energy and prevent potential dangers.
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