You wouldn’t leave your car running overnight, but chances are you’re doing something just as wasteful in your home without even realizing it. The average household spends hundreds of dollars each year powering electronics and appliances that are barely being used. Known as “phantom power” or “vampire energy,” this quiet drain comes from devices that suck electricity even when they’re turned off or in standby mode.
It’s not just a minor leak. Depending on the number of devices you own and how they’re used, this invisible power draw can cost you $200 or more annually. And the worst part? Most of these gadgets are completely avoidable power hogs. All it takes is a few smart changes to take back control of your bill.
Here’s a look at the top 10 everyday items that are secretly inflating your energy costs and how you can stop the silent drain for good.
1. Cable Boxes and DVRs
Even when turned off, most cable boxes are in standby mode, continuously drawing between 15 to 25 watts. Add a DVR into the mix, and your energy costs can skyrocket, especially since these units are typically plugged in 24/7.
What to do: Use a smart power strip that turns off auxiliary devices when the TV is off. Or consider streaming alternatives that use less energy.
2. Game Consoles
Gaming systems like PlayStation and Xbox don’t just consume power when you’re playing. They continue to pull electricity in standby mode, sometimes nearly as much as during active use.
What to do: Set auto-shutdown timers or unplug them when not in use for long periods.
3. Microwaves with Clocks
You’re not just paying to reheat leftovers. That glowing digital clock on your microwave? It runs 24/7 and contributes to your bill even if you rarely use the appliance.
What to do: Unplug it when not in use or switch to a power-saving model.
4. Desktop Computers and Monitors
If you’re leaving your desktop computer and monitor on overnight or all day while you’re away, you’re bleeding energy—and money.
What to do: Enable energy-saving sleep settings and shut down completely when not in use.
5. Printers
Home printers are infamous for drawing power even when idle, especially older models. That blinking light you ignore? It’s costing you.
What to do: Plug into a smart power strip or shut it off entirely unless you’re actively printing.
6. Coffee Makers
Coffee makers with built-in clocks and timers are another surprising culprit. That warm plate function alone can drain quite a bit of energy throughout the day.
What to do: Use a manual brewer or unplug programmable units when not in use.
7. Chargers Left Plugged In
Phone, tablet, and laptop chargers continue to draw a small but steady amount of power even when the device isn’t connected. Multiply that across a household, and the dollars add up.
What to do: Unplug them or use a charging station with an on/off switch.
8. Smart Home Devices
Devices like smart speakers, doorbells, and assistants are “always on” by design. While individually small, collectively, they make a bigger impact on your energy bill than you’d think.
What to do: Only install what you truly need, and consider disabling unused features like ambient listening or voice activation.
9. Televisions
Modern flat-screen TVs use energy even when powered “off,” especially if they’re connected to Wi-Fi or set to respond to voice commands.
What to do: Turn off energy-draining features in the settings or use a master power switch.
10. Wi-Fi Routers and Modems
These are devices that rarely, if ever, get turned off. While essential, they still consume electricity 24/7, whether anyone is using the internet or not.
What to do: Consider turning them off overnight (especially if you have no security systems dependent on them) or upgrading to more energy-efficient models.
Cut the Cord on Phantom Costs
You don’t need to live like a minimalist to slash your electric bill. Most people can cut $100–$200 annually just by identifying and unplugging these quiet energy drains. That’s money back in your pocket for virtually no effort.
Taking control of your electricity use isn’t about sacrifice. It’s about awareness. With the right tools, affordable electricity plans and a few habit tweaks, you can stop letting idle gadgets bleed your wallet dry.
What phantom device surprised you the most, or did we miss one you’ve already tackled at home?
Read More:
Your Electric Bill Is Too High! Try These 10 Tricks to Cut Costs Fast
10 Utility Bill Savings You Can Put Into Place Right Now
Riley Schnepf is an Arizona native with over nine years of writing experience. From personal finance to travel to digital marketing to pop culture, she’s written about everything under the sun. When she’s not writing, she’s spending her time outside, reading, or cuddling with her two corgis.
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