Home devices that draw power when off and should be unplugged
Electronics such as TVs, computers, and game consoles continue to draw small amounts of electricity in standby mode when switched off by remote or put to sleep. Experts advise unplugging these three devices at least when leaving home to avoid higher electricity bills.
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The number of technological products is increasing every day. Homes now contain many devices alongside televisions, from smart assistants and air purifiers to satellite devices and smart TV boxes. At the end of the month, electricity bills arrive higher than expected. Experts explained which devices must be unplugged when leaving home.
Electronic products used in homes, such as televisions, computers, and game consoles, can consume energy both while running and when turned off. The electricity consumed in the background by devices left plugged in can add extra costs to bills.
Most electronic devices do not completely power down when turned off with a remote control or put into sleep mode. These products continue to draw a small amount of electricity in standby mode so they can start up quickly again when given a command. With rising energy costs, completely turning off or unplugging unused devices stands out as a method to reduce unnecessary consumption.
Satellite receivers and digital broadcast boxes
Satellite receivers and digital TV boxes are among the most common sources of hidden energy consumption in homes. These hardware units, which remain plugged in even after the television is turned off, consume energy continuously in the background in some models. Completely turning off the devices during hours when they are not in use prevents ongoing power consumption.
Desktop and laptop computers
Turning off a computer's screen or putting the system into sleep mode does not completely shut down the hardware. Computers kept in sleep mode continue to draw power from the electrical grid to quickly restart the operating system. Directly shutting down desktop and portable computers that will not be used for a long time prevents this consumption.
Game consoles and background processes
Game consoles are among the hardware that can continue background tasks in standby mode when they appear to be turned off. While on standby, the systems check for software updates, continue downloads, or charge connected controllers. Turning off consoles only from the controller may not put the hardware into a full power-off state. Therefore, the energy-saving options in the device menus need to be reviewed.
Device-based shutdown measures
Choosing to completely turn off electronic products is important for reducing the uncontrolled consumption they cause. However, according to expert briefings, not every device needs to be constantly unplugged. For security hardware, systems at risk of data loss, or products requiring automatic updates, it is necessary to follow manufacturer instructions.
This article was translated from Turkish. Read the original article in Turkish.
