Its daily use is one of the main contributors to rising electricity bills.
Energy efficiency in households has become a priority in order to reduce the cost of electricity and the environmental impact. An important factor is the silent use of certain appliances that continue to consume energy even when switched off. Identifying and controlling these appliances is essential to optimise electricity consumption and increase energy efficiency in the home.
Among household appliances, the main culprits of ‘vampire’ consumption are Smart TVs. Designed to remain in a constant state of wakefulness, these devices maintain active functions that require electricity even when not in use. This article looks at how to reduce the impact of this hidden consumption.
What is the ‘vampiric’ consumption of smart TVs?
Smart TVs continue to consume energy despite being switched off, for functions such as updating the operating system and connecting to the internet. This consumption can range from 0.5 to 3 watts, which is between 2.25% and 5% of total energy consumption. While these percentages may seem small, they add up to a significant cost over time.
How can I reduce my home energy consumption?
To reduce unnecessary consumption, it is advisable to disconnect unused appliances from the mains. Another effective option is to use power strips with switches that allow you to switch off the power to several appliances at once. This practice not only helps to reduce electricity bills, but also contributes to saving the environment.
Is it advisable to switch off the Smart TV completely?
Switching off the TV completely is a common recommendation to reduce electricity consumption. This action not only saves on bills but also protects the device from possible short circuits. However, for models with OLED displays, it is better to leave the TV on standby as these devices undergo a compensation cycle to repair damaged pixels. Interrupting this process can affect the picture quality and the lifetime of the TV.
What other devices should I check?
In addition to the TV, you should check other connected devices such as speakers and games consoles, which also consume electricity during standby mode. Switching off these devices when they are not in use can lead to significant savings. Using smart power strips with WiFi, you can monitor your consumption from your mobile phone and help you manage your home energy.
The importance of switching off these appliances to save energy
Switching off devices and disconnecting them from the mains when they are not in use is an effective way to save energy. By making small changes to your daily habits, you can optimise your electricity consumption and contribute to saving the environment without sacrificing comfort at home.
What are the most commonly used household appliances?
The main household appliances that have a major impact on our daily lives are the clock, the toilet, the refrigerator, the washing machine, the telephone, the sound recorder, the TV, the air conditioner, the microwave and the computer. These appliances not only optimise the performance of various daily tasks, but also contribute to comfort and efficiency.
What was the first household appliance in history?
At the beginning of the 20th century, the first electric and gas-powered household appliances began to appear, including fans, water heaters, toasters and sewing machines. Together with the washing machine, these appliances are considered to be the pioneers of household electrification, ushering in the era of domestic appliances.
Which appliance uses the least energy?
The appliance that consumes the least energy is usually an LED light bulb, which, depending on its wattage and brightness, consumes only 5 to 15 watts. However, for the most commonly used household appliances, the mobile phone charger is one of the lowest energy consuming devices, using around 2 to 6 watts during charging.
