“Costly ‘Vampire’ Devices Draining Energy in Australian Homes”
Many households in Australia are unknowingly plagued by ‘vampire’ devices that drain energy and inflate electricity bills. These appliances don’t fully power down when not in use. Instead, they enter standby mode, continuously consuming electricity without alerting the user.
Understanding Vampire Devices
Common examples of vampire appliances include:
- Microwaves displaying the time.
- Smart TVs waiting for remote commands.
- Chargers left plugged into outlets.
Energy Consumption Insights
Recent research conducted by Canstar.com.au highlights that advancements in energy efficiency have reduced the power consumption of these devices over the years. While the phenomenon of phantom power was once a significant contributor to high energy costs, modern appliances draw considerably less power.
For instance, the standby power usage of microwaves has decreased from four watts two decades ago to just one watt today. This improvement signifies a shift towards more energy-efficient technology.
Costs Associated with Vampire Appliances
Current analysis shows that vampire devices contribute approximately $0.14 daily to household expenses, totaling about $49 annually. This figure accounts for roughly 3 percent of an average electricity bill.
Here are typical standby costs for common devices:
| Device | Annual Cost ($) |
|---|---|
| Smart TV | 10.52 |
| Microwave | 2.75 |
| Games Console | 9.47 |
| Laptop | 3.83 |
| Smart Speaker | 5.74 |
Tips to Reduce Energy Consumption
To further lower energy bills, Canstar suggests several effective strategies:
- Unplug devices when they are not in use.
- Create a habit of switching off appliances nightly.
- Opt for energy-efficient models when purchasing new devices.
- Consider switching electricity plans for better savings.
For example, a household in Sydney could potentially save up to $294 annually by transitioning from an average-priced electricity plan to a more economical option. By taking these steps, homeowners can effectively combat the hidden costs associated with vampire devices and enhance their energy efficiency.
