Most of us leave our phone chargers plugged in even when they’re not in use. It’s convenient—ready to go whenever our battery drops to a dreaded 10%. But have you ever wondered how much this simple habit adds to your electricity bill?
Chargers Consume Power Even When Idle
While a charger that’s plugged in but not actively charging may seem harmless, it does draw a small amount of electricity. Known as standby power, this residual energy use can add up over time, especially if you have multiple chargers sitting idle.
How Much Does It Really Cost?
The cost of leaving a charger plugged in depends on its age and the standards it was built to meet. European regulations, for instance, have progressively reduced the amount of electricity that electronics can consume when idle.
- Chargers made after 2022 are required to consume no more than 0.10W when not in use. Left plugged in 24/7, these newer chargers would use around 0.876 kWh of electricity annually. At an average rate of $0.25 per kWh, that’s less than $0.22 per year.
- Chargers from 2011 to 2022 have a slightly higher maximum standby consumption of 0.30W. These would use about 2.6 kWh annually, costing roughly $0.65.
- Older models from 2010 or earlier could consume 0.5W or more. Over a year, that translates to 4.3 kWh, costing $1.08—still a modest sum.
However, the numbers can climb if electricity rates increase. For example, at $0.50 per kWh, these costs would double.
What About Really Old Chargers?
Before strict regulations, some chargers consumed 0.75W to 1W or even more. These could cost over $1.60 per year in standby power. While not a huge expense, having multiple old chargers plugged in could add up, both financially and environmentally.
The Bigger Picture: Energy Waste and Safety Risks
Although the cost of leaving a single charger plugged in is minimal, the energy wasted across millions of households worldwide adds up. Unused chargers left in sockets unnecessarily consume power, contributing to energy waste that could otherwise be avoided.
Moreover, keeping chargers plugged in 24/7 carries safety risks. Cheap, unbranded chargers often sold on sites like Amazon, Temu, or AliExpress may not meet safety standards, increasing the risk of malfunctions or even fires. Over time, any charger—whether high-quality or not—can wear out, further increasing these risks.
Should You Unplug Your Charger?
Yes, it’s a good idea to unplug chargers when not in use, especially older or off-brand models. Not only does this help reduce unnecessary energy consumption, but it also minimizes wear and potential hazards. Plus, forming the habit of unplugging devices is a simple step toward a more energy-efficient lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
While the financial impact of idle chargers is small, the environmental and safety implications are worth considering. Unplugging your charger might not dramatically lower your bill, but it’s a small, easy step toward reducing energy waste and staying safe. Every little bit counts—both for your wallet and the planet.