They advise against using this type of phone charger unless you want unpleasant surprises on your electricity bill.y bill.
With electricity prices constantly fluctuating, and every savings, no matter how small, counts, many users are attempting to reduce their energy consumption while maintaining convenience. However, some everyday habits can add unnecessary expenses to our bills without our knowledge. One such habit is to keep your mobile phone charger plugged in even when not in use. While it may appear harmless at first glance, the energy consumption of these devices in standby mode, particularly older models, accumulates over time and is reflected in your electricity bill.
Although a charger's power consumption is minimal when not in use, it does accumulate over time. According to EU data, a charger can consume up to 2.5 kWh per year if left plugged in but not connected to another charging device. This consumption, though seemingly small, represents unnecessary expenses on the electricity bill that can be easily avoided by unplugging the charger when not in use.
To make matters worse, in addition to energy consumption, leaving a charger plugged in when not in use can pose safety risks. Overheating chargers, especially low-quality or uncertified ones, can cause sparks and even fires. Therefore, it is essential to use certified chargers whenever possible and avoid leaving them plugged in when not in use.
It's obvious that standby power consumption varies from charger to charger. Since 2022, EU regulations have mandated that standby power consumption for chargers sold on the European market must not exceed 0.10 watt-hours. However, chargers manufactured since 2011 may consume up to 0.30 watt-hours, while those manufactured before 2010 may consume up to 0.50 watt-hours. This means that an older charger could consume five times more electricity than a newer one.
Recommendations for reducing risks and consumption:
- Unplug the charger when not in use: This simple step prevents unnecessary power consumption and potential overheating.
- Use electrical outlets with switches: they make it easier to disconnect multiple devices at once, improving safety and energy efficiency.
- Avoid charging devices on flammable surfaces Do not place your phone on beds, sofas, or near flammable materials while charging.
- Use certified chargers: they ensure safety and efficiency standards, reducing the risk of accidents.