While there are several tips for saving electricity, there is one to follow if you want to save up to 100 euros per year. And this, simply by thinking about turning off this object.
In our home, we are generally equipped with many electrical appliances. Washing machine, dishwasher, oven, coffee maker, radiator… Almost all of them contribute to our daily comfort. The problem is that handling them also increases the electricity bill. But contrary to what you might think, it is not always the large devices that consume the most. The proof in particular with this object which, both on and off, is particularly energy-intensive. And it is… the computer in standby, whether portable or fixed.
According to a study conducted by the Environment and Energy Management Agency (Ademe) in France, a computer left on standby can consume on average between 2 and 21 watts, which equates to a consumption of approximately 17.52 kWh per year for a computer left on standby all night. Furthermore, a turned off computer is just as energy consuming as long as it remains plugged in, since it consumes around 70 watt hours [Wh] per day. Ademe estimates that a computer that remains on all year round, 24 hours a day, can cost up to 100 euros more per year on the electricity bill.
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Hunt down phantom drinks
Thus, the computer in standby falls into the category of “phantom consumption”, that is to say devices which continue to use electricity even though they have been turned off using the on/off button. Hidden consumption which can therefore have consequences on the electricity bill. This is the case for the television or the coffee machine, as well as certain lighting fixtures equipped with a dimmer. The main switch for these elements is located after the transformer. However, when plugged in, it consumes energy because the residual current continues to circulate.
For programmable devices that have a hidden standby and for cooking appliances, it is preferable to unplug them. The same goes for small household appliances, such as the espresso coffee maker or the multifunction robot… Be aware, however, that chronic unplugging may, in the long term, damage sockets and devices, particularly computers. On the other hand, it is not necessarily wise to unplug washing machines and dishwashers: standbys can be used to detect water leaks.
People and society journalist
Series, people, TV, society, Pauline likes to vary the subjects. A travel and pop culture fanatic, she is interested in all trends and has a small passion for…