Why you should never leave your phone charger plugged in without your phone plugged in.
In today’s tech-centric world, a plugged-in phone charger has become a common sight in homes, often even when a device isn’t actively charging. This common practice raises questions about energy consumption, safety, and the impact on your electricity bill. There are a few reasons why leaving your charger plugged in without your phone isn’t as harmless as it seems.
The power of a phone charger
Chargers consume power even when a device isn’t actively charging. A test using an original Apple phone charger found it consumed approximately 130W of power per month, equivalent to 1.5kWh per year. While this may seem negligible at first glance, the cumulative effect becomes significant when multiple chargers are considered.1 It’s important to consider the number of chargers in use and their individual power consumption. Larger chargers tend to consume more power, and non-original chargers can consume significantly more, up to 10 to 20 times more, depending on the test. Furthermore, the environmental impact of millions of chargers running continuously cannot be ignored, as they contribute to higher kilowatt-hour and CO2 emissions.
Fire Hazard: A Real Concern
A plugged-in phone charger poses a potential fire hazard. Overheated chargers, especially when buried under objects such as clothing or books, can lead to elevated temperatures and pose a fire hazard. This danger is further aggravated by low-quality, unbranded chargers that may not meet safety standards.2 Energy expert Glenn LaMay assures that leaving a phone charger plugged in all day is not a fire hazard, as all electrical devices, including chargers, must pass safety tests before being sold to consumers.3
Unused phone charger = higher electricity bill
A plugged-in phone charger can contribute to higher electricity bills. Even when a phone isn’t actively charging, the charger continues to draw power from the wall outlet. The cumulative effect of multiple chargers constantly consuming energy adds up over time, leading to an unnecessary increase in electricity costs. While the individual cost per charger may seem minimal, the annual cost for a dozen chargers can be significant. For example, the total cost of leaving five chargers plugged in constantly is approximately $0.37 per year, highlighting the financial impact of this seemingly harmless habit.4
Energy Waste: A Silent Contribution
Aside from the financial implications, plugging in a phone charger wastes energy. This seemingly inconspicuous electricity consumption contributes to home heating and increases environmental pollution. Given the increasing importance of environmental sustainability, minimizing unnecessary energy consumption becomes crucial.
While smartphone and tablet chargers have almost no phantom load, power tool chargers, especially older ones, can be significant energy hogs. Identifying and unplugging inefficient chargers is a practical step toward reducing energy waste. Consulting a lawyer can provide insight into any legal implications related to energy waste and property safety.
Leaving your phone charger plugged in without a device connected has its pitfalls. Beyond the financial aspects, there are legitimate concerns about energy waste, potential fire hazards, and their environmental impact. To mitigate these risks, it’s wise to unplug chargers when not in use, invest in smart outlets for remote control, and prioritize safety by choosing high-quality, brand-name appliances. Additionally, getting auto insurance quotes can ensure you’re covered for any potential damage from electrical fires. As we move into the digital age, small changes to our charging habits, coupled with considerations like life insurance for added peace of mind, can all contribute to a more sustainable and safer living environment.
