As inflation increases, many Pakistani citizens try to reduce their utility bills. Electricity prices are continuously rising, causing most people to be concerned when they see their monthly bills and do not understand why they are so high.
Vampire Energy: Understanding Unnecessary Consumption
The amount of electricity consumed in each household depends on their necessities. However, a common habit among people is a roughly 10% increase in electricity bills. Yes, this does happen. Many people keep plugs in the switch even after turning off various electrical appliances, resulting in these appliances consuming electricity in small amounts continuously. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this phenomenon is referred to as “vampire energy,” and people spend an additional $100 to $200 annually on this google.
Reducing Electricity Costs: Practical Steps
To learn more about these appliances, which, when unplugged, can reduce your monthly electricity bill by at least 5% to 10%:
Electricity Computer Equipment
Do you use desktop computers or laptops? Know that these devices consume electricity even when not in use. According to the U.S. Berkeley National Laboratory, leaving a desktop computer plugged in all the time can add over $23 to your annual bill. Similarly, a monitor costs about $1.53, while a modem or router consumes about $7 of electricity per year.
These devices can add about $40 to $50 to your annual electricity bill or $3 to $4 per month.
According to Pakistan’s standards, these devices can add approximately Rs. 1,000 to your monthly electric bill. This is just for one computer or router, while households often have more than one computer or laptop, so keeping their plugs unplugged can save you money.
Television (TV) and Set-Top Boxes
If you think the TV does not consume after being turned off with the remote control, this is a misconception. A standby TV consumes over $20 of additional electricity per year.
Similarly, a set-top box adds about $50 to your annual bill because its plug constantly remains on.
Electricity Speakers and Sound Systems
Stereo System
If you have a stereo set at home, it’s crucial to understand that it contributes significantly to your energy consumption. Each audio system adds about $10 to the annual energy bill. By turning it off when not in use, you can become more aware of your energy usage and save a few hundred rupees monthly.
Mobile Phone Charger
It’s common knowledge that every household has two to three mobile phones, which must be charged daily. People usually keep their chargers plugged into the socket even if they do not use them, so electricity is used constantly. Moreover, most people charge their mobile phones overnight, which leads to an additional monthly cost on bills ranging between one and two hundred rupees.
