The Vampire In Your Wall Socket: Why Unplugging Your Charger Matters | Tech News

Last Updated:June 23, 2025, 10:29 IST

Chargers use small amounts of electricity even when not charging a device. Unplugging them helps save energy, reduce bills, and prolong charger lifespan

Unplug your charger when not in use to save energy, cut costs, and live sustainably. (News18)

Your phone’s full, but the charger’s still plugged in. No harm done, right? Think again. That little plug might be sipping electricity; and your wallet won’t thank you for it.

Do Plugged-In Chargers Waste Power?

Many people leave their chargers plugged into sockets long after their phones have finished charging, assuming it does not harm. But according to energy experts, this habit does, in fact, waste electricity, albeit in small amounts.

Even when not connected to a phone, a charger continues to draw power. This is due to the internal transformer and circuitry that remain active and ready to charge, a phenomenon known as standby power or, more colourfully, ‘vampire power’.

What Is Vampire Power?

‘Vampire power’ refers to the small trickle of electricity consumed by devices that remain plugged in but are not actively in use.

While a single charger may use a minimal amount of energy, the cumulative effect across multiple devices, including chargers, televisions, and computers, can result in a noticeable increase in household electricity usage and, ultimately, your power bill.

Is It Really A Big Deal?

In isolation, the power consumed by one idle charger is barely noticeable. But in homes and offices filled with constantly plugged-in electronics, it adds up. Over time, this not only leads to unnecessary electricity consumption but can also shorten the life of your charger.

How To Reduce Energy Waste?

The solution is simple: unplug your charger when it’s not in use. Doing so helps conserve energy, cuts costs slightly, and supports more sustainable living. It’s a small habit change with long-term benefits, for both the planet and your pocket.

view comments

First Published: