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Unplugging these common household devices will reduce your electricity bill – January 2026

Author/Source: ZDNET staff See the full link here

Takeaway

This article explains that many household electronics use electricity even when they are turned off. You will learn about which devices use the most “vampire power” and how unplugging them can help you save money on your electricity bill.

Technical Subject Understandability

Beginner

Analogy/Comparison

Devices that use “vampire power” are like a small leak in a water pipe that drips water all day, even when you are not using any water.

Why It Matters

These hidden electricity uses, called phantom loads, can make up 5% to 10% of a home’s electricity use, costing you extra money. For example, unplugging your microwave for a year could save you around $27.91.

Related Terms

Vampire drain, Phantom load. Jargon Conversion: Vampire drain is when electronics use a small amount of power even when turned off or in standby mode. Phantom load is another name for vampire drain, meaning devices are secretly using electricity.