Some household appliances may seem harmless in terms of electricity consumption, but if you don’t unplug them after use, they can significantly increase your monthly electricity bills. Here are six common devices that quietly consume power, along with tips on how to save energy safely.

1. Television
Turning off your TV using the remote only puts it in standby mode—it is not fully powered off. In standby mode, your TV continues to consume a small but continuous amount of electricity. Over time, this hidden consumption can add up.

However, it’s important not to unplug your TV abruptly while it’s still on, as this can reduce its lifespan or even cause electrical issues. Ideally, always turn off the TV using the remote before unplugging it. If your household will be away for several days or during a thunderstorm, make sure to power off first and then disconnect the plug for safety.

2. Microwave and Oven
Microwaves and ovens are essential appliances in every home, used year-round regardless of the season. This frequent usage means they consume a considerable amount of electricity.

To reduce unnecessary power consumption, always keep these appliances clean, as residue can make them work harder. Most importantly, unplug them when not in use. Even when turned off, many microwaves and ovens draw a small amount of “phantom” power if left plugged in.

3. Water Heater
Many people leave their water heaters plugged in after use, unaware that this wastes a significant amount of electricity. When the water temperature drops below the preset level, the heater automatically restarts to warm the water, consuming energy continuously.

To save electricity and reduce your bill, always unplug your water heater when not in use. Some modern heaters have timers or energy-saving modes, but unplugging is still the safest and most effective method to prevent unnecessary energy consumption.

4. Induction or Electric Stove
Induction and electric stoves are increasingly popular in modern households due to convenience and safety, as they reduce the risk of gas-related accidents. However, they are energy-intensive devices.

Always remember to monitor cooking times carefully and turn off the stove immediately after use. Unplugging the stove after cooking not only saves electricity but also extends the appliance’s lifespan and prevents potential safety hazards such as overheating or short circuits.

5. Phone Chargers
Many people leave phone chargers plugged in even when they are not connected to a device. While the electricity consumed in this state is small and may not make a noticeable dent in your bill, it is still wasted energy.

Moreover, leaving chargers plugged in can accelerate their aging process and increase the risk of electrical hazards, including short circuits or fires. To avoid both energy waste and potential danger, unplug chargers after use. If your outlet has a switch, you can simply turn it off instead.

6. Washing Machine
Washing machines are indispensable in every household, but they are also among the most energy-consuming appliances. To optimize electricity usage, unplug the machine after use.

In addition, using the washing machine efficiently is crucial. Avoid overloading or underloading it, as both practices waste electricity, water, and detergent. Choose the appropriate washing program for each load to save energy while maintaining the appliance’s longevity.

Final Tips:
Many household appliances continue to draw electricity even when turned off. This “phantom load” can significantly increase your monthly electricity bill over time. To save energy, always:

• Unplug devices after use.

• Use power strips with switches for multiple devices.

• Maintain and clean appliances regularly for optimal efficiency.

• Avoid unnecessary standby modes unless the appliance specifically needs them.

By following these simple practices, you can reduce electricity consumption, save money, and ensure the safety and longevity of your household appliances.