This is the appliance that consumes the most electricity in a house, even when it is turned off.
Although it may seem harmless when the screen is black, the television can be one of the household appliances that consumes the most energy, even when it's not in use. This happens for a simple but little-known reason: many current models remain in standby mode , a feature that allows them to be quickly turned on with the remote control, but which entails constant electricity consumption.
Standby mode keeps some internal components of the TV active, such as the remote control receiver and certain electronic circuits. While the consumption may seem minimal—ranging from 1 to 5 watts depending on the model—when connected 24/7, this constant consumption can represent up to 10% of a home's total electricity consumption , especially if more than one device is connected in this mode.
This phenomenon isn't limited to televisions. Other devices , such as microwaves with digital clocks , set-top boxes, video game consoles, and even unused cell phone chargers , also contribute to so-called phantom power consumption .
In addition to unnecessary energy consumption, leaving your TV plugged in permanently can pose certain electrical risks, especially during storms or power outages. Power surges that occur when the power is restored can damage the device's internal circuitry, reduce its lifespan, or even render it unusable.
Electrical safety experts also warn that these types of events can cause short circuits if the home's electrical system is not properly protected.
If you use antenna TV service, this can also pose a risk to your TV during a storm. Turning it off isn't enough, as an electrical shock can damage it even if it's not turned on. Therefore, during severe storms, it's recommended to disconnect both the power supply and any network connections. This simple habit can prevent serious and irreparable damage to your appliances.
To avoid unnecessary power consumption and protect your TV, it's best to unplug it completely when not in use , especially if you'll be away from home for several days. This eliminates energy waste in standby mode and reduces the risk of damage due to power fluctuations.
A practical option is to use outlet switches. This way, you can turn off multiple devices at once, cutting off the power supply without having to unplug each one.
Surge protectors can also be installed. These devices are placed between the outlet and the TV and shut off power if voltage surges occur that could damage the equipment.
Finally, when purchasing a new television, it's a good idea to choose models with low energy consumption, both when on and in standby mode . This helps save energy and reduce electricity bills.
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