Vampire appliances continue to draw electricity from the grid even when turned off. So essentially, you're paying for additional electricity while these appliances are on standby — and it adds up to more than you might think.
What Are Vampire Appliances?
Vampire appliances (also called standby power consumers or energy vampires) are electrical devices that consume power even when they appear to be switched off. They typically remain in a "standby" or "sleep" mode, waiting for a remote control signal, to display a clock, or to maintain network connectivity.
The Most Common Vampire Appliances
1. Televisions
Modern smart TVs can draw 1–5 watts in standby mode. Multiplied across all the hours you're not watching, this adds up to a meaningful annual cost.
2. Set-Top Boxes and Streaming Devices
These are often the worst offenders. Some set-top boxes draw nearly as much power in standby as when in use, particularly older cable/satellite boxes.
3. Gaming Consoles
PlayStation and Xbox consoles can draw 10–100+ watts in "instant on" standby mode. Switching to "energy saving" mode dramatically reduces this.
4. Phone Chargers and Adaptors
Chargers left plugged in with no device connected still draw a small amount of power. Individually tiny, but multiplied across every charger in your home, it contributes to your bill.
5. Microwaves and Ovens
Any appliance with a LED clock display is drawing power constantly. Microwaves with digital clocks typically use 2–7 watts 24/7.
6. Desktop Computers and Monitors
Even in sleep mode, computers and monitors can draw 1–10 watts. Fully shutting down overnight eliminates this waste.
How Much Does Standby Power Cost?
The New Zealand Government estimates that standby power accounts for approximately 10% of the average household electricity bill. In a home spending $2,000 per year on electricity, that's $200 wasted on appliances that aren't even in use.
How Solar Power Helps
While the best first step is to reduce standby consumption (using power boards with switches, fully powering off devices), solar power neutralises the cost of residual standby usage by covering it with free electricity from the sun during daylight hours.
Pair solar with a home battery system and your vampire appliances effectively run for free, day and night — without drawing a cent from the grid.
Ready to Fight Back Against Your Energy Bill?
Contact EFS Solar today for a free quote. Our team will design a solar system that covers not just your obvious electricity use — but all the hidden consumption too.