Many people don’t realize that common household appliances continue to consume electricity even when turned off. These “energy vampires” can silently add $100 to $200 to your utility bill each year. For example, a single phone charger left plugged in—without even charging a phone—can waste about $9 annually.

Multiply that by several chargers, and the cost quickly adds up. Kitchen appliances like coffee makers and slow cookers can waste $20 to $25 each, even when idle. Entertainment systems are worse: gaming consoles in standby mode can drain over $100 per year. Office equipment such as computers and printers also draw power when not in use, costing another $80 annually.

Altogether, these devices can waste at least $147 per year—enough energy to run a refrigerator for nearly 10 months—and contribute to unnecessary CO2 emissions and potential fire risks. Fortunately, the fix is simple. Unplug devices when not in use or use smart power strips to automatically cut off standby power. This small change can save over 1,200 kWh a year, reduce emissions, lower fire risk, and put money back in your pocket. Unplugging is a smart, simple way to protect your home and the planet.