Home Appliances That Consume Your Tokens Even When They Are Turned Off

Many households assume that once an appliance is switched off, it stops using electricity. However, that is not always the case.

According to Kenya Power, some appliances continue drawing electricity even when they appear to be turned off. This phenomenon is known as phantom loading or standby power, and it can account for up to 10% of a household's electricity bill.

While the amount consumed by a single device may seem insignificant, the combined impact of several appliances running in standby mode throughout the day can noticeably increase your monthly token expenditure.

Here are some common household appliances that may be quietly consuming electricity even when they are not in active use.

Also Read: How to Check if Your Fridge is Costing You More Tokens at Home

1. Smart TVs

Most Smart TVs do not completely power down when switched off using a remote control.

Instead, they enter standby mode, which is usually indicated by a small red light. While in this mode, the television continues drawing a small amount of electricity so it can respond instantly when switched back on.

Over time, this standby consumption can add up, particularly in households where the TV remains plugged in around the clock.

To reduce unnecessary electricity use, consider switching off the television at the wall socket when it is not being used, especially overnight or when leaving the house for extended periods.

2. Microwaves

Microwave ovens are another common source of phantom power consumption. Even when not heating food, many microwaves keep their digital clocks, display screens and internal systems running continuously. This means they consume electricity 24 hours a day.

Although the amount used may seem small, the cumulative effect over months and years can contribute to higher electricity bills.

Switching off the socket or unplugging the microwave when it is not needed can help eliminate this hidden power consumption.

Also Read: How to Buy Tokens Using New Kenya Power App

3. Phone Chargers

Phone chargers are often left plugged into wall sockets long after phones have been disconnected.

While a charger without a connected device consumes relatively little electricity, it still draws a small amount of power.

The impact becomes more significant in households where several chargers remain plugged in throughout the day and night.

Developing the habit of unplugging chargers after use can help reduce unnecessary energy consumption and improve safety by lowering the risk of overheating.

4. Wi-Fi Routers

Wi-Fi routers operate continuously to maintain internet connectivity.

Although a single router may not consume a large amount of electricity, it runs every hour of every day, including periods when nobody is actively using the internet.

For households that do not require internet access overnight, switching off the router before going to bed and turning it back on in the morning can help reduce electricity consumption.

However, this may not be practical for homes that rely on internet-connected devices such as security cameras or smart home systems.

5. Gaming Consoles

Gaming consoles are among the most overlooked sources of standby power usage.

Many consoles continue consuming electricity even after gameplay has ended. Some remain connected to the internet to download updates, charge wireless controllers or maintain background services.

Depending on the model and settings, this standby consumption can be significant over time.

To minimise energy use, activate the console's energy-saving features and fully shut it down when it is not being used rather than leaving it in standby mode.

How to Reduce Phantom Power Consumption

One of the simplest ways to reduce electricity bills is to identify appliances that consume standby power and switch them off at the socket when they are not needed.

Power strips with on/off switches can also make it easier to disconnect multiple devices at once.

While phantom loading may not seem like a major issue, eliminating unnecessary standby power can help households save money over time and get more value from every electricity token purchased.