Standby Power
2. Understanding Standby Consumption
Okay, so your AC might be using a tiny bit of electricity even when it’s off. But how much are we talking about? Is it enough to warrant unplugging the thing every time you’re not using it? Well, the amount of standby power varies from model to model. Generally, it’s in the range of a few watts. To put that into perspective, a traditional incandescent light bulb uses 40-60 watts, and an LED bulb might use 6-10 watts. So, we’re dealing with something significantly smaller.
However, these small amounts can add up over time. Think of it like this: a dripping faucet might not seem like much in the moment, but over days, weeks, and months, it can waste a surprising amount of water. Similarly, that small standby power consumption can contribute to your overall electricity bill.
Estimates vary, but some studies suggest that standby power can account for a noticeable percentage of a household’s total energy consumption. That’s why it’s worth considering the impact of multiple appliances, not just your AC unit. Your TV, microwave, coffee maker, and even your phone charger can all contribute to this “phantom load.”
The good news is that newer appliances are generally more energy-efficient and use less standby power than older models. Many modern AC units are designed to minimize standby consumption to meet energy efficiency standards. But even with these improvements, it’s still a good idea to be mindful of standby power and take steps to reduce it where possible.