Standby (phantom) power calculator
Tick what you have, adjust counts and watts, and see what your always-on devices cost a year.
| Have it | Device | Standby watts | How many | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cable/satellite DVR box | ||||
| Game console in "instant on"/rest mode | ||||
| Desktop PC asleep + speakers | ||||
| TV (standby, network on) | ||||
| Soundbar / AV receiver | ||||
| Wi-Fi router + modem | ||||
| Printer (idle) | ||||
| Microwave clock | ||||
| Coffee maker (clock/hot plate idle) | ||||
| Phone/laptop chargers left plugged in | ||||
| Smart speakers | ||||
| Garage door opener | ||||
| Doorbell transformer | ||||
| Second fridge/freezer in garage (not standby, always on) | ||||
| Electric toothbrush charger | ||||
| Streaming sticks/boxes | ||||
| Computer monitors (sleep) | ||||
| Home security panel/cameras |
Fixes that pay back fastest
Cuts power to TV, console and audio accessories automatically when the main device turns off.
See options on AmazonMeasures what a device really draws and lets you schedule it fully off overnight.
See options on AmazonFinds the worst standby offenders in minutes, so you know what to unplug.
See options on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. It never changes the numbers we show. Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
How much electricity do devices use when turned off?
Plenty of “off” electronics keep drawing power for clocks, remote sensors, network wake-up and chargers. Studies by Lawrence Berkeley National Lab put a typical home's always-on standby load at 30–60 W, or 250–500 kWh a year. That can be 5–10% of a bill.
Do smart power strips really save money?
Yes, for clusters such as TV and entertainment setups or computer desks. An advanced strip cuts power to accessories when the main device turns off. Eliminating 30 W of standby saves about 260 kWh a year.