Modern smartphones boast improved battery life, often lasting throughout the day. Consequently, many people charge their phones overnight and leave the charger connected to the power source. But does this practice consume a lot of energy and money when the phone is not being charged? Let’s explore the implications.
Charger Consumption When Idle
Today’s smartphones and chargers are designed with smart technology that prevents overcharging. When the phone’s battery is full, the charging process stops, ensuring the battery’s health. Once the phone is unplugged, the charger’s energy consumption diminishes significantly. According to FACUA, leaving a charger connected to the power source without any device connected to it typically results in minimal phantom consumption. On average, this idle charger consumes around 0.0002 kWh. Over the course of a year, if the charger is left connected for roughly 16 hours per day (excluding the time the mobile phone is plugged in), the total phantom consumption adds up to about 1.168 kWh, costing just a few cents annually. Therefore, in terms of electricity costs, leaving a charger plugged in without a device connected is not a significant concern.
Other Risks and Considerations
While the negligible energy consumption might not be an issue, there are valid reasons not to leave your charger plugged in continuously. One primary concern is the risk of overheating, which can lead to a fire hazard. This danger becomes more pronounced when the charger is positioned near flammable materials like sheets, blankets, or pillows.
Leaving a charger connected to the power source with hanging cables can pose risks to children or pets. These cables can entangle and endanger little ones and animals, potentially causing injuries.
Additionally, the charger itself can degrade over time due to the constant bending and twisting of the cable. While this issue is less severe than safety hazards, it’s still worth considering.
In conclusion, the minor energy consumption associated with keeping a charger plugged in is not a major concern. However, the potential safety risks, especially those related to fire hazards and the well-being of children and pets, make it advisable to unplug the charger when not in use. This practice also helps extend the lifespan of the charger and reduces the risk of accidents in the home.