Unplug appliances when not in use

Impact

Switching off appliances when not in use could save 101 kg CO2e per person a year.

‍

Why this pledge is so important

• Our household appliances account for about 30% of our home energy use. Many appliances keep drawing power even when they’re switched off but still plugged in. This standby power can make up around 10% of your electricity use. 
• In Australia, the growing number of always-on devices, like smart TVs and speakers, contributes to unnecessary energy consumption and higher electricity bills. By turning off appliances at the wall when they’re not in use, you can save money and cut down your carbon footprint.
• The standby energy used across Australia adds up to a significant amount of extra greenhouse gases. Appliances in standby mode consume energy that could otherwise be saved, leading to both financial savings and environmental benefits.

4 reasons why we should switch off appliances

1. Save money: Reducing standby power can lower your electricity bill by up to 10%.
2. Reduce carbon footprint: Reducing energy consumption decreases greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Increase appliance lifespan: Turning off appliances can extend their life by preventing unnecessary wear.
4. Promote energy efficiency: Encouraging energy-saving habits at work and at home helps promote a culture of efficiency.

5 easy appliance swaps

1. Use smart power strips: Automatically cut power to devices that go into standby mode.
2. Unplug chargers: Disconnect phone and laptop chargers when not in use.
3. Turn off TVs and consoles: Switch off these devices at the wall when not being watched or played.
4. Power down computers: Shut down or sleep mode computers and laptops instead of leaving them on.‍
5. Use timers: Install timers to switch off devices like lights and fans automatically.

• Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources, Australian Government
• CHOICE Article on Standby Energy Use
• CHOICE Article on Appliance Energy Use
• Australian Government - Your Home