Stand-by Power

Stand-by power is the energy consumed by an appliance when it is plugged in but not in use. It has been estimated that stand-by power costs Australians more than $950 million a year.

  • Program your computer to power down your printer, scanners and copiers when you turn off your computer.
  • When investigating stand-by power in your home look for appliances that have lights; that are warm; or make a humming noise when they are not in use.
  • Make sure that ALL appliances that have transformers are switched off at the wall, not only do they use stand-by power but they are also a fire hazard.
  • Consider installing timers on products that are used at regular intervals.
  • Use a power board with separate switches to access hard to reach plugs.
  • TV Stand-by Killer Switches are available from hardware stores - this gadget allows you to shut off the stand-by power consumption of your entertainment system using your remote control.