Vampire loads

Vampire loads, vampire power, energy or phantom loads are terms used to describe the often overseen phenomenon of household appliances that use power when they are not in use. Devices that are continuously connected by a power supply when not in use, such as when in standby mode or when connected to the internet continuously require power. Whilst product manufacturers are increasingly aware of the issue, there are also an increasing number of devices that continue to use power when not in use.

Plug load control (also known as receptacle control) is the practice of using smart technology to control energy consumed by devices that are plugged in but are not in operation. These devices may be in a dormant mode, but they can still draw energy loads (or vampire loads) when not in operation.

Smart occupancy sensors can be used to turn off plug loads automatically when the space is not occupied. Smart controls can record usage and then operate according to schedules, so devices are turned off at regular intervals (such as nights and weekends) when spaces are not in use

British gas has at various points published studies indicating the level of the issue, such as vampire devices drain £2.2BN from UK households (2021) or £147 per year (2022), which can amount to between 5 and 25% of a yearly household energy bill. Whilst many vampire culprits are increasingly well known such as television or games consoles left on standby, the increasing use of smart technology in the home equally often needs to remain on and connected when not in use.

Purchasing higher rated devices as well as turning off devices that do not need to remain on standby can significantly help manage the issue. However many other devices can also surprisingly drain energy supplies such as kettles, washing machines, dishwashers and ovens.

Vampire power concerns devices that require constant power when on standby mode, other aspects to consider are the times when devices are used in terms of grid supply such as making use of variable tarifs and economy seven rates, when demand for energy is lower.

For further guidance on managing home energy use visit the energy savings trust website.

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