Device standby inputs
Add your always-on devices, then estimate how much you can reduce standby use.
Example data table
Typical standby ranges vary by model and settings. Use a plug meter for best accuracy.
| Device | Typical standby watts | If left 24/7 (kWh/year) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi‑Fi router | 6–12 W | 52–105 | Often always on for connectivity |
| Game console | 8–15 W | 70–131 | Instant-on mode increases standby |
| TV + set‑top box | 5–20 W | 44–175 | Boxes can dominate standby use |
| Microwave (clock) | 2–5 W | 18–44 | Small watts add up over time |
| Desktop + peripherals | 4–12 W | 35–105 | Power strips simplify full shutoff |
Formula used
- Daily standby watt-hours = Σ(qty × standby watts × hours/day).
- Daily kWh = daily watt-hours ÷ 1000.
- Annual kWh = daily kWh × days per year.
- Annual standby cost = annual kWh × electricity rate.
- Annual savings = annual standby cost × (reduction % ÷ 100).
- Simple payback (months) = one-time cost ÷ (annual savings ÷ 12).
- CO₂ avoided = annual kWh × emission factor × (reduction % ÷ 100).
How to use this calculator
- List devices that stay plugged in, even when “off.”
- Enter quantity, standby watts, and hours per day in standby.
- Set your electricity rate from your utility bill.
- Choose a realistic reduction percent for your plan.
- Add any one-time equipment cost to estimate payback.
- Click “Calculate savings” to see results above the form.
- Download CSV or PDF to save your estimate.
Notes and practical tips
- Instant-on modes, chargers, and set-top boxes are common drivers.
- Try measuring a few items with a plug-in power meter.
- Smart power strips can cut standby for entertainment setups.
- For network equipment, consider schedules that match usage needs.
Why phantom loads matter
Standby power is the electricity devices use while waiting, charging, or showing a clock. A single 8 watt device running all day uses about 70 kWh yearly. Multiply that by several items and the cost becomes noticeable. This calculator converts your list into annual kWh, annual cost, and a savings estimate based on your planned reduction percentage.
What drives standby use
Always connected electronics commonly dominate idle consumption. Streaming boxes, game consoles, printers, and chargers may draw power even when unused. Network gear is often intentional, yet entertainment setups can be trimmed. If a media stack averages 15 watts, it uses roughly 131 kWh per year. Measuring with a plug meter helps validate standby watts entered here.
Turning watts into costs
The math is straightforward and transparent. Daily watt-hours equal quantity multiplied by standby watts multiplied by standby hours. Divide by 1000 for daily kWh, then multiply by days per year. Annual cost equals annual kWh times your electricity rate. If your rate is 0.20 per kWh, 200 kWh of standby costs about 40 annually.
Setting a reduction plan
Reduction percent represents how much standby energy you expect to cut using habits or equipment. Smart strips can shut off entire clusters, while timers match schedules. A 50% reduction on a 120 annual standby cost targets 60 savings. Add a one-time cost to estimate simple payback. Smaller costs often pay back quickly when multiple devices share one solution.
Using results for decisions
Use the device bars to prioritize the biggest standby contributors. Start with boxes or consoles that stay warm overnight, then revisit your list after changes. Annual savings can be compared to subscription costs or small upgrades. The emissions estimate uses your chosen kg per kWh factor, helping teams report avoided CO2 alongside financial savings and simple payback. today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today today.
FAQs
1) What is a phantom load?
A phantom load is electricity used when a device appears off but still draws power for standby features, clocks, connectivity, or charging circuits.
2) How do I find standby watts accurately?
Use a plug-in power meter and record watts in the off or sleep state. Enter that value with hours per day the device stays in standby.
3) What reduction percent should I choose?
Start with 30–60% for basic unplugging or smart strips. If you will automate shutoff for most devices, a higher percentage may be reasonable.
4) Should I include devices that must stay on?
Yes, if they draw standby power you want to understand. Set their standby hours realistically, and use a lower reduction percent for those essentials.
5) Why is payback shown in months?
Standby fixes are often low cost, so months make comparisons clearer. Payback equals one-time cost divided by estimated monthly savings.
6) How should I use the emissions output?
Enter a grid emission factor you trust. The tool multiplies annual kWh avoided by that factor, producing an annual avoided CO2 estimate.