Phone chargers left plugged still draw electricity

Leaving a phone charger connected to a wall outlet, even when no device is attached, continues to consume electricity. The internal transformer draws a standby power of roughly 0.2–0.25 W, which adds up to about 1.75 kWh over a year (approximately 8 760 hours of continuous connection). Although the daily cost is minimal—often only a few cents to a few euros—multiple chargers in a household can increase electricity bills noticeably.

Beyond the energy waste, chargers that remain plugged can overheat, posing safety hazards such as fire or explosions, especially if they lack proper certification. Experts advise unplugging chargers after use, employing smart power strips that can be switched off remotely, or choosing energy‑efficient models that draw less standby power.

The issue is global, with articles from Italy and the United States highlighting the same technical facts and recommendations.