Switch off once you're done

Your Challenge

Make sure you turn off at the wall for appliances such as your TV, computer, game console and phone charger.  

When devices are left switched on, even on stand-by, they are still consuming (and wasting) energy. If you can’t switch off your wall plug, unplug the device once it’s fully charged or no longer in use. Here are some other tips to help:  

• Do a plug switch audit. Make a point of going around your house and switching off any switches or unplugging appliances you don’t use often.  
• Avoid charging your phone overnight as this will continue using energy even after it’s fully charged, which can weaken the battery and even become a fire hazard. Instead, charge it at your desk during the day and unplug once your done. 
• If you have to charge overnight, remember to switch off the plug or unplug from the wall in the morning. 
• During the day, if your laptop is fully charged, switch it off and use the battery instead, recharging once it’s almost empty. This saves additional energy being wasted to charge your laptop for a full working day. 
• If you’re working from home, remember to turn off your laptop and screen (if using one) at the end of the day, and switch off at the wall. 
• At the end of the evening before you go to bed, turn your TV off at the wall rather than leaving it on stand by. 

Alternatively, you can purchase automatic timers for your plug sockets which switch devices off during certain hours of the day. They’re useful for less frequently used items, such as lamps – or even a TV if you’re trying to restrict your viewing hours!