A plugged-in phone charger is a common sight in many households, often left in the outlet even when not charging a device. However, keeping your charger plugged in without a phone connected can have unintended consequences.

Chargers continue to consume power even when idle. A genuine Apple charger, for example, draws around 130W of power per month, totaling 1.5KWh annually. While this may seem small, multiple chargers across a household can lead to significant energy consumption. Non-genuine chargers may use 10 to 20 times more power, contributing to increased carbon emissions.

Leaving a charger plugged in also poses a fire hazard. Overheated chargers, especially cheap ones, can reach dangerous temperatures, increasing the risk of fire.

Additionally, idle chargers add to electricity bills. While the cost of one charger is minimal, having several plugged in can lead to noticeable annual expenses. For example, five chargers left plugged in all year could cost around $0.37.

This habit also wastes energy and harms the environment. Unplugging chargers when not in use helps reduce unnecessary consumption. Switching to high-quality, branded chargers and using smart outlets can improve energy efficiency and safety. Small changes can create a more sustainable living environment.