The 'vampire devices' that cause electricity bills to spike - and how you can cut down on your bills

We all know about the big energy guzzlers in our homes.

Our dryers, our fridges, and our washing machines are usually the big hitters on our bills.

But small devices left plugged in overnight could also be costing you hundreds of euros every year.

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Devices with a standby mode - known as 'vampire devices' - are some of the biggest offenders when it comes to adding unnecessary costs to the electric bill.

And with Bord Gais increasing their electric and gas prices, now is the perfect time to get a handle on vampire devices.

Here's everything you need to know about vampire devices and how to stop them from costing you money on your utility bills.

What is a vampire device?

Vampire devices are electrical devices or chargers that still use energy even when turned off.

According to paylesspower.com, these devices can add up to 20% to your monthly electric bill.

Why do vampire devices use energy when turned off?

Anything that remains plugged into a socket will use energy. Even if you put it in stand by or a sleep mode, that is costing you money.

Devices like phone chargers - even if not actually charging a phone but plugged into a socket - will use electricity for as long as it remains plugged in. Phone chargers have small transformers inside them that use small amounts of power while plugged in.

What are the most common vampire devices?

Some of the most common vampire devices include desktop computers and displays, faxes and printers, satellite and cable boxes, stereos, televisions, microwaves, garage door openers, video game consoles, and phone and tablet chargers.

What can you do to reduce the cost?

Thankfully there are plenty of tips out there that will help you save a lot of money.

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