Understanding Electric Kettles
Electric kettles are a ubiquitous appliance in households around the world. They provide a convenient and efficient way of boiling water for tea, coffee, or other hot beverages. However, many people are unaware of the energy consumption of electric kettles, particularly when they are on standby mode. So, how much electricity does an electric kettle use on standby mode?
Electric Kettle Standby Mode
When an electric kettle is on standby mode, it is still connected to the power source, but it is not actively boiling water. Instead, it keeps the water at a specific temperature, so it can quickly re-boil the water when activated. According to Sust-it, an electric kettle on standby mode can consume between 0.5 and 4 watts of electricity per hour, depending on the model and manufacturer.
The Cost of Standby Mode
While 0.5 to 4 watts may seem like a negligible amount of electricity, it can add up significantly over time, especially if you use your electric kettle frequently. For example, if your electric kettle consumes 2 watts of electricity per hour on standby mode and you leave it on for 24 hours a day, it will use 48 watt-hours of electricity per day. Over a month, that amounts to 1.44 kilowatt-hours (kWh), which could add a few dollars to your monthly electricity bill.
Reducing Electricity Consumption
If you want to reduce the electricity consumption of your electric kettle, you can unplug it when it is not in use. However, this may not be practical for some people, as it may mean constantly plugging and unplugging the appliance. Another option is to look for an electric kettle with an auto shut-off feature that turns off the appliance when the water reaches boiling point.
The Bottom Line
Overall, an electric kettle on standby mode can consume a significant amount of electricity over time, which can increase your electricity bill and your carbon footprint. To reduce the energy consumption of your electric kettle, you can unplug it when it is not in use, or invest in a model with an auto shut-off feature. By being mindful of your energy use, you can save money and help to preserve the environment.