Think leaving your charger in the outlet is no big deal? Think again. Electricians warn that this everyday habit could be wasting energy, damaging your devices, and even putting your home at risk.
Even when your phone isn’t connected, a plugged-in charger continues to draw electricity. It’s called “phantom power,” and while one charger might only cost pennies a year, millions of them worldwide add up to a massive, unnecessary energy drain.
But the real danger? Heat. Cheap or worn-out chargers can overheat when left plugged in, potentially sparking electrical fires. And over time, constant power flow can degrade both the charger and the outlet, leading to loose connections and higher risks.
The fix is simple: unplug when not in use. Better yet, use a power strip with an on/off switch to cut power to multiple chargers at once. High-quality, certified chargers are also a must—they’re less likely to overheat or fail.
It’s a small change, but one that could save energy, money, and even prevent a disaster.
