We tested 15 household electronic products to reveal how much energy each consumes. Two tests were conducted on each device.
- "Off"/standby: Turned on at the wall with the device itself "asleep": it's not active but the LED light (in most cases) is showing. This is what you achieve when you turn off a TV using a remote. We replicated it in our PC, iMac and laptop by shutting down the computer - and not turning off the master switch at the rear of the PC.
- In use: The device switched on and in active use.
We then calculated how much energy (kWh) was being used and the cost at 18c per kWh (the average cost of electricity).
Guide to the table
Our test was conducted by the Australian consumer organisation Choice. Products were chosen to give an idea of their energy use. Other brands may produce different results. Note: The test did not include an LCD TV.
Mode
- A - PC drive switched off and LED light not showing but master switch at the rear left on (also left on at wall).
- B - cordless phone charges when on standby.
- C - Nintendo Wii on standby with WiiConnect24 turned off.
- D - Nintendo Wii on standby with WiiConnect24 turned on (WiiConnect24 is a feature that allows the Wii to receive messages and email while in standby mode).
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