22.03.2025

Never leave your charger plugged into a wall outlet without your phone. Here are the top three reasons.

By Lesia

It’s true that leaving a phone charger plugged in when not in use can have some downsides. Here are the top three reasons why it’s generally a good idea to unplug them:

1. Energy Waste (Phantom Load):

  • Even when not actively charging a device, a plugged-in charger still draws a small amount of electricity. This is known as “phantom load” or “standby power.”
  • While the individual amount is minimal, it adds up over time and across multiple devices, contributing to wasted energy and slightly increased electricity bills.
  • From an environmental standpoint, reducing this unnecessary energy consumption is a positive step.

2. Overheating and Fire Hazard:

  • A plugged-in charger generates heat, even without a connected device.
  • Faulty or low-quality chargers, especially, can overheat significantly, increasing the risk of fire.
  • Voltage spikes or power surges can also exacerbate this risk.
  • It’s particularly concerning to leave chargers plugged in overnight or when you’re away from home.

3. Wear and Tear:

  • Continuously supplying electricity to a charger, even without a load, contributes to wear and tear on its internal components.
  • This can shorten the lifespan of the charger and potentially lead to malfunctions.
  • Electrical fluctuations from the wall outlet also add to the stress on the charger.

In essence, unplugging your chargers when not in use is a simple habit that promotes safety, saves energy, and extends the life of your devices.