Electricity prices in Ireland aren’t cheap — and with the rising cost of living, every kilowatt counts. But what if we told you that you could save money just by changing a few small habits?
Below are 5 surprisingly common ways Irish households waste electricity daily — and some simple, affordable ways to fix them.
1. Leaving Devices on Standby (aka “Vampire Power”)
Even when you’re not using them, devices like TVs, game consoles, microwaves, and printers draw small amounts of power. Known as “vampire power,” this can quietly add €50–€100 to your yearly bill.
How to fix it:
- Use a power strip to turn multiple devices off at once.
- Try smart plugs or standby killers (from ~€10 on Amazon.ie) that auto-cut power when not in use.
2. Overfilling the Kettle
It might only take a minute, but boiling more water than you need is a huge electricity drain — especially if you do it multiple times per day.
How to fix it:
- Only fill the kettle with what you need. Most kettles boil 0.5L for a cup of tea.
- Consider an energy-efficient quick-boil kettle if yours is old.
3. Using the Immersion Heater Incorrectly
The immersion is one of the biggest culprits for electricity waste in Irish homes — especially if it’s left on all day “just in case.”
How to fix it:
- Use a timer to heat water for 1–2 hours at off-peak times.
- Turn it off after showers or laundry.
- Consider lagging jackets to keep the cylinder insulated.
🔥 Some Irish households waste €200–€300 a year leaving the immersion on longer than needed.
4. Poor Fridge & Freezer Maintenance
Your fridge and freezer run 24/7 — so even small inefficiencies compound quickly.
How to fix it:
- Vacuum the coils (usually on the back) every few months.
- Don’t block internal vents or overpack shelves.
- Make sure door seals are tight — cold air escapes = wasted power.
❄️ A clogged or poorly ventilated fridge can use 30% more electricity than it should.
5. Charging Devices Overnight
It seems harmless — but leaving phones, tablets, or laptops charging overnight wastes energy after they’re full and can degrade batteries faster too.
How to fix it:
- Charge during the day or set a smart plug timer to auto-cut after 2–3 hours.
- Most modern phones only need 90 minutes for a full charge.
🔌 Multiply this waste by every family member, every night — and it adds up.
🔥 Bonus tip: Leaving devices charging overnight can also be a fire hazard, especially with older batteries or cheap adapters. Use quality plugs and charge in open, ventilated areas.
🧾 Final Thoughts: Small Fixes, Big Savings
You don’t need solar panels or expensive gadgets to save on electricity. By changing habits and targeting everyday waste, the average Irish household can easily save €150–€300 per year.
