How Much Electric Does a TV on Standby Use

Leaving a television on standby is something many households do without a second thought. The little red light on the front of the screen glows quietly in the corner, giving the impression that the TV is off, yet it still draws power from the mains. Over time, that small but constant consumption can add up, especially in homes with several devices left on standby around the clock. Understanding how much electric a TV on standby uses helps you make small changes that can lead to noticeable energy savings.

Average Standby Power Consumption

Modern televisions are far more energy-efficient than older models, particularly since manufacturers have been required to meet strict standby power regulations under EU and UK energy standards. Most new TVs consume less than 1 watt of power when in standby mode. Some premium or smart models that remain connected to Wi-Fi for voice control or software updates may draw between 1 and 3 watts. Older plasma or early LCD televisions, however, can use 5 watts or more in standby.

To put this into perspective, a modern TV using 1 watt on standby for 24 hours consumes 0.024 kWh per day. Over the course of a year, that equals about 9 kWh of electricity. At an average UK electricity rate of 30 pence per kWh, that works out to around £2.70 per year. A 3-watt standby draw would triple that figure to about £8.10 annually. While this may seem like a small amount, when multiplied across multiple TVs, set-top boxes, soundbars, and streaming devices, the total can become significant.

Why TVs Use Electricity on Standby

When a TV is in standby mode, it is not completely off. A small circuit inside the television remains active, waiting for a signal from the remote control to power it back on. For smart TVs, standby power also keeps network connections alive so that the television can respond to voice commands, receive software updates, or quickly reconnect to streaming services.

Some TVs also perform background tasks while in standby, such as updating firmware, synchronising data, or maintaining Bluetooth pairing with other devices. These functions are convenient, but they consume a continuous trickle of electricity that never truly stops unless the power is disconnected at the plug.

Smart TVs and Network Standby

Smart TVs typically use more electricity on standby than non-smart models because they remain semi-active to maintain connectivity. This mode is sometimes called “network standby.” It allows the TV to be turned on via smartphone apps, voice assistants, or smart home systems. Network standby can draw between 2 and 5 watts depending on the model and manufacturer.

If your television has voice activation features such as built-in assistants, these systems often require continuous microphone operation even when the TV appears off. This adds a small but measurable increase to standby power use. Disabling voice activation or network wake-up options in the settings can cut standby power dramatically without affecting normal operation.

How to Measure Your TV’s Standby Use

If you are curious about how much power your specific TV uses on standby, you can measure it using a plug-in energy monitor. These small devices show how many watts a connected appliance draws both when active and when idle. Many people are surprised to learn that their entertainment systems draw more energy collectively when “off” than when in occasional use.

A simple test over 24 hours can reveal how much electricity your setup uses while idle. If you have multiple devices connected to the same power strip such as a TV, games console, and soundbar you may find that combined standby consumption adds up to 10 watts or more, which could cost around £26 per year if left on constantly.

Reducing Standby Power Consumption

The easiest way to eliminate standby power use is to switch your TV off completely at the plug or use a smart power strip that cuts power automatically when the device enters standby. Many modern TV setups draw small amounts of power through HDMI-connected devices, even when switched off, so a single master switch is often the most effective way to ensure everything truly powers down.

If you prefer to keep your TV ready for instant use, you can still reduce consumption through settings. Many televisions offer eco or energy-saving modes that minimise standby draw. Disabling features like “Quick Start,” “Instant On,” or “Network Standby” can reduce standby power by up to 80 per cent. These settings may slightly increase the time it takes for your TV to turn on but can save energy over time.

Comparing Standby Use Across TV Types

Different TV technologies vary slightly in their standby behaviour. LED and OLED models are generally more efficient than older plasma screens, which were known for drawing higher power both in use and on standby. Plasma TVs could consume 5 to 10 watts even when turned off, costing around £13 to £26 annually at current rates.

Modern LED TVs typically consume between 0.3 and 1.5 watts, costing less than £4 per year to leave on standby. OLED TVs are slightly higher on average but still very efficient. Large-screen models with advanced smart features or voice activation tend to use more standby power than smaller, basic sets.

The Bigger Picture: Phantom Power in the Home

Standby power is part of a larger issue often called “phantom load” or “vampire power,” referring to the energy used by devices that remain plugged in but not actively in use. In the average UK home, these phantom loads can account for up to 10 per cent of total electricity use. That includes not only TVs but also set-top boxes, broadband routers, microwaves, and chargers.

By addressing these hidden drains, you can make meaningful reductions to your energy bill without changing your daily habits dramatically. Unplugging or switching off devices when not needed, using power strips with on/off switches, and checking for energy-saving settings can all make a difference.

Energy Efficiency Regulations

UK and EU regulations have greatly reduced the amount of power modern TVs use in standby mode. Since 2013, all new televisions sold in the UK must not exceed 0.5 watts in passive standby mode. If the TV includes network functions or quick-start features, the maximum allowed is 3 watts. Manufacturers must display standby power consumption figures on energy labels and technical specifications to help consumers make informed decisions.

Older TVs produced before these regulations took effect can still be significant energy users. If your set is more than ten years old, upgrading to a new energy-efficient model could reduce both active and standby power costs while improving picture quality and functionality.

Safety Considerations

Leaving your TV plugged in is generally safe if your home’s electrical wiring and sockets are in good condition. However, using old or overloaded extension leads for multiple devices can increase the risk of overheating. If you notice plugs getting warm or sockets showing signs of wear, it is best to have them checked by a qualified electrician. Using surge protectors can also help protect sensitive electronics from power spikes while providing an easy way to switch off multiple devices at once.

Conclusion

A TV on standby uses very little electricity usually between 0.5 and 3 watts but that small amount can add up over time, particularly when several devices are left plugged in. Most UK households could save a few pounds each year simply by switching off TVs at the plug or disabling unnecessary standby features.

For households, reviewing standby habits is an easy and effective way to reduce wasted energy. Small actions, like switching off at the socket or adjusting energy settings, can help lower electricity bills and improve efficiency without affecting everyday convenience. For further reassurance, an electrician can check that your sockets, wiring, and circuits are in top condition, ensuring your electrical system remains safe and efficient throughout your home.