When it comes to energy use at home, misinformation is everywhere. Small habits, misunderstood appliances, and well-meaning advice can quietly drive up your bills without you ever noticing.
Let’s clear the fog. Here are six of the most common energy myths, and what actually makes a difference to your usage.
Myth 1: “Phone chargers left plugged in don’t use any power”
Reality: They do just very, very little.
A phone charger left plugged in without a device still draws electricity. It’s known as vampire power (or standby power). One charger won’t move the needle on your bill, but dozens of plugged-in devices across your home add up over time.
Why it matters:
Unplugging chargers won’t slash your bill overnight, but it’s an easy habit that reduces waste and wasted energy is still wasted money.
Myth 2: “Turning the heating up high warms the house faster”
Reality: Your heating doesn’t sprint, it cruises.
Cranking the thermostat to max won’t heat your home any quicker. Your system works at the same speed regardless; it’ll just stay on longer and overshoot the temperature you actually want.
Why it matters:
Set your heating to a comfortable temperature and let it get there steadily. You’ll avoid overheating and unnecessary energy use.
Myth 3: “Boiling more water is fine, the kettles run on time, not quantity”
Reality: More water = more energy.
Kettles use energy to heat water. The more water you boil, the more electricity you use. Simple as that.
Why it matters:
Only boiling what you need is one of the quickest, no-effort ways to cut everyday electricity use.
Myth 4: “Appliances in standby mode are basically off”
Reality: Standby still means “on enough to cost you.”
TVs, game consoles, coffee machines, and sound systems all draw power while on standby. Across a year, this “background drain” can account for a noticeable chunk of household electricity use.
Why it matters:
Using a power strip or fully switching off appliances helps stop paying for energy you’re not actually using.
Myth 5: “Cold washes don’t clean your clothes”
Reality: Modern detergents are designed for cold water.
Most everyday laundry, that is, lightly soiled clothes, sportswear, and regular loads, comes out just as clean at 20–30°C.
Why it matters:
Heating water is the most energy-hungry part of washing clothes. Cold washes save energy, reduce bills, and are gentler on fabrics.
Myth 6: “Smart meters raise your bills”
Reality: They measure. They don’t misbehave.
Smart meters don’t increase your energy use or change your prices. They simply give accurate, real-time readings instead of estimates.
Why it matters:
When you can see what you’re using, you’re better equipped to control it. Knowledge doesn’t cost more, it helps you waste less.
The Bigger Picture: Small Myths, Real Money
No single habit will magically halve your bill. But stacked together, small changes based on real information can make a meaningful difference, especially when energy costs are under pressure.
Understanding how energy actually works puts control back where it belongs: with you.
How can Pinergy help?
We believe conscious energy use starts with clarity, not confusion. Explore more practical guides and tips here and check out our smart energy tariffs designed to help you use energy smarter, not harder.
