Electricity powers our homes, businesses, and daily lives, but there are plenty of myths about how it works. Some of these myths might seem harmless, but believing them could lead to higher energy bills, safety risks, or even electrical damage.
In this post, we’re debunking five of the biggest electricity myths and setting the record straight!
1. “Leaving Appliances Plugged In Doesn’t Use Power” – FALSE!
Many people assume that if an appliance is turned off but still plugged in, it’s not consuming electricity. The truth? Many devices still draw power in standby mode, also known as phantom energy drain or vampire power.
Common culprits include:
- TVs and gaming consoles
- Phone chargers
- Microwaves and coffee machines with digital displays
The fix: Unplug devices when they’re not in use or use smart plugs that automatically cut power to appliances when they’re turned off.
Fun fact: Standby power can account for up to 10% of your total electricity bill!
2. “Turning Lights On and Off Wastes More Energy Than Leaving Them On” – FALSE!
You may have heard that switching lights on and off uses more electricity than leaving them on. This might have been true in the days of old incandescent bulbs, but modern LED lighting is different.
LED bulbs use very little energy to turn on, so switching them off when not needed will always save money.
The fix: A good rule of thumb—if you leave a room for more than a minute, turn off the light!
3. “You Don’t Need an Electrician for Small Jobs” – FALSE & DANGEROUS!
Some homeowners attempt DIY electrical work, thinking that minor repairs, like replacing a socket or installing a light fixture, are safe to do without an expert. The reality? Even small mistakes can lead to electrical fires or shocks.
Risks of DIY electrical work:
- Loose connections causing overheating
- Incorrect wiring leading to electric shocks
- Non-compliance with UK electrical safety regulations
The fix: Always hire a qualified electrician, especially for jobs involving wiring, circuit breakers, or high-voltage connections. It’s not worth the risk!
4. “All Power Surges Come from Lightning Strikes” – FALSE!
While lightning can cause power surges, most surges happen due to:
- Faulty wiring inside the home
- Overloaded circuits or too many appliances plugged in at once
- Power grid fluctuations
The fix: Installing surge protectors for your appliances can help prevent damage from unexpected spikes in voltage.
5. “Extension Leads Are a Safe Long-Term Solution” – FALSE!
Extension leads are great for temporary use, but many people rely on them permanently, which can be a fire hazard. Overloaded extension leads can overheat, melt wiring, and even start fires.
Warning signs of overloaded extension leads:
- The plug feels warm to the touch
- You’re running multiple high-power appliances off one lead
- The fuse keeps tripping
The fix: If you constantly rely on extension leads, it’s time to install additional wall sockets—a safer and more permanent solution!
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe & Save Money
Now that we’ve busted these common electricity myths, you’ll be better equipped to save money, reduce risks, and make informed electrical choices.
If you’re ever unsure about your home’s electrical setup, the LBA Electrical Services team is here to help. From safety inspections to energy-efficient upgrades, we ensure your electrics are running safely and efficiently.
