When an average household fridge is switched off but still plugged in, it will consume a small amount of electricity due to various factors. This consumption is commonly referred to as "standby power" or "phantom load." The amount of electricity consumed in this state can vary depending on the refrigerator's make, model, and age, as well as regional power standards. However, the typical standby power consumption for a refrigerator ranges from about 2 to 10 watts.
Here's why a fridge consumes electricity even when switched off:
Control circuits and displays: Modern refrigerators often have control circuits, digital displays, and electronic controls that need a small amount of power to operate even when the main cooling components are off.
Anti-sweat heaters: Some fridges have anti-sweat heaters installed on the exterior surface of the fridge to prevent condensation. These heaters use a minimal amount of electricity to keep the surface dry.
Lighting: If your fridge has an interior light, it may still draw a small amount of power even when the fridge is off.
Smart features: If your fridge has smart features, Wi-Fi connectivity, or other advanced technology, it may need to draw power to maintain those functions even when not actively cooling.
Clocks and timers: Some fridges have built-in clocks or timers, which also require a small amount of electricity to keep time.
Auto-defrost: Though less common, certain fridges may have an auto-defrost function that requires a minimal amount of electricity even when the fridge is not actively cooling.
It's essential to note that the standby power consumption of a fridge is relatively low compared to its overall power usage when actively cooling. However, considering that fridges run 24/7, even a small amount of standby power can add up over time. To reduce this standby power consumption, you can unplug the refrigerator when it's not in use for an extended period or use a power strip with an on/off switch to easily disconnect the fridge from the power source when it's not needed.