Save electricity with a switched extension lead

Many electrical devices continue to consume a small amount of electricity when they are in standby mode. A switched extension lead can make it easier to disconnect several connected devices from the power supply when they are not needed.

With one switch, devices such as monitors, speakers, chargers or entertainment equipment can be switched off together instead of remaining in standby. Whether and how much electricity can be saved depends on the connected devices, how long they remain in standby and how the extension lead itself is designed.

Can a switched extension lead help save electricity?

Yes. If connected devices continue to consume electricity while in standby, disconnecting them from the power supply can reduce this unnecessary consumption.

A switched extension lead is particularly convenient when several devices are used together. Instead of unplugging each device individually, the relevant sockets can be switched off at the extension lead.

The actual saving depends on the standby consumption of the connected equipment. Modern devices can differ considerably, so there is no single amount of electricity that applies to every household or setup.

What is standby power consumption?

Standby power consumption is the electricity a device may continue to use even when it is not actively being operated. This can be necessary for functions such as remote control operation, displays, network connections, timers or background processes.

Typical devices that may have a standby mode include:

televisions and entertainment equipment
computers, monitors and printers
game consoles
audio equipment
chargers and power supplies
networked and smart devices

However, not every device should automatically be disconnected from the mains. Some equipment may require continuous power for updates, timers, recordings, network functions or other background processes. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the connected device.

How does a switched extension lead work?

A switched extension lead allows the power supply to one or more socket outlets to be controlled by a switch. Depending on the product design, one switch may control all sockets, individual groups of sockets or individual sockets separately.

This makes it easier to switch off equipment that is not currently required without having to remove every plug.

Switched or individually switched extension lead?

A standard switched extension lead is useful when several devices are normally switched on and off together.

An individually switched extension lead provides more control where different devices have different usage patterns. For example, a monitor and printer can be switched off while a router or another device that requires continuous power remains connected.

The differences and typical applications are explained in Individually switched extension leads.

Does a switched extension lead use electricity when switched off?

This depends on the design and additional functions of the individual product. A simple mechanically switched extension lead behaves differently from a model that also contains electronic functions such as USB charging, smart controls or automatic switching.

If the power consumption of the extension lead itself is important, check the technical specifications of the individual product rather than assuming that every model behaves in the same way.

Should I switch off my TV at the extension lead?

A switched extension lead can be used to disconnect a television and associated equipment from the power supply when they are not required. This can help avoid standby consumption from devices that do not need to remain powered.

However, some televisions, receivers or other entertainment devices may perform updates, recordings or other functions while in standby. Before disconnecting such equipment completely, check the manufacturer's instructions.

If several devices such as a television, sound system and game console are normally used together, a switched extension lead can provide a convenient way of controlling the whole group.

Can individually switched sockets reduce standby consumption?

Individually switched sockets can be particularly useful when only some connected devices should be disconnected from the power supply.

This allows equipment that needs continuous power to remain active while devices that are not currently required can be switched off separately.

For desks, entertainment systems and other setups with several devices, this can provide more flexibility than switching the entire extension lead on or off at once.

How can Main-Follow extension leads help save electricity?

A Main-Follow extension lead can automatically control connected devices based on the operating status of a main device.

For example, a computer can be connected to the Main socket while a monitor, speakers or printer are connected to the Follow sockets. When the main device is switched on or off, the associated Follow sockets can be controlled automatically according to the extension lead's function.

This can be useful where several devices are normally used together and manual switching would otherwise be forgotten.

How the automatic switching principle works is explained in Main-Follow extension leads with automatic switching.

Can smart extension leads help control electricity consumption?

A smart extension lead offers additional ways to control when connected devices receive power. Depending on the model, sockets can be controlled remotely or according to timers and schedules.

This can be useful when devices only need power at certain times or when the user wants greater control over connected equipment.

Smart functions themselves require electronic components and may therefore have their own power consumption. Whether a smart solution saves electricity overall depends on the application and how it is used.

More information on app and automation functions is available in Smart WiFi extension leads from brennenstuhl®Connect.

Which devices are suitable for a switched extension lead?

Switched extension leads are particularly practical for groups of devices that are frequently used together or that do not need continuous power.

Typical applications can include:

computer workstations with monitors, speakers and peripherals
TV and entertainment setups
gaming equipment
desk equipment and chargers
workspaces with several electrical devices

Before disconnecting any device completely from the mains, check whether the manufacturer recommends keeping it powered for specific functions.

What should I look for when choosing a switched extension lead?

In addition to the switching function, consider the following factors:

Number of sockets: Choose enough outlets for the devices you regularly use.
Switching concept: Decide whether all sockets should be controlled together or individually.
Socket arrangement: Make sure larger plugs and power adapters do not block neighbouring outlets.
Cable length: Choose a cable that comfortably reaches the intended location.
Maximum electrical load: The combined power consumption of all connected devices must remain within the rating specified for the individual extension lead.
Additional functions: Depending on the application, surge protection, USB charging, Main-Follow or smart control may also be useful.

How can I reduce standby electricity consumption?

A switched extension lead is one practical way to reduce unnecessary standby consumption, but it works best when combined with sensible use of the connected devices.

Switch off devices that do not need to remain powered.
Group devices together that are normally used at the same time.
Use individually switched sockets where some devices need continuous power.
Check whether devices require standby for updates, timers or other functions.
Use automatic or scheduled switching where this is appropriate for the application.

The most suitable solution depends on the devices being used and whether they can safely be disconnected from the mains when they are not required.