Your Wi-Fi router has been running 24/7/365 for years. Have you ever wondered how much you have to pay for a constant Wi-Fi signal? How much power a Wi-Fi router consumes and how much that is in dollars – we’ll break it all down for you.
Wi-Fi routers need little power. Their energy consumption falls within the range of 2 to 20 watts, with the average hovering around 6 watts.
This figure can fluctuate depending on several factors. High-performance routers boasting multiple antennas, beamforming, and powerful processors tend to use more watts compared to their basic counterparts. Routers also expend more energy when actively working. Heavy internet usage, extensive file transfers, and the number of connected devices can all influence power draw. And as with most electronics, older routers might be less energy-efficient compared to newer models.
6 W
average power rating of a Wi-FI router
Let’s translate watts into a more relatable concept – cost. Assuming an average router uses 6 watts and runs continuously for 24 hours a day, the yearly electricity consumption would be around 50kWh. The actual cost would depend on your electricity rate. At $0.20 per kWh, this translates to a mere $10 annually.
While minimizing power consumption is always a good practice, it’s important to strike a balance. Disconnecting your router off when you leave for work or when you go to bed might save a few watts, but it also disrupts your connection. If your router has multiple devices connected to it, such as computers, smartphones, tablets, and smart home devices, turning it off is not a good idea. If you really want to save money, watch out for energy vampires hiding in your home.
Any appliance running on standby constantly steals small amounts of energy. TVs, laptops in sleep mode, unplugged phone chargers, game consoles, coffee machines – these always-on devices continue to sip power even when not actively in use. While a single device might not seem like a big deal, the cumulative effect can add up $100 to $200 a year to your electricity bill.
By taking steps to reduce standby power, you can save more money on electricity and reduce your environmental impact. Every little bit counts! So, next time you leave the room, take a moment to unplug those idle electronics and keep the energy vampires at bay.
While the power draw is minimal, why not harness the free energy of the sun to keep your router humming? Even an average 400-watt home panel could power about 50 routers.
Experts believe that solar panels can generate some electricity even on a clear night by catching the light of the sun reflected from the moon. The power output could be around 10 watts – just enough to power your router.
The beauty of solar power lies in its scalability. With the right setup, you can generate enough clean energy to power your router and many other devices. So, why not ditch the traditional power cord and embrace the sunshine? If you’re wondering how to start, read our article Ultimate guide: DIY solar system kit.
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Years of experience in translation and a love of nature help Julia find the right words to encourage going solar. She joined the team in 2023 and is happy to make her contribution to a greener future.
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