Save Money on Your Phone Bill: Expert Reveals the Best Time to Charge Your Phone

Are you tired of overspending on your phone bill? With the rising cost of living, it’s essential to find ways to cut down on unnecessary expenses. One often overlooked area is phone charging. Did you know that the time of day you charge your phone can significantly impact your energy bills?

According to Ofgem, electricity costs 34p per kWh. Typically, phone chargers consume about five watts of electricity. U Switch recommends charging a smartphone for two hours and 40 minutes a day, although most people charge them for around eight hours overnight - totalling £4.96 a year. While this may seem minimal, many households own multiple devices and charge them for extended periods, leading to much higher costs.

Leverage Off-Peak Hours

Jae Ro, Marketing Manager of SIGNAL + POWER, shares top tips for charging your phone. The expert explains that many energy providers offer discounted electricity rates during off-peak hours. This is often overnight (usually between midnight and 7 am) or during specific periods throughout the day. Jae adds, “It’s essential to check your meter reading to determine your provider’s off-peak times, as these may vary.” Charging your phone during these times allows you to take advantage of the lower rates, potentially saving you a small amount on your bill.

Conversely, charging during peak hours, typically in the late afternoon and early evening, can contribute to higher costs due to increased demand on the grid.

Don’t Overcharge

However, the expert warns that you should avoid overcharging your phone for long periods to extend your phone battery’s lifespan. Jae continues, “Lithium-ion batteries, common in modern smartphones, degrade over time due to charging patterns, changing temperatures, and usage intensity.” Most devices automatically stop charging at 100% to prevent overheating, but background apps can cause the battery to drop slightly, keeping it near maximum charge. “Charging beyond what’s necessary can also contribute to faster capacity loss. Aim to maintain your phone’s battery level between 20% and 80% for optimal longevity.”

Optimize your phone’s battery life

Choose Efficient Chargers

“Not all phone chargers are created equal,” according to the expert. Jae elaborates that older models or those using outdated technology may be less efficient. This results in increased energy wastage. The expert recommends upgrading to a higher quality charger, such as those that feature Gallium Nitride (GaN), which produces less heat and can preserve your phone’s battery health over time.

Upgrade to an efficient charger

Eco-Conscious Choices

Jae also notes that “adjusting your charging habits might not have a major impact on your electricity bill” in comparison to other energy-saving measures. If you want to see more substantial savings, the expert suggests focusing on energy-efficient practices like using LED bulbs and unplugging electronics when they are not in use.

Make eco-friendly choices

By implementing these simple tips, you can save money on your phone bill and contribute to a more sustainable future. Remember, every little bit counts, and making small changes to your daily habits can add up to make a significant difference.