How much power does my WiFi router use, and when should I switch it off?

You might know it as your WiFi router or your broadband router – either way, this essential device is quietly working 24/7 to keep you connected. But have you ever wondered how much electricity it consumes, and if that old habit of switching it off at night is actually saving you money in the UK? Let’s dive in!

Your router’s power usage

On average, a typical home broadband router uses between 5 and 20 watts of power. This translates to an approximate daily cost of £0.03 - £0.14, adding up to roughly £10 - £50 per year on your energy bill. Factors like your router’s model, age, and how heavily you use the internet can all influence this figure.

As energy costs are highly variable, you should consider using an online calculator like this one for the most accurate estimate based on your rates.

Should I turn my WiFi off at night?

This is a common question, and the desire to save energy is understandable. However, in general, internet service providers (ISPs) often recommend leaving your router on for several reasons:

• Updates: Routers receive important firmware updates, usually overnight, enhancing their security and performance.
• Network stability: Switching the router on and off regularly can disrupt your overall network health.
• Smart home woes: Smart devices like thermostats, cameras and voice assistants rely on your router’s constant connection for both remote access and seamless integration. Turning off your router at night can cause your smart thermostat to lose schedules, security or doorbell cameras to become inaccessible, and voice assistants to be unable to respond.

When switching off might make sense

There are occasions when temporarily turning off your broadband router might be beneficial:

• You’re going on holiday: If you’re away for a week or more, and you don’t have smart devices at home that still need a connection, powering down your router adds a layer of security (even the smartest hacker can’t access a network that’s switched off) and minimises unnecessary energy use.
• Troubleshooting: A classic ‘reboot’ can sometimes work wonders to resolve connection issues. Note: frequent restarts may create some confusion if you need to contact your internet provider for further support.

How to reduce WiFi router energy consumption

Want to lessen your router’s energy footprint without nightly switch-offs? Here are some easy changes that might make a difference:

• Optimise placement: Position your router in an open, central location within your home. Avoid placing it on the floor, within cabinets, or surrounded by other electronics for the best signal and reduced power wasted on reaching your devices.
• Guest network: A guest network is great for visitors, but if you rarely have guests, disabling it saves a bit of energy. You can always turn it back on when needed.
• Modern models: If your router is several years old, a newer model might offer energy-saving features like power-down scheduling or more efficient components.
• LED lights: See if there’s an option to dim or turn off those blinking status lights – a tiny saving, but every bit helps!

The phantom power connection

Your WiFi router isn’t the only device quietly draining energy. Televisions on standby, idle games consoles, and even phone chargers left plugged in all contribute to “phantom power”. While your router’s individual consumption might be small, addressing your household’s overall energy habits can make a bigger difference.

The verdict

For most people, leaving your WiFi router on 24/7 is the way to go. It ensures a seamless connected experience and keeps your devices working as they should. If you’re concerned about energy costs, focus on the tips above for a more impactful and efficient approach.