How does an A/C adapter still use power when nothing is attached to it?
Asked by
btko (
2816
)
July 31st, 2008
We’ve seen the ways to reduce our energy usage. This one has confused me though.
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5 Answers
Because when an outlet is active and something is in it, the electric current is just sent to the very end of the charger which would be considered using the electricity and you’ll be charged for it.
The energy travels to the actual adapter and is stored in the capacitors, these capacitors dump the energy to make room for more energy.
Power is only consumed if the device is drawing power. Transformers which go between the wall and a device draw power and convert it from AC to DC. That process consumes power, even if the device the converted power is destined for isn’t using the power. That is why transformers get hot and why you should unplug them when not in use.
Devices which use straight AC power don’t consume power unless they are on.
Transformers/AC adapters do not contain capacitors. Transformers convert they do not store.
Electricity is not sent anywhere, electricity is drawn or consumed.
joey and xx you guys need to read this article.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_supply#AC_adapter
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