Even when not charging, many power adapters continue to draw small amounts of electricity—a phenomenon known as “vampire power” or standby consumption. As they do, internal components generate heat. Over time, especially with lower-quality or aged chargers, this heat causes plastic casings and circuitry to off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including formaldehyde, a known respiratory irritant and probable human carcinogen (per EPA and WHO).
A 2022 study published in Indoor Air found that overheated electronics—including wall chargers—contribute significantly to indoor VOC levels, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces like bedrooms.
Why it matters:
Low-level exposure doesn’t cause immediate illness, which is why it goes unnoticed. But chronic exposure leads to:
Persistent dry cough or throat irritation
Worsening asthma symptoms
Frequent sinus congestion mistaken for seasonal allergies
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