Possibly stupid 12v socket question

Hi All,

Sorry if this is a dumb question. But, if I leave 12v USB adapters permanently in my Cali 12v sockets do they draw any power when I don't plug in a USB device? i.e. is it OK to leave them in there all the time or is it a bad idea.

As you might guess, I'm no electrician.

TIA.

Yes but a tiny amount.

totally not a daft question , i have wondered this also !!!

I leave mine in all the time.

Only issue i have had is some interfere with the dab radio, so i take them out when not in use. the dash socket seems to be worst

Always best to take them out, some have been known to overheat and melt/burn. Rare admittedly but...

KBR said:

Hi All,

Sorry if this is a dumb question. But, if I leave 12v USB adapters permanently in my Cali 12v sockets do they draw any power when I don't plug in a USB device? i.e. is it OK to leave them in there all the time or is it a bad idea.

As you might guess, I'm no electrician.

TIA.

Click to expand...

Not a dumb question at all, and many people have already replied. In summary:
1. Get a good quality USB charger. Anker is a well-known and quality assured brand. Do NOT pick up a cheap one as it can overheat, or discharge the battery at a faster rate.
2. Get one that indicates power only when a USB lead is plugged in. Will use up less power when in no-use state. The small LED lights can drain. But remember, it is at a very very low rate.
3. As with all electricals, you need to work to maintain "things". To define "things" - drive your vehicle regularly to keep the vehicle battery well-maintained or at least plug into mains to maintain the batteries. If you don't use your van ... mess up the battery life ... and then when your vehicle does not start - don't blame the poor USB Adapter - that it drained the battery.

I have a USB 12v cigarette USB adapter (Anker) continuously plugged into the cigarette lighter socket by the kitchen sink. It powers my Internet dongle. Been continuously on for a year and it has not caused any issues. I use my vehicle regularly and perform basic required maintenance and check things over.

Hope this information helps.

No such thing as a stupid question. It's only stupid if you don't ask......

I bet many reading the answer will say "I did not know that"

We had one in an ordinary car that overheated and melted. Don't buy cheap! We learned the hard way.

I had the same question as OP, so I decided to replace the 12v socket altogether and go for a USB charger that had an on/off switch:


For anyone interested, I've put together a step-by-step guide on how to replace the 12v socket in the California's kitchen for this USB charger: https://medium.com/@maxi-mizer/replace-vw-california-kitchen-12v-outlet-with-usb-ports-f5f6394d7993

I hope it helps!