Energy usage linked to 'vampire power' may boost household energy bills by approximately $200, according to experts; learn strategies to reducethis expense.
In today's digital age, our homes are filled with electronic devices that, despite being switched off, continue to draw power. This phenomenon, known as phantom load or vampire power, can account for up to 10% of your monthly energy bill and contribute to unnecessary energy waste, device degradation, and environmental harm.
Phantom load occurs when devices like TVs, laptops, chargers, gaming consoles, microwaves, and coffee makers consume power to maintain functions such as clocks, remote controls, or to be ready for instant activation. Common examples include TVs, laptops, chargers, gaming consoles, microwaves, and coffee makers[1][2][3].
Unplugging these devices or using smart power strips to cut off their power supply when not in use can significantly reduce energy consumption. By doing so, you can lower electricity bills, prevent unnecessary energy waste, extend the lifespan of electronics, reduce your carbon footprint, improve home fire safety, and contribute to environmental benefits[1][2].
On average, unplugging phantom load devices can save around $186 per year on electricity bills[4]. Using smart power strips is an efficient way to manage multiple devices at once[3]. Thus, actively unplugging or disconnecting devices when not in use is a practical and cost-effective method to save energy and money at home.
It's worth noting that the average home spends 30% of its energy budget on space heating[5]. Following energy-saving practices, such as unplugging phantom load devices, can help reduce this figure and lead to substantial savings.
Moreover, looking out for eco modes on appliances can help save energy. The Energy Star badge on electronic devices indicates they are more efficient than non-Energy Star versions[6]. A report on appliance brands rated highest by consumers is available from Tom's Guide[7].
For up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews on energy saving and other topics, following Tom's Guide on Google News is recommended[8]. By adopting these simple practices, you can make a significant difference in your energy consumption, savings, and environmental impact.
[1] Phantom load: What it is and how to reduce it - https://www.nrdc.org/stories/phantom-load-what-it-and-how-reduce-it [2] How to Save Energy by Reducing Phantom Loads - https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/articles/how-save-energy-reducing-phantom-loads [3] How to Save Energy and Money by Managing Phantom Loads - https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2021/04/how-to-save-energy-and-money-by-managing-phantom-loads/index.htm [4] How Much Energy Does Standby Mode Really Use? - https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/articles/how-much-energy-does-standby-mode-really-use [5] Energy consumption in homes - https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/home_energy_savings/energy_consumption_in_homes [6] Energy Star - https://www.energystar.gov/ [7] Best Appliance Brands of 2021 - https://www.tomsguide.com/us/best-appliance-brands,review-3052.html [8] Tom's Guide Google News - https://news.google.com/publications/CAAqLggKdHRlc3Qtd2F5LW9yaWVzLmF1dGgKbGFuZ3VhZ2UHCgkic3RhbmNlcy1zZWNyZXQtdG8gcmVhY2ggb2YgdGhpbmdzLgoKCwgIABDAhgGiAGlbgSwIAQ%3D%3D
