Did you know?
Most of your electronic devices at work and at home stay on, even when they’re turned off.
Even if they’re not in use, cell phone chargers, computer monitors, coffee makers, printers, digital cameras, power tools, DVD players and other appliances and gadgets still draw energy if they’re plugged into an outlet. All together, “phantom energy” use accounts for about 5% of an individual homes’ electricity use. You can take steps to reduce the financial and environmental impacts of these “vampire” appliances by simply unplugging devices, or by plugging them into a surge protector that can be clicked on and off.
Clues to identify your “vampire” appliances:
- Appliances with remote controls: TV’s, DVD players, and audio equipment.
- They feature a continuous digital display.
- They feature rechargeable batteries: cordless phones, which use energy even after the battery is charged.
- Appliances with external power supplies: inkjet printers and iPod chargers.
Advanced Power Strips
Advanced power strips not only safeguard your equipment from damaging power transients, but they also help lower your electric bill.
Most models have 6 outlets, with 2 always-on outlets for devices that you do not want turning off automatically, 1 master outlet, and 3 controlled outlets (that are controlled by the master outlet).
The master outlet senses when the control device (typically a computer) is on or off, and it then switches the controlled outlets on or off accordingly to prevent unnecessary power use from devices plugged into those outlets, eliminating vampire loads.
Visit www.efficiencyvermont.com to learn more, find retailers, and get rebates.
Don’t know how I missed hearing of these sooner but just bought two last week. Inexpensive solutions for a better future