Wasting electricity can be pretty spooky, especially when energy vampires are lurking around your home. These appliances and other plugged-in devices continue to suck power from electrical outlets even when they are turned off. It’s what we call phantom load.
According to the Department of Energy, the average household has approximately 40 energy vampires in their home costing more than $100 a year.
You can ward off energy waste this Halloween with these cleverly ghoulish energy-efficiency tips.
In the Bathroom
Hair dryers, curling irons and electric shavers left plugged into the wall while not in use can still drain electricity. Don’t turn your beauty routine into a nightmare. Unplug those devices when you’re done.
In the Kitchen
Before you leave for the day, make a habit of unplugging all unnecessary kitchen appliances including your coffee maker, microwave, toaster oven and other unused appliances.
In the Living Room
Older set-top cable boxes and DVRs are some of the most frightening energy vampires since they constantly drain 25-45 watts of energy when not in use. Try hooking up your entertainment center and other electronics to a power strip to easily switch off the entire system when you need to. Just remember that if you’re planning to record a show, your cable box must be on.
In the Home Office
Your computer and printer still use energy when they’re in idle mode. Plug your devices into a power strip and flip it off instead to save.
In the Bedroom
Once your cell phone or tablet is powered up, unplug the charger to avoid wasting energy. Also, be sure to power down your video game console when it’s “game over.”
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