Have you ever wondered why your electricity bill keeps increasing, even when you are not using a lot of appliances? The culprit might be something you can’t see: phantom power.
What is Phantom Power?
Phantom power refers to the electricity electronic devices continue to draw even when turned off or in standby mode. This energy, often referred to as “vampire power,” is silently draining your wallet and contributing to unnecessary energy consumption.
The Culprits Behind Phantom Power
Many standard household devices are notorious for phantom power consumption:
- TVs and Cable Boxes: Even when turned off, these devices often continue to draw power to display the time or receive updates.
- Computers and Monitors: These devices, including peripherals like printers and scanners, can consume significant amounts of phantom power.
- Chargers: Phone chargers, laptop chargers and other chargers can draw power even when no device is plugged in.
- Gaming Consoles: These devices, especially those with internet connectivity, can consume power in standby mode.
The Hidden Costs of Phantom Power
While the individual cost of phantom power from each device may seem negligible, the cumulative effect can be substantial. Over time, this energy drain can add up to significant savings on your electricity bill.
How to Combat Phantom Power
- Power Strips: Try to use power strips with on/off switches to quickly cut off power to multiple devices at once. This is especially helpful for electronics in homes and offices.
- Unplug Devices: When devices are not in use for extended periods, unplug them entirely. This includes chargers, TVs and gaming consoles.
- Smart Power Strips: These devices can automatically power off electronics when they are not in use, providing even more significant energy savings.
- Energy-Efficient Devices: Consider replacing older, less efficient electronics and appliances with newer models that have energy-saving features.
The Environmental Impact
Reducing Phantom Power: Environmental and Practical Benefits
Reducing phantom power consumption isn’t just about saving money—it also contributes to more efficient energy use. Phantom power refers to the energy devices use when they’re turned off but still plugged in. By cutting down on this waste, you can help make better use of energy resources.
How Small Changes Can Make a Difference
While large-scale changes are important, individual actions can add up. By reducing phantom power, you can:
- Lower Your Energy Usage: Decreasing unnecessary power consumption reduces demand on the energy grid, helping to lower overall energy use.
- Conserve Resources: Less energy demand means less reliance on non-renewable resources like coal and natural gas.
- Support Energy Efficiency: By adopting energy-saving habits, you help promote more efficient technologies and systems.
Simple Ways to Cut Phantom Power
- Unplug Devices: Unplug electronics or use power strips to easily disconnect them when not in use.
- Switch to Smart Power Strips: These strips cut power to devices in standby mode automatically.
- Choose Energy-Efficient Products: Invest in appliances and electronics with high efficiency ratings.
By making small adjustments in your routine, you can reduce phantom power usage, conserve energy, and support a more sustainable approach to energy consumption.
Call B&D Industries for Your Electrical Needs
B&D Industries, Inc. has been servicing residential, commercial and industrial properties with specialized expertise for over 70 years. During that time, we’ve grown exponentially and now reach areas of New Mexico, Arizona, and New York. Our quality of services and exceptional customer experience set us apart from our competitors as we strive to change the industry one project and one relationship at a time.
When you call B&D Industries, Inc., you can rest assured that your home’s HVAC appliances, plumbing and electrical systems are in good hands. Our licensed technicians are dedicated to working with you to ensure that your home is up-to-code and functioning properly.
