If you’re having trouble figuring out why your electricity bill remains higher than you think it should be, it’s time to take a look at some of the possible causes. Most people ignore plugged-in appliances, but electricians frequently point to these as “energy vampires.” Power-hungry devices continue to drain small increments of electricity that add up over time. Garlic doesn’t work against them, but here’s how you can fight them off.  

How to Be an Energy Vampire Slayer

1. Unplug When Unused

Even when they’re switched off, plugged-in appliances continue to consume energy. Standby power, idle current, and phantom load are some of the terms that pertain to electricity used and wasted by such devices. If you think you’re not paying for these, think again—it may be costing you an extra $200 on your yearly energy bill.

Heed the advice of electricians when they say you must unplug non-essential appliances, such as chargers, printers, video players, game consoles, televisions, and microwaves until you use them again.

2. Invest in Power Strips

If you find it too tedious to pull the plug on every outlet, buy a power strip to serve as a central hub for your appliances. With a flick of the switch, you can cut off the power and stop the energy wastage.

Invest in smart power strips that stop the flow of electricity to devices once the “master” appliance—for example, the computer—shuts down or only draws idle current. Some surge protectors automatically power off if they don’t detect motion in the room.

3. Set It to Sleep

Another way to stop energy vampires from leeching is to reduce the idle time of your devices. Most appliances, including laptops, desktops, and game consoles, have a sleep mode that prevents them from consuming too much energy when unused. However, if you won’t be using them anytime soon, it’s better to shut them down instead.

4. Swap Them Out

When you’ve done everything to cut down on energy loss to no avail, perhaps it’s time to replace your old appliances. Newer technology has made devices more energy-efficient without sacrificing performance. Look for Energy Star-approved devices and gauge whether the upgrade is worth the savings. Ask an electrician for more advice on how you can save on energy as well.

Follow the tips above to curb energy loss from power vampires. When you need a trusted electrician, turn to Etheridge Electric Company in Hahira, GA. For over 45 years, they’ve provided quality electrical services, including wiring repairs and light fixture installation, throughout the southern Georgia region. Call (229) 794-2148 to schedule a service or request an estimate online.