Ever since you were a kid, you’ve been told to turn off the lights, TV, and other electronics before leaving a room so you don’t waste electricity. Well, what if we told you that, even if you do turn off your electronics, you could still be using electricity, without even knowing it? Let us fill you in on a concept called “vampire electricity.”
What is Vampire Electricity?
Vampire electricity is power that is still used by your electronic devices even when they are powered off. This type of electricity use can sometimes account for up to 20% of your utility bill. Think about that — 20% of your electricity bill can be caused by power you’re not even actively using!
How Do Devices Keep Using Electricity?
Believe it or not, even when they’re powered off (or in sleep or standby mode) many devices still use energy — typically to record data, connect to servers, or update themselves. While your TV may be off, it is operating on vampire power to ensure it’s ready when you need to use it again. In addition, computers or laptops utilize power when they are closed. Your charging laptop is still connecting to your wifi and performing updates.
What Devices Use Vampire Electricity?
While basically any plugged-in device can use vampire electricity, there are a few kinds of devices that are more guilty than others.
Chargers
Since most chargers have wall warts (plugs that connect to large boxes) they are huge culprits for vampire electricity use. Wall warts pull and store energy even when they’re not actively charging a device.
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Televisions
Not only is a television always on standby mode, but think about all of the devices that are plugged into it as well. Devices such as cable boxes, surround-sound stereo systems, and video gaming consoles all use vampire power while they wait to be powered on.
How to Eliminate Vampire Electricity In Your House
Unplug It
Simply put, if you’re not using an appliance or charger, unplug it so it doesn’t suck any energy from your home.
Use Power Strips
Since you probably don’t want to unplug certain appliances every time you’re not using them, plug them into power strips instead so you can cut the power to multiple devices at once.
Electrical Repair Services
Our team of licensed electricians offer exceptional electrical repair services for homeowners in Georgia. We offer various types of electrical services such as lighting installation, ceiling fan repair, electrical panel installation, and whole-house generator replacement. For all of your residential electrical issues, look no further than Casteel. Give our team of professional electricians a call by phone at (770) 852-8504 to receive assistance with an electrical issue in your living space.