Domestic power consumption and utility bills are a constant focus as we all try to run our homes as efficiently as possible. Inevitably, we don’t always get everything right, and many of us are guilty of leaving appliances on standby, using electricity for no benefit.
So-called “Energy Vampires”, like TVs, game consoles and computers, cost hundreds of dollars a year to run even when they’re idle and plugged in.
The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) says almost a quarter of our electricity bill (23%) is due to the consumption of electricity by these Energy Vampires.
No one is suggesting you spend your life running around your home switching the lights out, but it’s good to be aware of how much cash leaks away due to useless energy consumption.
Here are some tips and a list of appliances that you should keep unplugged when not in use. If you take this advice, you should see a reduction in your energy bills.
Safety first – Let’s look at a couple of appliances that are well known for being dangerous if plugged in and left unattended. The first is space heaters. According to the National Fire Protection Association, they cause more than 10,000 domestic fires in America every year. Even when they have a timer, they still draw power. Always connect them at the wall, never plug them into a power strip!
Scooters – Scooters have a terrible reputation for exploding batteries that cause domestic fires. If you recharge them overnight, they’re effectively unattended and potentially dangerous. Do not recharge when you’re sleeping.
Surge protectors – Installing surge protection in your home is a relatively inexpensive way to enhance safety. Talk to a licensed electrician about installing surge protection for your TV, video game console, cooktop and extractor fan. They will give you the advice you need to stay safe.
Charging station – Consider setting up a charging station for notebooks, smartphones and smartwatches. This way, you’ll be able to better manage your energy consumption.
TVs – TVs draw up to 54 watts constantly when in sleep or standby mode. If you’re worried about your electricity bill, then unplugging the TV before you go to bed is a smart play.
Consoles – Two of the thirstiest vampires are games consoles and set-top boxes. These should be disconnected when not in use.
Computers – A PC or notebook on standby will take $50 out of your pocket across a year. Consider unplugging them when they’re not in use. If you do this, the RAM will clear, which will improve performance.
Office equipment – If you work from home, it’s likely you have a printer and shredder. When left turned on at the wall, both these devices will continually suck on your power supply for no benefit. Unplug them at the end of your business day.
Timers and clocks – It’s harder to turn off appliances with a clock and timer – an oven being a case in point. Nevertheless be aware that microwave ovens and the like constantly draw on power so they’re ready when you need them.