Get Rid of Those Energy Vampires
In the dark of night, centuries ago, one of humans’ greatest fears has been that of the vampire. In modern times, we are less likely to believe in blood-sucking creatures in the darkness. However, your home still likely has its share of vampires — energy vampires that steal electrical power, that is. Here are some ways to recognize energy vampires and the best way to get rid of them.
What are Energy Vampires?
In today’s households, energy vampires are appliances, electronics, and other devices that use a small amount of electrical power even when they are turned off. This standby energy maintains clocks, timers, and internal settings, and allows the device to be turned on quickly via remote control.
Some of the more common energy vampires are
- Computers
- Audio and video equipment
- Cell phone chargers
- Computers
- Video game consoles
- Appliances such as microwave ovens
The amount of standby energy used by any one of these devices is small, but when the usage is multiplied by several devices over weeks or months, the waste of energy becomes substantial.
The One Sure Way of Getting Rid of Energy Vampires
For a movie vampire, a stake through the heart or exposure to sunlight is a sure way of destroying the creature. In the case of energy vampires, there is also one certain technique for getting rid of them: unplugging them.
Banish energy vampires by unplugging them from the wall when they are not in use. This removes any possibility that standby energy will be consumed or wasted. It’s also possible to plug several of these devices into a power strip. When you shut off the power strip, you also shut off each device.
At Sobieski Services, Inc., our goal is to help our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey learn more about energy and home comfort issues — especially HVAC and plumbing issues — so that they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes. Contact us today for more information on identifying energy vampires in your home and getting rid of them before they suck your energy budget dry.
