As temperatures drop and the seasons change, it’s a good time to be aware that something may be lurking around your home: vampire energy.
Also known as phantom or standby power, “vampire energy” is the electricity that appliances and electronics continue to use even when they’re turned off. Products drawing standby power can collectively account for 5 to 10 percent of residential electricity use in a typical American home, according to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.
That means everyday devices like computer cords, printers, coffee makers, and game consoles may still be using energy simply because they’re plugged in.
Unmask the Energy Users Around Your Home
A few simple changes can reduce unnecessary energy use and help manage household costs this fall.
Cut vampire energy. Plug televisions, game consoles, computers, and other electronics into power strips with on/off switches. When you’re finished using the devices, turn the power strip off.
Unplug before heading out of town. Non-essential electronics can continue to draw energy while no one is home, so unplug them before you leave.
Turn off unused lights. Switch off lights when you leave a room, and consider using timers for indoor, outdoor, and seasonal decorations.
Make the switch to LEDs. Replace older lightbulbs with energy-efficient LEDs, which use less energy and last longer.
Keep drafts outside. Use caulk or weather-stripping around leaky windows and doors and remember to close fireplace dampers when they’re not in use.
Schedule an energy assessment: During an In-Home Energy Assessment, you can learn where your home is losing energy and receive products and recommendations that can help make a difference on your energy bills.
Look for ENERGY STAR®. When it’s time to replace an appliance or electronic device, look for the ENERGY STAR® label and choose an energy-efficient product.
Keep an eye on your energy use. PECO customers can use the MyAccount tool to track their energy use, review bill details, and find additional ways to save energy.
Small Steps Can Make a Difference
There are lots of practical low and no-cost steps you can take to reduce energy use in your home. Helping customers access and understand these options while pursuing longer-term solutions to address rising energy costs is part of PECO’s commitment under The Exelon Promise.
Customers can find more energy-saving tips and resources at peco.com/WaysToSave.