Identify and Defeat Phantom Power and Treat Your Energy Bill
OAKLAND, Calif. — Silent energy suckers are scattered throughout your home and business, often hiding in plain sight. These invisible drains on electricity can quietly add up to increased power use, even when appliances and devices are in standby mode or turned off, putting additional strain on energy budgets. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is helping identify these costly energy vampires, and support customers with practical ways to lower their energy consumption and save money on monthly bills.
Many of the appliances and devices customers use are always plugged in. But these always-on appliances and electronics can account for nearly a quarter of customers’ annual electricity bill and can cost the average U.S. household up to $200 a year. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, the wasted energy across the country is equivalent to brewing 234 cups of coffee every single day for a year.
Biggest Electricity-guzzling Ghouls:
- Television
- Smart Speakers/Smart Home Devices
- Cell Phone/Tablet Chargers
- Modem/Internet Router
- Gaming Consoles
- Desktop Computers & Laptops
- Countertop Kitchen Appliances: coffee makers, kettles, microwaves
