Safeguarding your home while saving money has never been easier. Discover which devices to unplug for peace of mind and reduced energy costs!
Understanding Phantom Power
Phantom power refers to the energy consumed by appliances even when they aren’t in active use. This can lead to increased electricity bills and potential fire hazards. One of the simplest methods to combat phantom power usage is by unplugging devices when not needed. Let’s explore the six commonly overlooked household items that should be unplugged regularly.
1. Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers: Safety First
Most of us rely on humidifiers and dehumidifiers to maintain a comfortable living environment. However, leaving them plugged in continuously can pose a fire risk. According to Sofia Wang, a home appliance expert, appliances like these are often forgotten, but they can lead to serious hazards if dust accumulates around motors and vents. Consider investing in auto shut-off humidifiers available on Amazon to enhance safety. Unplugging these appliances when not in use is a reliable way to mitigate the risk.
2. Printers: Simple Unplugging Habit
Printers are another device that easily gets overlooked. Even when not in daily use, these machines can draw power. Clement Feng, VP of Product Management at Briggs & Stratton, emphasizes the importance of a quick ‘unplug sweep’ before leaving the house. By unplugging your printer, you not only eliminate unnecessary power usage but also enhance its lifespan and reliability.
3. TVs and Game Consoles: Monitor Energy Usage
Most households have TVs and gaming consoles which, although seemingly inactive, continue to consume energy when plugged in. Implement a routine to unplug these devices after use, particularly at night. To better understand your energy consumption, you may want to use an energy monitoring device. The upgraded home energy monitor plug from Amazon helps you track how much power these devices use, giving you insight into potential savings.
4. Music Systems and Record Players: Unplug for Longevity
If you love music, it’s easy to leave music systems and record players plugged in. However, similar to other devices, they can contribute to phantom power. Whenever you finish using them, unplugging these devices not only conserves energy but also extends their lifespan. It’s a small change that indicates a more conscious approach to energy usage.
5. Laptop and Desktop Computers: Power Down Effectively
Leaving laptops and desktop computers plugged in, especially if they are on ‘sleep mode,’ contributes significantly to energy consumption. Encourage your household to develop a habit of turning off and unplugging devices after use. If someone is downloading a game or performing a task, adjusting settings like screen brightness or unplugging other peripherals can help reduce power draw. Ensuring devices are completely powered down when not in use will drastically minimize phantom power loss.
6. Air Fresheners: Switch to Energy-Efficient Solutions
Plug-in air fresheners may deliver pleasant scents but come at a cost in energy bills. Instead of relying on these devices, consider switching to energy-efficient reed diffusers like HomeWorx by Slatkin + Co available at QVC. These diffusers can effectively eliminate odors without contributing to your energy bill, promoting a refreshing scent throughout your home at no extra electric cost.
Streamlining Device Management
Managing multiple devices can be overwhelming; that’s where products like the ONDOG multi-plug outlet surge protector come into play. This surge protector not only safeguards your electronics but also simplifies the unplugging process by consolidating multiple devices into one unit. Encouraging regular unplugging becomes much easier when everything is accessible and organized.
Incorporating Energy Monitoring
Utilizing energy monitoring devices can offer a clearer picture of how much power your appliances consume. They can help identify which devices are costing you the most when plugged in. Such insights allow you to make informed decisions, reducing unnecessary costs and enhancing the efficiency of your home energy use.
Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Impact
Implementing a routine of unplugging devices before leaving your home or going to bed might seem trivial, but the cumulative effect can lead to notable savings on your energy bills and improved safety. Fostering these habits not only contributes to reduced electricity costs but also promotes a more sustainable lifestyle. Take advantage of smart devices and necessary appliances to enhance your home’s efficiency and safety today!