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What Are Electrical Vampires?

Serving Chicagoland
January 15, 2022 | Blog

Tips To Save Electricity

They’re found in homes across the country and hide in plain sight. They suck energy from your home whether you like it or not. They are “energy vampires,” and they can account for 10% of your monthly energy costs. Energy vampires are appliances and devices that draw electricity even after switching off. Not all home appliances need to run around the clock. With a little know-how, you can save on your utility bills and make your home more energy-efficient. Follow this guide from Arnold Electrical Services to learn more about energy vampires and how you can rid them from your home once and for all.

What Are Electrical Vampires?

Here are some examples of devices that suck power from outlets when they are not in use.

  • Items with remote controls. Is there a television in most bedrooms in your home? Each one of those TVs is drawing energy even when they aren’t turned on.
  • Appliances with clocks. Think about all the digital faces that light up your space at night. Your microwave, oven and coffee maker are a few culprits.
  • Rechargeable items. Phone chargers, remote vacuum cleaners and electric toothbrushes all pull electricity when they’re off.
  • Computers. Both laptops and desktops are notorious for electrical vampirism. A lot of homeowners leave their computers on 24/7, opting to let the screen saver run.

Electrical Use Adds Up

With so many potential energy vampires, it’s easy to see how this waste affects your home’s energy bill. Having these appliances draw electricity even when they aren’t in use can run up your energy bill.

After factoring in how many devices you keep plugged in, it’s easy to see how this can add 10% to your energy bill each month. An average household can save up to one hundred dollars a year by banishing energy vampires.

Banish Electrical Vampires

Arnold Electrical Services employs licensed electricians who understand the effects of energy vampires. Here are some energy-saving tips to help you be more energy efficient.

Unplug

Unplug rarely-used appliances and chargers once they have charged. Chargers continue to draw electricity even after the battery reaches one hundred percent.

Use a Surge Protector

Plug a few devices that you use often together into one power strip. This allows you to cut power to all the devices at once instead of going around unplugging each item.

Shut It Down

Shut your computer down at the end of the day. Instead of letting the screen saver run when you’re away from the keyboard, set your device to go to sleep.

Understanding Electrical Efficiency

Now that you have a better understanding of what makes an electrical vampire, you can take the next steps. A few simple changes can make a noticeable difference. Rid your home of these wasteful habits and save on your energy bills in the process.

For more information about energy efficiency or electrical repairs, reach out to the professionals at Arnold Electric Services. Contact us today!

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