Did you know that “phantom load” – the electricity wasted by leaving appliances and electronics plugged in – costs the United States over $4 billion a year?! Video game consoles left plugged in account for over $1 billion of those electricity leaks. It’s so easy to turn these consoles off, so people should really consider doing that. Additionally, turning off video game consoles would prevent children from being on them all night. This would be beneficial for parents. So, if your child is currently playing assassin’s creed: bloodlines, for example, they will have to work out a schedule to make sure they get some gaming time before the device is unplugged. Little things like that can easily save money and prevent electrical problems. TIP: when you turn off a power strip, you cut all the power and stop phantom load leaks. Use power strips for your chargers, your entertainment center, and home office and then turn them off to stop wasting energy and costs.

What it costs:

Get a simple power strip for $3 or less, or, invest more in a “smart” power strip that costs between $10 and $30.

How to do it:

• Make It a Family Activity! Plan a ‘Phantom Hunt’ – Get your whole family to help you hunt out electronics left plugged in all the time. Have your kids make signs to hang by outlets, electronics, and appliances as reminders to ‘Turn Off!’ This is a great way to teach your children how they can save energy, and why it is important.
• Congratulate yourself for saving energy and money and making a difference in your SouthCoast Community!