Phantom (Standby) Power

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Did you know that many appliances and electronic equipment use electricity even when turned off? This is called standby power, sometimes referred to as "phantom" power. Standby power accounts for:
  • An estimated 6% of average household electric use
  • 43 billion kilowatt-hours per year in the United States
Some standby power is useful because it lets equipment receive remote control signals. However, other uses are not needed:
  • Cell phone and other battery chargers plugged in when not in use
  • Seldom used computer printers or other non-essential devices left on 24/7

Tips to reduce wasted energy in your home

  • Check out a "Watts Up" portable energy meter from your public library to learn which equipment uses power when turned off.
  • Unplug equipment when not in use.
  • Use a switched power strip to turn off several pieces at once.
  • Look for the ENERGY STAR® label when buying new appliances and equipment.
  • Avoid buying equipment with a clock or remote functions that you don't need.
Have more energy questions? MGE's Energy Experts can help!