Power Strips

Phantoms in your home may be driving your energy bills up, but that doesn't mean your house is haunted. "Phantom loads" are appliances or other devices that continue to consume electricity when you're not using them.

One type of phantom load occurs when an appliance feature keeps operating when you're not using the device (such as your microwave's digital clock) or a "standby" design that ensures that appliances such as TVs can be used immediately. The other is a device that draws electricity even when you think it's off, such as a cell phone charger. Whenever it's plugged into the wall socket, it consumes electricity, even if your cell phone isn't attached.

One way to eliminate phantom loads is to unplug devices when they're not in use. Consider plugging them into a power strip with a switch. When you're not using the devices, shut the power strip off.

New versions of power strips can sense phantom loads and shut them down. Some use sensors to determine whether devices are in use. Another continually monitors how power is being used, and can tell when devices have been shut off. While these power strips may cost more initially, they may save you money in the long run.