This regularly-scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by the Arlington Initiative to Rethink Energy team (AIRE). This county program helps you make smart energy decisions that save you money and leaves a lighter footprint on the environment. Got a question? Email us at [email protected]!
- Energy vampires are in all of our homes.
- They suck (energy), not just on Oct. 31, but year round.
- Easily identify and stop them (no garlic or wooden stake necessary).
Halloween is just around the corner. Do you have vampires lurking in your home?
YES! Energy vampires exist in all of our homes! Believe it or not, many electronics use energy while they are switched off or are in standby mode. They’re called “energy vampires” because they suck energy, the lifeblood of your home, year round.
The typical American home has 40 devices that are continuously sucking power. It’s only a small amount of power per house but it adds up. Some of the main energy-sucking culprits in the home are your computer printer, DVD player, laptop, coffee maker, TV, stereo system, game console, microwave oven, or cell phone charger. Many culprits have lights that continue to operate after the appliance is turned off.
Arlington County Library can help! They have Kill-A-Watt devices available for checkout. These devices show what is sucking energy at your house, how much, and what it is costing you. This is fun for kids and adults (school science experiment — hint hint).
How to stop energy vampires:
- Unplug devices when not in use.
- Plug your devices into a power strip and turn the strip off when not in use.
- Buy ENERGYSTAR appliances.
- Activate sleep mode instead of a screen saver on your computer.
Saving energy and money is a treat you can enjoy all year long. If you’re interested in achieving deeper energy savings, check out our Home Energy Rebates. You can receive up to $575 to reduce your energy use.