Green Report: How to Save Money on Utility Bills
By: Kailey Franz
Updated: December 17, 2009
If you're like most people, your electric bill is higher than last year. If you could save a couple hundred bucks, with only a bit of inconvenience, would you?
It all starts with pulling the plug on a vampire. You think your kids video games are on more than off. So is your computer. Even in idle or sleep mode your game system and computers are eating energy. And, think again if you believe a remote truly turns off your TV.
"Anything that can be turned on and off instantly with a remote control is sucking what's called vampire or phantom load power."
Televisions, computers and video games are among the 20 to 30 phantoms in your home. Add to that list every appliance that has a digital display. Include every DVD player, clock radio and cell phone charger.
There is a simple way to drive a stake through this energy vampire's heart.Simply pull the plug. Shut off his supply.
Another option is to use power strips.Collect your cords on a power strip and turn it on and off as needed. It is an easy way to go green in the Big Country.
Many utilities offer free on-line energy audits. They give a detailed analysis of how much the energy phantom might be stealing.
It all starts with pulling the plug on a vampire. You think your kids video games are on more than off. So is your computer. Even in idle or sleep mode your game system and computers are eating energy. And, think again if you believe a remote truly turns off your TV.
"Anything that can be turned on and off instantly with a remote control is sucking what's called vampire or phantom load power."
Televisions, computers and video games are among the 20 to 30 phantoms in your home. Add to that list every appliance that has a digital display. Include every DVD player, clock radio and cell phone charger.
There is a simple way to drive a stake through this energy vampire's heart.Simply pull the plug. Shut off his supply.
Another option is to use power strips.Collect your cords on a power strip and turn it on and off as needed. It is an easy way to go green in the Big Country.
Many utilities offer free on-line energy audits. They give a detailed analysis of how much the energy phantom might be stealing.
