KTAB Going Green
By: Kira Miner
Updated: January 23, 2009
If you think your kids video games are on more than off. So is your computer. Most people dont use their computer most of the time. Most of the time the machine sits idle. 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 whats 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. At the same time its still sucking just a little bit of energy simply because it has to have the ability to turn on and off very quickly because its hooked up to a remote control. Theres a simple way to drive a stake through this energy vampires heart. Simply pull the plug. Shut off his supply. Research has shown you can save up to $200 a year by just unplugging these devices. Another option is to use power strips. Collect your cords on a power strip and turn it on and off as needed.
