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Does Unplugging Appliances Save Energy?

Does Unplugging Appliances Save Energy?

In every home, a fleet of appliances stands ready at all hours, plugged in and prepared to help with daily tasks. What many are unaware of is that these household devices consume electricity, sometimes even when they are turned off. At Neighborhood Electric, we offer professional electrical repair service and enjoy helping our local clients save on their energy costs. If you want to achieve the same goal, keep reading to learn more about the energy consumption of your household appliances. As a bonus, we’ll introduce you to a smart solution that can help you manage your appliances seamlessly.

How Much Electricity Is Wasted Through Phantom Power Drain?

The power that appliances consume when plugged in but not actively in use is known as "phantom" or "standby" power. These "phantom loads" can account for up to 10% of your home's energy use. Many modern appliances consume energy continuously to power features like clocks, remote controls, or WiFi connectivity. To get a sense of this unseen power drain, think of your television that constantly displays the time, even when it is turned off, or your microwave that is always ready to spring into action at the push of a button. They are consuming a trickle of electricity that, over time, can amount to a significant portion of your power bill.

Why You Should Unplug Electronic Devices and Appliances When Not in Use

The most immediate benefit of unplugging unused appliances is the savings on your energy bill. By simply pulling the plug on devices that are not in use, you prevent them from drawing idle power, hence saving energy and reducing your monthly bill. It can also potentially increase their lifespan. The constant flow of electricity can lead to wear and tear, thereby reducing the efficiency and lifespan of appliances. By unplugging them, you give them a break, possibly extending their service life. However, unplugging and plugging back in appliances daily can be quite inconvenient. For appliances that you use frequently, the constant cycle of unplugging and plugging can become a tedious task, quickly outweighing the benefits of the energy saved.

How Can Smart Outlets Help?

Smart outlets offer a revolutionary solution to manage your home’s energy consumption efficiently. Here are some of the benefits of investing in an outlet upgrade:

• Ease of Use: Smart outlets are user-friendly and can be managed remotely through a smartphone app. This feature allows you to control the power usage of different appliances without having to physically unplug them.
• Scheduled Operations: One of the standout features of smart outlets is the ability to schedule the operation of your appliances. You can set timers for when appliances should be turned off or on, helping to avoid unnecessary power consumption.
• Energy Monitoring: Smart outlets often come with energy monitoring features that allow you to track the power consumption of individual appliances, giving you a detailed view of your energy usage patterns and helping you make informed decisions on how to save energy.

Do You Need a Professional Outlet Installation or Electrical Repair Service?

Taming your power bill is not an impossible task. At Neighborhood Electric, we are here to guide you every step of the way in your energy-saving journey. With the help of an experienced electrician, you can find the best strategies to reduce your power bill while enhancing safety and convenience in your home. Contact our office to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment with an affordable electrician in your neighborhood.