Unplug These 6 Appliances Before They Hike Your Electricity Bill This Fall
Though you might not be cranking up the AC as much during the fall as the temperature goes down, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll automatically lower your electricity bills. As you transition to using heating more, and also spend more time indoors, you might be surprised by how much your electricity bills can still cost.
One culprit is standby power, sometimes called a phantom or vampire load. This is when your electronics continue drawing electricity even when they appear to be switched off. Data published by the U.S. Department of Energy has shown that standby power can actually account for 5% to 10% of total residential electricity usage.
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To lower your electricity bill this fall, here are some appliances and devices you may want to unplug when they aren’t in use.
1. Window and Portable Air Conditioners
Once temperatures drop and you don’t need air conditioners as much as before, make sure to unplug them instead of simply switching them off. This is the easiest way to eliminate phantom loads.
2. Dehumidifiers and Fans
Dehumidifiers can consume a lot of electricity if you keep them running all day long. So instead of running them out of habit, monitor your indoor humidity and turn the dehumidifier on only when you actually need it. When humidity levels are normal and comfortable, unplug the device so you aren’t wasting money.
3. Space Heaters
Space heaters can easily drive up your electricity bills because they draw a large amount of power when they're running. Even when you keep them plugged in, they can still drain energy. So always unplug the heater once you're finished using it.
4. Computers and Monitors
Set computers and monitors to automatically enter sleep mode, and shut down or unplug equipment that will sit unused overnight or through the weekend. Make sure to also activate low-power settings on printers, scanners, and other office equipment.
5. TVs and Entertainment Systems
Cooler weather means more time spent indoors watching shows and playing video games. But even when they’re not in use, the sound systems and related electronics can continue drawing electricity in standby mode.
If you don't want to unplug five different cords every night, connect those electronic devices to a switchable or smart power strip so they're easier to disconnect. Just know that smart devices, by remaining plugged in all day, also consume minor amounts of electricity, so you'll need to be sure they save more energy than they spend.
6. Other Electronic Devices
Phone chargers, coffee makers, microwaves, countertop appliances, and other electronics can also contribute to phantom loads. So unplug them whenever possible, especially if you’re leaving the house for a few days and won’t be using those devices for a good amount of time. Though these devices don’t consume much energy individually, they can add up over months and years.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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