Many electronics draw a small amount of power even when they're switched off, known as phantom loads. Stop energy waste by plugging related items into smart power strips, and then shut them off with one switch.
- Skill level: Basic
- Power strips are easy to use. Use them in a kitchen for small appliances, in your home office for computer equipment, and in your living room or for your TV, DVD player and game console.
- Cost range: $6-$50
- Consumers have access to a wide range of different kinds of power strips, including those with timers, circuit breakers, and surge protection.
- Savings: Varies
- U.S. households spend approximately $100 per year to power devices while they are in a low power mode, roughly 8% of household electricity costs. Using power strips to avoid this energy waste is a cost-effective way to save that can pay for themselves quickly.
