NewsSmart Shopper

Actions

Save money on energy: What are your appliances doing when you're not home?

Posted
and last updated

This heat is definitely taking a toll on the electricity bill. In fact, even when we get a break of a few degrees, I rarely notice it on my bill.

So it’s not surprising that it’s the things you don't notice that may be costing you the most. 

Bottom line: energy vampires are attacking your home.

For most of us, it's costing hundreds of dollars per year. Fortunately, you don't need to stock up on garlic to get rid of them.

But before you start unplugging things, we found the biggest culprits taking bites out of your wallet!

According to Salt River Project, the top five energy vampires are computers and computer-related equipment, including modems and routers.

Next are instant-on TVs including LED and LCD.

Then surround sound systems, followed by cable or satellite TV boxes.

Household appliances with digital clocks round out the list.

Part of what we're paying for is convenience, and it might not be realistic to unplug everything.

But you can make a difference by grouping your vampires together on a single power strip with an on-off switch.

So how much could you save by making changes? Click this link to calculate the costs right now.