As our world includes more devices, the role of energy consumption by these plugged in devices becomes an increasingly important topic. In fact, a Stanford Study showed that on average, 23% of household electricity consumption in Northern California was not only the result of plugged in devices, but idle plugged in devices. These inactive plug loads can lead to larger energy losses then you might imagine. It is estimated that the average US Household uses $165 a year in energy for devices that are always-on but inactive. Sometimes called vampire loads or phantom loads, these devices in “sleep mode” ready to come back on in a moment’s notice or drawing constant energy like a phone charger left plugged often provide little or no-benefit to the consumer.
Fortunately, a few simple steps can significantly reduce vampire loads once consumers are informed about how much energy and money is being wasted.
The first step is identifying where the idle-load energy is being consumed. Identifying those devices that are always on even when unplugged. Unplugging those devices rarely used like televisions in guest rooms and the use of smart power strips which shut off electricity unless it is really needed are easy first steps. The same strategy can be used with phone chargers, plugging them into a power strip and shutting off the power strip when not actively charging.
Checking the power settings is also a quick strategy as often the settings can be adjusted so devices power down when unused. Turning off screensavers on computers and tv’s can also lead to further load reduction.
When replacing old electronics and appliances, consider switching to energy star certified devices. These devices have lower standby consumption then average devices and use less energy all around. An advanced strategy is to measure your energy loads using a device such as the kill-a-watt electricity monitor. Taking this data and plugging into an online calculator can provide insight as to the overall consumption of the appliance. Energy.gov provides a free one at: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/save-electricity-and-fuel/appliances-and-electronics/estimating-appliance-and-home.
Accomplished subject matter expert in sustainable business practices, occupant wellness, and efficient real estate facility operations. Proven experience in coaching teams that deliver effective solutions while igniting innovation. A results oriented professional, adept in creating value and building consensus. Skilled in delivering sustainable solutions, including analytical analysis, benchmarking, reducing energy consumption, increasing water conservation, waste minimization, managing carbon impact, while enhancing the human experience. Proven record of developing reporting strategies, policy implementation, resident engagement programs, compliance practices, green certifications, and the development of strategic sustainability programs.
At Bright Power, I help my clients strategically manage energy and water, leaning on my experience in managing some of the largest multi-family portfolios in the world and partnered with some of the most innovative engineers in the industry, we develop cost effective solutions. We have the team and resources to save properties energy, money, and time through a comprehensive set of solutions that include our EnergyScoreCards software-as-a-service, energy efficiency (energy audits, system design, controls and implementation) as well as solar energy. I look forward to helping you address your energy and water consumption concerns.