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Save Money by Reducing Phantom
Load Phantom load also known as standby power is the electricity used
by appliances and electronic devices when they are off or in standby mode.
Many, but not all, electronics have a phantom load. Home entertainment devices
with remote controls, appliances with digital clocks, electronics that use a
power adaptor (or wall cube) and computer printers and fax machines are
notorious phantom loads. While the electricity consumed by the devices is relatively small,
given that they are on 24 hours a day and most homes have many such devices,
the total electricity used to power these electronics is substantial. It is
estimated 5 to 10 percent of a typical household's monthly electric bill goes
to standby power and this is probably a conservative figure. What can you do? First, look around your home at night for the
glow of LED lights. If you can, put these devices on powers strips that can be
turned off. Many of us already have power strips in our homes such as behind
our televisions. Move them out to where you can easily reach them and turn them
off when not in use, like overnight. You will quickly recover what you paid for
a power strip in reduced power bills. Look
for those that are Underwriters Laboratory (UL) approved.
Next, look around for power adaptors or wall cubes; many times
they are warm to the touch, more evidence or phantom load. Unplug these when
not in use like cell phone chargers or hair dryers.
The State of Tennessee, in partnership with the
Tennessee Valley Authority's Energy Right program, will provide
financial incentives to encourage residents to replace old, inefficient
appliances with new, efficient ENERGY STAR® qualified appliances.
The mail-in rebate program is tentatively scheduled to begin in late June 2010,
and will continue until funds are depleted. Eligible products include Tennessee encourages customers to recycle their old room air conditioners. Contact: Tennessee Dept.
of Economic and Community Development
Stop!Are you planning to purchase an air
conditioner?
Tennessee Appliance Rebates
for Air Conditioners and
Heat Pumps
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Find out how much energy you actually use. Complete TVA's on-line audit and get a free home energy kit. Get Detailed energy saving tips and lots more information ACEEE Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings Install a renewable energy system and become a TVA Generation Partner |
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