How to Avoid Phantom Energy Loss

Did you know that some of your household electronics and appliances may be using electricity even when they’re turned off? These hidden energy drains are known as phantom loads, and they can quietly increase your electricity bill, even while you’re trying to live a greener lifestyle. 

We’re here to help you understand what phantom loads are, how they can impact your energy use and carbon footprint, and what you can do to reduce them.

Phantom loads and why they matter

Phantom loads can occur when plugged-in devices continue to draw power even when they're not in use. Some common examples include:

• Chargers with no device plugged in
• TVs and gaming consoles left in standby mode
• Kitchen appliances you don’t use daily
• Computers and printers that are turned off but still connected to electricity

While each device may only use a small amount of energy, the total effect across your home can add up quickly. And reducing phantom loads isn’t just about saving money — it can also help reduce your impact on the environment. 

Wasted electricity often comes from non-renewable sources, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. By cutting down on unnecessary energy use, you’re helping to conserve resources and support a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. 

If you’re already using a 100% clean electricity plan, minimizing phantom loads ensures that your energy use is as efficient and responsible as possible.

How to identify and reduce phantom loads

Here are some steps you can take to recognize and eliminate phantom energy use in your home. 

Keep an eye on your energy bill.

Start by understanding where your energy is going. A home energy audit can help you find inefficient energy use and identify devices that might be using unnecessary power. You can do a basic audit yourself by:

• Checking your electricity bill for unusual spikes
• Using a plug-in energy monitor to measure individual device usage
• Walking through your home and noting devices that stay plugged in 24/7

Switch to a programmable thermostat.

Heating and cooling systems consume a lot of energy. A programmable thermostat helps regulate your home’s temperature efficiently, reducing the need for manual adjustments that can lead to energy waste. Smart thermostats can even learn your habits and optimize your energy use automatically. Upgrading from smart thermostats to a full smart home system can also take your sustainable savings a step further. 

Open your air vents.

Closed or blocked vents can disrupt airflow and force your HVAC system to work harder, using more energy. Keep vents open and clear to maintain efficient circulation and reduce strain on your system. 

Avoid vampire power with smart power strips.

Smart power strips can detect when a device is in standby mode and cut power off automatically. This is especially useful for entertainment centers, home offices and kitchen appliances. You can also manually unplug devices when they’re not in use, especially if you’re leaving home for an extended period of time. 

Switch to LED lighting.

LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer before burning out. Combine this upgrade with mindful habits like turning off lights when leaving a room to maximize your energy savings.

Take the next step toward sustainability

Eliminating phantom loads is a simple yet impactful way to reduce your energy use and live more sustainably. Pair these tips with a 100% clean electricity plan from Green Mountain Energy to ensure that your energy use is as efficient as it is eco-friendly.