What is vampire power?
Also called phantom load, it’s the electricity gadgets draw while “off” or idle—anything with lights, clocks, remotes, or sleep mode.
Biggest culprits:
Cable box/DVR: 20–30 W
Game console (rest mode): 10–15 W
Desktop computer (sleep): 5–21 W
Microwave clock: 3–7 W
Phone/laptop chargers left plugged in: 0.1–1 W
Why it matters:
Standby power often accounts for 5–10% of a home’s electricity use, costing $50–$150 yearly. A DVR left running alone can waste about $35 a year.
Don’t unplug:
Essential items like refrigerators, routers, smoke/CO alarms, medical devices, and security systems.
Smart fixes:
Use smart power strips to cut power to consoles, soundbars, and streaming boxes when the TV turns off.
Unplug or timer-control rarely used hogs like a garage fridge, printer, or treadmill.
Adjust console/PC settings for energy saver modes and shorter sleep timers.
Use smart plugs/timers for lamps, heaters, or holiday lights.
Unplug chargers when not in use—they waste little but reduce clutter and heat.
Bottom line:
Don’t unplug everything—just the wasteful few. With smart strips and habits, you can cut $50–$150 a year with almost no effort.