The Hidden Electrical Load You Never Think About: Phantom Power

Even when you think everything is turned off, your devices may still be quietly using electricity. This is called “phantom power” or “standby power.” Items like phone chargers, coffee makers, TVs, routers, and gaming consoles all consume small amounts of energy even when idle.

While one device might not seem like much, together they can add up to 5–10% of your total monthly electricity usage. Over the course of a year, that’s wasted energy — and wasted money. The good news is that it’s easy to stop phantom power in its tracks.

Try plugging electronics into smart power strips, which automatically cut power when devices aren’t in use. You can also unplug chargers and small appliances when not needed. Businesses can benefit too — unplugging office electronics at night or using timers for signage and lighting reduces unnecessary load.

E&A ELECTRIC LLC helps both homeowners and business owners identify these hidden energy drains. Simple changes can make your electrical system more efficient, lower bills, and extend the lifespan of your devices.