Phantom power: the hidden electricity your devices use

Phantom power is electricity your devices use even when they look off. TVs, game consoles, chargers and anything with a glowing light can keep drawing power around the clock.

How much

Research from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory puts standby power at about 5 to 10 percent of residential electricity use.

Easy fixes

Plug groups of devices into a power strip and switch it off when you are done.

The US Department of Energy says an advanced power strip can save up to 100 dollars a year.

What to leave on

Some devices, like routers or medical equipment, need to stay on. Focus on entertainment centers and chargers first.

The fine print

The 5 to 10 percent figure is a research range. Your home may be higher or lower.

Why it matters

It is energy you pay for and never use. Cutting it takes almost no effort.

Try it yourself

Can you spot the greener option every time? Play Greener Choice, our free eco quiz game, and see how long your streak lasts.

Sources: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory standby power, US Department of Energy.

Key takeaways on phantom power

Here is the short version on phantom power. Research from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory puts standby power at about 5 to 10 percent of residential electricity use. Plug groups of devices into a power strip and switch it off when you are done. The US Department of Energy says an advanced power strip can save up to 100 dollars a year. Some devices, like routers or medical equipment, need to stay on. The 5 to 10 percent figure is a research range. It is energy you pay for and never use. Can you spot the greener option every time? Sources: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory standby power, US Department of Energy.

Use these points on phantom power as a starting point, check the numbers against your own home or business, and share what you learn with someone who can use it.