Guides / Electricity
Stop paying for electronics that are "off"
Standby power adds up. A few smart strips fix most of it.
Many devices draw power around the clock, even when they look off: TVs, game consoles, cable boxes, chargers and computers. Individually it's small; together it can be a noticeable part of the bill.
Find the biggest users
- Game consoles with "instant on" or rest modes
- Cable and satellite boxes
- Desktop computers, printers and speakers
- Older TVs and sound systems
- Second fridges and freezers in the garage
Fix it
- Turn off instant-on and quick-start modes in console and TV settings
- Put entertainment and office gear on a power strip you switch off at night
- Use advanced power strips that cut power to accessories when the main device is off
- Unplug or retire the old garage fridge if you don't need it
Measure it
A plug-in electricity usage meter shows exactly what a device uses. Some libraries lend them for free.
General educational information. Savings depend on your home, climate, equipment and rates. Home Penny Pro isn't paid by any utility, supplier or brand.