Phantom loads occur in most of our modern appliances. Even with the power button off, TVs, computers, and monitors are often really just on standby, using energy to stay warmed up for a quick start. DVD/VCR players, stereos, and appliances may use standby power to maintain timers and memory settings which are seldom used.

A large amount of standby power is used by the vast array of power adapters and low voltage transformers. Adapters come with rechargeable battery-powered devices, such as cordless phones, cell phones, walkie-talkies, digital cameras, music players, and power tools. When plugged into an outlet, each adapter is likely to continue drawing power even when the battery is fully charged or the device is not even attached!

Waste Not, Watt Not

The simplest way to subdue these so-called "energy vampires" is to unplug them when they are not actually in use. This is easier said than done, though, with several peripherals. Many people have found it easier to plug everything into a power strip or surge protector and click the entire strip off when finished. A video network with TV, DVD/VCR, and video game box could benefit from this. However, set-top boxes for cable or satellite service might not be good candidates for the same strip because of the need to reset each time the box is disabled. In addition, answering machines, computer network servers and backup systems may need to be left on to work properly.

Some consumers have welcomed help from Bits Limited (www.bitsltd.net). Their Smart Strip Power Strips use an autoswitching technology to shut down power to the peripherals when a computer plugged into the control outlet is off. There are also constant-hot outlets for devices that need to remain empowered. Entertainment centers and work stations also benefit from these strips.

Energy vampires might be hiding in any room of the house. In the office, check printers, scanners, fax machines, and copiers. Remember to scope out the kitchen, too, where the coffee maker, microwave or toaster oven might be sneaking energy. Not every electrical device uses phantom energy. Simple equipment with separate off buttons and no displays are often innocent bystanders. Think hair dryers, lamps, and blenders. Newer electronics which qualify for the Energy Star label (www.EnergyStar.gov) use minimal energy in standby mode and reduced draw during regular use and sleep mode.

An easy way to unmask the real energy vampires is to use a power usage meter, such as the Kill AWatt or Watts Up. Simply plug the meter into the outlet and the device into the meter. The display will tell you how many watts of electricity are being used.

Step by Step

Reducing our power consumption saves us money for other ministries. It also helps to prevent greenhouse gases and other pollutants because power plants don't have to work so hard. The first step is to remember to actually turn off electronics or their power strips when we are finished using them. Families can assign the job of "Energy Steward" to children on a rotating basis. The kids take a minute to run through the house before leaving for the day and before bed to ensure that everything is switched off.

Young adults can help out by unplugging offending devices, and adults can add to the savings by additionally shutting down computer servers, routers, modems, and cable boxes before leaving on vacation.

Take an afternoon to look closely at everything that is plugged into electrical outlets at home, church, and work. A Kill-A-Watt meter is available to borrow by emailing answerthecall@cox.net and will help to discover the worst offenders. We can then decide how to best phase out our own phantom loads. We have been entrusted with the care of this magnificent creation. Let's make every kilowatt count. Step by step, our journey continues for His Creation.

Vicki Coulter is a volunteer with The Climate Project and gives Environmental Stewardship presentations in Middle Georgia.