I want to reveal something that might shock you about your electricity bill. Even when devices appear to be off, they’re quietly consuming power and draining your wallet. This hidden culprit is called phantom power, and it’s costing the average American household hundreds of dollars every year without their knowledge.

What Is Phantom Power?

Phantom power, also called standby power or vampire power, is the electricity consumed by devices when they’re plugged in but turned off. Your television, coffee maker, phone charger, computer monitor, and dozens of other appliances continue drawing power from your outlets even during rest mode.

The Shocking Numbers

Studies show that phantom power accounts for 5 to 10 percent of residential electricity consumption. For a typical household, this means phantom power could be responsible for $100 to $200 of your annual electricity bill. Over a decade, that’s potentially $1,000 to $2,000 wasted on devices that aren’t even running.

Common Phantom Power Culprits

The biggest energy vampires in most homes include:

Entertainment systems like televisions and gaming consoles
Kitchen appliances with digital displays or timers
Computer equipment and peripherals left plugged in
Phone chargers and battery charging stations
Smart home devices in standby mode

Taking Control of Your Energy Costs

The solution is simpler than you might think. Power strips, smart outlets, and intentional unplugging eliminate phantom power drain. Strategic electrical solutions from a licensed electrician can transform your home’s efficiency.

Don’t let invisible energy drains sabotage your budget. Contact Epic Electric in Northwest Arkansas to explore smart electrical solutions that save you money every month.