💸 The Hidden Costs of Leaving Items Plugged In (Even When They're Off)

You flip the switch. The TV goes dark. The coffee maker’s done for the day. Everything’s "off," so your electricity bill should reflect that… right?

Not so fast.

Many of the devices and appliances around your home are quietly sipping electricity—even when they’re turned off. It’s called phantom energy (or “vampire power”), and it can add up over time.

Let’s break down what it is, how it affects your wallet, and what you can do to stop it. 

🧛‍♂️ What is Phantom Energy?

Phantom energy is the electricity that appliances and electronics use while in standby mode or when left plugged in but not actively in use. Think:

• Your TV waiting for a remote signal
• Your phone charger still plugged in (without a phone attached)
• Gaming consoles in rest mode
• Desktop and laptop computers and monitors on "sleep"

Each device on its own might only cost a few cents per day—but multiply that by 20+ items in your home, and you could be spending $100–$200 a year on electricity you’re not actively using. 

⚡ Common Energy Vampires Around the House

Here are some sneaky culprits:

 Note: These costs vary based on usage and local energy rates (Maryland’s average rate is around 14–15¢ per kWh). 

💡 What You Can Do to Stop It

The good news? Cutting phantom energy is easy and doesn’t require a big investment. Here are a few simple fixes:

• Unplug unused devices
Chargers, toasters, and speakers don’t need to be plugged in 24/7.
• Use smart power strips
These detect when a device is not in use and automatically shut off power.
• Group devices by zone
Put your home office or entertainment center on one power strip so you can switch everything off at once.
• Upgrade to Energy Star appliances
They use less power, even in standby mode.
• Check for energy reports
Some smart meters or electric company portals (like BGE in Maryland) can show you where your energy is going. 

🏠 Why It Matters for Homeowners

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to cut down on monthly bills or a renter trying to stay under budget, phantom energy is one of the easiest places to save. It doesn’t mean sacrificing convenience—it just means being mindful.

You might not notice the costs day to day, but over the course of a year, your "plugged-in" habits could be costing you a weekend getaway, a fancy dinner out, or a few months of streaming services. 

Final Thought

Think of every plugged-in device as a tiny leak in your budget. It might not flood your finances, but it adds up quietly in the background.

Start unplugging a few things today—or better yet, invest in a smart strip—and you’ll see the difference on your next energy bill. 

💬 What surprised you the most about phantom energy? Drop a comment or share your favorite energy-saving tip!

Sean Tavalozzi ~ Realtor & Master Electrician
Keller Williams Flagship of Maryland
Danmar Properties Group
Personal Cell: 203-233-8445
Main KW Office: 410-729-7700
Work Phone: 301-945-8697