Is it an Energy Phantom?

A device probably uses standby power if:

• It can be turned on and off using a remote control - tvs, stereos, dvd players, cable/satellite box - even ceiling fans!
  
  
• It is a battery charger - even when not actively charging because the device is not docked or is fully charged - cell phone chargers, rechargeable tools such as handheld vacuums, power tools and electric toothbrushes or razors.
  
  
• It uses a power block.
  
  
• Device is on, but not activly being used - any device with a digital display or clock - microwave, printer, fax machine, oven, door bell.

How to tame your Energy Phantoms

Group and plug
Group your appliances that don't need to remain on at all times on a power strip and turn the power strip off when not in use.

Sample groups:

• PC, monitor, printer, speakers
  
  
• Microwave, breadmaker, coffeemaker
  
  
• Rechargeable power tools and flashlight, handheld vacuum
  
  
• TV, DVD player, game system (Don't include your cable/satellite receiver in this group - turning this off may erase your programming.)

Watch your chargers
Remove chargers from the wall when charging is complete. You can use the group and plug method in areas where you have multiple chargers like garage and utility rooms.

Switch it
Plug devices that are used only when a room is occupied - such as baby monitors - into switch controlled outlets and flip the switch off when the room is empty.

ENERGY STAR^®
Buy energy-efficient appliances bearing the ENERGY STAR^® label. That way, at least less energy will disappear unknowingly. Find a list of products at energystar.gov.