A phantom load is any device that consumes electricity when turned off but still plugged into an outlet. These electronic devices provide the modern-day conveniences we rely on, but they also waste energy and cost money.
To assist in measuring your phantom load use, this calculator includes the phantom load of many common household devices. To figure out your home’s total phantom load cost, choose the number of items in your home that are off, but still plugged in. Notice the bar increases with each new item you add. After you have added all the devices in your home, you will see the total annual cost for your phantom loads. To view an amount of any specific device, simply hover your mouse over a colored bar and it will indicate the device and annual amount.
To find out more about phantom load and how you can reduce your costs, visit our appliances page or download the phantom load information sheet.
Did you know you can calculate how long it will take to recoup the cost of changing to energy saving compact fluorescent light bulbs? Find out how!
On average, 75 percent of the electricity used to power home electronics is consumed when the power is turned off.
Click here to learn more.