Have you ever considered the amount of energy your appliances may be consuming while not in use? According to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, in the average American home, roughly 40 devices and appliances are always drawing power, even if they are considered to be “off.”
These products eventually add up and could be one reason for your unexplained, high energy bills. Not only do these appliances consume massive amounts of electricity, but they also contribute to climate change. Electricity production represents about 37 percent of all carbon dioxide emissions in the United States, according to the U.S Energy Information Administration. Cutting back on appliance electricity standby use is not only beneficial for our wallets, but the well-being of our planet.
In order to reduce the amount of idle power appliances are using in our homes, we must first understand where most of the energy is coming from. This month we break down where you could be wasting the most energy and simple ways to cut back on standby power.
In 2015, the Pew Research Center concluded that 67 percent of American households have a high-speed internet connection, which normally contains at least one modem and one router. Now consider all your devices and appliances that connect to the internet in order to perform their functions. At least one is constantly being used, and even though more appliances on the market are becoming more energy efficient, we are accumulating more of them.
To estimate your personal appliance and home electricity energy, use the Appliance Energy Calculator. It allows you to better estimate your personal annual energy use to help you better manage specific energy drawing products.
Utility companies may provide hourly data for electrical energy consumption that will allow you to track how much energy your home consumes on an hourly basis. Ask your local utility for more information. Easy Ways Reduce Standby Power
Unplug products that you don’t use often.
Use a power strip to turn on and off a mass amount of products. Be mindful of plugging appliances with clocks or internet access in the same power strip with appliances who have unlike features.
Buy products that specifically have low-standby usage. Energy Star has a wide variety of lower standby products currently on the market.
AEP Energy does not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, suitability, completeness, freedom from error, or value of any information herein. The information presented is provided “as is”, “as available”, and for informational purposes only, speaks only to events or circumstances on or before the date it is presented, and should not be construed as advice, a recommendation, or a guarantee of future results. AEP Energy disclaims any and all liabilities and warranties related hereto, including any obligation to update or correct the information herein. Summaries and website links included herein (collectively, “Links”) are not under AEP Energy’s control and are provided for reference only and not for commercial purposes. AEP Energy does not endorse or approve of the Links or related information and does not provide any warranty of any kind or nature related thereto.
As we bid farewell to the current year and welcome the new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our wellness and energy. At AEP Energy, we believe that a healthy mind and body are the foundations of a vibrant life. Here are some tips to help you start the new year with renewed …
As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to giving (and receiving!) beautifully wrapped gifts. However, traditional gift wrapping often generates a surprising amount of waste. At AEP Energy, we’re here to help you celebrate the season sustainably with some creative and eco-friendly wrapping ideas that will bring joy to your loved ones—and …
Enter your zip code to see energy plans in your area
Already an AEP energy customer?Login to view account details or enroll at the same rate as new customers.
We found several utilities in your area! Please select yours below:
AEP Energy Reward Store is filled with a variety of energy-saving products for your home. It is a simple and convenient way for you to shop for items to make your home more energy efficient while saving you time and money.
Collect Reward Dollars each month ($5/electric, $3/natural gas) for simply being an AEP Energy Customer.
Shop AEP Energy Reward Store for energy-efficient products like smart thermostats, LED lighting, and more.
Redeem your accumulated Reward Dollars and enjoy smart solutions for your home.
We're Sorry
Brandi Nye, Managing Director of Business Solutions
Brandi is an expert in her field with professional experience in the sustainability industry. Not only does Brandi have solid base knowledge, but she continues to grow her acumen through various learning and development experiences. Brandi is a creative and thoughtful utility professional with expertise in regulatory and utility operations.