The above javascript is used to send anonymous usage data to Google Analytics. Tame the Suckers - Walton EMC

Tame the Suckers

Consumers love electric devices and appliances that entertain, add convenience or promote productivity. But adding a new device probably means you’re inviting another energy vampire into your home.

Nearly all new electrical products – TVs, coffee makers, computers and many more – are energy vampires. They sit in standby mode consuming power while waiting for someone to use them.

Individually, these power suckers account for a small amount of energy use, but the average household has about 40, so the consumption and power bills can add up.

Walton EMC energy advisors suggest the following measures:

Look for…

  • Any gadget with an external power supply
  • Devices that use a remote control
  • Anything that has a continuous display

Fight Back

  • Unplug. Unplug any electronics when not in use and unplug rarely used devices.
  • Use power strips. Plug devices into power strips and turn them off when not needed. Smart power strips make it even easier by automatically shutting off power. See the related article.
  • Activate power-saving settings. On your computer, monitor or game console, disable the screensaver and turn on the auto power down option (if available). Also turn off the “quick start” or “instant-on” option.
  • Install timers. Set it and forget it. This works particularly well with items you only use at specific times, like a coffee maker.

Use the energy calculator to find more ways to save.

 

Featured Articles:

  • 2023 Power Moves

    Setting goals for the new year? Make Walton EMC a part of your 2023 to-do list. Your co-op offers plenty of opportunities for making power moves that can benefit you, and the community, all year long. Simplify your billing. If the peaks of winter and summer electric bills are tough on your budget, sign up for Levelized Billing. It allows […]
  • Walton EMC Recognized for Workplace Safety Excellence

    Your cooperative was recently recognized for an entire year without any employee missing work due to an injury in the workplace, an impressive accomplishment given the complexity and inherent dangers of the electric utility industry. “Our business involves risks from energized wires, working high in the air and moving heavy items, not to mention being […]
  • Plug Into Advanced Power Strips

    Electronics account for approximately 12 percent of the total electricity used by the average U.S. household. Advanced power strips (APSs) are an easy, low-cost way to manage the energy consumed by your home electronics and save money on your electric bill. There are several types of APSs on the market, but all operate on the same basic […]
  • Walton EMC Linemen Restore Power After Ian

    “It looked liked a bomb went off. This is one of the worst storms we’ve ever worked.” This is how Jacob Brooks described what he and six other Walton EMC linemen saw when they arrived in Florida to repair damage following Hurricane Ian. The category 4 hurricane reached 155 mph winds, striking and devastating Fort […]
  • Applications Open for Washington Youth Tour

    Find the entry form and details here.
  • Plugged In: Can I Be Notified?

    Q: Can I be notified when my power is turned back on? A: Yes, Walton EMC will call you when your power is restored to your home or business. You must request a call at the time an outage is reported, either online or by telephone. Electronic reports are the fastest way to report an […]