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Using electricity is a tough thing to conceptualize—we draw it from our sockets to power computers, stereos, and appliances, and it indiscriminately runs our refrigerators, microwaves, and air conditioners. We're even sucking down electricity when our appliances are off, thanks to phantom power. It all amounts to the sapping of resources—whether your electricity comes from coal burning plants or nuclear power—and we could all stand to cut down.
Yet it remains a relatively abstract concept, that is, we're never really sure exactly how much electricity we're using—unless we have an ever-useful electrical use calculator on hand (or more accurately, online).
Take a look at the calculator on Michael Bluejay's electricity website to find out exactly how much wattage you're using—and how much money it's costing you.
Once you've broken down your electrical usage, it makes it much easier to isolate problem areas and cut back. Leave some of your lights on all day or all night? Each one could be costing you around 30 dollars a year.
And even though turning off a few lights or unplugging your computer may not seem like momentous acts, if everyone were to do the same, we could relieve some serious strain on natural resources that have already been stretched thin.
Read more about phantom loads, vampire power and wall warts
How to Go Green: Electricity
Save Energy by Avoiding Phantom Power: Part 1
Save Energy by Avoiding Phantom Power: Part 2
Did You Know? Beware of Phantom Energy
Ready, Set, Green, Week Five: Power Trip
TreeHugger Picks: Cut Back on Phantom Power
EcoTip : Home Appliances' ' phantom ' power load
New Devices to Eliminate Phantom Power Losses
Another Stake Through the Heart of Vampire Power
Want to know what you can do to reduce your carbon footprint? Find out on Planet Green TV's Wa$ted.
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