You could be losing hundreds of dollars a year — and you might not even know it.
Experts are warning Americans to check their homes for “vampire appliances” — common household electronics that continue to draw electricity even when they’re switched off. Known as “phantom loads,” this kind of power drain is costing U.S. households between $165 and $440 annually, according to Edison International, via Realtor.com.
And your kitchen may be the biggest culprit.
What are vampire appliances?
Vampire appliances — also called “energy vampires” — are devices that stay plugged in and quietly consume electricity while not in use.
According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), these phantom energy drains could be costing us a total of $19 billion nationwide, per Just Energy.
Dan Mock, vice president of operations at Mister Sparky, explained to Realtor.com: “On average, a homeowner wastes 35% of that power used in their home annually. These energy-sucking devices are detrimental not only to the environment but also to your wallet.”
Kitchen culprits: small appliances, big costs
You might be surprised how much electricity your kitchen burns through — even when you’re not there. According to the NREL and other experts, common vampire appliances that exploit phantom power include:
- Toasters
- Microwaves
- Coffee makers
- Televisions
- Clocks
- Smart TVs and satellite boxes
- Computers and chargers
- Video game consoles
- Thermostats
- Electric grooming tools
- Refrigerators
- Other kitchen gadgets with LED displays
“These phantom loads continue to consume electricity even when they are in standby or off mode. By turning them off, you reduce this unnecessary energy consumption, which can lead to significant energy savings over time,” says Mock.
Even smaller appliances like electric toothbrushes, grooming tools, and phone chargers left plugged in overnight contribute to the silent drain on your energy bill.
Mock warns that even low-wattage items add up over time. “By switching them off, you can lower your energy bills and save money,” he said.
Simple ways to slay the energy vampires
While it’s not practical to unplug everything all the time — especially essential appliances like refrigerators or thermostats — there are easy steps you can take to slash your standby power use.
1. Unplug devices after use
The most effective method: simply unplug appliances when they’re not needed. This is especially doable for occasional-use items like hair dryers, rice cookers, or chargers.
2. Use a smart power strip
Plug multiple devices into a power strip that can be shut off with a single switch. Some models come with timers, motion sensors, or even remote controls to automate energy savings.
3. Choose energy-efficient products
Look for devices with high Energy Star ratings. These are designed to minimize power consumption both when in use and when in standby mode.
4. Limit devices with always-on displays
Appliances that keep a clock or glowing light on 24/7 — such as microwaves or some coffee machines — are low-level energy drains. If possible, choose analog versions or models without digital displays.
5. Audit your home’s energy use
You can conduct a DIY audit using a plug-in energy meter, or hire a professional for a detailed report on your home’s power consumption. Auditors can also recommend upgrades to insulation, HVAC systems, and lighting to further cut costs.
The environmental cost of standby power
Beyond the impact on your personal finances, standby energy has a substantial environmental cost. It accounts for 1% of global carbon emissions — about 44 million metric tons of CO2 in the US alone.
Courtney Klosterman, a home insights expert at Hippo Home Insurance, adds: “Reducing your usage when possible, using power-saving or similar settings, and making energy-efficient upgrades are a few ways to keep electricity usage down with these appliances.”
“For example, a household can save about $450 annually on energy bills when using Energy Star products,” she noted.
The takeaway: One small change at a time
Not every appliance is an energy vampire — simple lamps and traditional toasters without LED displays use zero electricity when turned off. But identifying and managing those that do can make a real impact on both your budget and the environment.
Mock adds: “Unplugging or turning off vampire appliances reduces your carbon footprint. It helps decrease the overall demand for energy generation, which can be environmentally harmful, especially if your electricity comes from nonrenewable sources.”
And there’s an added benefit: improved safety. Appliances left in standby mode can pose a minor fire hazard — one that’s eliminated by unplugging entirely.
It’s time to take your home back from energy vampires. Your wallet and the planet will thank you.