Is Phantom Energy Haunting Your Electric Bill? Here’s how to bust “vampire” loads at home
At first glance, your home seems calm. The game console is “off,” the coffee maker is silent, the charger is still plugged into the wall. But behind that quiet lies a little-known secret: dozens of devices keep sipping electricity in standby mode—true “energy vampires.” And that steady drip can add up to 5–10% of your monthly usage. The good news: you don’t have to let it spook you. With Florida Power & Light (FPL)’s tips, you can banish these phantom loads and keep your bill in check all season long.
What is phantom energy?
Also called standby load, it’s the electricity devices use when they’re “off” but still plugged in.
Think:
– Coffee makers, toasters, and air fryers with clocks or indicator lights.
– Chargers that glow even when nothing’s charging.
– Consoles, cable boxes, and entertainment centers that “never sleep.”
– Printers and routers that keep background functions ready.
That small, constant draw becomes a costly “spell” over time.
FPL’s energy vampire-busting kit
– Unplug when you’re done: Disconnect coffee makers, air fryers, adapters, and chargers when not in use.
– One-click shutoff: Plug your entertainment center into a power strip with an on/off switch and flip it fully off when you leave.
– Look for ENERGY STAR: These products use less energy in standby and help cut phantom load.
– Decorate without the fright: Unplug or switch off power strips for fog machines, strobes, inflatables, and other Halloween decor during the day.
– Recruit your ghostbusting crew: Get the whole family involved in spotting “energy vampires” to multiply your savings.
– Play and learn: Try FPL’s updated House of Savings—an interactive experience that makes learning energy-saving tips fun for all ages.
Turn the scare into real savings
Every outlet you control keeps more money in your pocket. For more practical tips, programs, resources, and rebates, visit FPL.com/WaystoSave. You can also access FPL’s free tools like Energy Manager and House of Savings to understand your usage, set goals, and track progress.
This Halloween, keep the ghosts in the costumes—and out of your bill. Start today, it only takes a few minutes, and you’ll feel the difference all year long. Ready to bust energy vampires with FPL?
