If you’ve ever plugged your TV or coffee maker into a power strip thinking you’re saving money on your electric bill, you’re not alone. Power strips are everywhere—under desks, behind TVs, in garages—but how much are they really saving you?
Let’s break down the facts, the myths, and the smarter ways to save on energy in your Texas home.
The Myth: Power Strips Automatically Reduce Energy Costs
Many people assume that using a power strip helps lower electricity bills. And while that can be true—it’s only the case if you turn the power strip off when you’re not using it.
Here’s the truth:
A power strip by itself doesn’t stop energy use. It just gives you more outlets in one place.
If all the devices plugged into it are left on—or in standby mode—they’re still using electricity, even when you’re not around.
The Real Energy Hog: Phantom Loads
“Phantom load” (also called “vampire energy”) is the electricity used by devices when they’re plugged in but not actively being used.
Common phantom load culprits:
- TVs and gaming consoles
- Coffee makers with clocks or warmers
- Chargers (even when nothing is charging!)
- Cable boxes and DVRs
- Microwaves with digital clocks
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, phantom loads can account for 5% to 10% of your household electricity use. That could mean $50 to $150 a year—just from things that appear to be “off.”
How Power Strips Can Save You Money
Power strips become energy-savers when you use them to completely shut off power to multiple devices at once. Here’s how to do it right:
Use a manual on/off power strip
Get in the habit of flipping the switch off when you leave the room or go to bed.
Plug clusters of electronics together
For example, plug your TV, sound bar, gaming console, and streaming box into one strip so you can turn them all off at once.
Upgrade to smart power strips
These automatically cut power to devices that go into standby mode—or let you schedule shutoffs via app or voice control.
Best Places to Use Power Strips in Your Home
- Living Room: TV, sound system, DVD/streaming players
- Home Office: Printer, monitor, computer speakers
- Kitchen: Coffee maker, toaster, microwave
- Bedroom: Lamps, chargers, smart speakers
What Not to Plug Into a Power Strip
For safety reasons, avoid plugging major appliances like:
- Refrigerators
- Space heaters
- Air conditioners
- Microwaves
- Hair dryers
These high-wattage devices should be plugged directly into wall outlets to avoid overheating the strip or causing electrical hazards.
The Bottom Line:
Power strips don’t save you money on their own—but used wisely, they can help reduce phantom load and lower your electric bill.
Want more smart ways to save on energy?
Call Amerigy Energy at 877-631-8875 or visit amerigyenergy.com/shopnow to learn how to reduce costs, lock in better electricity rates, and take control of your power bill today.