Vanquish Energy Vampires...Use a Smart Strip!

Some of your appliances are consuming energy even when they're turned off, in stand-by mode! This often unforeseen drain on resources is called "vampire energy" or "phantom plug loads." These cost U.S. consumers more than $4 Billion annually, or for a single household, approximately the amount of a month's electricity bill. Learn more by watching this:

Luckily there are things you can do!

• Minimize plug load demand: Choose Energy Star appliances when purchasing. They'll help you reduce utility costs.
• Plug your appliances (printer, cell phone charger, microwave, lamp, computer) into a power strip and "Flip the Switch" off when you leave the room.
• Use a Smart Strip that allows you to keep an lamps or clocks always "hot" or plugged in but others shut off at the same time! The key is an appliance (computer, TV) plugged into the "control" switch that activates your peripherals. When you turn that one on, your peripheral appliances will be energized and ready for use!

The Green Campus Program piloted Smart Strips in Chi Theta Chi last May and after demonstrating a 15% reduction in electricity use, they are being piloted in Branner Hall in hopes of getting Student Housing to distribute them to all future Freshmen.