Simple steps such as using power strips or unplugging chargers can make a difference

BATON ROUGE, La. – With Halloween fast approaching, Entergy’s Louisiana utilities are encouraging customers to be on the lookout for phantoms – phantom power, that is.

Phantom power, also known as standby or vampire power, is the energy used by certain appliances and electronic devices, even when they are turned off. A variety of products and appliances, such as televisions, microwaves and cell phone chargers, use phantom power. While it may seem trivial, the amount of wasted energy can add up over time and show up on monthly utility bills.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, appliances and home electronics can account for as much as 20 percent of a typical monthly bill. And approximately 75 percent of the electricity used to power those products is consumed when the products are turned off.

“Phantom power can be compared to having a leaky faucet,” said Steven Scheurich, vice president of customer service and external affairs for Entergy Louisiana, LLC and Entergy Gulf States Louisiana, L.L.C. “A few drips may not seem like a big deal but they can add up to a larger water bill over time. Similarly, appliances and electronics that draw power even when you aren’t using them can add to your monthly power bill. Fortunately there are some simple ways to control phantom power and help you save money.”

Anything with a plug, a glowing light or a display can be phantom power users. The most common culprits include electronics with remote controls, built-in clocks or timers and instant-on features such as television, computers, printers, video game consoles and DVD players.

A study by the National Resources Defense Council showed that some cable TV boxes, which are often left on all day, can use as much power as a refrigerator. Other common phantom power users are appliances and household items that are charged through a wall plug such as digital cameras, power tools, cell phones and MP3 players.

Here are some simple steps that can help you take control over phantom power:

• Purchase an advanced power strip and plug appliances into it.

• Unplug small transformers (battery chargers and power adapters) when products are fully charged or not in use. Small transformers come with many electronics such as cell phones and electric shavers and plug into standard wall outlets.

• Check the label. If purchasing an Energy Star-labeled product, choose the model that uses the least amount of phantom power. If the amount isn’t listed on the label, visit the U.S. Department of Energy’s online database to view manufacturer-supplied data by category.

• For more information on energy conservation and a variety of money-saving tips, visit entergylouisiana.com/savemoney.

Entergy Louisiana, LLC and Entergy Gulf States Louisiana, L.L.C. serve more than one million customers across Louisiana. With operations in southern, central and northeastern Louisiana, the companies are part of Entergy Corporation’s electric system serving 2.8 million customers in Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi and Texas.

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