Phantom Power

Maximize energy usage and save more by reducing standby power

Even when electronic devices appear to be turned off, they can still draw power when plugged in, even if you're not actively using them. "Phantom" or "standby" power may account for up to 10% of your home’s energy use. The average Canadian home has over 25 devices that use phantom power, costing approximately $150 a year in wasted electricity. Fight phantom power and save energy and money with our tips and tricks below.

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Phantom Power tips & tricks
Women using a desktop.

Top 10 tips to fight phantom power

1

Plug electronic devices into power bars with timers

Plug electronic devices into power bars with timers to shut them off automatically. See below for more tips on power bars and what types to look for.

2

Group electronics

Group electronics that are used together by plugging them into the same power bar (i.e., TV and game console; computer, monitor and printer, etc.)

3

Unplug cell phone and tablet chargers

Unplug cell phone and tablet chargers once devices have finished charging. Up to 50% of the electricity they draw is lost as heat.

4

Renovating or building new?

Consider installing switched outlets to turn off a group of electronics with the simple flick of a switch.

5

Disable computer screen savers

Disable computer screen savers, as they can use up to twice as much energy. Instead, activate "sleep" mode or unplug the computer entirely.

6

ENERGY STAR® label

When purchasing home electronics, look for products certified with the ENERGY STAR® label. They use less energy and typically have built-in power-saving features.

7

Unplug hair dryers, curling irons or electric shavers

In the bathroom, unplug hair dryers, curling irons or electric shavers when not in use – it is much safer and you will save energy.

8

ENERGY STAR® certified PVR

If you use a personal video recorder (PVR), check to see if your cable provider offers an ENERGY STAR certified model. Typically, 70 per cent of a PVR’s energy is consumed in standby mode, so it is worth the upgrade.

9

Plug coffee makers into power bars with timers

Plug coffee makers and other small kitchen appliances into power bars with timers so they are only on during hours you typically use them.

10

Unplug vacuums, power tools and other appliances

Unplug vacuums, power tools and other appliances from chargers once they have finished charging.

See our room-by-room savings guide

Use power bars with timers to save more

Desktop computer and monitor, laptop, printer

Plug office devices into a power bar with a timer to shut off while you are at work or asleep.

TV, stereo, speakers, game console

Set your entertainment system to shut off automatically when it is not in use.

Cell phones, tablets and other charging devices

Set power bars to come on only at night, so devices are charged without drawing more power than necessary.

What to look for in an advanced power bar?

Category Description Uses
Remote Control Easy shut off with a remote control switch. Crowded, hard-to-reach areas.
Timer Automatically turns power bars on/off at set times. Charging stations, floor lamps.
Auto - shutoff Shuts off power to devices plugged in. Computers, TVs, game consoles.
Hot outlet For any devices you need to leave on. PVRs, internet routers.
Motion sensor Automatically detects your presence to turn on/off. Lights, home offices.
Infrared sensors Cuts power when the remote's been inactive. Video game consoles.

Where to save next?

laundry-machine-1
Appliances
heater
Home Heating
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Home Cooling
wall-socket
Phantom Power
table-lamp
Home Lighting
water-fountain-jet
Hot Water Heating
swimming-pool-stairs
Poolside Savings
family-outdoors-swing-tree
Landscaping
asian-interior-windows
Window Savings
humidity-high
Insulation

Visit the Energy Hub for additional tips and tricks and explore energy saving resources for your home.

Learn More

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