If we told you that there are "vampires" in your home "using" electricity without your knowledge,  making your electricity bills higher, would you believe us?

This term is also known as "ghost load" or "vampire power" and refers to the energy that electrical devices use when they are in "standby" mode, i.e. when they remain plugged in even after being charged completely.

To begin identifying these devices in your home, do a simple examination. What are those devices that you usually leave plugged in 24 hours even when you don't need them?

To find your energy vampires, look for the glowing indicator light (usually red or white).

Common "vampires" include TVs, desktop computers/monitors, printers, phones when charging, microwaves, coffee machines, laptops, tablets, etc.

How to save energy by using these devices?

Unplug small devices that are charging

Devices like phones consume electricity even after they are charged and will continue to consume electricity as long as they are plugged in.

Be smart about the extension cable

Usually, a traditional extension cord has three plugs that can be used simultaneously. When using such a switch, turning it off completely at the button cuts power to anything plugged into it.

Activate the power-saving option

Some devices, such as computer monitors, can be programmed to "sleep" after a longer period of inactivity. If you don't like unplugging your devices, use the power-saving option instead, by deactivating them.

Program proactively

Become an expert at programming your thermostat and take control of when your heating and air conditioning are running. If you don't have a programmable thermostat for your heating, read more here.

Use efficient appliances

Use ENERGY STAR® appliances or those with more +++. These devices are more energy efficient and use less energy overall.

The amount you pay for efficient appliances may seem high at first, but the savings in energy costs over the lifetime of the appliance make a difference.

Don't let the energy of "vampires" suck money out of your budget. Recover the money that is running away from you by adopting the tips above and you will have a better future about saving energy and your monthly bills.

The next step

If you have doubts about your electricity costs, you can consult an electrician or energy consultant.

They can analyze a household's energy use, evaluate electrical appliances in your home, inspect heating systems, and other aspects related to energy consumption. Then they sit down with you, share their findings, and make recommendations on how to proceed.