Even when you’re sound asleep in bed, working a long shift, or out at the grocery store, your appliances may still be using energy. And while these vampire appliances won’t suck your blood, they will suck your energy and increase your electricity bills. In fact, vampire appliances account for roughly 10 percent of the average household’s energy usage, according to Pacific Gas and Electric.

Fortunately, you can reduce the amount of energy vampire appliances use by unplugging them while they’re not in use. When it comes to energy usage, you may be surprised to find out which appliances suck the most of your energy. Learn the top five energy-consuming appliances here.

1. Flat Screen Televisions
That new 60 inch flat screen television looks great, but it’s likely one of the most energy-sucking appliances in your home, even when it’s not in use. In some cases, a flat screen TV can cost you an extra $160 a year while it’s not in use.

2. Computers
Leaving your computer plugged in when you’re not using it can cost you as much as $40 extra dollars each year, making it one of the most energy-consuming appliances in your home. When you’re not using your computer, make sure to shut it down or put it in sleep mode to save energy.

3. Cable Boxes and DVRs
While having 1,000 channels at your fingertips is convenient, your cable box and DVR are likely sucking up $22 of energy each year, even when they’re not in use.

4. Video Game Consoles
Love playing video games? Well that PlayStation®, Wii® or Xbox® could be costing you almost $75 a year even when they’re not in use. To reduce energy use, try plugging all of your video game devices into a single power strip so you can shut them all off when you’re done playing.

5. Phone Chargers
For many of us, we can’t imagine a world without our smartphones, but leaving the charger plugged in while it’s not in use can cost you upwards of $5 a year. This might not seem like much, but if you live in a home with multiple chargers and devices, it can quickly add up.

Cut Energy Costs With Mister Sparky

Don’t let vampire appliances suck your wallet dry! At Mister Sparky, our team of professionals can ensure your electrical system is functioning efficiently, which can save you money. To learn more energy saving tips, check out our blog on Appliances That Use the Most Energy in Your Home or give us a call today.