Preventing Phantom Power from Taking a Bite out of Your Budget This National Clean Energy Month

Vampire Appliances Don't Have to Be Scary with PG&E's Help

OAKLAND, Calif., Oct. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As customers celebrate National Clean Energy Month and prepare for cooler weather, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is encouraging customers to take simple steps to reduce energy waste and lower bills. One often-overlooked source of energy comes from "vampire appliances" and electronics that continue drawing power even when turned off, also known as phantom or standby power. Unplugging idle devices and using free tools can help customers identify and reduce this hidden waste.

Up to 10% of a home's electricity bill may come from devices that continue drawing power even when turned off, according to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL). Idle energy loads also account for about 1% of global carbon emissions, according to LBNL.

The average U.S. household can spend $100 each year powering electronics that are not being used, according to the Department of Energy (DOE). That number can rise depending on how many always-on devices you have in your home and where you live.

"Small energy drains can add up over time," said David Poster, PG&E director of building electrification and energy efficiency. "One of the best places to start is with older appliances you rarely use. In many cases, the older the appliance, the greater the opportunity for energy savings."

Common Culprits
The Standby Power Project highlights the common gadgets with a hidden appetite for electricity, including:

• Smart home devices
• Phone, tablet and wearable device chargers
• Gaming consoles
• Desktop computers, monitors and printers
• Kitchen appliances with digital clocks or displays (coffee makers, toasters, air fryers)
• Routers and modems

Simple Fixes
Unplugging devices when they are not in use is the easiest way to combat vampire energy. The 'What Can I Unplug Now?' list shows where you can start. Other steps include:

• Kill A Watt® Meter or Plug Load Logger can measure hidden electricity use and identify the devices that keep feeding on power long after they've been switched off.
  • Both tools are available through PG&E Energy Centers Tool Lending Library (shipping rates may apply) or check your local library for availability. The devices can also be purchased online or at your nearest hardware store.
• Energy Star® provides a list of energy efficient products.
• Home Energy Checkup and Energy Action Guide, PG&E's free energy and money-saving online tools.
• Use a smart power strip, which automatically reduces wasted energy by turning off devices that are not in use.
• Turn lights off when you leave the room.

Other Ways to Save

• HomeIntel program - Eligible PG&E customers can receive a free home energy assessment and personalized support from an energy coach to identify vampire loads and lower energy costs. Participants save an average of $200 annually, with many saving even more.
• Heat Pump Water Heaters – Heating water is one of the largest sources of home energy use. Customers considering replacing an aging water heater can explore heat pump water heaters, which use significantly less energy than standard electric resistance models. PG&E offers tools and resources to help customers compare costs, incentives, and installation options as they plan future upgrades.

Energy Efficiency Support Programs

• Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) provides income-eligible customers with energy-savings improvements at no charge.
• GoGreen Financing is a statewide program which offers affordable financing for energy efficiency upgrades to help homeowners and renters reduce their energy use.

During National Clean Energy Month, customers can also explore clean energy upgrades and personalized recommendations through PG&E's online tools and resources designed to help them plan for a more energy-efficient home.

Key questions about vampire energy can be found below.

What appliances use the most vampire energy?

It depends on the device, its age, and its settings. Good places to start are older appliances you rarely use, seasonal equipment that sits idle for months, and any device with a remote control or an illuminated digital display, according to LBNL.

Does leaving a TV plugged in draw electricity?

Yes, usually a small amount. Devices with a remote control stay partly powered so they can respond when you press a button. LBNL suggests unplugging a TV you rarely use, such as one in a guest room, along with its set-top box and sound bar.

About PG&E

Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE: PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news  

SOURCE Pacific Gas and Electric Company