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Green Glossary: Vampire Energy Drain

By Marisa Belger for Green Goes Simple

Did you know your appliances use electricity even when they're turned off? It’s called vampire energy drain. Yep, any device that remains plugged in can use up valuable energy. Even when not in use, your computer, stereo and even your blender are increasing your monthly energy bill and your environmental impact.

Fortunately, there are several ways to beat the vampire (garlic not required!). You can unplug your appliances after each use -- which can be annoying and unrealistic -- or you can plug your gear into a power strip with an on/off button. Simply click the power button to start using your stuff, and remember to flip the switch when finished. Some companies even make power strips that sense when appliances aren’t in use and shut off automatically.

Marisa Belger’s work has appeared in Travel + Leisure Family, Natural Health, Prevention and TODAYShow.com, where she wrote a column about eco-friendly living. She was an editor at Lime.com and collaborated with author Josh Dorfman on his bestselling books, The Lazy Environmentalist and The Lazy Environmentalist on a Budget. She is the managing editor of and frequent contributor to Green Goes Simple.

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	<h2>Blog</h2>
<h1>Green Glossary: Vampire Energy Drain</h1>
	<p>By Marisa Belger  for <em><a href="http://www.greengoessimple.com">Green Goes Simple</a></em></p>
		<p>Did you know your appliances use electricity even when they're turned off? It’s called vampire energy drain. Yep, any device that remains plugged in can use up valuable energy. Even when not in use, your computer, stereo and even your blender are increasing your monthly energy bill and your environmental impact.</p>

Fortunately, there
are several ways to beat the vampire (garlic not required!). You can unplug
your appliances after each use -- which can be annoying <em>and</em>
unrealistic -- or you can plug your gear into a power strip with an on/off
button. Simply click the power button to start using your stuff, and remember
to flip the switch when finished. Some companies even make power strips that
sense when appliances aren’t in use and shut off automatically.
				<p><em><strong>Marisa Belger</strong><em>’s work has appeared in</em> Travel + Leisure Family, Natural Health, Prevention <em>and TODAYShow.com, where she wrote a column about eco-friendly living. She was an editor at Lime.com and collaborated with author Josh Dorfman on his bestselling books,</em> The Lazy Environmentalist <em>and</em> The Lazy Environmentalist on a Budget. She is the managing editor of and frequent contributor to <a href="http://www.greengoessimple.com">Green Goes Simple</a>.</em></em></p>
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