Ghost, ghouls and goblins may knock at your door this Halloween. But, more threatening and costlier phantoms may lurk inside without you realizing it.
We're not talking poltergeists. We're talking phantom loads, which refers to electricity used by electronic devices even in the off or stand-by mode. Sometimes called "vampires" or "energy thieves," there's a hidden electricity cost that most of us never realize.
That TV may be "off," but it still acts like a Dracula sucking electricity even when you're not watching. The digital clock on the stove or microwave uses electricity around the clock -- robbing you of hard earned dollars.
That's why TXU Energy launched Energy Thieves, a new Web based tool, to help you identify the electricity goblins in your home. Now you can go room by room to calculate how much money each appliance costs, even with the power button off, and make changes that can save you money. Use it to create a customized solution that chases the phantom load away.
"Using less electricity, and saving money, shouldn't be scary," said Dave Hennekes, vice president, residential markets, TXU Energy. "With Energy Thieves, people of all ages can actually have fun getting rid of phantom loads in their home."
According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the average home has up to 40 appliances that draw phantom loads. That can be up to 10 percent of your home's overall electricity consumption and cost hundreds of dollars each year.
Televisions, satellite or cable systems, computers and audio systems are the leading offenders. But even small devices -- cell phones, battery chargers, Bluetooth devices, portable gaming systems and audio/video devices -- can be a shock to your electric bill if they remain plugged in after they are fully-charged. Reducing phantom load can stir up a witch's brew of savings by simply using less electricity without sacrificing comfort or need.
The site also provides easy access to helpful products at TXU Energy's Online Energy Store. The Kill A Watt?, for example, tells you exactly how much energy each appliance uses.
Though launched in time for Halloween, Energy Thieves has already grabbed a prestigious Interactive Media Award for outstanding achievement. The Interactive Media Awards evaluate Web sites based on five criteria including design, content and usability. Out of more than 60 entrants in the energy category, Energy Thieves was the only Web site recognized.
For more information on the website, visit: txu.com/energythieves.
About TXU Energy
TXU Energy is a market-leading competitive retailer that provides electricity and related services to more than 2 million electricity customers in Texas. TXU Energy offers a variety of innovative products and solutions, allowing both its residential and business customers to choose options that best meet their needs, including exceptional customer service, competitively priced electricity service plans, innovative energy efficiency options, renewable energy programs and other electricity-related products and services. Visit www.txuenergy.com for more information about TXU Energy. REP #10004.