Unplugging appliances when they are not in use can help reduce energy consumption and lower your electricity bill. Many appliances consume energy even when they are turned off or in standby mode, a phenomenon known as “vampire power” or “phantom load.” This can account for up to 10% of your electricity bill, but many argue that is even higher in the salon where cabinets have plugs for hairdryers, straightening irons and curlers so stylists never have to unplug their tools, but merely switch it off.
The amount of energy saved will depend on the type and number of appliances you unplug, as well as how long they remain unplugged. However, even small changes in energy consumption can add up over time and make a difference in your energy usage and bills. This standby power consumption is one of the many hidden energy drains and can be hard to avoid, but these two quick hacks can help you both save energy and money.
- Avoid plugs in cabinets where the storage for the item makes it easy to leave it plugged in
- Purchase smart power strips that you can plug all items into that will block any current when not in use
Some appliances, such as refrigerators and freezers, have to be permaplugged but doing a quick sweep of the salon to identify all the areas you have things plugged into that could be either unplugged after use or converted to a smart power strip when cord organization won’t disturb the aesthetic and create a quick plan to avoid the drain of the vampire power.
