Energy Vampires

Soon there will be ghosts, ghouls, goblins and more emerging the streets and inspire scares. But while they're out there seeking sustenance (in the form of candy bars), there is an actual terror which may be in your home already, leeching off your energy supply. Unlike the creatures associated with Halloween these "energy vampires" are all too real and all around you, running up your energy bill even when your not actively using them.

The average American household owns about 25 consumer electric devices (cell phone chargers, printers, computers, tv box etc), you can begin to see how these phantom loads can translate into a significant chunk of your electricity bill each month. You do not have to get rid of these devices there are very simple and convenient strategies that will help you drive a stake through these energy vampires.

• Unplug devices you don't use often: This probably would not work for your cable box, clock radio, but if you have an extra TV, an old desktop computer or a stereo you only use from time to time, you should consider unplugging them completely until the next time you need them,
• Use power strips: Power strips allow you to toggle the power flow on and off. This will allow you to control the power usage of clusters of devices so that they're not consuming electricity when you're not around. Using a light switch that turns power outlets on and off accomplishes the same end, if you have one in your home. 
• Curb idle time in devices such as computers and video game consoles. Simply setting your computer to sleep mode or saving a game and powering down instead of leaving it paused for a prolonged period can actually save more then $100 a year in many cases, 
• Making smart upgrades: When it comes to send your old devices to the graveyard you should consider replacing them with a more energy efficient product. They have lower standby consumption than your average device and generally uses less energy in all their functions. 

None of these strategies will eliminate your electricity bill entirely, but together these trick cna help you slay these energy vampires while saving money.

Quality Electric Service 

www.qualityelectricservice.com

609.861.1409

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Fire Hazards in bedrooms

Did you know nearly 600 lives are lost to fires in the bedroom each year? In honor of national fire prevention week a few weeks back, here are some electrical safety hazards that are commonly found in bedrooms and what you can do to prevent a fire!

• Do you use an electric blanket to keep you warm during the cold fall and winter months? Make sure you replace every 10 years and check to make sure the cords, wires and temperature controls are not damaged. Be careful not to pinch any heating wires and remember to turn off the blanket off when you are not using it. 
• Have electrical appliances in your such as a computer, tv, or lamp? Be sure to turn them off before you fall asleep and never run extension cords that power your devices under carpets or rugs. 
• Never overload outlets. Follow all manufacturers instructions when plugging in an electronic device and use a surge protector when needed.
• Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in every bedroom in the house. Test the batteries monthly to make sure they are in working condition in case an emergency should strike. 

If you have any questions or need help with your smoke detectors, give Quality Electric a call! We can certainly help! 

Quality Electric Service 

www.qualityelectricservice.com

609.861.1409

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