Unplug devices when possible

Leaving devices plugged in, such as laptop chargers or toasters, can use phantom energy. Even when an appliance is turned off, it may still use power.It is best to unplug anything that you do not anticipate using in the next 36 hours (or more).Use a power strip to turn lots of things off with the flip of a single switch. You can plug all your devices in one area say, your computer into a power strip. When youre done, simply turn the power strip off with the switch.Measure the energy your devices use or look up typical energy use. To measure usage yourself, use a Kill a Watt. You plug an appliance in through the Kill A Watt, and it measures the power use. This tool can also tell you whether a particular appliance or device draws power when it is turned off.