FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WFFT) — Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) is encouraging customers to reduce phantom energy use to save on their electric bills. Phantom energy occurs when electronics or appliances consume energy even when turned off but still plugged in.
Customers can reduce energy usage by unplugging devices like coffee makers, computers, and phone chargers when not in use. This simple action could cut energy use by 10%. Power Switches and Smart Plugs offer convenient alternatives to unplugging, allowing users to control power flow with a switch or smartphone.
I&M advises using advanced power strips to stop energy flow from electronics not in use. However, high-capacity appliances like refrigerators should not be plugged into these strips…