Another quick and simple energy conservation tip is to unplug energy consuming stuff that just sits around unused. Not every home appliance uses electricity while sitting idle, but many do. Some are clear to see, and others aren’t.

The microwave, alarm clock, VCR, DVD, stereo system, night lights, plug-in air fresheners, television and many other appliances all provide what’s known as a “phantom load.” That’s a device that consumes electric power but isn’t apparent on the face of things. Nevertheless, it’s evident if you closely monitor your home energy system or examine your electric bill.

I’m not suggesting that everything be unplugged when you’re not using it, but there are probably many electricity consumers in your house that could be eliminated if you took a good look around. Try these on for size:

• The old “instant on” television in the basement that isn’t used but every few months. The reason it’s “instant on” is simply because it’s always on. The circuitry is always on standby and ready to go.
• A personal computer that runs all day long because it takes too long to boot up or come back out of hibernation.
• Clocks in the basement or shop that once were convenient, but are now rarely used.
• The spare refrigerator or freezer that barely has enough in it to justify running.
• Night lights that are always on, or night lights that can’t tell the difference between a dark hallway and nighttime.

If you want to make your own list, then I suggest you start at your wall outlets and work your way back along each electrical cord. Sometimes it’s the only way to make certain you spot them all. When it comes to energy conservation, only you will care. The power company charges you whether you put the electricity to good use or simply let it spin a clock in the basement that no one ever sees.