{“id”:”CBMiygFBVV95cUxPdmNpRVc0dHJoVV9SVzlhbE9MNTRDaTVUWXhkNHd2X2RMMHB4Smx6UnM5ZGYybFNZdHR4U1hqRUFQRThyczZhOEhwXzZZdUQybW4tdlpweVQ5OUgyZFBiQ0c2Tks0Nnl5a1FmRTc5RFJCc2lvV053emUwWlYtSVJUS2xRTjJ4dnRQVGUzaFhKUG9KTVJDZDc1ZFlZSTBZTkxkQjY0TjUtN0lld05uYTlwSEloOGtiMVdKZmNNbE9YbVRvZ1RyNFNtNVRB”,”title”:”L’AirDial d’Ooma remporte deux prix pour sa technologie de remplacement POTS – Investing.com France”,”description”:”L’AirDial d’Ooma remporte deux prix pour sa technologie de remplacement POTS  Investing.com France“,”summary”:”L’AirDial d’Ooma remporte deux prix pour sa technologie de remplacement POTS  Investing.com France“,”url”:”https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiygFBVV95cUxPdmNpRVc0dHJoVV9SVzlhbE9MNTRDaTVUWXhkNHd2X2RMMHB4Smx6UnM5ZGYybFNZdHR4U1hqRUFQRThyczZhOEhwXzZZdUQybW4tdlpweVQ5OUgyZFBiQ0c2Tks0Nnl5a1FmRTc5RFJCc2lvV053emUwWlYtSVJUS2xRTjJ4dnRQVGUzaFhKUG9KTVJDZDc1ZFlZSTBZTkxkQjY0TjUtN0lld05uYTlwSEloOGtiMVdKZmNNbE9YbVRvZ1RyNFNtNVRB?oc=5″,”dateCreated”:”2026-02-26T11:05:00.000Z”,”dateUpdated”:”2026-02-26T11:05:00.000Z”,”comments”:””,”author”:”news-webmaster@google.com”,”image”:{},”categories”:[],”source”:{“title”:”Investing.com France”,”url”:”https://fr.investing.com”},”enclosures”:[],”rssFields”:{“title”:”L’AirDial d’Ooma remporte deux prix pour sa technologie de remplacement POTS – Investing.com France”,”link”:”https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiygFBVV95cUxPdmNpRVc0dHJoVV9SVzlhbE9MNTRDaTVUWXhkNHd2X2RMMHB4Smx6UnM5ZGYybFNZdHR4U1hqRUFQRThyczZhOEhwXzZZdUQybW4tdlpweVQ5OUgyZFBiQ0c2Tks0Nnl5a1FmRTc5RFJCc2lvV053emUwWlYtSVJUS2xRTjJ4dnRQVGUzaFhKUG9KTVJDZDc1ZFlZSTBZTkxkQjY0TjUtN0lld05uYTlwSEloOGtiMVdKZmNNbE9YbVRvZ1RyNFNtNVRB?oc=5″,”guid”:”CBMiygFBVV95cUxPdmNpRVc0dHJoVV9SVzlhbE9MNTRDaTVUWXhkNHd2X2RMMHB4Smx6UnM5ZGYybFNZdHR4U1hqRUFQRThyczZhOEhwXzZZdUQybW4tdlpweVQ5OUgyZFBiQ0c2Tks0Nnl5a1FmRTc5RFJCc2lvV053emUwWlYtSVJUS2xRTjJ4dnRQVGUzaFhKUG9KTVJDZDc1ZFlZSTBZTkxkQjY0TjUtN0lld05uYTlwSEloOGtiMVdKZmNNbE9YbVRvZ1RyNFNtNVRB”,”pubdate”:”Thu, 26 Feb 2026 11:05:00 GMT”,”description”:”L’AirDial d’Ooma remporte deux prix pour sa technologie de remplacement POTS  Investing.com France“,”source”:”Investing.com France”},”date”:”2026-02-26T11:05:00.000Z”}Investing.com France

{“result”:”**Title: The Silent Thief in Your Home: How This Everyday Habit is Draining Your Wallet and Your Health**nn**Introduction**nnImagine a leaky faucet. Drip. Drip. Drip. It seems insignificant at first, just a minor annoyance. But leave it for a month, and your water bill tells a different story—a story of wasted resources and money literally flowing down the drain. Now, what if I told you there’s a similar, silent leak happening in almost every modern home? It’s not water, but something far more pervasive: standby power. That soft, ghostly glow from your charger, the digital clock on your microwave, the “off” button that isn’t really off—this is phantom energy, and it’s costing you more than you think. Beyond the surprising financial drain, this hidden habit of constant connectivity is weaving a subtle web of impacts on our health, our environment, and even the longevity of our beloved devices. Let’s pull the plug on the mystery and shed light on what’s really happening when you think your appliances are asleep.nn**The Shocking Reality of Phantom Energy Drain**nnWe live in an age of incredible convenience. Our devices are always ready, waiting for a voice command or a remote-control signal. This “instant-on” culture comes with a hidden tax. Standby power, often called vampire power or phantom load, refers to the electricity consumed by an electronic device when it is switched off or in a standby mode but still plugged in. It’s the energy that powers the little LED light, maintains a network connection, or keeps the internal clock running.nnThe collective impact is staggering. Studies estimate that phantom energy can account for up to 10% of an average household’s electricity bill. Think about that: one-tenth of your energy expense might be powering devices that aren’t actively being used. For a nation, this translates to the output of multiple large power plants running 24/7 just to feed our appliances’ secret second lives. This isn’t just about a few pennies; it’s a substantial, overlooked drain on personal finances and national energy grids.nn**Your Home’s Secret Energy Vampires: The Usual Suspects**nnNot all devices are created equal when it comes to phantom drain. Some are notorious offenders. By identifying them, you can target your efforts for maximum impact.nn* **Entertainment Centers:** This is often ground zero. Your modern television, game console, soundbar, and cable box are designed to wake up instantly. In standby, they constantly listen for remote signals, download updates, and maintain internet connectivity, making them among the biggest culprits.n* **The Office Corner:** Your desktop computer monitor, printer, and external speakers are likely drawing power even after your workday ends. Laptop chargers left plugged into the wall, with no laptop attached, are also classic energy vampires.n* **Kitchen Appliances:** That sleek microwave with the digital display, the coffee maker programmed for your morning brew, and the smart toaster all sip electricity around the clock.n* **Chargers and Power Adapters:** Any charger for a phone, tablet, or toothbrush consumes energy when left plugged in, whether the device is attached or not. The small transformer block gets warm because it’s constantly converting AC power to DC, ready for use.nn**Beyond the Bill: The Ripple Effects of Constant Connectivity**nnWhile the financial cost is the most direct hit, the implications of our always-plugged-in lifestyle run deeper.nn* **Environmental Cost:** That wasted electricity has to be generated somewhere. In many regions, this means burning more fossil fuels, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Reducing phantom load is a simple, direct action for lowering your carbon footprint.n* **Device Longevity:** Electronics have a finite lifespan. The constant trickle of electricity, heat buildup from transformers, and the stress of minor power fluctuations in standby mode can contribute to the gradual degradation of internal components. Unplugging can, in some cases, help your devices live longer.n* **The Subtle Health and Safety Factor:** While the science is evolving, some individuals report sensitivity to the low-level electromagnetic fields (EMFs) emitted by energized electronics. More concretely, faulty transformers or overheated power strips in constant use pose a minor but real fire risk. A clean, unplugged break can offer peace of mind.nn**Slaying the Vampires: Practical, No-Sweat Solutions**nnConquering phantom energy doesn’t require a drastic lifestyle change. With a few smart strategies, you can take back control effortlessly.nn* **Embrace the Smart Power Strip:** This is your greatest weapon. Smart strips, especially those with a designated “control” outlet, can cut power to peripheral devices (like speakers and a game console) when you turn off the main device (your TV). Others have timers or remote switches.n* **Create a “Switch-Off” Ritual:** Designate a time, perhaps before bed, to walk through your home and unplug non-essential items. Focus on the entertainment center and office space. Make it a habit, like locking the front door.n* **Leverage Technology:** Use smart plugs that you can control via your phone or voice assistant. You can schedule your TV’s power strip to turn off completely from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m., for instance.n* **Consolidate Charging:** Instead of having chargers in every room, create one or two dedicated charging stations. Plug all chargers into a single power strip, and switch that strip off once devices are fully charged.n* **The Manual Override:** For devices you use infrequently—the spare blender, the holiday lights, the specialty printer—simply unplug them after each use. Out of sight, out of mind, and off the grid.nn**Your Questions Answered: A Mini FAQ on Phantom Energy**nn* **Does unplugging devices really save money?**n Absolutely. While each device draws a small amount, the cumulative effect over a month and across 20+ devices in a home is significant. For most households, implementing these tips can save between 5-10% on the annual electricity bill.nn* **Can constantly plugging and unplugging damage my electronics?**n Modern electronics are designed to handle this. The wear and tear on a standard outlet or plug from normal use is negligible. The potential stress from constant minor electrical flow in standby is arguably more damaging than the physical act of unplugging.nn* **What about devices that need to stay on for updates, like a smart TV?**n This is a valid concern. For such devices, consider a compromise. Allow them to update during an evening when you’re using them, or schedule a weekly window where they are powered. They don’t need 24/7/365 connectivity. A smart plug can automate this “update window” easily.nn* **Are newer, energy-efficient appliances better?**n Yes, regulations have forced manufacturers to reduce standby consumption in many new appliances. However, “better” doesn’t mean “zero.” A home full of new, efficient devices left on standby can still add up to a considerable waste.nn**Conclusion: Reclaim Your Power, One Plug at a Time**nnThe story of phantom energy is a powerful metaphor for modern life. It’s about the unseen costs of convenience, the small habits that accumulate into large consequences, and our ability to take simple, intelligent control. By becoming aware of the silent thieves in our outlets, we do more than just trim a utility bill. We make a conscious choice for efficiency, reduce our environmental impact, and even grant our gadgets a healthier, longer life. Start tonight. Take a walk through your home, see the tiny lights in the dark, and ask yourself: “Does this really need to be on?” Then, pull the plug. Your wallet, your planet, and your peace of mind will thank you for it.nn—n**Meta Description:** Discover how standby “phantom” energy is secretly raising your bills and environmental impact. Our expert guide reveals the culprits and simple, actionable fixes to reclaim power and savings.nn**SEO Keywords:** reduce standby power save electricity, phantom energy drain cost, smart power strip benefits, home energy efficiency tips, lower electric bill devicesnn**Image Search Keyword:** smart home energy saving power strip setup”,”id”:”94e1f3b1-7a04-4048-866a-1d3bbc27446b”,”object”:”chat.completion”,”created”:1772162940,”model”:”deepseek-chat”,”choices”:[{“index”:0,”message”:{“role”:”assistant”,”content”:”**Title: The Silent Thief in Your Home: How This Everyday Habit is Draining Your Wallet and Your Health**nn**Introduction**nnImagine a leaky faucet. Drip. Drip. Drip. It seems insignificant at first, just a minor annoyance. But leave it for a month, and your water bill tells a different story—a story of wasted resources and money literally flowing down the drain. Now, what if I told you there’s a similar, silent leak happening in almost every modern home? It’s not water, but something far more pervasive: standby power. That soft, ghostly glow from your charger, the digital clock on your microwave, the “off” button that isn’t really off—this is phantom energy, and it’s costing you more than you think. Beyond the surprising financial drain, this hidden habit of constant connectivity is weaving a subtle web of impacts on our health, our environment, and even the longevity of our beloved devices. Let’s pull the plug on the mystery and shed light on what’s really happening when you think your appliances are asleep.nn**The Shocking Reality of Phantom Energy Drain**nnWe live in an age of incredible convenience. Our devices are always ready, waiting for a voice command or a remote-control signal. This “instant-on” culture comes with a hidden tax. Standby power, often called vampire power or phantom load, refers to the electricity consumed by an electronic device when it is switched off or in a standby mode but still plugged in. It’s the energy that powers the little LED light, maintains a network connection, or keeps the internal clock running.nnThe collective impact is staggering. Studies estimate that phantom energy can account for up to 10% of an average household’s electricity bill. Think about that: one-tenth of your energy expense might be powering devices that aren’t actively being used. For a nation, this translates to the output of multiple large power plants running 24/7 just to feed our appliances’ secret second lives. This isn’t just about a few pennies; it’s a substantial, overlooked drain on personal finances and national energy grids.nn**Your Home’s Secret Energy Vampires: The Usual Suspects**nnNot all devices are created equal when it comes to phantom drain. Some are notorious offenders. By identifying them, you can target your efforts for maximum impact.nn* **Entertainment Centers:** This is often ground zero. Your modern television, game console, soundbar, and cable box are designed to wake up instantly. In standby, they constantly listen for remote signals, download updates, and maintain internet connectivity, making them among the biggest culprits.n* **The Office Corner:** Your desktop computer monitor, printer, and external speakers are likely drawing power even after your workday ends. Laptop chargers left plugged into the wall, with no laptop attached, are also classic energy vampires.n* **Kitchen Appliances:** That sleek microwave with the digital display, the coffee maker programmed for your morning brew, and the smart toaster all sip electricity around the clock.n* **Chargers and Power Adapters:** Any charger for a phone, tablet, or toothbrush consumes energy when left plugged in, whether the device is attached or not. The small transformer block gets warm because it’s constantly converting AC power to DC, ready for use.nn**Beyond the Bill: The Ripple Effects of Constant Connectivity**nnWhile the financial cost is the most direct hit, the implications of our always-plugged-in lifestyle run deeper.nn* **Environmental Cost:** That wasted electricity has to be generated somewhere. In many regions, this means burning more fossil fuels, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Reducing phantom load is a simple, direct action for lowering your carbon footprint.n* **Device Longevity:** Electronics have a finite lifespan. The constant trickle of electricity, heat buildup from transformers, and the stress of minor power fluctuations in standby mode can contribute to the gradual degradation of internal components. Unplugging can, in some cases, help your devices live longer.n* **The Subtle Health and Safety Factor:** While the science is evolving, some individuals report sensitivity to the low-level electromagnetic fields (EMFs) emitted by energized electronics. More concretely, faulty transformers or overheated power strips in constant use pose a minor but real fire risk. A clean, unplugged break can offer peace of mind.nn**Slaying the Vampires: Practical, No-Sweat Solutions**nnConquering phantom energy doesn’t require a drastic lifestyle change. With a few smart strategies, you can take back control effortlessly.nn* **Embrace the Smart Power Strip:** This is your greatest weapon. Smart strips, especially those with a designated “control” outlet, can cut power to peripheral devices (like speakers and a game console) when you turn off the main device (your TV). Others have timers or remote switches.n* **Create a “Switch-Off” Ritual:** Designate a time, perhaps before bed, to walk through your home and unplug non-essential items. Focus on the entertainment center and office space. Make it a habit, like locking the front door.n* **Leverage Technology:** Use smart plugs that you can control via your phone or voice assistant. You can schedule your TV’s power strip to turn off completely from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m., for instance.n* **Consolidate Charging:** Instead of having chargers in every room, create one or two dedicated charging stations. Plug all chargers into a single power strip, and switch that strip off once devices are fully charged.n* **The Manual Override:** For devices you use infrequently—the spare blender, the holiday lights, the specialty printer—simply unplug them after each use. Out of sight, out of mind, and off the grid.nn**Your Questions Answered: A Mini FAQ on Phantom Energy**nn* **Does unplugging devices really save money?**n Absolutely. While each device draws a small amount, the cumulative effect over a month and across 20+ devices in a home is significant. For most households, implementing these tips can save between 5-10% on the annual electricity bill.nn* **Can constantly plugging and unplugging damage my electronics?**n Modern electronics are designed to handle this. The wear and tear on a standard outlet or plug from normal use is negligible. The potential stress from constant minor electrical flow in standby is arguably more damaging than the physical act of unplugging.nn* **What about devices that need to stay on for updates, like a smart TV?**n This is a valid concern. For such devices, consider a compromise. Allow them to update during an evening when you’re using them, or schedule a weekly window where they are powered. They don’t need 24/7/365 connectivity. A smart plug can automate this “update window” easily.nn* **Are newer, energy-efficient appliances better?**n Yes, regulations have forced manufacturers to reduce standby consumption in many new appliances. However, “better” doesn’t mean “zero.” A home full of new, efficient devices left on standby can still add up to a considerable waste.nn**Conclusion: Reclaim Your Power, One Plug at a Time**nnThe story of phantom energy is a powerful metaphor for modern life. It’s about the unseen costs of convenience, the small habits that accumulate into large consequences, and our ability to take simple, intelligent control. By becoming aware of the silent thieves in our outlets, we do more than just trim a utility bill. We make a conscious choice for efficiency, reduce our environmental impact, and even grant our gadgets a healthier, longer life. Start tonight. Take a walk through your home, see the tiny lights in the dark, and ask yourself: “Does this really need to be on?” Then, pull the plug. Your wallet, your planet, and your peace of mind will thank you for it.nn—n**Meta Description:** Discover how standby “phantom” energy is secretly raising your bills and environmental impact. Our expert guide reveals the culprits and simple, actionable fixes to reclaim power and savings.nn**SEO Keywords:** reduce standby power save electricity, phantom energy drain cost, smart power strip benefits, home energy efficiency tips, lower electric bill devicesnn**Image Search Keyword:** smart home energy saving power strip setup”},”logprobs”:null,”finish_reason”:”stop”}],”usage”:{“prompt_tokens”:354,”completion_tokens”:1735,”total_tokens”:2089,”prompt_tokens_details”:{“cached_tokens”:320},”prompt_cache_hit_tokens”:320,”prompt_cache_miss_tokens”:34},”system_fingerprint”:”fp_eaab8d114b_prod0820_fp8_kvcache”}1772162940