How 'phantom power' in your home could be costing you money

GLENDALE, AZ - Your own appliances and electronics may actually be "stealing" your power after they are turned off, but a Glendale program can help.

It's called phantom power, and it could cost you.

"About 75 percent of the energy used by home appliances is consumed when they are turned off," explained Jo Miller, Glendale's Environmental Programs Manager.

While each device may only cost $5 each year if left plugged in, most homes have more than 40 devices that are still consuming.

"That can really add up," Miller said.

From your television to your telephone, nearly all devices in your home continue to draw power after they have been switched off.

"We noticed people were asking us how to save energy," Miller said.

In response, the City of Glendale is launching a series of free classes aimed at accomplishing that goal.

On Oct. 30, the class will teach participants how to reduce costs associated with phantom power.

SRP teamed up with the city to provide energy meters that measure how much power a device is using after it's turned off.

Those meters will be demonstrated and will be available at the library for check-out.

The class is part of a larger conservation and sustainable living program which is funded for two years by a federal block grant.

City officials say they plan to continue the program after the grant has ended.

"I think people have become more environmentally minded," Miller said. "People are trying to cut costs."

Free classes on a variety of subjects are being offered.

Landscaping and gardening classes will be held Oct. 16 at the Glendale Main Library beginning at 1 p.m.

Topics will include vegetable growing, composting and lawn care.

Energy classes will open the following weekend on Oct. 30 beginning at noon.

Topics include reducing energy costs, solar power for the home and using programmable thermostats.

Each topic is covered in separate classes which run back-to-back.

Energy meters will be demonstrated during the first session from noon to 1:15 p.m.

Those who complete the thermostat class at 2:15 p.m. will be given a programmable thermostat to take home, however the thermostats are only available to Glendale residents.

A water bill will suffice as proof of residency.

All courses are free, but participants must register ahead of time.

The registration phone number is 623-930-3760.

You can learn more about the classes by going to the city's website .

Energy saving tips can be found on the SRP website .