How Can a Smart Power Strip Save Me Money?
Some electronic gadgets never truly power off; instead, they sit in standby mode using a trickle of power that can add up over devices and time. These are usually — but not exclusively — items with a remote control, because the remote sensor needs power while waiting for your input. You can prevent this by plugging these electronics into a smart power strip, which cuts off the current when the devices aren’t in use.
How Do Smart Power Strips Work?
Smart power strips come with a range of bells and whistles, but they all have two basic components: electrical outlets and circuitry that monitors and controls those outlets. For example, when a printer plugged into a basic smart strip goes into standby mode, its power consumption drops. The circuitry detects the change and cuts the power to that outlet. The rest of the outlets in use stay on. Many smart power strips also have one or two outlets that are always-on. These are the ones you’d use to plug in the devices that always need power, like your mobile phone charger or voice assistant.
What Devices Should I Plug In to a Smart Power Strip?
Printers, DVD players, computers and flat screen TVs are all examples of products with standby modes that make them convenient to use but suck significant power when not in use. This so-called phantom power drain costs you money, wastes electricity and ups your carbon output.
Of course, some products, such as a DVR, need ready access to power so they can perform scheduled tasks. A sudden power loss can also damage some devices, such as inkjet and laser printers that have a controlled shutdown sequence. The best way to turn off these products is to use their on-board power switches rather than a smart strip.
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If you are ready to see how installing smart power strips can help in your home or business, please schedule a consult so we can come out and help you decide which plugs we can make smarter.
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