What is phantom energy and how is it draining your electricity?
What is phantom energy and how is it draining your electricity?

Wasted energy is a hidden drain on household electricity but small steps can contribute significantly to lowering costs and emissions.
Read the full article on CBS Money
Truth Analysis
Analysis Summary:
The article appears factually accurate, focusing on the concept of phantom energy and its impact on household electricity consumption. It aligns with multiple sources that define and explain phantom energy. There is no discernible bias in the reporting.
Detailed Analysis:
- Claim: Wasted energy is a hidden drain on household electricity.
- Verification Source #1: Confirms that phantom power drains energy even when devices are not in use.
- Verification Source #2: Agrees that standby power drains energy even when devices are off.
- Verification Source #3: States that vampire energy refers to electricity used while plugged in but not in use.
- Verification Source #4: Confirms that phantom energy drains energy and increases electric bills.
- Verification Source #5: States that vampire energy is wasted energy from appliances not in use.
- Assessment: Supported by all sources.
- Claim: Small steps can contribute significantly to lowering costs and emissions.
- Verification Source #1: Implied, as the source provides tips to reduce phantom power.
- Verification Source #2: Implied, as the source discusses the impact on electric bills.
- Verification Source #3: Not directly addressed, but implied by the discussion of energy consumption.
- Verification Source #4: Implied, as the source discusses the impact on electric bills.
- Verification Source #5: Implied, as the source discusses reducing phantom power drain.
- Assessment: Supported by implication from all sources.
Supporting Evidence/Contradictions:
- Source 1: Phantom power, also called standby power, refers to the energy that's wasted around your home when devices are draining energy – even if they're not in use?
- Source 2: While standby power uses significantly less electricity than when the device is turned on and in use, this 24-hour energy drain still adds up on your electric