Phantom Power

Phantom Power is the electricity that is lost when appliances and electronics are turned off but still plugged into a power source.

Some of the biggest consumers of phantom power are interactive whiteboards, TVs, computers/laptops, printers/fax machines, projectors, chargers, and kitchen appliances.

EcoSchools Canada Action Card: Phantom Power

Conserving Energy in Your School

Even when electronics are in stand-by mode, they consume energy. Whenever possible, unplug devices that are not in use. This will save electricity and money. Understandably, some appliances and devices cannot be unplugged regularly. Therefore, the purpose of this tool is to encourage energy conservation practices:

• Interactive boards (e.g., Smart Boards/Prometheans) are unplugged

• Projectors (e.g., Elmo) and TV’s on carts are unplugged

• Wall chargers for tablets and cell phones are unplugged

• Ensure monitors are turned off

• Computers (CPU), and printers are in stand-by mode