Control standby power with the Conserve Switch Surge Protector
by Dan Kaneko | July 26, 2023
While appliances add convenience to our everyday activities, they also demand more electricity even when powered off. If you’re like me and you often leave your devices or chargers always plugged in, they could be drawing standby power.
If you read my previous blog post about using an advanced power strip — a smart device that automatically switches off power when it’s not needed — you’ll know that advanced power strips are an easy and effective solution for reducing standby power. However, this time, I wanted something that would give me more control over the power flow.
That’s why I decided to go with the Belkin Conserve Switch, a surge protector with two “always on” outlets and six outlets that can be manually switched off when not in use. It also comes with a wireless remote control to make it easy to switch the outlets on and off. You can place the remote on your desk, shelf or any other flat surface, or mount it on a wall, so it functions similarly to a light switch.
I set up my Conserve Switch Surge Protector near my bed, where I usually charge my daily electronics. I use the “always on” outlets for my alarm clock and Google Nest Mini smart speaker and the switched outlets for any devices that don’t need constant power.
With generous spacing between each outlet, you won’t have to sacrifice unused outlets because wide or unusually shaped plugs take up too much space. This was one of my few gripes with the advanced power strip from my previous blog, as I couldn’t utilize every outlet because the spacing was too tight.
Although I chose to use my Conserve Switch Surge Protector in my bedroom, I imagine it could also be quite useful for office setups and home entertainment systems. So, if you’re looking for a convenient way to reduce standby power loss at home, in the office or anywhere else you use electronic appliances, try upgrading your regular power strip to a Conserve Switch Surge Protector!
Also, don’t forget to visit Hawaii Energy’s Marketplace to see what energy-saving products and discounts are available for you!
Dan Kaneko is a digital communications and social media specialist at Hawaiian Electric.
