When appliances are plugged in - even while not in use - they are using what is called "phantom power."  Beth Brindle's research shows, "[this power] is used by appliances and electronics when they are turned off but still plugged into a power outlet."(1) Appliances that use this kind of power includes: refrigerators, coffeemakers, dishwashers, TVs, gaming stations and MUCH MORE!  Phantom power may be responsible for up to 10% of your electric bill!

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According to the Utah's Institute for Energy Research, about 95% of our power comes from burning fossil fuels and 2% comes from hydroelectric or geothermal sources.(2)  When fuels are burned to make electricity, CO2, a major Green House Gas (GHG), is emitted into the atmosphere. GHG, like CO2, trap heat in the atmosphere, disrupting the Earth's climate.

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Decreasing energy use, decreases GHG released into the 

atmosphere, reducing your carbon footprint. So have a lights-out lunch and unplug!

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1. Beth Brindle "How much can you save by unplugging appliances?" 10 October 2011.
   HowStuffWorks.com. <http://money.howstuffworks.com/personal-finance/budgeting/how-much-save-unplugging-appliances.htm> 10 January 2017

2. http://www.instituteforenergyresearch.org/media/state-regs/pdf/Utah.pdf