Empty Buildings Draining Your Budget? Blame ENERGY VAMPIRES!
September 8, 2025

Even when buildings are empty, they’re still drawing power due to what’s called phantom loads.

This happens because many electrical devices and systems stay plugged in and powered, even if they aren’t actively being used. These devices need electricity to keep important functions running – things like clocks, network connections, emergency systems, and sensors that need to stay ready. Examples include computers, security alarms, emergency lighting, HVAC controls, elevators, servers, vending machines, and other critical infrastructure that can’t be completely shut down for safety or operational reasons.

So why do phantom loads occur? Many devices sit in standby mode, quietly using power even though no one’s there. Safety and security systems, like emergency lighting or alarms, must remain on at all times,  HVAC and building management systems operate to keep the temperature and environment stable, protecting the building’s structure. Other items, known as miscellaneous electrical loads – like Wi-Fi routers and restroom fans – also draw power non-stop. Additionally, old management routines and legal or operational rules often present a full shutdown of systems.

These invisible energy drains add up significantly, sometimes making up to nearly 30% of total electricity use when buildings are unoccupied. To reduce phantom loads, building managers often unplug nonessential equipment, install smart power strips with automatic shutoff, use occupancy sensors, and invest in energy=-efficient technologies that allow devices to enter low-power modes when spaces are empty – saving energy and cutting costs.

These are just a few simple yet effective ways building owners can cut energy waste when their properties are empty. Reach out to us anytime – we’re here to help you make it happen smoothly and save on your energy bills.