Advanced power strip
Save on energy costs by eliminating standby power usage
What is an advanced power strip?
Advanced power strips (APS) are designed to reduce energy waste from electronics that continue drawing electricity even when they’re turned off or in standby mode. These “phantom loads” come from common devices like gaming consoles, chargers, printers, speakers, televisions and computer accessories.
APS models are generally grouped into two tiers based on the way they function. All APS also provide some form of surge protection to all the devices plugged in.
Why use advanced power strips?
Reduce phantom energy use: Many electronics keep drawing electricity even when powered down. Over time, these small loads add up on your energy bill. After proper setup, an APS automatically cuts power to idle electronics, helping reduce this otherwise wasted energy.
Convenience: Instead of unplugging devices after each use, an APS turns off power to accessories when a main control device (like a TV or computer) is turned off. This makes saving energy easy without changing daily habits.
Better control of electronics: APS devices help manage entertainment centers, office equipment and gaming setups more efficiently by organizing devices into outlets that power down only when appropriate.
How to use advanced power strips?
Advanced power strips use smart technology to identify when your devices need power and when they don’t. APS models come in two main types.
Tier 1 APS
Tier 1 APS: Tier 1 devices include three basic outlet types.
- Master-control outlet: Plug your primary device (like a TV or computer) into this outlet. When the main device turns off, the APS detects it and cuts power to controlled outlets.
- Controlled outlets: Use these for accessories like monitors, speakers, printers or gaming consoles. These outlets automatically turn off and stop using electricity when the master device powers down.
- Always-on outlets: These outlets are for devices that must remain powered, like your Wi-Fi router. These outlets are not affected by master-outlet activity.
Tier 2 APS
Tier 2 APS: Tier 2 models include the features of Tier 1 models, plus additional hands-off controls – based on the model purchased.
- Motion sensors: These enhanced controls can shut off devices after periods of inactivity, helping save even more energy automatically. For example, if you fall asleep with the TV on, a Tier 2 APS can turn it off after a period of detecting no motion.
Save energy without changing your routine!
Efficiency Works offers rebates on Tier 1 and Tier 2 advanced power strips for both residential and commercial customers.
FAQs
Why choose an APS over a standard power strip?
Standard power strips offer additional outlets but do not reduce phantom energy use and may not include surge protection. APS both protect electronics and reduce energy waste by shutting off idle devices.
Are APS devices difficult to set up?
Tier 1 APS are designed to be plug-and-play, so long as you plug the right devices into the correct outlets. Tier 2 APS have more up-front set up time for advanced features, such as motion sensitivity or timers, but will operate automatically once properly set up.
How do I know what devices to plug into each outlet on my APS?
Efficiency Works always recommends following the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific APS that was purchased. As a general guide:
- Master outlet: Plug in a TV, computer or other primary device using continuous power.
- Controlled (switched) outlets: Plug in game consoles, DVD players, monitors, speakers or other peripheral devices.
- Always-on outlet: Plug in devices that need constant power, such as a Wi-Fi router or modem.
What is the difference between a Tier 1 and Tier 2 APS?
A Tier 1 APS uses surge protection and cuts power to controlled outlet devices when the master outlet device is turned off. A Tier 2 APS includes everything a Tier 1 APS does, but can provide additional features such as motion sensors, timers or remote controls to shut off devices.
