How Unplugging a Few Devices Helped Me Knock $100 Off My Electric Bill

With record-breaking heat still scorching much of the US, keeping your home comfortable can quickly drain your budget. Running the AC around the clock is costly, and according to a CNET survey, nearly 80% of US adults are stressed about rising energy costs. While it might feel like there's no easy way to cut expenses, one simple habit can make a big difference: unplugging devices when you're not using them.

Many electronics in your home continue to draw electricity even when powered off, earning them the name "energy vampires." TVs, printers, gaming consoles, coffee makers and even electric toothbrushes quietly sip energy all day, adding up to a surprising hit on your monthly bill.

Tackling these hidden drains isn't hard. Identify the biggest culprits in your home, unplug these devices ...