What Makes a Power Strip Advanced?

One common tip we hear for saving energy is to turn off electronics when they are not in use. However, a frequently overlooked fact is that most electronics continue to consume energy even when turned off—a phenomenon known as standby power loss. Fortunately, a Tier 1 advanced power strip (Tier 1 APS) provides an easy solution for eliminating this energy waste.

How Advanced Power Strips Work

Unlike traditional power strips, a Tier 1 APS has three types of outlets. In each Tier 1 APS, there will be one control outlet, to which you should attach a frequently used electronic device, such as a television, computer, or game console. Second, there will be several controlled outlets, where you can plug in accessory devices that support the main electronic device. For instance, if you plugged a computer into the control outlet, you might plug a printer into a controlled outlet. Third, there will be a few always-on outlets for electronic devices that need a continual supply of power, such as a modem, cable box, or DVR. The image below provides an example of how an APS may be integrated into your home office.

So what makes a power strip advanced? The key feature is its ability to automatically cut power to controlled outlets when the device plugged into the control outlet is turned off. For example, if you shut down your computer while it is plugged into a control outlet, the APS will automatically cut power to relevant accessory devices in the controlled outlets, such as a printer, scanner, or monitor. Otherwise, these devices will continue to consume and waste energy, even when turned off and not in use.

To see an APS in action, take a look at the image below. The lamp located furthest to the right is plugged into the control outlet, whereas the other three lamps are plugged into the controlled outlets. When the lamp on the right is turned off manually, the three other lamps shut off automatically; when the lamp on the right is turned back on, the three other lamps automatically turn back on.

Benefits of an APS

An APS is well-suited for home offices and entertainment centers, where multiple electronics are often in use. By replacing one traditional power strip with a Tier 1 APS, you will reduce energy waste and, in turn, may lower your energy costs by up to $150 over five years. You can also take advantage of additional opportunities to save by purchasing a discounted APS through Mass Save’s online store.

Want to learn more about advanced power strips? Visit MassSave.com.