Energy monitoring devices available

A handy device that measures the amount of electricity used by refrigerators, computers, flat-screen televisions, lamps, iPods and other electronic devices in homes and businesses is now available for check-out at all local libraries.  

The easy-to-use “Kill-A-Watt” meters were provided to the libraries through a partnership with Benton PUD, Franklin PUD, Benton REA, Big Bend Electric Cooperative, the City of Richland, and Avista. The device can be checked out, just like a book.

The Kill-A-Watt device is easy to use: Simply plug it into an electrical socket and then plug the electrical device that you want to measure into the Kill-A-Watt. Many people may be surprised to learn how much energy electrical devices are using, even when they are turned off or in “standby” mode. According to the Department of Energy, in the average home, 75% of the electricity used to power home electronics is consumed while the products are turned off. Knowing which equipment is using the most power may spur consumers to take steps to curb some of their power usage.