Yes, I have become my dad, running around the house, shutting off lights , and asking if people were born in a barn when they leave doors open and let all that expensively warmed air out into the cold night. But it turns out, my focus may be all wrong. I might be much better off unplugging a few key items that draw a lot of power, even when you're not using them—along with appliances that are just patently unsafe when they're left plugged in and unattended. Unplugging key electronics and appliances can also help protect them from electrical surges, which can shorten their lifespans.

Ready to save money and make your home a little safer? Take a minute to unplug these energy vampires and home hazards.

"Energy vampires," or plugged-in items that aren't currently being used, make up abou

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