Electronics and Computer

Some of the most energy-hungry machines making your electric bill creep higher every month are your electronic devices. Energy conserving electronics are not only better for our wallets, but better for the environment.

Unplug electronic devices when they're not in use: Some electronics, such as televisions, use energy when they're off and still plugged in. Unplug devices that use standby power, such as DVD players, video games, printers, and scanners.

Use a power strip to plug in electronics: Plug your computer and peripherals into a power strip and shut them of using its on/off switch.

Unplug battery chargers: Unplug battery charges when the batteries are fully charged or the chargers are not in use.

Take advantage of your computer's energy-saving features: The “sleep” mode reduces electricity usage by up to 70 percent during inactive periods.
The “hibernate” mode shuts the computer down after a specified time, allowing you to restart using less electricity.
Shut off the computer if you’re going to be away more than 2 hours.

If you’re buying a new computer: Consider a laptop. Laptops use about 90% less energy than a desktop.
Purchase combination peripheral equipment, such as a combined printer/scanner, which uses one plug instead of two.
Buy a flat screen monitor. It uses less energy and is easier on the eyes.

Common misconceptions: Don't use screen savers. Screen savers don’t reduce energy use by monitors, they use more energy. Plus, the newer LCD monitors no longer need them.
Many people believe that equipment lasts longer if it is never turned off. This incorrect perception carries over from the days of older mainframe computers.