Type of computer
Computers have been rated by the Energy Star ratings program since July 2007. To be Energy Star-compliant, computers must use a power supply that converts 80 percent of incoming electricity for use by the computer. A basic desktop PC must consume less than 50 watts in idle mode. A laptop has to consume less than 14 watts of power.
What to look for when buying a computer
- Ask for an Energy Star-certified computer or monitor. Using Energy Star Certified computers, monitors, and other devices saves you money on energy costs. It also adds to your efforts to change your lifestyle to a more green way of living. As a general rule, laptops are more efficient than desktop models.
- At the Energy Star website, you will find the requirements for an Energy Star Certificate. In terms of energy efficiency, the top 25 percent of computers get the Energy Star blessing. Computers are tested for power consumption when in use and when in idle mode.
How to save energy with your new computer
- After you have your new computer at home, make sure you run it in the most energy efficient mode (see power-saving in the energy-saving at work section of this website for more details). Reduce power requirements by closing applications when they aren't in use, by setting the screen brightness at the lowest comfortable level, and by putting it instantly into sleep mode when you know you will be away for a few minutes.
- A computer's energy consumption depends on what you're doing with it. Writing an email uses less energy than playing a graphics-heavy game. Choose your computer based on the tasks you are likely to undertake to avoid spending too much money and using extra energy.
- The majority of energy that goes into a computer is actually used during the manufacturing process. Once you have an energy efficient computer, take care to keep it in good running condition for as long as possible. Upgrade and fix when necessary by adding extra RAM or adding a slave hard-drive so that the machine runs efficiently for longer, cutting down on manufacturing costs.
- When you get a new energy-efficient computer, dispose of the old one properly. Search in your area for a place that will recycle or reuse the computer parts so that the toxic materials in the old computer don't end up in your local landfill. Or even recycle the old computer on ebay or freecycle (make sure to permanently delete any of your files to avoid identity theft)
Save energy, save money & help save the planet
