Green Computer Offers Electricity Savings
A quick push of the mouse, and my computer screen opens to my desktop. The lights buzz; the computer starts coming to life. While this happens, I get closer and closer to my workday. But at the same time, I am using and buying more energy.
With some computer information, you could be starting your workday more efficient by using a green computer. Together, by switching, we could save $1.8 billion a year. [1]
EPEAT offers a way to find a green computer. The company gives environmental ratings to electronics, including green computers. The rating system analyzes the entire items, from energy use to packaging. Electronics get a bronze, silver or gold rating from EPEAT. [2] For green computer options, the site lists more than 2,353.
Energy Star also offers eco-friendly equipment options. The products receive an Energy Star label for their environmental accolades. Energy Star takes the following criteria into consideration: Power supply; operation in multiple modes such as off, sleep and idle; and user adjustable power management features. [3]
How much you reduce your electricity by switching to a green computer depends on your computer usage. A first easy step can be to quit using the screensaver. It looks nice, but if you let your computer drift into a deep sleep with a black screen, it saves more energy. Especially remember to make sure your computer and monitor both turn to a low-power mode. Lots of people only change the monitor, not the entire computer. Consult Energy Star’s site if you need help finding your device’s power management. [4] When you reduce the rebooting time, you can save up to $50 annually, especially if you use to leave your computer on constantly.
Download the Energy Star Estimate Your PC Power Management Savings spreadsheet to track your lifestyle changes. [5] It shows your habits and how much you are saving annually.
I can save more than $15 annually by ditching my screensaver and changing my inactivity time down a few minutes. Thanks adjustments, I can work knowing I am conserving energy. How much can you save on electricity with a green computer?
Read more about computer energy with America's Best Energy Team.
[1] Energy Star Computer Savings
[2] EPEAT Environmental Criteria
[3] Energy Star Computer Criteria
[4] Energy Star Power Modes