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Simple Solutions: Electronics
Many electronic devices are still on, even after you turn them off. They use energy called phantom power. Electronics often remain in stand-by mode after you turn them off, using power. The average modern home has 10–30 pieces of equipment using stand-by power. They include TVs, DVD players, laptop chargers, modems, printers and iPod chargers. Reduce your phantom power usage by using a powerbar.
Fast and Free
- Unplug seldom-used appliances to reduce standby power use.
- Shut off electrical equipment in the evening when leaving work.
- Turn off lights and other appliances when not in use.
- Unplug a television when not in use is another great way to save energy
- Turn off computers, monitors and other electronic devices—less energy is used to turn them off and on than leaving them on.
- Consider donating old electronics to a school or charity instead of throwing them away.
- Dispose of used alkaline and lithium batteries properly by taking them to your local Household Hazardous Waste Depot.
- Check reports for products that repair easily and have low breakdown rates.
Simple and Low Cost
- Put your home electronics, entertainment system and computers on a power bar for greater energy efficiency. To stop drawing standby electricity, turn off the power bar when it is not in use.
- Reduce waste by using rechargeable batteries instead of non-rechargeable ones. Buy products that are rechargeable.
- Use an energy meter to test the amount of power your electrical and small appliances use. Energy meters can be purchased at major hardware stores for about $25. Many libraries will loan them out for free.
- Buy used electronics. You can find top quality, functional electronics that are gently used.
Spend to Save
- ENERGY STAR® televisions use about 30 per cent less energy than standard units.
- If you need to buy a new computer, save money by selecting one that is energy-efficient.
- A laptop uses about 80 per cent less energy than a desktop computer.
