Appliances & Electronics
Appliances
Home appliances consume 20 percent of the energy used in a home. If you are replacing an old appliance, consider buying one that is ENERGY STAR qualified. These appliances use 10-50 percent less energy and water than standard models. The money saved on your utility bills will offset the cost a more efficient model.
You can begin your search by looking at listings of qualified models on the ENERGY STAR website. Or, when shopping, look for the ENERGY STAR label.
Home Electronics
Electronic products are responsible for 25 percent of home energy use. Some draw energy even when powered off to light electronic displays and operate in standby mode, called “phantom load.”
When replacing products, look for ENERGY STAR label. These models use as much as 60 percent less energy. Access a list of qualified models on the ENERGY STAR website.
Office Equipment
Just like home electronics, office equipment consumes a considerable amount of electricity. For example, desktop computers use more energy than laptops, and laser printers use more than inkjet printers. In addition, office equipment is also responsible for drawing phantom load, using energy when powered off. Consider plugging your equipment into a power strip and switch it off when not in use.
Changing your patterns of use can save as much energy as replacing it. However, if you choose to replace office equipment, look for the ENERGY STAR label. However, as of 2007, the specifications for office and imaging equipment has changed. They have much stricter requirements on energy usage than in the past. Check out the ENERGY STAR website for a list of qualified office products.
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