Flip that Switch!

March 26, 2009

Here are some suggestions on how to save on energy used by computers and other electronic equipment:

1. Turn off your monitor and computer.

Many people believe that computer equipment lasts longer if it is never turned off. This incorrect perception carries over from the days of older mainframe computers.

Though there is a surge in energy when a computer starts up, this small amount is less than the energy used when a computer is running for long periods of time.

Consider turning off the monitor if leaving your desk for 20 minutes or the entire computer if you'll be away for 2 hours or more. 

2. Unplug your computer.

Computers draw power even when they are powered off. This can be avoided by unplugging the computer or using a power strip that can be turned off.

This is also true of laptop computers, as the transformer in the AC adapter draws power continuously when plugged in, even if the laptop is not connected to the adapter.

In fact, this tip applies to almost any AC adapter, such as battery chargers, which can be unplugged when not in use (or when the batteries are fully charged) to save even more energy.

3. Use your computer's power management features.

There is a common misconception that screen savers reduce energy use by monitors; they do not.

Automatically switching to sleep mode or manually turning monitors off is always the better energy-saving strategy.

Furthermore, Energy Star computers and monitors only save energy when the power management features are activated, so make sure to activate them on your computer.

4. Use your printer's double-sided option.

This will reduce paper use, as well as energy use. Many of our printers on campus support double-sided printing. And, if possible, use network printers, as the energy and paper-saving abilities are far superior to a typical DeskJet.

Stonehill Goes Green is a campus-wide initiative to promote environmental sustainability within the Stonehill community through policies and practices including recycling, efficient energy use, and waste reduction.