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Computers

ENERGY STAR® qualified computers and computer components must meet energy use guidelines in three distinct operating modes: stand-by, sleep mode and while they are in use.

Facts & Product Knowledge:

• ENERGY STAR qualified desktops, integrated computers, desktop-derived servers, and gaming consoles consume 2 watts of energy or less when switched off and 4 watts of energy or less when in sleep mode.
• ENERGY STAR qualified notebooks and tablets consume 1 watt of energy or less when switched off and 1.7 watts of energy or less when in sleep mode.

Tips:

• By leaving the machine on around the clock, your electric bill increases, dust is sucked into the unit, and power surges can occur, so when you’re finished with the computer for a significant amount of time, don’t forget to power it down.
• Refer to the owners’ manual to take advantage of all of the computer’s energy saving features.
• Always check to ensure that the ENERGY STAR features are enabled.
• A screen saver does not actually save energy as it still draws power from the monitor. It is better to shut the monitor off when you are away from the computer.
• Good: Unplug all peripherals and the computer when not in use (if the memory function is not needed).
• Better: Use a basic power strip to plug in all of your peripherals and computer, this allows you to shut them all off with the click of a button when not in use.
• Even Better: Use a basic power strip and a plug in timer to allow you to automatically shut the entire power strip off for extended periods of time when the peripherals and computer are not in use
• Best: Use an advanced power strip that detects when all of the appliances are turned off, when this happens it turns itself off and prevents the pull of phantom load. Or use an advanced power strip with a built-in timer. These units typically have three different types of outlets: one providing constant power, one set to a timer which provides power only during designated intervals, and another outlet set to a different timer.
• The Very Best: Use a “power master” advanced power strip. This type of advanced power strip has one special (master) outlet to plug your computer into and 5 more outlets for the computers peripherals. When the computer is turned off it automatically shuts off the power to the remaining 5 outlets and that completely powers off the peripherals which means zero standby energy use. This is a new technology and is becoming more available every day.