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Step 1:
After you have your new computer at home, make sure you run it in the most energy efficient mode. Reduce power requirements by closing applications when they aren't in use, by setting the screen brightness at the lowest comfortable level, and by putting it instantly into sleep mode when you know you will be away for a few minutes.
Step 2:
A computer's energy consumption depends on what you're doing with it. Writing an email uses less energy than playing a graphics-heavy game. I'm not suggesting that you quit playing computer games, but you might think about dragging out the old board games once in a while instead.
Step 3:
Enable the energy saving settings on PCs and peripherals – a feature that is enabled on all HP products running Microsoft Windows. You can find these settings in the Power Options menu in your PC’s Control Panel. A computer in idle mode uses 20 to 50 times the power of a computer in standby mode.
Step 4:
Select the right-sized monitor to meet your needs. The bigger the monitor, the more energy it uses. Choose multifunction devices (MFDs) that do the work that used to require several machines. In addition to saving space and materials, these All-in-Ones save energy compared to several products working in parallel. |
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Step 5:
The majority of energy that goes into a computer is actually used during the manufacturing process. Once you have an energy efficient computer, take care to keep it in good running condition for as long as possible. Upgrade and fix when necessary so that the machine runs efficiently for the long term.
Step 6:
When you get a new energy-efficient computer, dispose of the old one properly. Search in your area for a place that will recycle or reuse the computer parts so that the toxic materials in the old computer don't end up in your local landfill.
Step 7:
Many appliances continue to draw a small amount of power when they are switched off. These "phantom" loads occur in most appliances that use electricity, such as VCRs, televisions, stereos, computers, and kitchen appliances. These phantom loads can be avoided by unplugging the appliance or using a power strip and using the switch on the power strip to cut all power to the appliance. |
