Energy Saving Tips for Your Computer

Ever wonder how to save energy when using your computer? If you see that low battery notification all too quickly, then it’s time to learn more about your computer power consumption. Luckily, there are plenty of things you can do to improve the life of your device. Check out our handy list of energy saving tips that not only save your wallet, but also the environment!

How to Make Your PC Use Less Power

Set your computer to hibernate

When your computer is not in use, set it to hibernate mode. This saves more energy than stand by mode, screensavers, or shutting down your computer completely. Standby mode shuts down peripherals such as the monitor and hard drive, but still uses a small amount of energy. This is the best option if you only plan to step away from your computer for a few minutes. However, setting your computer to hibernate when not in use shuts down the entire computer and stores the information on your hard drive. Computer consultants agree this is a better option because your work will still be saved. Furthermore, when you turn on your computer again, it requires less energy to start up from hibernation than when it is completely shut down.
(HINT: Every modern operating system has its own settings for conserving power. When in doubt, take your computer to a PC consultant or take advantage of online PC repair services to determine the optimal energy use for your computer.)

Unplug computer peripherals when not in use

Even when electronics are turned off, a continuous current of energy often referred to as “vampire energy” or “phantom energy” continues to stream into electronics. Printers for example, use about 103 watts of energy each day, even when turned off! Unplugging your electronics when not in use will stop the energy flow and save power. Try using a power strip with an on and off switch to reduce the flow of energy and protect your electronics. Save electricity by switching the power strip off when not in use.

Use an online PC repair service

Is your computer slow or not functioning properly? Don’t get rid of it. Instead, take your computer to a computer consultant or find an online PC repair service and have them run a virus or spyware removal program, upgrade your memory, install a new operating system or replace broken hardware. Generally, any functional computer with a Pentium 4 processor that can run Windows XP can be upgraded. This reduces electronic waste and is cheaper than buying a whole new system. Taking advantage of virus and spyware removal services that can improve your computer’s energy consumption and functioning. It’ll run like new!

By making a few changes, you can greatly reduce your computer power consumption. Instead of buying brand new, follow our energy saving tips to refresh your computer while limiting electricity use and needless waste.

We are dedicated to working with you towards making a greener future. For more questions about computer energy saving tips or electronic recycling, call us (650) 493-8700 today!