Energy Conservation Tips

Savings: $5-$20/Mo

Many may not realize but leaving appliances plugged in uses electricity whether they are on or not, otherwise known as "leaking power". The power consumed varies depending on the device, a TV may only sip the energy out of your house but leaving your laptop plugged in could yield much higher numbers. When you think about it, you probably don't realize all of the things you have drawing power on a constant basis and this can add up. By taking a couple of extra steps per day, you can eliminate most of this wasted power. Take a look at this list of electronics in common households that you probably leave plugged in without giving it a second thought.

Laptop
TV
Cell Phone Charger
Desktop
Microwave
Oven
Ipod Charger
DVD/Bluray/VCR players (you dont really still have a VCR do you?)

Now, I am not saying you need to unplug your Microwave and Oven every time you aren't using them,  I just wanted to point out some items that are drawing power constantly. I am however, suggesting that you take note of how many of these easier items to maintain that you leave plugged in constantly that are drawing power. One solution is to have an easy to access power stip (or multiple strips tactfully placed throughout the house) that you plug your TV, DVD Player, Home Theater PC, and other items such as Cell Phone/IPod chargers into. Every night before you go to bed, you could simply flip the switch. By turning those 5+ items off every night, assuming you don't need them until you return from work, you prevent energy from being used for roughly 18hrs (75%) in a given week day.

Shut down your computer every night or when not in use. Many people now days leave them running 24/7. I accomplish this with an automated program (see above) so if I forget, it does it for me. Alternativly you could put it into sleep or hibernate mode, but this still draws power. Even though its drawing power, standby is much more efficient than ON. Also, set your monitor to turn off when not in use after 15 minutes. Monitors can draw 75+ watts, theres no need for than when you aren't even using it! Also know that even though you unplug your laptop from the power supply, the power supply still constantly draws power. Unplug the cord from the wall.

The Bottom Dollar
It requires a conscious but little effort at that, to remember turning off your appliances on a daily basis. If you aren't using it, why should it cost you money in power? You wouldn't pay an employee to not work for you, right? All of these are minimal gains with the exception of the desktop computer (which can run you $400/yr), but every little bit helps.