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Energy: Efficient Office Equipment
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An increasing proportion of a commercial business’
energy use is due to the greater reliance of
operations on computers, printers, copiers, servers,
fax machines and other related information and
communications technology equipment, not to mention
the refrigerators, microwaves, toaster ovens, and
the proverbial water coolers.
Make certain that you purchase products labeled
with the EPA's
Energy Star
designation, and
understand that although the Energy Star label makes
it easier to choose energy-efficient equipment,
often the operational opportunities to save are
ignored or de-emphasized in the office environment.
For example, PC’s usually include energy-saving
features such as sleep modes for the monitor and
CPU. The simple practice of turning off personal
computers at the end of the day is often overlooked,
partly because there is no impact on the
office-worker failing to do so; as he is not
responsible for paying the electric bill.
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The popularity of screen-savers used on desktop
PC’s can actually increase electricity consumption
due to their use. The complexity of the graphics in
a screen saver often requires more CPU energy during
their use and the monitors would save more if just
allowed to
operate in sleep mode after a pre-set
period of non-use. While nearly every computer has
this savings capability built into its software,
seldom is it used to its benefit. An office policy
that requires monitor sleep mode, and where
feasible, also CPU sleep modes, is recommended from
an efficiency standpoint.
For more information, refer to your computer’s
Help index under “Power Management”, “System
Standby” or “Monitor Shut-off.”
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Last updated: Thursday, 05/14/2009
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Time for a Tune-up?
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The Community Energy Partnership can help Santa Monica residents get off on the right, energy-efficient foot. Renters, homeowners, and property owners are eligible for an Energy Tune-Up at NO COST. This service is worth up to $250.00 in direct utility services, and includes materials and labor. In three easy steps, your Energy Tune-Up will start saving you money today.
More Info 
To sign up, email partnership@energycoalition.org or call 800-968-5203. |
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