Electronics Energy Saving Tips

Powering electronic devices can cost you almost as much as powering your kitchen appliances. Appliances have become more efficient, but increased use of electronics has offset the purpose to save energy. Set your computers to hibernate when they aren't in use. Use labels to compare estimated annual energy costs among similarly sized models. Ask your cable company about replacing your current set-top cable box with one that meets Energy Star's 3.0 specifications. Also, inquire about whole-house DVRs, which can eliminate the need for an energy intense recording device on each television; unplug cable boxes on seldom-used TVs. If you receive free, over-the-air digital TV signals via an antenna, you can even do away with the box, supplementing network broadcasts with online movies and shows streamed to an Internet-connected TV, Blu-ray player, or game console.