Monitors and TVs are commonly found in today’s offices, serving various roles from computer displays to video conferencing tools or news feeds in common areas. While they are essential for numerous functions, they also contribute to the office’s total energy consumption. This article aims to provide insights into the energy usage of monitors and TVs, discuss more energy-efficient alternatives, and offer practical recommendations for reducing energy expenditures.
How Much Energy Do Monitors and TVs Use?
The energy usage of monitors can vary significantly based on their type and size. For example, a standard 19-inch LCD monitor may consume around 25-30 watts, while a larger 32-inch screen can consume up to 100 watts. Similarly, TVs used in offices can range from 30 watts for a smaller LED model to over 100 watts for larger, high-definition versions (Energy Saving Trust, UK).
Quick Fact: If a 32-inch monitor is left on for 8 hours a day, five days a week, it could cost approximately £86.8 per year in electricity, assuming a power rate of £0.35 per kWh.
Energy-Efficient Alternatives
ENERGY STAR Certified Monitors and TVs
Monitors and TVs with the ENERGY STAR certification are designed to be more energy-efficient. According to the European Commission, these devices can be up to 25% more energy-efficient compared to non-certified models.
OLED and LED Displays
OLED and LED displays generally consume less power than older LCD or Plasma screens. They are also usually slimmer and lighter, requiring fewer materials to manufacture, which offers additional environmental benefits.
Energy-saving tip: When purchasing new monitors or TVs, consider the display technology as part of your decision-making process.
Tips for Reducing Energy Consumption
Screen Savers Are Not Energy Savers
Contrary to popular belief, screen savers don’t save energy. Opt for settings that turn the display off or put it into low-power mode when not in use.
Enable Power-Saving Modes
Most modern monitors and TVs come with energy-saving features that can automatically reduce brightness or switch the device into a low-power state when inactive. Make sure these features are enabled.
Turn Off When Not in Use
Simply turning off monitors and TVs when they’re not needed can lead to significant energy savings. This is especially true for devices located in common areas or meeting rooms.
Opt for Smaller Screens
Smaller screens typically consume less energy. If a large screen is not essential for the task at hand, consider using a smaller one.
Adjust Brightness Settings
Lowering the brightness of the screen can also lower energy consumption. Many devices are set to maximum brightness by default, which is often more than necessary for typical office tasks.
Summary
Monitors and TVs are integral components of modern offices, but they also contribute to the overall energy bill. Understanding their energy footprint can help you make informed decisions that benefit both your operational expenses and the environment. By choosing energy-efficient models and practicing energy-smart habits, you can achieve noticeable reductions in energy consumption without compromising functionality. It’s a win-win situation for businesses and the planet alike.