


If you are buying only one computer, a laptop offers the extra versatility of being portable. A typical desktop computer uses about 130 watts (including the monitor). A typical laptop uses a maximum of 15 watts and it powers down (goes to sleep) when it's not used for several minutes. Laptop computers use much less energy than desktop computers. However, we can make a few generalizations. They don't accurately reflect the average power usage, which tends to be much lower. The rated power levels found on the nameplate only give the maximum capacity of the power supply. It's hard to compare the energy use of different computers. Why? Because the new computers can do more-and that requires more power. That doesn't mean that they will actually use less energy than older computers however. These efficiency improvements now appear in desktop machines. This is partly because the demand for portable or laptop computers drove manufacturers to make more efficient components so batteries would last longer. Newer computers tend to be more energy-efficient than older ones. ENERGY STAR devices will have lower operating costs than other equipment.

Fortunately, you can find ENERGY STAR labels on almost every type of office equipment, at all levels of speed and features. You'll obviously have other considerations besides energy when you buy your equipment, such as speed and capacity. This is easy, and it protects your equipment against voltage surges such as lightning strikes. The only solutions are to physically unplug these appliances, or to turn off their power strips. Most draw only a few watts, but with several pieces of office equipment, the power drain can add up. Many electronic devices continue to use electricity even when switched off. A computer alone may not use more energy than your television, but once you've put it all together, an office full of equipment can definitely make its mark on your energy use. As you go about setting up your home office with a new computer, printer, fax machine, and maybe even a copy machine, consider that this equipment is going to add to your electricity bills.
