Saving Energy at Your Workstation

Most of us are constantly consuming energy – whether we realize it or not.  Take our workstations for example.  Most are sucking juice 24/7 in some capacity.  Computers, cell phone chargers, copiers, can all continuously draw power when plugged in.  Not to mention: vending machines, coffee makers, space heaters, fans, window air conditioners… In fact, one computer monitor left on overnight and on weekends can cost $30 or more per year to power when it’s not needed.

Think of all the workstations across Minnesota sitting empty every weekend, holiday and vacation day that are consuming energy from heating/cooling, lights and electronics not even needed or in use.  You work hard, so unplugging a cell phone charger when the workday is done is the last thing on your mind, right?  Why bother?

Phantom energy can cost your business, and home, hundreds, maybe thousands of dollars annually.

So how do you reduce this phantom drain in both energy and money?  Unplug all equipment from the outlet after it’s turned off, especially overnight and on weekends or extended vacations. Too time-consuming?  Buy power strips so you can flick one switch to “unplug” multiple devices at once. Standard power strips cost $15 or less.

A few simple actions can save significant amounts of money and energy. As in most behavior changes, it takes a little conscience effort upfront but can become automatic in no time.

For more tips on workstation energy efficiency, check out the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office Check List. Some good ideas for your home (or home office) can be found in this article. Have other ideas or things you’re doing in your workstation to save energy and money?  Share them here.