How to stop your computer chomping power

Many people don't realise that their PC or Laptop is busy chomping away at their power bill when it's on standby. Much like my cat when the dog isn't watching his food

Computers are one of the sneakiest power vampires - whether your actual computer or one inside your appliances. You can save power on all your appliances and that includes your desktop computer or laptop, with a few little interventions. Simply activating the standby and hibernation settings on your computer could save you $75 annually per computer. 

Appliances all use power in active and passive standby. While it isn't a lot in a single sitting, it adds up over time. The reason power is being used is based on the functions performed while waiting to be reactivated. This might include clocks, fans etc. 

In the case of a computer, if you want it completely off without hitting the off button, choose 'hibernation' as it will turn off every part of your computer (after saving the actual data to the disk). 'Standby mode' will use power while waiting for further commands.

Here are a couple of simple tips to set up you computer to minimise energy use:

1. Use the power management settings. If you don't use your computer's full capacity while you work, set the power management settings to low.
2. Use standby mode on your computer if you do not use the computer for more than several minutes.
3. Use hibernation mode whenever you leave your computer at home or you do not want to use it for some hours.
4. Unplug or turn off the power switch during the night while you are sleeping.

Battery note

By only charging your laptop when it no longer or has little battery life, you will not only conserve power but also help maintain the laptop's battery life. See Electric Power Vampires and How to Stop Them.

Image: Unsplash | Marvin Meyer

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