Increases in energy prices lead many individuals to look at purchasing energy-ef
ID: 3874869 • Letter: I
Question
Increases in energy prices lead many individuals to look at purchasing energy-efficient computers. Energy-efficient computers often look and perform similarly to equivalent computers that use more energy. Find two computers of identical configuration, where the only difference is energy consumption. How much energy does the energy-efficient computer save? Are energy-efficient computers more or less expensive? Will the difference in cost (if any) affect your purchasing decision? How else might you be able to change your computer to save energy? Use the web to locate articles that recommend energy efficient products and that provide tips about additional ways to save energy. Compile your findings and then share them with the class.
(300 word max please)
Explanation / Answer
The ENERGY STAR-abeled office equipment is widely available and it can provide dramatic energy savings as much as 75% savings for some products. The ENERGY STAR-labeled office products use about half the electricity of standard equipment. Find ENERGY STAR products and standards.
There is a small surge in energy when a computer starts up, this small amount of energy is still less than the energy used when a computer is running for long periods of time. Spending a large portion of time in low-power mode not only saves energy but helps equipment run cooler and last longer.
These days, most computers are made to be energy efficient. Since that is pretty much an industry standard, they should remain rather affordable within the same range as those which are not as efficient. It is very hard to get a computer motherboard, power supply, monitor, or complete unit that does not have an Energy Star Rating. It can be said that the price is same whether you are buying an energy efficient machine or not .
One misconception, carried over from the days of older mainframe computers, is that equipment lasts longer if it is never turned off. For energy savings and convenience, consider the following guidelines:
Turn off the monitor if you aren't going to use your PC for more than 20 minutes.
Turn off both the CPU and monitor if you're not going to use your PC for more than 2 hours.
Make sure your monitors, printers, and other accessories are on a power strip/surge protector. When this equipment is not in use for extended periods, turn off the switch on the power strip to prevent them from drawing power even when shut off. If you don't use a power strip, unplug extra equipment when it's not in use.
ENERGY STAR-labeled computers use 30%-65% less energy than computers without this designation, depending on usage.
An efficient product is cost-effective when the lifetime energy savings (from avoided energy costs over the life of the product, discounted to present value) exceed the additional up-front cost (if any) compared to a less efficient option. ENERGY STAR considers up-front costs and lifetime energy savings when setting required efficiency levels. Federal purchasers can assume ENERGY STAR-qualified products and products that meet FEMP-designated efficiency requirements are life cycle cost-effective. In high-use applications or when energy rates are above the federal average, purchasers may save more if they specify products that exceed federal efficiency requirements.