Home electronics can make our personal lives simpler and more efficient. However, it’s essential to be mindful of their energy usage to have a better understanding of how they may affect energy consumption within the home.
Thinking about power modes
Before purchasing smart home gadgets, consider the type of power modes they utilize to get an idea of the power usage you can expect from them. This way, you can find great systems, without hiking up your electricity bill.
In general, electronics operate in 1 to 4 modes and can continue to draw power after being turned off. These modes include:
- Active: The system is in use. For example, a TV playing a movie.
- Active standby: Electronic isn’t being used for primary function but is turned on and ready to go. For example, your cell phone charging.
- Passive standby: System appears to be turned off but can be turned on with a click of a button or remote. For example, a microwave.
- Off: The whole system is shut down without any sort of functionality.
Cozy comforts for entertainment & relaxation
Home entertainment systems are great for enhancing fun at home and often consist of smart TVs for quick access to your favorite streaming services and speakers with quality audio.
Depending on your system many home entertainment gadgets can sync up to your smart phone for remote control. Some of the latest gadgets include power saving modes that when enabled, consume less energy saving you money over the long run.
Computers and home office equipment
If you would like to enhance your home office, the latest laptops and computers can be a great aid to your workload. However, it’s good to be mindful of the amount of energy they consume to have more control over your energy bill.
For example, on average, desktop computers consume around 239 watts of power annually versus laptops, which consume about 75 watts of power per year.
A new laptop or home entertainment system is always super exciting and can help with tasks around the house. However, before purchasing these systems paying attention to their energy usage can help in saving money on your energy bill.
About the Author
Diana Hellman
Diana Hellman's passion for Larchmont inspires her more than 20 year real estate practice. As a certified buyer's representative, "The development of a solid and trusting relationship with my buyers and sellers is what I strive for." This success, primarily built on client referrals and repeat business, comes from her knowledge of what makes Larchmont unique: it's school system, recreational facilities, services and the special qualities that pervade this village's atmosphere. A former educator with a background in psychology, Diana knows that people don't want a sales pitch, but rather reliable, timely information. She and her husband have been residents of Larchmont for over 40 years. Her 3 children have attended the Mamaroneck Public Schools. She can give you expert advice with the sale or purchase of your home. Awards/Distinctions Multi-million dollar club- Westchester Board of Realtors International Diamond Society (8 million plus in sales), 5-Star agent in 2024. Gold Award- WBR (5-8 million dollars in sales) Silver Award – WBR (3-5 million dollars in sales) Memberships National Association of Realtors New York State Association of Realtors Westchester Board of Realtors Westchester Multiple Listing Service Community Former executive board member of the Central School Former selection school delegate for election of school board candidates Former executive board member of the Friends of the Emelin Theatre Former executive board member of the League of Women Voters