Working from home doesn’t have to take a toll on your energy bills
Today, more Americans are working from home than ever before. And more time spent at home means more energy used throughout the day.
If you’re punching the clock from home, there are small steps you can take to reduce your energy use and save on electric bills. Here are five easy ways to save energy when working from home.
- USE A SMART POWER STRIP. Plugging in your most-used devices, like computers, monitors, and routers, to a smart power strip ensures these devices aren’t drawing power when they’re not in use. Smart power strips also allow you to select which devices should stay in “always-on” mode.
- UNPLUG YOUR LEAST-USED EQUIPMENT. If your home office includes equipment like printers and scanners, you’re probably not using these electronics every day. Go ahead and unplug your least-used devices since many of these draw energy even when they’re not being used.
- CHOOSE ENERGY STAR-CERTIFIED OFFICE EQUIPMENT. Computers, monitors, imaging equipment, and other office electronics that receive the ENERGY STAR rating include power management features to make saving energy easy. Most are designed to run cooler and last longer. If you’re looking to purchase new equipment for your workspace, look for the ENERGY STAR® label to ensure you’re getting the most energy-efficient features.
- FLIP THE SWITCH AND USE NATURAL LIGHT INSTEAD. When you’re working during the day, open blinds, curtains, and other window coverings to let natural light in—and don’t forget to turn off the lights to reduce energy use! It can still be chilly out there, so take advantage of natural light and additional warmth from the sun.
- CONTROL YOUR THERMOSTAT. Home heating and cooling make up a significant portion of your energy bills. Turn the thermostat down a couple of degrees when it is colder during the day to reduce energy use and save money. The Department of Energy recommends setting the thermo- stat to 68 degrees or cooler during winter. You’re more likely to stay focused and alert when it’s cooler in your home, so all the more reason to mind the thermostat.
Working from home doesn’t have to take a toll on your energy bills, and whether you’re working remotely or not, these practical tips can help everyone reduce their energy use.
