Choosing energy efficient home electronics can be one easy way to lower your monthly electric consumption and energy costs. Sure, one energy-efficient appliance or piece of electronics won’t cut it, but imagine what would happen if you replaced all of your old, socket-sucking home electronics—you’re your television, stereo system, smart phone, computer, laptop, game system and more—with items that use less energy and save you a lot of green at the same time.
Here are five quick tips to help you choose more energy efficient home electronics:
1. Look for energy incentives
Government energy incentives—such as tax refunds or rebates—can be a great encouragement for families when it comes to purchasing energy efficient appliances. For example, purchasing an appliance or home electronics with the Energy Star-rating often comes with the promise of a rebate for your earth-friendly purchase. Plus, the government is doing its part to encourage green family practices via the Natural Defense website, which lists a bunch of tax credits that relate to Health and Energy specific electronics and appliance purchases for your home.
2. Buy electronics with the Energy Star rating
When it comes to choosing energy-efficient home electronics that help cut your monthly hydro bill and use less of Mother Earth’s resources, those stamped with an Energy Star rating fit the bill. You can be confident that electronics awarded this label adhere to the strict energy efficiency criteria established by the U.S. Department of Energy and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on energy consumption.
3. Listen to what other consumers have to say
Reviews aren’t all bad! And when it comes to conserving energy, you can almost guarantee that everyone has an opinion. That’s why consumer reviews can help you save money—both on product energy costs and product quality—when it comes to spending your hard earned money on home electronics.
4. Focus on the long-term
Sure, you might want to upgrade to that new smart phone if your carrier is offering impressive incentive programs, but is the actual phone a quality item? Sure, upgrading our cell phones, televisions, and laptops is nice when we get a brand new shiny model, but do you ever think about all of that e-waste that ends up in a toxic landfill? When you consider the toxic chemicals that disposed of electronics leave in our landfills, it doesn’t quite seem worth the upgrade.
5. Every piece of electronics counts…
Yes, I’m referring to your printer, cell phone, television, stereo system and even your alarm clock—every one of these items sucks energy from your socket and can make a difference. So opt for models that use less power and require less time to charge, and you’ll notice an decrease your electrical bill each month as well as your negative stamp on the environment.
Jane Johnson is a staff writer for GoingCellular, a popular site that provides cell phone news, commentary, reviews and more.
