3 energy-saving myths

As the temperature drops and the heating bill soars it is time to start evaluating your energy consumption to help save money on your energy bills.

Here are a few myth-busters you can use to save energy all year round while sitting right there at your computer – at home or at work.

Myth #1 – It is a waste of time to change all my computer settings to save energy. It is only going to save me a few pennies anyway. I should focus on other major appliances.

It is true other appliances use more energy and may be a better focus for energy savings, but you can save up to $75 per computer (sometimes even more) according to Energy Star.

Myth #2 – I should use a screensaver to save energy when I'm going to be away from my computer for a while.

Nowadays, most screensavers actually use more energy than other settings. Most computers now come with a monitor-dimming option or sleep mode that can save more energy and should be used if you will be away from your computer for at least 15 minutes.

To adjust the energy setting on a windows computer you simply navigate to the start menu and search “powercfg". From there you can change your energy plan settings.

Myth #3 – I should leave my computer on because every time I turn my computer on there is a power surge that uses more electricity.

While there is a power surge when a computer boots up, it is so miniscule that it actually shouldn't affect your energy bill. In this case, it is more about personal preference to use a sleep setting vs. turning the computer off.

BONUS TIP: Are you gifting a computer this holiday season? Consider a laptop. Laptops often suit the average person’s needs and consume about half the energy of most desktop computers.