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Copiers

Even though photocopiers are not actively being used most of the time, they still consume large amounts of energy. Copiers can consume 40-75 watts while in stand-by mode, and 20 to 30 times that during active copying. Be sure the copier is appropriately sized for the office. A mid-volume copier can use 70% more power than a small-volume copier. Large offices are more likely to benefit from a single large-volume machine than several smaller units.

Make fewer copies by using email, posting documents on the Internet, or by routing a single copy.

Copy in batches and use the automatic document handler. This allows the copier to spend less time in active mode.

Use duplex settings on the copier. Copying on both sides of the paper not only saves paper costs, but also reduces copier operation time.

Purchase ENERGY STAR copiers that have an energy-saver sleep setting. All ENERGY STARR copiers come with this feature, however be sure that the feature is activated upon installation.

And remember to turn the copier off at the end of each work day.

Computers

Newer computers tend to be more energy efficient than older ones, partly because demand for laptop computers has led to the development of more energy-efficient components that have begun to appear in desktop models as well. At the same time, most offices have a PC at every desk and the energy consumption can be significant. These tips can help take a “byte“ out of your energy bill.

Laptops use far less energy than PCs so, if your station has a laptop and you can use it instead of the PC, consider being more laptop friendly.

Make use of energy management settings on all computers. These allow equipment to enter a low power state after a period of inactivity.

Turn off all monitors and computers at the end of each workday.

Do not rely on screen savers to save energy used by your monitor unless they turn off the screen. Graphic screen savers can use as much energy as operating a word processing program.

Printers and Fax Machines

The energy used by printers and fax machines can vary widely, however the energy-saving ideas should work in most office settings.

Use a high-end ink jet or bubble-jet printer if there is no need for the higher speed and quality of laser printing. Not only are they cheaper initially, printers and fax machines using ink jet technology can use 70-90 percent less energy than laser machines. Ink jet printers generally also do well with used paper, allowing you to print on two sides of a sheet or print a draft on the back of an old piece of work.

Purchase ENERGY STAR models with power-down features and LEDs (light-emitting diodes), which can use half the energy of standard laser printers.

Turn off the laser printer when not printing. Laser printers can typically draw about one-third of their printing power when they are in standby mode.

Use email, Web site posting, or fax modems whenever possible.

Purchase newer combination machines with copying, fax, printing, and scanning features. They cannot only save you space, but they also save energy by eliminating the standby energy losses of four separate machines.

With these tips, you can save energy and reduce your operating costs, and establish energy-efficient habits among your employees.