Office equipment and appliances
In a typical office, equipment such as photocopiers, computers, printers, fax machines, refrigerators and water heaters can account for up to 30% of energy consumption.
- Turn off your computer screen if you leave your desk for more than 15 minutes. You can save as much as 50% of the energy that would have been consumed by your computer in your absence.
Switch off equipment at the end of the day. Even if you leave equipment on "standby" overnight, energy will be wasted.
If you have a hot water urn, consider installing a timer. This will ensure that water is not being boiled at night or weekends, if not required. If there are only a few staff a kettle will be more economical.
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Use multi-functional office equipment. For example a fax/photocopier/printer. Having one machine saves energy when compared to two or three.
Consider installing motion sensors to control lighting in areas which are used less frequently. These will ensure that lights are automatically turned off when the area is unoccupied.
Paper reducing strategies, such as double-sided printing, re-using paper and email not only saves energy but conserves staff time.
Make sure all your office equipment - faxes, computers, printers etc. have the 'Energy Star' function and it is enabled. For more information please see http://www.energystar.gov.au.
