Office equipment

Smart ways to cut energy use in your workplace.

Office gear might seem harmless, but it can quietly chew through up to 20% of your electricity. And all that heat from computers, printers and screens pushes your air con harder too, adding even more to your bill.

Choosing the right equipment and using it wisely can save you a surprising amount over its lifetime. Sometimes paying a little more upfront means spending a lot less in the long run.

Computers

  • Where possible, choose laptops. They can use up to 90% less electricity than desktops
  • Pick LCD or LED monitors. They use far less energy than old‑style monitors and they’re kinder on the eyes
  • Turn computers off at night. Most no longer need to stay on for backups
  • If you must leave them on, switch off the monitors. Modern screens use more power than you think
  • Use your computer’s power‑management settings so the screen powers down when idle
  • Reduce your screen brightness to the lowest comfortable level. Your eyes and your electricity bill will thank you
  • Use a current‑sensing smart power board. When your monitor nods off, it can also switch off your desk lamp, speakers or charger.

Printers and copiers

Keep them efficient and only on when you need them.

  • Choose inkjet printers where you can. They use up to 90% less electricity than laser printers
  • Look for printers with an automatic power‑down or sleep mode. They can cut energy use by more than 65%
  • Turn printers off when they’re not needed using a timer, smart power board or occupancy sensor
  • Always enable the energy‑saving mode on your copier or multifunction device
  • Consider a single multifunction printer/copier to reduce the number of appliances drawing power.

Other office equipment

If it glows or feels warm, it’s using energy.

  • Unplug chargers and other plug‑in devices when they’re not actually charging anything. They still draw power in standby
  • Encourage staff to switch off personal desk fans, lamps, speakers and other small appliances when not in use
  • Smart power boards can help by shutting everything down when the main device (like a monitor) goes to sleep.