1. Configure your PC to go to stand by mode when not in use
Most personal computers use up a whole bunch of unnecessary electricity when they are not being used. Most PC users do not realize that because their systems are not set to go to low power mode when not in use, they are spending a huge amount of their power bill on running an inactive PC. It takes only a few short minutes to configure your personal computer to save power when you are away from your desk.

2. Energy Efficient Computers
Home office appliances are increasingly built to be as energy efficient as possible. The US Department of Energy recommends several brands that are particularly efficient brand of machines. Since equipment such as printers and copiers are rarely turned off in a day, it is important for the machines to be of the highest level of energy efficiency. A home office need not be a drag on a residential energy bill each month if the proper appliances are used and maintained

3. Unplug AC adapters
Many modern electronic appliances, particularly laptop computers, cell phones, portable music storage devices such as I-Pods, and blackberries have AC adapters to recharge or just run not on the battery. However, it is important to keep in mind that AC adapters still draw electricity even when they are not plugged into the appliance they supply with power. Plugging an AC adapter to a power bar can prevent the adapter from drawing power when the appliance is not in use or even plugged in to the adapter..

4. Laptops
Laptop computers use considerably less energy than desktop computers. Desktops also require several independent accessories that also use disproportionate amount of power when compared to their less demanding compact laptop counterparts. Anyone planning to upgrade their computer, who currently use a PC, should seriously consider the energy savings provided by the far more compact and portable Laptop option.

5. Use Power Bars
Computers and appliances still draw small quantities of electricity when they are switched off. This can be avoided by using a power bar which effectively unplugs the appliance from the wall outlet. The same effect can be achieved by simply unplugging your computer when it isn’t in use. Your computer, or any appliance that draws power when it is shut off is called a “phantom load” and does not indicate a faulty appliance. The power draw is very low, but over a long enough time, the power savings from unplugging or installing a power bar can be significant.

6. Rechargeable Batteries
Many computers and home electronics have remotes or are perhaps themselves portable devices which rely on batteries for their power source. Rechargeable batteries are considerably more efficient than single use throw away batteries. While most portable appliances including laptops feature built in rechargeable batteries with their own customized re-charger plug in, those that do not should use re-chargeable batteries to save power.

7. Drop the Screen Brightness
This one is pretty self explanatory, really. Think of your monitor as a variable brightness light bulb. It will save your eyes and your power bill to dim it to a level that is not lighting up the room.

8. Switch off your Modem
Many modems and routers use a huge amount of power all night and day just to sit on the floor doing nothing at all. While the power draw is very small and insignificant, since most modems are never switched off in there use life, the total draw can have major implications on a power bill. To switch of the modem or router, just push the on/off toggle, if it has one, or else just unplug it. Also, you can turn off your power bar, and make sure none of your accessories draw power.

9. Set your PC power management
Most operating systems, including Windows Vista, have several power settings. Think of these like fuels at the pump. The highest power management setting is like supreme gasoline, and is best for when you expect to be doing some complicated and taxing tasks with your system. On the other hand, power saver setting is like regular gas, for just getting around and doing everyday things like checking email. Keep you PC set on power saving mode when you are not running any applications that require a lot of computing space.

10. Turn off Your PC
Everyday, thousands of computers are left on for large portions of time and they are not used or even looked at. While stand by mode is a good power saving tool, switching off a PC regularly, contrary to common belief, is not harmful to the system. The best way to say power in your home with your computer is to turn it off.

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