Energy Insights: How to Conserve Energy While Working from Home

As we transition into a new normal, odds are that you’re spending more time at home than ever before, and chances are someone in your household is working from home. While this can save time and fuel by reducing your commute, it may increase your home energy usage. Improving the energy-efficiency of your home office with these 4 tips can help you save on your monthly energy bill without hampering your productivity. 

Controlling the Thermostat

Working from home does give you the added benefit of controlling the thermostat. Meaning you don’t have to be the frozen teammate when the office cranks up the a/c this summer! But you shouldn’t try to touch the thermostat too often. The perfect temperature varies by location, but 78 degrees is a good target in warmer weather. Ceiling fans can help lower that temperature further – by about 4 degrees. Just make sure to turn the fan off when you leave the room or you’ll be defeating the purpose (Remember, fans cool people, not rooms).

Think about Lighting

Take advantage of natural light during the day at home instead of relying on overhead lights.  When you do need to rely on lights, set up task lighting, such as a desk lamp or reading lamp rather than an overhead ceiling light for the room. 

Set your computer for energy savings 

Most computers have built-in settings for saving energy. They can automatically lower power consumption if you stop using it temporarily. Checking your “sleep” settings can help save on your energy usage.

Use an advanced power strip 

When working at home you may be using more than just a computer, but also a printer/copier, scanner, phone or charger, and other electronics. It’s more important than ever to use advanced power strips to ensure these devices aren't drawing power when they're not in use.