With more people working remotely than ever before, home energy consumption has naturally increased. Computers, lighting, heating, cooling, and electronic devices all contribute to higher utility bills when you’re home all day. The good news? With a few simple changes and smart habits, you can significantly reduce your energy usage—while still staying productive and comfortable.
This guide offers practical, effective ways to save energy while working from home.
1. Optimize Your Workspace for Natural Light
Lighting plays a crucial role in both energy use and productivity.
Tips:
- Position your desk near a window to maximize sunlight.
- Open blinds or curtains during the day to minimize artificial lighting.
- If you need extra light, use an LED desk lamp, which consumes far less energy.
Natural lighting not only reduces electricity usage but also boosts mood and focus.
2. Choose Energy-Efficient Electronics
Computers and office equipment run for hours, so efficiency matters.
What you can do:
- Opt for laptops instead of desktops—they use up to 80% less energy.
- Choose ENERGY STAR–rated monitors, printers, and accessories.
- Lower your screen brightness to save power.
Turn off devices you’re not using, such as spare monitors or external speakers.
3. Use Power Strips to Reduce Vampire Energy
Many electronics draw power even when turned off.
Solution:
Use a smart or regular power strip to easily cut power to:
- Laptop chargers
- Printers
- Routers and modems (if safe to power down after work)
- Desk lamps
- Speakers
Before ending your workday, flip the power strip switch to eliminate standby energy waste.
4. Manage Heating and Cooling Wisely
HVAC systems account for the largest portion of home energy consumption.
Energy-saving strategies:
- Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in winter or higher in summer.
- Use a space heater or fan only in your work area instead of conditioning the entire home.
- Close vents and doors to unused rooms.
- Use ceiling fans to improve airflow—counterclockwise in summer, clockwise in winter.
- Dress appropriately for the season to reduce the need for temperature adjustments.
Even minor thermostat tweaks can reduce energy use by 5–10%.
5. Take Advantage of Off-Peak Hours
Many utility providers offer lower rates during off-peak times.
Try to:
- Charge your devices early morning or late evening.
- Run the dishwasher or laundry before or after work hours.
- Schedule major downloads or updates during lower-rate periods.
This strategy lowers energy costs, even if total usage stays the same.
6. Set a Schedule for Devices and Lighting
Creating consistency helps reduce waste.
Ideas:
- Put lights on timers or use smart bulbs.
- Set your computer to sleep automatically after periods of inactivity.
- Use productivity breaks to unplug devices temporarily.
Automation helps ensure nothing stays on by accident.
7. Maintain Your Home Office Equipment
Well-maintained devices use less energy.
Recommended maintenance:
- Clean dust from vents on laptops, desktops, and monitors.
- Update software to keep systems efficient.
- Replace old or noisy equipment with newer, energy-efficient models.
Clean electronics run cooler and use less power.
8. Use Energy-Efficient Communication Tools
Remote work often means video calls, but they consume more power than audio-only calls.
Tips:
- Switch to audio whenever possible.
- Turn off HD video to reduce processing power.
- Close unused browser tabs and background programs to lighten your computer’s workload.
9. Create a Workspace That Doesn’t Waste Energy
Your environment affects how much energy you use to stay comfortable.
Small changes that add up:
- Use area rugs to reduce heat loss on hard floors.
- Weatherstrip the window nearest your desk.
- Add a curtain or shade to reduce heat gain during summer.
- Use a comfy chair and proper posture so you don’t rely on space heaters for comfort.
10. Take Breaks Away From Electronic Devices
Not only is it healthy—it saves energy.
Try:
- Stepping outside instead of scrolling on your phone.
- Going for a quick walk instead of watching videos during breaks.
- Stretching or doing light exercise in a non-powered space.
Every device you turn off, even temporarily, contributes to energy savings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do laptops really save more energy than desktops?
Yes. Laptops are far more energy-efficient because they are designed to run on battery power.
2. Should I turn off my Wi-Fi router while working from home?
Not during work, but switching it off overnight can save energy and prolong device life.
3. Are smart plugs worth buying for a home office?
Absolutely. They help control energy-hungry devices and eliminate vampire power.
4. What’s the most effective way to reduce heating costs in a home office?
Heat only the room you’re using and keep doors closed to contain warmth.
5. Do LED bulbs make a noticeable difference?
Yes. They use up to 80% less energy and last significantly longer than incandescent bulbs.
6. How can I reduce energy use from video calls?
Turn off HD video or switch to audio-only whenever possible.