
There is a misconception that the small surge of energy when turning on a computer uses more energy than leaving it on. It is also untrue that turning a computer on and off is harmful to the computer. Turning your computer off for the hours that it is not in use is the best way to reduce its energy consumption. Electronic devices, including your computer and monitor, draw some power even while turned off. Plugging these devices into a power strip and turning it off when you're not using them will save you even more. Allowing your computer to go into sleep mode when you are away from your desk is the helps reduce energy use during the day.
Photo by Susan O'Donnell