Control Your TV’s Energy Usage
February 3, 2025
After a long day at work, there’s nothing like settling down to watch your favorite show or movie on TV. However, as much as we enjoy watching TV, we must remember that TVs consume energy. As a Union Power member, here are a few tips to help minimize your energy use:
- Turn off all TVs when nobody is watching. This simple tip can help reduce energy usage.
- Look at the energy efficiency rating. Most modern TVs meet the energy conservation standards of allowing the device to go to sleep, idle, or turn on energy savings. If you are unsure if your TV meets the energy conservation standards, check out the ENERGY STAR® website at energy.gov.
- Be mindful of your TV’s settings, especially when changing the brightness. Lower the brightness and backlight levels on your TV. Most TVs have a “standard” or “energy-saving” mode that optimizes power consumption. Some TVs have a self-acting mechanism that automatically controls the TV’s brightness depending on the room’s brightness. This is especially helpful when watching your favorite TV show or movie at night.
- Unplug or use a power strip. Even when the TV is turned off, it consumes minimal energy. To reduce waste, plug your TV and accessories into a smart power strip that automatically cuts power off to unused devices. This simple action not only conserves energy but also extends the lifespan of your electronics.
- Choosing the right size is important. Larger TVs typically consume more energy, so select a size that fits your room appropriately.
So, the next time you turn on your TV, remember these energy efficiency tips to help manage energy consumption. For more helpful energy-saving advice, visit the Department of Energy’s appliance calculator at energy.gov. For further assistance, contact one of our energy specialists at 704-289-3145.