At BN Design we are always looking for ways to help our customers cut costs– by saving on the electricity bill, our customers can help the planet too. In honor of Earth Day, here are a few tips to help you do both:

1. Don’t use a screen saver if you have an LCD monitor. Modern LCD monitors do not suffer from the limitations of older technologies used in the past and images will not be “burned” into the screen. Screen savers may look cool, but leaving those monitors on can really add up. When the work day’s over, simply turn off your monitor. This is the first tip we give companies, because it’s so simple and effective.

2. If you don’t have an LCD monitor and are still using a CRT, switch. LCD’s use about 60% less power anyway and you will be able to implement step 1.

3. Turn off all extra peripherals, (printers, fans, desk lamps, etc.) while your workstation is not in use. We suggest using one power strip (with surge protection) for everything on your desk, and after your computer is shut off for the day, simply flip the switch. This will really add up to great savings. If you have a server, simply turn off the monitor when it’s not needed.

4. When purchasing an appliance of any kind for the office, always look for The Energy Star logo. You may pay a little extra, but you’ll save in the long run.

5. Use as many CFL’s as possible. This is not a gimmick. You may be surprised by the price, but you really will see a difference in your bill.

Okay, try these first five tips and see how much you save. And if you have any tips for us, just send us an email.

Happy Earth Day!