Ideal Bite

Can sleeping save you money?

08.27.2007

Submitted by tmeronek on Mon, 08/27/2007 - 12:01am.

The Bite:

When it comes to your computer, it can. Just change your PC's energy settings or install an energy-saving app so that it automatically sleeps when you're not using it, and remember to turn it off at night. Then count the cash you've saved while your computer counts sheep.

The Benefits:

Cleaner air through zzz... Desktop computers can cause 1,500 lb of CO2 per year; enabling sleep mode can reduce energy consumption by up to 70%.
Saving bucks. Save up to $75 per computer per year.
It's as simple as popping some Valerian. Changing your PC's settings or downloading a program that does it for you is easier than you think.

Personally Speaking:

All of us turn off our computers at night instead of just setting them to sleep. But during the day, we like the CO2 Saver 'cuz it keeps track of how much CO2 we've averted and gives us something new to brag about.

Wanna Try:

CO2 Saver - works with Windows XP or Vista.
Microsoft Windows Change Power Management Settings - how to change your settings manually in Vista. Windows XP users, click here.
Mac OS X Energy Use Calculator - calculate the amount of energy your Mac uses, then find out how to optimize your settings here.

Cocktail Fact

A UK man set the world record for sleep deprivation by staying awake for 11 days (after day five, he reportedly started seeing "giggling, dancing pixies and elves").