Energy efficient use of audio systems and separates
You can minimise power consumption by switching off the audio system when not in use or by activating the standby function.
Advice on using audio systems
Audio systems can be found as integrated units in which the amplifier, CD and radio are combined in one unit, or as systems comprising separate components linked by cables. However, you should be aware of the 2 points below:
- Switch off the system when it is not in use – especially older types
Switching off a system when it is not in use avoids standby consumption. In particular, older audio systems can have standby consumption of up to 10-12 watts, which adds around 100 kWh per year (circa EUR 20) to the electricity bill. Generally speaking, new audio systems have lower standby consumption (about 1-2 watts), which means you save less by switching off the equipment. - Configure CD players to default to standby
Many CD players can be configured to use less power by defaulting to standby soon after the disk has finished playing. Configure your player to default to standby after a maximum of 30 minutes.
Power consumption of audio systems
An audio system typically uses between 40 kWh and 70 kWh per year.
Check power consumption before buying new equipment
Ask about the power consumption in the on and standby modes and choose a model with the lowest consumption. Standby consumption should not exceed 1 watt.
Meter your consumption with a SparOmeter
Borrow or buy a SparOmeter to keep track of the power used by your appliances. This accurate meter measures the power consumption in both the on and standby modes.
Page last updated 06.10.2008