Use digital decoders energy efficiently
If you have a decoder with a high standby consumption, you can save EUR 20-30 per year by switching it off when not in use.
Follow the Trust’s advice about using decoders
Follow the advice below to make the most energy efficient use of a digital decoder.
- Switch off when not watching TV
Switch off the digital decoder at the wall plug when not watching TV. This is the only way to reduce the decoder’s standby consumption. If the decoder has a high standby consumption this can save up to EUR 30 a year.
After it has been turned off at mains plug, it usually takes five to ten seconds after switching on for the box to locate the signal and update the electronic programme guide.
- Use the power saving function
If the digital decoder has a power saving function, limit standby consumption by activating it.
- Use an AutoPowerOff plug bank
A TV AutoPowerOff plug bank automatically switches off the decoder the moment the TV is turned off. This saves having to switch it off manually.
Apart from the decoder an AutoPowerOff also switches off other equipment automatically such as a VCR, DVD and surround sound system when the TV is turned off.
- Meter consumption with a SparOmeter
If you want to keep track of the power used by a digital decoder then borrow or buy a SparOmeter. This accurate meter measures the power consumption in both the on and standby modes.
Page last updated 15.08.2009