Purchasing guidelines for TVs
Today, the market is dominated by LCD and plasma flat screen models. One feature common to them all is the increase of power consumption, when switched on, in proportion to the screen size. The power consumption of most TVs takes place when they are switched on so it is important to go for TVs that are energy efficient in the ‘on’ mode.
Purchasing requirements for TVs
The requirements conform to Energy Star specifications for TVs (Version 3.0)
| Equipment type | Screen size Area A inches2 | Maksimum power consumption in on mode(1) watt A in inches2 | Passive standby (3) watt | Other requirements |
| Vertical resolution ≤ 480 pixels | All | 0,120xA + 25(2) | 1 | (4)(5) |
| Vertical resolution > 480 pixels | A < 680 | 0,200xA + 32(2) | 1 | (4)(5) |
| Vertical resolution > 480 pixels | 680 < A < 1045 | 0,240xA + 27(2) | 1 | (4)(5) |
| Vertical resolution > 480 pixels | A > 1045 | 0,156xA + 151(2) | 1 | (4)(5) |
The specifications apply to TVs connected to mains electricity, irrespective of type. The specifications vary depending on vertical resolution and screen size. Power consumption is the maximum permitted for energy efficient equipment. See notes and additional definitions below.
Good advice on purchasing and operating equipment
- Remember that large flat screen TVs use a considerable amount of power when they are switched on. Ask about power consumption when buying new equipment, and choose an appliance with low power consumption and standby consumption that does not exceed 1 watt.
- Choose a TV with a screen size that isn’t bigger than absolutely necessary.
- Ask whether standby is automatically activated after a period of inactivity, and how much time elapses before this happens.
- A TV’s power consumption depends on how bright the screen is. Ensure that the brightness is not greater than that recommended by the supplier. Try to reduce the brightness to a level at which the picture is still satisfactory.
- If the product has an external power supply fitted, the power supply must comply with the requirements for power supplies (Danish only).
- Switch off the TV when not using its main function. Use a TV AutoPowerOff plug bank that switches off connected devices the moment you switch off your TV. Read more about AutoPowerOff.
Notes and additional definitions
> ‘Energy Star® Programme Requirements for Televisions Eligibility Criteria (Version 3.0)’ describes full scope and definitions.
(1) TV is switched on and main functions are operational (i.e. displays picture).
(2) Screen size must be expressed in square inches. For 16:9 format TVs, A = 0.4273 x D² (where D is the diagonal in inches).
(3) Product is plugged in but does not operate main functions. Can be switched to another mode with remote controller and by a signal from an internal device (clock timer, etc.).
(4) If the product has an external power supply fitted, the power supply must comply with the specifications for power supplies.
(5) TVs delivered to consumers must be configured with the standby mode set to the lowest level of power consumption when the TV is on standby.
Page last updated 14.08.2009