If you are planning to purchase a new television, don’t forget to look for the Power Smart messaging in store, just like the one you see on the left.
BC Hydro has partnered with electronic retailers to promote the most energy efficient televisions. TVs identified with Power Smart messaging are ENERGY STAR qualified models that use at least 35 per cent less energy than their counterparts. Engineered to be the best of ENERGY STAR, TVs labelled with Power Smart messaging give you the same features as a standard model, but more benefits.
Purchasing a new TV? Consider these tips before you buy
1. Size matters
Only choose the TV size as large as needed. Try this formula to determine the right TV size:
Right TV size = distance between the screen front and the couch ÷ 2.5
For example, if you sit approximately 8.75 feet (105 inches) from your TV, choose a 42-inch HDTV to get the most out of your viewing experience.
2. Account for room and TV lighting
Addressing the lighting in the room in question will help you determine which TV to buy. For example, if the TV is for a bright room, a LCD television with its anti-glare technology may be a better option than a plasma. Also, once you've brought your TV home, adjust the TV's settings. Calibrating your TV settings under the type of lighting conditions that will be present during normal viewing will improve overall viewing quality and comfort, and can help preserve the life of the screen. Also, reducing the level of backlight your TV uses can reduce energy consumption.
3. Invest in energy efficiency
Some energy efficient TVs may have a higher upfront cost, but the energy you save over the long term can actually save you money. Plus, manufacturers are coming up with new and improved technology that incorporates green design features, including better longevity and durability. Investing in a more efficient TV now will therefore be worth it in the long run.
4. Consider the features you need
Before you purchase a new TV, consider the features you're interested in. TV features such as NetFlix, YouTube, and Internet access all consume power and are not part of the energy rating tests, which may actually result in a TV that is less efficient than a model that is identified with our Power Smart the most energy efficient messaging.
5. Calibrate your TV
Remember to calibrate your new TV. Every ENERGY STAR TV has a forced menu to prompt the user to choose 'home' or 'retail' mode. 'Home' mode is designed to maximize your enjoyment of your TV at home and will also reduce energy consumption compared to 'retail' mode. Some TVs also have a 'power-saver' mode. Enable this for even more energy savings.
Each year, if every TV sold in British Columbia was the most energy efficient ENERGY STAR television, we could save enough energy to power over 2,000 homes in B.C. for one full year!
Energy-efficient TVs save energy, money
