Television energy guide

Did you know?

Televisions typically account for 5–10% of your household electricity use. Modern televisions are designed to last approximately 60,000 hours, meaning that purchasing a new model commits you to energy costs over many years. Choosing energy-efficient models and using them wisely can save hundreds of dollars on your annual electricity bill and thousands over the lifetime of the television.

Choosing an Energy-Efficient Television

  • ENERGY STAR® certification: Televisions with the ENERGY STAR® label meet strict energy-saving standards. Some models exceed these requirements, offering even greater efficiency.

  • High-efficiency flat screens: Modern LED or OLED televisions consume significantly less energy than older CRT or plasma models, helping to reduce long-term electricity costs.

Reducing Energy Use of Your Current Television

If you plan to keep your existing television, consider these energy-saving steps:

  • Turn off when not in use: Switch off your television or use a power strip to cut all power and prevent “vampire” loads. Many devices still consume electricity when turned off.

  • Adjust settings: Reduce brightness and enable ‘eco’ or energy-saving mode if available.

  • Manage connected devices: Place cable boxes, DVD players, and other peripherals on a smart power strip that automatically turns them off when the television is switched off.

  • Use rechargeable batteries: Rechargeable batteries for remotes and other accessories are more cost-effective than disposable batteries.


Small steps today = big savings tomorrow