Electricity isn't getting any cheaper. If your business uses a lot of computers, they are probably pushing up your electricity bill and cutting into your profits. However, there are a number of steps that you can take to reduce the amount of electricity the computers use and your energy bills. Below are some top tips.

Use suitable computing power

While no one wants to use a computer which still uses the Windows 95 operating system, it is important that the computers in your office are as powerful as you need them to be and not much more. It might be tempting to invest in a high-powered state-of-the-art computer with a super fast processor, bags of RAM and a massive hard drive. However, if your team are only using the computer to type documents and send emails, it is unlikely they will ever use any of this additional power. However, high powered systems tend to use more electricity when compared to simpler setups, which will push up your energy bills.

Change the idle settings

Computer operating systems come with idle settings, which means they will turn off the screen and enter power saving mode if no commands are input within certain time period. This period is normally several minutes, however, you can change these settings so that the computers begin to idle after just a matter of seconds. By spending a few minutes doing this, you could potentially make big savings on your energy bills for many years to come.

Use flat panel monitors

If you are still using old CRT monitors in your workplace, you should consider upgrading them to modern flat panel monitors. While this will require an upfront investment, over time you should recoup the cost and more via the increased energy efficiency of the flat panel monitors.

Have the wiring inspected by a professional

Problems with the wiring within your business can result in excess electricity use and high energy bills. If you have taken the above steps and you see no change in your power consumption you should contact a professional electrician. They will be able to carry out a full inspection of the electrical systems and wiring within your office, locating and repairing any electrical problems which are affecting your energy bills. The electrical contractor will also be able to offer you further advice about the best way you can save money on your electricity bill.