Step 1:
Turn your computer off completely when you know you will not be using it for more than several hours, such as overnight.

Step 2:
You can still save energy when your computer is not shut down completely by setting the power management functions on your computer to put both your monitor and computer (CPU, hard drive, etc.) into “sleep” mode after a certain amount of time of non-use, which saves energy when you are not actively using your computer. Set your monitor to go into standby mode first, followed by your computer.

Step 3:
Increase your memory (RAM) to reduce disk usage, which can be a power draw.

Step 4:
If you have a desktop computer, upgrade to an LCD flat panel monitor instead of a CRT monitor, which can account for half the energy use of a desktop computer. According to the EPA, the use of an ENERGY STAR qualified monitor can save up to 85% of the electricity used by a standard model.

Step 5:
Did you know that the power supplies for your peripherals (such as your mobile phone or iPod) still draw power even if the peripheral is not plugged in? If you plug all your electronics into one surge protector, you can easily switch them all off when you leave the room or go to sleep.

Step 6:
Shut off that printer. Printers also have a sleep mode that still consumes a significant amount of power.

Step 7:
Replace wireless mice and keyboards with wired mice. Wired mice and wired keyboards use relatively little energy and they avoid unnecessary wasting of batteries.