Smart home devices & energy usage

by Pablo Torres 03/09/2025

Home electronics and energy usage featured image

Home electronics can make our personal lives simpler and more efficient. However, it’s essential to be mindful of their energy usage to have a better understanding of how they may affect energy consumption within the home. 


Thinking about power modes

Before purchasing smart home gadgets, consider the type of power modes they utilize to get an idea of the power usage you can expect from them. This way, you can find great systems, without hiking up your electricity bill. 

In general, electronics operate in 1 to 4 modes and can continue to draw power after being turned off. These modes include: 



  • Active: The system is in use. For example, a TV playing a movie.
  • Active standby: Electronic isn’t being used for primary function but is turned on and ready to go. For example, your cell phone charging. 
  • Passive standby: System appears to be turned off but can be turned on with a click of a button or remote. For example, a microwave. 
  • Off: The whole system is shut down without any sort of functionality. 

Cozy comforts for entertainment & relaxation

Home entertainment systems are great for enhancing fun at home and often consist of smart TVs for quick access to your favorite streaming services and speakers with quality audio. 

Depending on your system many home entertainment gadgets can sync up to your smart phone for remote control. Some of the latest gadgets include power saving modes that when enabled, consume less energy saving you money over the long run. 


Computers and home office equipment

If you would like to enhance your home office, the latest laptops and computers can be a great aid to your workload. However, it’s good to be mindful of the amount of energy they consume to have more control over your energy bill. 

For example, on average, desktop computers consume around 239 watts of power annually versus laptops, which consume about 75 watts of power per year. 

A new laptop or home entertainment system is always super exciting and can help with tasks around the house. However, before purchasing these systems paying attention to their energy usage can help in saving money on your energy bill.

About the Author
Author

Pablo Torres

Pablo Torres is a qualified Real Estate Agent with over 10 years experience in real estate sales, due diligence and contract negotiations. Knowledgeable of South Florida neighborhoods. Currently, Pablo focuses his skills on all markets in the Miami metropolitan area.

He has the ability to understand sellers, buyers and renters needs with excellent communication. Fluent in English and Spanish with working knowledge of Portuguese. Pablo has impeccable reputation and a passion for real estate.

He graduated with a degree in International Business from Florida International University (1998) and a masters in business administration from Nova Southeastern University (2003). He had embarked on a career in commercial banking before being driven to switch to one of his passions-real estate.

Dedication, perseverance and punctuality allowed Pablo to sell different types of properties. His expertise with South Florida's cultural diversity has allowed him to sell real estate to both buyers and sellers.

Part of what makes Pablo so successful is his dedication to exceptional customer service and his devotion to their needs, whether they are buying or selling properties. Pablo has many repeat customers who cite his willingness to work long hours to resolve the toughest issues, as a reason why they stick with him. Torres integrity, attention to detail and careful handling of a transaction, exceeds their expectations. Sellers know that Pablo's extensive and personalized marketing strategies, means that their listing is seen by most buyers.

As a real estate professional, Pablo has the tools to represent your interests in virtually any transaction. Pablo's ability to interview, reason and figure out the smallest details makes every successful transaction a seamless process. Pablo is the right real estate professional to hire.