If you’re looking for a “greener” TV, here are several of the factors you may want to consider in addition to performance and cost before buying a new one.
COMPATIBILITY
Consider compatibility. Doing so will help extend the life of the TV and avoid premature disposal. To make it compatible with the latest broadband standards and set-top boxes, look for a TV that has a digital (ATSC) tuner and HDMI input.
RELIABILITY
Consider the manufacturer's (and technology's) reliability record. Every year, Consumer Reports surveys hundreds of thousands of consumers to find out which TV brands and types have been most trouble-free, and which ones have been more repair-prone. For the results, read our TV brand repair history report.
ENERGY
Consider energy efficiency. In general, the larger the screen size, the more power a TV consumes when it’s turned on in active mode. The type of TV can also make a difference: LCD televisions and monitors draw less power than CRT or plasma screens, assuming the same screen size.
Energy Star-qualified TVs are required to be 30 percent more efficient than non-qualified models. As of November 2008, the specification requires energy efficiency when televisions are on, as well as off or in “standby” mode.
TOXICS
Consider whether the manufacturer has reduced or eliminated toxics. Some televisions manufacturers are developing new product designs that reduce the use of toxics, partly in response to the European Union's Restriction of the use of Certain Hazardous Substances (RoHS) law. California has passed a similar, but less rigorous law that will become effective in January 2007 that bans the sale of electronics including televisions, computers, and computer monitors that contain certain heavy metals, including lead, mercury, cadmium and hexavalent chromium. For more information on California's law, check the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. The state also passed a ban to take effect in 2008 on the use of some brominated flame retardants after the chemicals were found in fish from the San Francisco Bay.
RECYCLING
Consider whether a manufacturer supports recycling. To find out which companies have recycling programs and how they work, check our Market watch section. In states that have passed "Extended Producer Responsibility" (EPR) or "take-back" laws, such as Washington, all electronics manufacturers must provide systems to collect and recycle products, which include TVs, computers, laptop computers, and all types of computers monitors. Consumers Union, the parent organization of Consumer Reports, supports the concept of EPR.
RELATED LINKS
Consumer Reports TVs Decision Guide. Visit the complete guide (some content is available to subscribers only).
My green electronics. The Electronics Industry Alliance has developed criteria for “greener” electronics and offers an online searchable database that allows consumers to search by product at MyGreenElectronics.
|
