Introduction: Why Energy Efficiency in Printers Matters
Operating a printer may seem a small expense compared with rent or salaries, but the electricity it consumes can add up significantly over time. For offices with multiple devices, even modest power savings can reduce annual costs and environmental impact. With energy prices remaining unpredictable and sustainability now a key focus for UK businesses, choosing an energy-efficient printer is both a financial and ethical decision.
This guide is designed for IT managers, facilities teams and business owners who want to understand which printers deliver strong performance while keeping energy use low. It explains what makes a printer energy efficient, why this matters, and which models are among the best currently available in the UK.
Understanding Energy Efficiency in Printers
Energy efficiency in printers is not only about how much power a device uses while printing. The true measure includes how much electricity is consumed when idle, how long it takes to warm up, and how effectively it manages sleep or standby modes. The most important metric is the Typical Energy Consumption, or TEC rating, which reflects the amount of energy used in a standard working week. The lower the TEC value, the more efficient the printer is likely to be.
A highly efficient printer will consume very little power in standby mode, recover quickly when needed, and have features such as automatic shut-off, scheduled sleep or instant-on technology. Some modern laser devices achieve efficiency by using low-temperature fusing systems, while others use ink-based or heat-free printing technologies that avoid the power-intensive heating process entirely. Devices that have been tested and certified under programmes such as ENERGY STAR are also a reliable indicator of efficiency.
Why Energy Efficiency Brings Real Savings
Printers spend most of their lives idle or on standby rather than actively printing. This means standby and recovery power use can dominate overall energy costs. An efficient model that draws only a few watts in sleep mode may save hundreds of kilowatt-hours per year compared with an older device. This translates directly to lower running costs and helps organisations meet sustainability goals.
Businesses that prioritise energy-efficient printing are also aligning with broader carbon reduction targets and environmental certifications. Improved energy management in office equipment can make a measurable contribution to reducing a company’s total carbon footprint.
The Five Most Energy Efficient Printers for UK Offices
Below are five printers available in the UK that combine solid performance with energy-saving design. These models have been chosen for their efficiency, practical features and suitability for small to medium-sized office environments.
Epson EcoTank ET-1810
This compact ink tank printer uses a heat-free printing process that significantly reduces power use compared with traditional laser printers. Its refillable ink tanks lower waste and cost per page while maintaining consistent output. Ideal for small businesses, it performs efficiently in both print and standby modes and is recognised for its low Typical Energy Consumption rating.
Xerox B225
The Xerox B225 is a compact monochrome multifunction printer that combines efficiency with business reliability. It includes duplex printing as standard and achieves fast start-up without consuming excessive energy. Xerox’s Smart Energy Management system ensures minimal power draw when idle. The B225’s efficient power control and reduced-waste design make it suitable for offices that prioritise environmental responsibility.
Brother HL-L2400DWE
This monochrome laser printer is designed for simple, efficient office printing. It operates quietly, with low idle power consumption, and automatically adjusts its energy use depending on print load. The HL-L2400DWE includes duplex printing as standard and qualifies for ENERGY STAR certification, indicating compliance with strict energy efficiency standards. For offices that mostly print documents rather than graphics, it offers both reliability and low energy cost.
HP LaserJet M110w
The HP LaserJet M110w is one of the smallest and most energy-efficient laser printers on the market. It has a compact design and quick wake-up time, using minimal electricity while on standby. The absence of power-hungry finishing options helps reduce energy draw further. HP’s Auto-On/Auto-Off technology automatically powers the printer down during inactivity, making it an efficient choice for small or home offices with intermittent print use.
Brother HL-L3220CW
The Brother HL-L3220CW is a colour LED printer that uses light-emitting diode technology instead of conventional laser imaging, resulting in fewer moving parts and lower heat generation. This leads to reduced power use and less wear over time. Its instant warm-up capability allows printing to start almost immediately, eliminating wasteful idle heating. The printer is also recognised for its low TEC rating, especially in mixed colour and mono print cycles.
Each of these models demonstrates that performance does not have to come at the expense of energy savings. The most suitable choice depends on your print volume, colour requirements and space availability.
Comparing Energy Use Across Models
When evaluating efficiency, it is important to compare actual energy consumption figures rather than manufacturer estimates alone. Look at the printer’s TEC rating, idle power use, and recovery time from sleep. If possible, request data from real-world testing or from independent reviewers. Office environments differ, and factors such as connectivity, humidity and print intensity can influence power use. In many cases, a smaller or less complex printer will prove more efficient than a feature-rich one if your needs are basic.
Avoiding Hidden Inefficiencies
Some printers advertise energy-efficient operation but consume more power because of poorly configured settings. For example, machines with large touchscreens or constant connectivity may remain semi-active when idle, quietly drawing power. Firmware updates can also change how energy management works, sometimes increasing consumption. For this reason, it is important to verify efficiency claims with up-to-date documentation or third-party measurements.
Printers that rely on high fuser temperatures, constant motor movement or large internal fans will always consume more energy than models designed around cooler operation and lighter electronics. The most efficient models achieve balance between functionality and simplicity.
The Wider Benefits of Choosing Efficient Devices
An energy-efficient printer benefits your organisation beyond electricity savings. It generates less heat and noise, contributing to a more comfortable workspace. Lower energy use also reduces strain on power circuits and minimises the risk of overload in offices with multiple devices. In addition, sustainability credentials can strengthen your business reputation, particularly in industries where environmental responsibility influences procurement decisions.
Modern energy-efficient printers also tend to integrate better with automation tools and remote management systems, allowing you to monitor and manage power settings from a central platform. This supports company-wide sustainability reporting and helps track progress against targets.
Conclusion
Energy efficiency in office printers is now an essential purchasing criterion rather than an optional extra. The Epson EcoTank ET-1810, Xerox B225, Brother HL-L2400DWE, HP LaserJet M110w and Brother HL-L3220CW demonstrate that efficient operation can coexist with excellent performance. When selecting a printer, focus on low standby consumption, quick recovery time and certified efficiency standards.
By prioritising these qualities, UK offices can cut operating costs, extend the life of their print hardware and take a meaningful step toward greener, more sustainable business practices.