Chargers are the most important item to remove from an outlet after use
DOLLAR BAY -- We've all heard about unplugging appliances and switching light bulbs to cut down on electricity, but do any of those tips really save you money?
Facebook follower Ginger Winn asked, "Do I have to unplug the TV and computer every time I'm done using them?”
Energy analyst David Camps says no for TVs and desktop computers, but laptops and any other items with chargers are important to remove from an outlet to not waste electricity. You can also save energy by plugging your equipment into a smart strip.
"They shut your systems down when they go into sleep mode,” says Camps. “They'll shut down all your peripherals, your monitors and printers, and that'll save you a lot of money."
The next time you buy a big appliance or need to switch a bulb, Camps says energy star products are the way to go. But you still don't want to leave things on that you aren't using.
UPPCO has a list of energy saving tips on its website, including the suggestion to use windows for ambient light or shades to retain heat on winter nights and to keep cool during summer days.
Another Facebook comment from Kimberly Jimenez said: "My daughter went to college and my bill went down 30 percent.”
Camps agrees that understanding your bill is a good place to start.
"Call your utility provider and they'll send you historical use data,” Camps says. “The average in the U.S. is 900-1000 kilowatts per month. We run 300 in the summer and 400 in the winter in this house and we're still trying to get it lower."
A lot of people also asked about power companies and increasing electricity costs.
Just a few weeks ago, UPPCO filed a request with the Michigan Public Service Commission to raise their base rates by 7.7 percent. That hike should take effect next January.
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