Engineering study says electricity-saving devices don't really work
LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — As cooler temperatures settle in, many Arkansans are turning up the heat-which means those electricity bills will soon start to increase.
If you’re looking for ways to save money, one local electricity company is warning consumers not to fall for gimmicks. According to an engineering study conducted by Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, devices advertised as electricity-saving boxes are a waste of money.
These devices are sold by various brands online and sometimes in store. While the claim is that all you have to do is plug it in to save money on your monthly bill – it was unfounded.
“We’re drawing almost 8.4 amps with the device plugged in, and when we unplug it – the current is unchanged,” said engineer James King. “It said it would save on electricity, it does not lower the consumer's load so the meter at the house would still meter the same amount of electricity."
Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas spokesperson Rob Roedel warns customers not to fall for something that sounds too good to be true.
“We had some electrical engineers study the device, they plugged it in, watched the usage, and determined that it was really insignificant – didn’t save any electricity at all,” added Roedel.
Roedel said homeowners looking to save money should weatherize their homes.
“Weatherstripping, caulk, LED bulbs...those are ways you save money on your electric bill. You don’t save with a device that you plug in that’s basically a nightlight that you paid $50-60 for,” said Roedel.
Another tip includes maintaining a temperature in the home. Roedel said lowering the heat while you’re gone and cranking it back up when you return just means your heater is working overtime, defeating the purpose of saving money.
If you’re having energy saving issues, you’re advised to contact your local electricity company. Sometimes they can send a crew to help identify issues and help save you money.
