Any electricians on the forum?

[scfr]

I've heard that unplugging appliances when they are not in use can help you save on your electric bill.

My question is: Does unplugging and replugging eventually cause problems with your outlets that require hiring an electrician?

I would hate to try to save a few cents on my electric bill and end up having to pay hundreds for a repair.

I'm guessing that if you're going away for a couple weeks, go ahead and unplug everything. For things that you use every day (computer, TV, coffee pot) keep them plugged in. But what about things that you may use a couple times a week (toasters, etc)? Is it okay to unplug, or is it better to keep them plugged in?

Are there any electricians (or others knowledgeable about electrical systems) out there who can give me some expert advice? Thanks!

[Ima saver]

Plugging and unplugging over and over should not affect the electrical outlets.

[PRICEPLUS]

Ditto what Julie said. Changing an outlet is pretty easy. I have changed all of them in my house over the years. The originals were 50+ years old and were still seviceable but I felt it prudent to put new ones in after such a length of time.

[Ima saver]

I would do that too. I am not an electrician, but my dh does his own wiring in his spec houses. He has never been called back in the 20 years he has done the wiring.

[autoxer]

Unplugging & replugging will eventually wear out an outlet. It could loosen some of the wires if it wasn't installed properly, or it will become loose on the mounting, but these problems don't necessary require an electrician, if you can do some basic repair.

[budgetmom]

We just had to have maintenance come in and service the outlet in the bathroom. A wire had come loose on it, they fixed it in a jiff, once they figured out what the problem was. I would unplug. But that's just my opinion. I am by no means an expert in the field. I unplug all the small appliances in the house, except the microwave because it's kinda hard to get at.