Letters to the Consumer Advisor
Answers to TURN member's questions about their phone, gas and electric bills and companies. Have a question? Ask the consumer advisor at consumerhotline@turn.org or call (800) 355-8876.
Back-Billing by PG&E - There are Limits!
Slammed by an unexpected huge electric bill? It could be a billing error.
Find and Destroy Energy Vampires in Your Home
One of the best ways to reduce electricity bills and usage is to find and destroy vampires in the home. These vampires are appliances and equipment that suck up power even when they are turned off, such as lamps, TV’s, toasters and stereos.
The Telephone Repairperson No-Show
Is there a rule or a law that requires electric utilities and local phone companies to show up for repairs when they say they will?
How to Reach an Actual Human at Your Utility Company
Dear Consumer Advisor,
I get so frustrated every time I have to call my utility company! The phone menu rarely offers what I want and never seems to lead to a real live human being. Is there any way to avoid the endless phone menu and connect with someone who can actually help me?
Sincerely,
Wanna Person
"Baseline quantities": everything you need to know
Confused by the "baseline quantities" line item on your energy bill? Let the Consumer Advisor explain....
Energy-efficiency programs for California customers
Full list of energy-efficiency programs and rebates
Is Bundled Service Right For Me?
Dear Consumer Advisor,
What is bundled service, and why is AT&T constantly sending me glossy advertisements for it? ? Do I have to buy a package of services from them, and will it be cheaper if I do?
Signed,
Happily Unbundled
Cell phone customers: Don't let data charges drain your wallet.
Dear Consumer Advisor,
I recently used my cell phone to access the Internet, and the resulting bill was much, much higher than what I expected. Can you explain some of the charges that appeared on my bill, and tell me how to avoid them?
When You’re Done, You’re Done — Resist Early Termination Fees!
TURN's consumer advisor helps a TURN member avoid early cancellation fees from her wireless provider











