ChrisCoaster wrote:

I believe that my re-wiring had an effect on the CONSUMPTION data on
my electric bills for May - November of 2006 vs. the same period of
2005. That is, the avg. daily kWh used. The actual bill was not much
different - only a buck or 2 less than 2005, because the local utility
had increased rates by 25% last April. Needless to say, the avg. kWH
used was down significantly compared for each of the same months in
2005.

My theory - which got me banned from the doityourself.com forums - is
that I improved the electrical conductivity of this circuit enough
that items running off it actually ran more efficiently. I also
believe that my electronics both look and sound better after
converting most of this branch from back-stab to side wire or back
wire.

Did I increase the contact area on those receptacles that much to make
a difference?

Your theory has a name: it's called "The Placebo Effect."

If YOU think your record player sounds better, the lights are a little
brighter, and your bill is a little less, then you have discovered something
that, for you, works and works well.

Theory be damned: you have empirical proof of the rightness of your efforts.
Do not be discouraged by non-believers. All religions start out that way.