Rick's Daily Tips

Q&A: Do surge suppressors actually work?

Posted on February 13, 2025

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Question from Ana: I bought a new iMac from Best Buy a couple of years ago.

I also bought a surge suppressor to go with it because the salesman said it would prevent the computer from being damaged by lightning.

We had a thunderstorm last night and our power went off. It came back on a couple of hours later but now my TV, dishwasher and iMac are all dead. None of them will do anything when I turn them on.

My question is, do surge suppressors really work?

[Read more…]

Q&A: Is it ok to use Gmail for my business email?

Posted on February 12, 2025

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Question from Gabe: I recently retired after a long career in public service and I’m planning to start a second career as a professional photographer.

I’ve already lined up a few shoots through word-of-mouth but I’m planning to put up a business page on Facebook and have some business cards printed to promote my photography services.

The question I have is do I need a private email address (something like [email protected] where example.com is my own domain name) or will a Gmail address suffice?

[Read more…]

Q&A: How do I set Google Play to only auto-update apps over Wi-Fi?

Posted on February 12, 2025

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Question from Kara: I have an Android phone that loves to auto-update my apps over my cellular data connection without any warning.

The problem is I sometimes use up my data allotment before the month runs out.

I realize that downloading app updates doesn’t use up a lot of data, but they do use some, right?

How can I set my phone to only auto-update my apps when I’m connected to Wi-Fi? [Read more…]

Opinion: Walmart is now sending customers to Amazon for tech purchases

Posted on February 12, 2025

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Have you tried buying an external hard drive, a wireless mouse or most anything smaller than a TV from your local Walmart’s Electronics department lately?

If so, you probably had to track down an employee and ask them to open a locked case and hand the item to you.

Like some other major chain retailers, Walmart has made the decision to place virtually everything worth buying inside a locked cabinet, practically eliminating any opportunity to comparison shop. [Read more…]

Easy ways to stay on top of your financial goals

Posted on February 12, 2025

Ever feel like your money has a mind of its own? You set a goal, make a plan, and yet somehow, your bank account tells a different story. Bills pop up, impulse purchases happen, and saving for the future gets pushed aside.

Staying on track financially isn’t just about good intentions—it’s about having a strategy that works even when life throws surprises your way.

Money management has become more important than ever. With rising inflation, unpredictable markets, and an economy that keeps everyone guessing, financial stability isn’t a given. It’s something people must actively build. The good news? Staying on top of your financial goals doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, smart habits can make a big difference.

In this post, we will share simple yet effective ways to stay in control of your money and reach your financial goals. [Read more…]