Smart Meter Dangers–Are They Safe or Not?
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Are you wondering if smart meters are safe? Trying to sort through the claims about smart meter dangers? Here is information you should know about the potential risks involved with these meters and how they might affect your health and privacy.
We've had to go against the norm many times in our quest for better health. I've gone sugar free, gluten free, stopped eating foods my breastfeeding son was allergic to, and have tried all kinds of natural treatments in order to avoid antibiotics and other meds when dealing with conditions such as sinus issues and earaches.
Now I'm not getting a smart meter.
Why not?
If it's “smart”, it must be a good thing, right?
Well, when I was younger, I was called smart in school. Most of the time it was a compliment. Well, sometimes it wasn't but my mom told me those kids were jealous. It didn't feel like it but in hindsight I think she was right.
Anyways, in most cases you'd like to be the smart kid in class.
And when people say “you look smart” they mean you look nice.
(I guess folks say “sweet” and such these days…..but that's beside the point.)
So how about a Smart Meter? Are smart meters safe?
Must be a good thing.
Think again.
There are a lot of smart meter dangers that you need to know about.
I got a notice in my mailbox about 3 weeks ago stating:
YOUR UPGRADED METER IS COMING.
ENERGY THAT WORKS SMARTER FOR YOU.
THAT'S OUR PROMISE TO MICHIGAN.
and another letter than said something like (this one I must have thrown out):
Congratulations! Smart Meters will be coming to your neighborhood in the near future.
I guess that's supposed to make me feel good about this Smart Meter coming to my house.
But I am not.
I'd heard about smart meters, but I didn't know much about them so I started to poke around.
It's not typical for me to be excited about some technology thingamabob being added to my home without my knowing anything about it.
I didn't like what I found.
Now let me tell you the truth. (Not that I typically–or ever–lie to you all or anything.)
I read A LOT. And I talked to a bunch of folks on the phone.
And I spent a lot of time emailing experts about smart meter dangers and EMFs (one who wrote a post that I will share here soon).
I read articles on both sides of the topic and I even called my electric company several times.
Today's post is the result of my having digested all of these conversations and emails.
And I've come to the conclusion that–
I DON'T WANT A SMART METER ON MY HOME.
And neither should you.
First of all, let's talk about what a Smart Meter (NOT a good name for this thing, by the way) is:
What is a Smart Meter?
A Smart Meter (also called AMI or AMR) is a type of meter designed to eliminate meter readers (can you say “more unemployment”?). It's a fairly expensive piece of wireless machinery that send information about your energy use (how much you are using at different times of the day) to your utility company.
They relay data about your energy.
Proponents of these meters say that they will be used to show consumers how much energy they use at certain times of day and that they will help them budget their energy use (and therefore money) better.
Opponents say there are many risks involved.
After doing literally tens of hours of research, I've come to the conclusion that:
I DO NOT WANT A SMART METER ON MY HOME!!
Here's why.
7 Smart Meter Dangers
1. Health
There are sooo many health problems with these smart meters.
Basically we're talking about the same effects of EMFs (electromagnetic fields).
Now we all know that EMFs have been in the news a lot and that there is a lot of evidence mounting about the health risks of such radiation from microwaves, cell phones, WIFI, and the like.
In case you haven't seen some of this, or aren't convinced of it, following are some health conditions that are reported to be as a result of EMF exposure (Source)
- Insomnia
- Heart palpitations and blood pressure increases
- Ringing in the ears
- Concentration, memory or learning problems
- Dangerous increases in blood-sugar levels
- Strange sensations in the body—including buzzing, shooting pains
- Anxiety and/or an anxious feeling in the body that is inexplicable
- Fatigue
- Flu-like symptoms
Scientists have shown that the electromagnetic frequencies emitted by smart meters and digital meters:
- disrupt the blood-brain barrier, contributing to diseases like dementia and Parkinson’s
- disrupt nerve transmission, causing attention-related problems, insomnia, heart palpitations, and muscle pain
- disrupt cell reproduction and damage DNA, causing cancer and rapid aging
- disrupt the redox balance through oxidant/nitrosative stress
And here's a biggie.
CANCER.
The World Health Organization (WHO) as classified the radiation that comes from Smart Meters as a potential carcinogen, in the same class as DDT and lead. (Source) Now, I am not always in agreement with the WHO, but in this case I am listening.
And besides, even if you think that the FCC has protected you enough with their limits on human exposure to microwave radiation, Smart Meters have been known to exceed the FCC limits.
There's been a lot of debate out there about whether or not this type of radiation (RF, or radio frequency waves) causes cancer or not, but some of the studies coming out are quite compelling. This recent one from Sweden being one of them.
I think of it like this. Years ago:
– we were told that cigarettes were healthy (they were even promoted as a way to have a lower weight baby). We know better now.
– we were told that fluoride should be in our drinking water. That is being called into question.
– we were told that RoundUp would evaporate and not cause harm. We know better now.
It seems that these EMFs are a big deal and we are just starting to see the damage.
If you REALLY want to read some downright frightening and well-done research about EMF radiation and health problems, the BioInitiative Report will keep you busy for awhile.
For me, this is all a HUGE deal, considering that the Smart Meter would be right by my sons' bedroom.
Nice, huh?
2. Privacy
The data collected from Smart Meters is detailed.
And it's worth money.
Think about it.
Data is ALWAYS worth money. Companies pay BIG money for information on your buying habits, for your email address, and more.
Technically, according to one of the Smart Meter experts I talked with, Smart Meters could track what TV shows you watch, and potentially what food you eat, if your refrigerator is equipped with “Smart” technology. The fridge could scan your Ben and Jerry's and potentially report this to healthcare corporations. Perhaps it's a good idea to start making your own Homemade Ice Cream!
YIKES!
These are the potential privacy concerns regarding Smart Meters (Source):
Identity Theft
Determine Personal Behavior Patterns
Determine Specific Appliances Used
Perform Real-Time Surveillance
Reveal Activities Through Residual Data
Targeted Home Invasions (latch key children, elderly, etc.)
Provide Accidental Invasions
Activity Censorship
Decisions and Actions Based Upon Inaccurate Data
Profiling
Unwanted Publicity and Embarrassment
Tracking Behavior Of Renters/Leasers
Behavior Tracking (possible combination with Personal Behavior Patterns)
Public Aggregated Searches Revealing Individual Behavior
In California, the sharing of this type of data is already going on.
transparency reports filed by the California utilities companies and obtained by the ACLU of California show that a significant amount of data about the energy use of Californians is also ending up in the hands of third parties. In 2012, a single California utility company, San Diego Gas & Electric, disclosed the smart meter energy records of over 4,000 of its customers.
Interestingly enough, there is a BIG movement in California against Smart Meters, while Marin County has criminalized the installation of Smart Meters.
Perhaps this is a smart response?
Yes, modern conveniences can help with some things, but are we trading our freedom for convenience?
We really need to count the cost.
3. Fire Risk
There have been hundreds of fires caused by Smart Meters.
You can see some of the horrible photos and information about smart meter fires here, here, and here.
I have not been able to find a source of analog meters causing fires. Additionally, here is a quote from Mindy Spatt of TURN (The Utility Reform Network) regarding analog fires:
Comparing analog to the new meters, she added, “In the collective memory of TURN, we have not seen similar incidents with analog meters.”
In fact, if you do an internet search of “fires caused by analog meters,” all that shows up is report after report of Smart Meter fires.
Moreover, here's something you might be surprised to hear: Most (if not all) Smart Meters are NOT UL Certified.
Now, how smart is that?
Which begs the question – if your house causes fire due to one of these meters, will your homeowners insurance pay for it since the device is not UL certified? I called my homeowners' insurance company to find out.
They told me that in my case, my insurance would NOT be cancelled, but that if a fire were to be caused by the meter, they would go after the utility company for reimbursement.
They did advise, however, that every insurance company is different, so you should check with your homeowners' carrier to find out their stance on this issue.
4. Lack of Energy Savings
These Smart Meters are supposed to save us money.
Well, none of this savings has been proven, and in fact, there are some pretty important people saying that they think the savings simply aren't going to happen. (Source)
– “It costs too much, and we're not sure what good it will do.” – John Rowe, CEO of Illinois utility ComEd.
– “[Smart meter] deployment . . . allows utilities to lower operating costs while increasing revenues.” – Frost & Sullivan
– “No net economic benefit to ratepayers.” Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette (yea for my home state!)
– “Smart-meter conversion represents little more than a boondoggle that is being foisted on consumers by the politically influential companies that make the hardware and software that are required for the smart-meter conversion.” – Consumers Digest
In one poll I read, (site seems to be having trouble so link was removed) about 1/3 of the people who had Smart Meters installed had an increase in energy costs, and one quarter saw their costs double, triple, or more.
This article talks about one citizen who found much higher bills as well.
Hmmm…doesn't sound so good now, does it?
5. Personal Safety
Something to consider–if this data tells what electricity you are or aren't using, couldn't hackers get this information and know whether or not you are home or whether your kids are home alone?
Seems like a valid concern.
6. Legal, Constitutional and Human Rights Violations
Our Constitution has been shredded recently by many government officials and courts.
Should we let it go even further?
So now we have utility companies forcing this technology on us that:
1. Is a health risk
2. Is a violation of privacy
3. Is a fire hazard
4. Costs too much
5. Has no real benefit
6. Potentially puts our personal safety at risk
Can you think of anything else that a corporation or government entity forces you to put on your house?
And you need to pay money if you don't want it?
This huge list of violations will really get you thinking.
7. Exorbitant Cost
Check in your area how much money your utility want to charge you for not getting a Smart Meter.
Our charges in Michigan were really high and our Attorney General pressured the utilities to reduce their fees, which they did.
Now, our utility wants about $69 to opt out of the Smart Meter program, plus $9.72 a month.
Forever.
That amounts to about $120 a year for something I don't want, that:
– puts my family at risk for health issues
– seems to be a fire hazard
– violates my privacy
– quite possibly doesn't save any money (in other words, it doesn't do what it's supposed to do)
– puts our personal safety at risk
– violates the Constitution, plus comes with legal and human rights concerns
– has overpriced fees associated with not taking it
Conclusion
Whatever a smart meter is, I don't want it.
I hope to share with you what happened when I called our local electric company and told them that I didn't want their “Smart Meter.”
Seriously, instead of calling it a Smart Meter, I think I'll call it a “Dumb Meter” or “Invasive Meter” or “Cancer Causing Big Brother Technology Doohickey.”
So now the questions are:
1. I don't want a Smart Meter. What should I do next?
2. I have a Smart Meter already. What can/should I do?
I hope to tackle all of these questions, including:
– sharing with you what happened to me when I contacted my local electric utility and told them I didn't want a Smart Meter
– what I have done about Smart Meters coming to my neighborhood
– what I am planning to do
I hope you all will help get the word out. Even if you have a Smart Meter installed, it's not too late.
Protect Yourself from EMFs
I will be adding some different options for protecting yourself from the damaging effects of EMFs.
1. Limit EMF Exposure
One thing that our family does is limit EMF exposure as much as possible. We still have some work to do but we love the protective devices from DefenderShield.
We use their Cell Phone Cases & Laptop Shields and I feel so much better knowing that we are protecting ourselves this way.
2. Know Your Risks
It's a great idea to have an EMF Meter to measure different devices and areas of your home.
Here are two options:
This EMF meter was recommended to me by a blogger friend who is very concerned about such things and seems like a great option. It's mentioned by a lot of people as being a solid model.
TriField EMF Meter Model TF2
This EMF meter is the one we have in our home. It's a bit more expensive than some, but it's the one most often recommended by EMF specialists.
It measures not only radiation from 4G and 5G, but also from Cell Towers, WiFi routers, Bluetooth, AC Powerlines, and Smart Meters.
Here's a more affordable option that has great reviews as well. One of my friends has it and really likes it.
Hopefully you don't have a smart meter, or if you do, you can get it removed from your house. If you can't, here's a Smart Meter Shield to help protect you from the EMFs it's emitting.
4. Get a Router Shield
Your WiFi router is one of the strongest sources of WiFi in your home. A router shield like this one can help shield you from EMFs while allowing your router to work.
5. Consider Eco-friendly Routers and More
This company has some highly regarded more eco-friendly routers, baby monitors, and more. A great option for reducing exposure in your home.
6. Reduce the Effects of EMFs
What if your jewelry could counteract the effects of EMFs?
This LOVELY interchangeable jewelry addresses the energy depletion of cells that comes from EMFs and even possibly repels mosquitos to boot! The pieces look amazing (the online photos of the individual products don't do them justice.
I love the Zen base, this base, and this bracelet. They have women, men, children, and pet pieces too.
The Boxed Sets are a great way to get started and save.
My oldest notices he's sleeping better with them, my youngest has noticed that his hands don't bother him anymore when he's on a device, and I have a lot more energy.
Comment or reach out at adrienne {at} wholenewmom {dot} com if you need any help picking things out. Also if you order on Party 550, I will be doing a drawing for a free piece.
I'll have more ways you can get involved in future posts so make sure to sign up for blog post updates so you don't miss anything.
More on Smart Meters:
For Part Two Read here: Smart Meters Are Coming to YOUR Neighborhood. What Should You Do?
What do you think?
Do you think Smart Meters Are Safe?
Dr. Kathrine Albrecht wrote the book SPYCHIPS ( a MUST read). The products you purchase at the grocery store (think of the thousands of products by Proctor and Gambill, Unilever, Gillette, etc.) are RFID tagged and have been for years. Why? Tracking purposes.
After the book, I heard an interview with this same author, an update: –
The Smart Meter Is The Reader For The Home!!!!!!
Do you understand? The Smart meter reads and reports you have 12 cans of Campbells soup, 21 cans of DelMonte fruit coctail, 18 Gillette razors, and wow…81 cans of Progresso soup! What kind of mischief are you up to?
Seems that that technology is an option if they have the chips in the appliances, right?
I have had a smart meter for more than two years now. Has it saved me money. No. Why would it? I already conserve as much as I can. I already know which appliances use electricity. I am not as stupid as the power company thinks I am.
This is one reason why my husband and I plan to move up to our future homestead this next year and why we are selling our house in the valley. We are going to be totally “off-grid”.
One more bad thing you alluded to but didn’t expand on is that this is one more way for the government to control the masses. Apparently once all the smart meters are installed and all appliances become smart also, they will not only know what you do inside your home, but will be able to control the appliances also!
We were scared into getting our smart meter. We were told that if we didn’t accept one, they could turn off our power and sue us! We were NEVER told that we had an option.
Although we love our nation, we are tired of government control. We aren’t paranoid, these are just the facts!
I’m with you on the conserving. I think my electric bill was about $38 this past month. What else do they think I can do :)?
You are right on the controlling. I should add that in. Did you read that somewhere that is a good source? I think the CA resident’s commentary about was unbelievable about the rationing in that state.
There are more posts coming so hopefully you can figure out what options you have. I intend to do what I can to fight – plus alerting others is very important. The more involved — the better.
Oh, and I forgot to say one more thing – yes, you can get charged for not having the smart meter and here in California they WILL turn off your power! Why? Because if you don’t have a smart meter it costs the utility company more to have personnel (meter reader) come out and read your dumb meter. Unfortunately, that sounds reasonable.
However, you would think that if you do have a smart meter, that fee (I think it’s somewhere around $14/month here) would be DEDUCTED from your bill because you DON’t need to have a meter reader come to your house. Right? You would think that’s only fair, but it’s just not the case.
If the $14 is b/c they now have to have a reader come to your home, why weren’t we charged that before when the readers were coming? Now they can hire someone part time which is cheaper. Plus I can report my readings online which costs them NOTHING. If they feel they need to they can check up on me only once per year.
There is actually no substantive evidence to suggest that exposure to radiofrequency EMF radiation such as from Smart Meters can increase the risk of adverse health effects, such as cancer – or any other condition. And by ‘substantive evidence’, I mean peer reviewed published studies that have been independently replicated and confirmed by other studies; and has been evaluated and accepted by national and international public health organizations.
If your online research has led you to believe otherwise, I suggest you turn your attention to some additional websites. Authoritative bodies such as the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, FDA, OSHA, Environmental Defense Fund and several others have commented on this issue. Some further investigation should help to correct your misunderstanding.
Environmental exposures to EMF from things like Smart Meters, Wi-Fi, Cellphone towers, etc. are trivial compared to naturally occurring exposure to EMF from the sun, and not something anyone needs to be concerned about.
So “Doubting”, did you read the Bioinitiative information that I linked to? It’s at least interesting.
Folks said for a long time that there was no danger of smoking, RoundUp and more. I had a farmer tell me about 2 years ago that one would be safe drinking a gallon of the stuff. I bet he wouldn’t do it if I went back to see him now.
Your information about EMFs from Smart Meters, Wi-Fi and Cell phone towers as compared to the sun could be completely incorrect. (Link deleted by Whole New Mom due to it not working anymore.)
I find it very interesting that many of you who think my arguments are flawed don’t even leave your real names. Why is that?
Also, assuming its not been proven that EMFs from smart meters are unsafe, do you have studies showing that they are?
I am familiar with the Bioinitiative Report and it’s many shortcomings. Are you aware the neither of the co-editors of this document have any credentials in a relevant science discipline? One has no science degree whatever – and makes a living selling products and services to protect people from unsubstantiated dangers. The other is an MD – without a licence to practice medicine!
The BIR shortcomings have been pointed out by several regulatory bodies, which open-minded folks can find online if they care to look.
When it comes to which information sources to trust, I generally look to bodies with the expertise and regulatory power to set exposure guidelines after they have looked at the whole body of science. I do not set a high value on individual opinions, even from qualified individuals. Individual opinions on contraversial topics can vary so much that it is difficult for a lay person to choose what to believe.
On the other hand, you prefer to rely upon anomalous studies, anecdotes and fringe opinions.
So be it!
Hi again “Doubting”. If I show you the holes in the hands I hope you will stop doubting (just a little aside – couldn’t help myself :)).
Anyhow, I think that there are all kind of problems with all kinds of research but I will see if Lloyd Burrell can’t come over and respond since he is, of course, more of an EMF expert than I am.
I think that those “bodies with expertise and regulatory power” often have too much power, in my humble opinion, and are often riddled with corruption (as in the case of the FDA and others which I have written about). There are non-profits that have the same problem. There is corruption in many places so one needs to be very careful whom one listens to in many and/or all cases.
In the case of the governmental agencies, they are one of the least I trust right now. Look at the FDA and the IRS and more. I am appalled at their behavior in recent years.
By the way, as for your accusation that I “prefer to rely on anomalous studies, anecdotes and fringe opinions”, I will first tell you that (and I do not say this to brag) I am a Phi Beta Kappa graduate from one of the top universities in the country and my husband is as well. He has 2 Masters and 1 PhD. We are not intellectual slouches.
I am willing to state that I am wrong when I am, but in this case, I think the science is mounting AGAINST EMF safety and not for it.
Cancer, autism, autoimmune disease, and more are growing all the times. I purport that it is due to pollutions and toxins (including EMFs), poor food, bad gut health, and epigenetics that are causing this.
I think people need to wake up before they end up on the wrong end of the statistical stick. I encourage you to be open to what you are reading.
She has worn the tinfoil hat a bit too often.
If you have something specific that you think is inaccurate in the post please state what you think it is. I think that, as in the case of other “regulatory bodies” there are too often financial incentives for them to not let the truth get out. We’ve seen it w/ the FDA, the pharmaceutical industries, and more. Thanks.
‘Doubting Thomas’ I have to correct you on one very important point. You claim there is no ‘substantive evidence’….no peer reviewed published studies to suggest that exposure to radiofrequency radiation such as from Smart Meters can increase the risk of adverse health effects. This is WRONG.
What is true is that the BioInitiative Report publication method did not include normal peer review BUT before it was released online it was reviewed by a panel prominent experts (their names were published online) and then it was later published a conventionally peer-reviewed publication in the 2009 issue of Pathophysiology.
What is also true is the pedigree of the BioInitiative Report, its the work of 29 independent scientists and health experts from 10 countries and as the preface says “ten hold[] medical degrees (MDs), 21 PhDs, and three MsC, MA or MPHs. Among the authors are three former presidents of the Bioelectromagnetics Society, and five full members of BEMS. One distinguished author is the Chair of the Russian National Committee on Non-Ionizing Radiation. Another is a Senior Advisor to the European Environmental Agency.”
Thank you for compiling this info, Adrienne. You’ll always know you’ve hit nerves when the “defenders” come out in full virtual SWAT gear to attack. Typical corpo-gov shill response method. Hang in there!
Hey thanks JJ! I think what’s more telling is their attacks on me instead of on the evidence. Your encouragement is much appreciate. And perhaps you’ve read that the gov’t hires some folks to debunk articles like this?
Yep, true. There actually are paid debunkers. There are also debunkers who benefit directly or indirectly from the issue in question; they may work in the industry, for example, and so have great motivation to stop any bad news from being spread. As you’ve seen here, attempting to discredit the author is the streamlined method of discrediting the information offered. Intelligent ppl are starting to see through it, and are putting 2+2 together. I am so thankful for ppl like you, Adrienne. It’s an uphill battle, but keep up the good work!
Thanks so much. I really appreciate it!!!
We just got a letter from our insurance company informing us that we could save money if we would allow a meter to be installed in our car (seeming to be connected with Verizon). It would tell them if you were a safe driver, says they!
I think it will also put you on the line if you exceed the speed limit at any time, it will inform the powers that be of your whereabouts at all times, and goodness knows whatever else it will extrude from the information it gathers!!
I don’t believe we will have one installed – even to ‘save money’!!
I heard of those. My friend’s husband works for a company that is using them and they got it. I don’t like the idea one bit.
Quickly let me also say IF and that is a big IF the health worries are real, then all of you so worried ought to not have any cell phones…and watch out when you listen to the radio! And how about when you received TV VIA rabbit ears? Look around….that wireless health worry is everywhere, and an electric meter is the big worry, really????
Yes, I do think it’s a big concern, Cynthia, but I do not discount the other sources of EMFs either. I think the best thing to do is get an EMF meter and see how much exposure you are getting from different sources and eliminate from greatest to least. I have another remedy I am checking out as well.
You are really really trying to find excuses…health risks are unsubstantiated and the privacy argument is total BS. They can get your electric use info with or without an AMR meter. I’d highly encourage you all to read more about these meters. This entire article is shaky and full of holes at best. I think it’s awful if you all read this without logically researching these claims
I am not trying to find excuses. This post was the result of tens of hours of research. Why do you think that the health risks are unsubstantiated? Did you read the Bioinitiative resource that I linked to? I would assume not.
As for the privacy issue, how about the 4000 customers’ data that was released already and did you read the comment about the marijuana busts? I haven’t had time to look into this but here is an article to check out: (Link deleted by Whole New Mom due to it not working anymore.)
If you have rebuttals that are specific to these things I am open to hearing them, but to just say that the article is “full of holes” and “shaky” and that it is “total BS” does not make a valid rebuttal.
That’s like the ad hominem attacks from the earlier commenter.
Please make a sound rebuttal if you wish to engage in the debate. Thanks.
Many see drops in their usages as well as they are better able to manage their usage by being able to analyze when they are using the most. Fortunately, our company does not charge more for having those meters. I love being able to go online and see my usage for the month..i was able to see why my bill jumped (forgot that the dehumidifier was stuck on).
There’s no way ours can track anything but the electrical usage. Of course, other utility companies may have other types. If a meter quits, they can see within days that it has and get out and fix/replace it. If it was a regular meter they may not know for a month. If that happened, they usually based your bill on past usages which may be higher then the previous months and you’d be stuck paying more than needed.
If one is worried about “tracking what you are doing” I’d suggest not having a cell, internet, or email. If you search for something on one site, watch how many times it appears in ads, banners, on any other site you visit that has those. Now THAT is scary. These items above are health risks as well, are they not? Your cell emits radio waves, if your computer uses wi-fi it emits as well. Those items get plugged in-potential cause for fire.
The stats I saw showed that many / most are not seeing reductions in cost. I linked to that in the post. Did you happen to see that?
Why do you think that there is no way that they can track anything else? There are many many people who are indicating that this is a tracking problem related to privacy.
We are concerned about tracking of all kinds of things, of course. But at least that is voluntary whereas this is being forced on people. That is the difference. Well, that plus the other concerns.
I only use my cell for emergencies and that is always on loud speaker. I am hard wiring my computer and I have a low emitting phone so we have really and are reducing the emfs in our home.
The fire hazards of the smart meters appear to be related to other issues and not just that they are plugged in. I don’t see things citing those kinds of products causing 100s of fires in the US, have you?
I do appreciate the comments but I think we all need to be committed to trying to figure out the truth about all of this.
In the UK at least the meter is owned by the company. I can’t see how you could legally refuse one.
The meters here are owned by the companies too I think. Maybe you should check out this site? (Link deleted by Whole New Mom due to it not working anymore.)
We were told we HAD to accept the installation. We were given notice that we had to respond for the time they wanted to install ours and be sure to be home. If we didn’t respond, we would be in trouble somehow, but specifically I cannot remember exactly what “in trouble” was. So, can we get it taken out?
Yes, you can get it taken out. Check the internet. (Link deleted by Whole New Mom due to it not working anymore.) and there are more resources out there. I have heard of folks who did it themselves, but of course I would not recommend that.