Peak Electric Usage Season is Now – How to Find the Drain on Your Electric Bill
Ah, it’s summer; the season for those wonderful family reunions and BBQ fun. But when the bugs and heat drive everyone indoors, it’s time to close the windows and turn on the air conditioner. The family is having a good time, but you dread opening that next utility bill. How do you know which appliances […]
Buying a New Refrigerator
The average life of a refrigerator is 13 years. So if your refrigerator is getting to that age, you might consider replacing it. Even if it is not that old, newer models are so much more energy-efficient that you might want to replace your current unit just for the energy savings. While you should do […]
Why You Should Hire a Professional to Handle Even Minor Electrical Issues
Ready to tackle a minor electrical issue to save money? Before you start this DIY project, weigh two important concepts – risk and reward. You may be focusing on the reward, saving a few dollars, but you need to think about the cost of the risk. Electrical DIY projects often tip the scales toward risk. […]
5 Reasons Why Every Household Needs a Backup Electric Generator
Have you ever said in a panic, “Where are those flashlights?!” Or, “Don’t open the refrigerator!” If so, it’s likely you have experienced a power outage. And, perhaps you mumbled to yourself, “We should have bought a generator.” Yes, there are many reasons to invest in a generator, either a portable, standby, or inverter unit. […]
Buying a Washing Machine
In the market for a new washing machine? Here are some quick tips to help you. Price. Washing machines can range in price from just a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. Most do a good job for simply washing clothes (obviously, check ratings). The more expensive ones may have more bells and […]
Making Your Home a “Smart” Home
Like all other technologies, Wi-Fi can be very frustrating when it does not work. But when it does work, it can be wonderful. One amazing use of Wi-Fi is it enables your home to be “smart.” All you need is Wi-Fi and a smart phone or tablet, and you can do things to make your […]
How to Deal with Extreme Cold and Not Break the Bank in Utility Costs
Brrr! After relatively mild temperatures closed out 2018, we have now faced record-low frigidness in Chicagoland. It’s imperative we stay comfortable and warm in our homes, but how can we do that without breaking the bank? Here are some things we can do without adjusting the thermostat. Use Ceiling Fans to Your Advantage. Reverse the […]
Radiant Heat (to Warm Your Feet)
No matter what temperature you sleep in during the winter (and of course we recommend sleeping with the temperature a bit lower to save energy costs), when you wake up and put your feet on the floor you may get a little cold shock. Even if your bedroom floor is carpeted, you’ll get that jolt […]
How to Program Your Thermostat This Winter to Balance Comfort and Cost
A programmable thermostat is one of the best investments for your home. Spending a small amount of money can lead to significant energy and cost savings. But how should you program your thermostat to get the most bang for your buck? Creating a heating schedule based on your family’s routine is the first step to […]
Five Simple Ways to Reduce Your Heating Cost in 2019
The ringing in of a New Year brings the resolution to do better. It’s the perfect time to examine your home and see where small changes or tweaks can help you save money on heating costs. Here are a few tips for 2019 that can bring new savings on your monthly heating bill. (1) Use […]
