Summer is the season of sun, fun, and unfortunately, high electricity bills. As temperatures rise, so does our energy consumption. However, many of the factors contributing to these soaring costs are avoidable. Here, we explore ten common habits that can cause your electricity bill to skyrocket during the hot summer months, and how you can change them to save money and energy.

1. Overusing Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is a lifesaver in the summer, but overreliance on it can be a major drain on your electricity. Many people set their AC to very low temperatures or leave it running all day, even when they’re not at home. Instead, set your thermostat to a comfortable but higher temperature (like 78°F) when you’re at home and even higher when you’re away. Additionally, using ceiling fans can help distribute cool air more effectively, allowing you to rely less on the AC.

2. Ignoring Air Conditioner Maintenance

An air conditioner that isn’t well-maintained works harder, using more energy. Regularly cleaning or replacing air filters, checking for leaks, and having a professional service your unit annually can ensure it runs efficiently. A well-maintained AC unit not only saves energy but also extends the lifespan of the appliance.

3. Using Incandescent Bulbs

Incandescent bulbs emit a lot of heat, making your home warmer and causing your AC to work harder. Switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs can significantly reduce heat output and lower your electricity usage. LEDs use about 75% less energy and last much longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.

4. Running Appliances During Peak Hours

Many utility companies charge higher rates for electricity during peak hours (usually in the afternoon and early evening). Running major appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers during these times can significantly increase your electricity bill. Try to use these appliances during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening, to take advantage of lower rates.

5. Neglecting to Use Blinds or Curtains

Windows let in a lot of heat, especially during the hottest parts of the day. If you leave your blinds or curtains open, your home can heat up quickly, causing your air conditioner to work overtime. Close blinds or curtains during peak sunlight hours to keep your home cooler naturally. Reflective or blackout curtains can be particularly effective in blocking heat.

6. Not Using a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat allows you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day, ensuring your air conditioner isn’t working harder than necessary when you’re not home. By programming your thermostat to adjust the temperature while you’re at work or sleeping, you can save a significant amount on your energy bill.

7. Cooling Empty or Rarely Used Rooms

If you’re cooling rooms that aren’t being used, you’re wasting energy. Close vents and doors to these rooms to prevent cool air from being directed there. Focus on cooling the areas of your home that are in use, and consider investing in zone cooling systems that allow you to control the temperature of individual rooms.

8. Leaving Electronics Plugged In

Many electronics and appliances draw power even when they’re turned off, a phenomenon known as “phantom load” or “vampire energy.” Unplug devices like chargers, televisions, and computers when they’re not in use, or use power strips to easily switch off multiple devices at once. This simple habit can save you a surprising amount on your electricity bill.

9. Using Inefficient Appliances

Older appliances are often less energy-efficient than newer models. If your refrigerator, washing machine, or air conditioner is more than ten years old, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, which signifies that they meet energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency.

10. Overlooking Insulation and Sealing

Poor insulation and sealing can cause cool air to escape from your home, forcing your air conditioner to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Ensure your home is well-insulated and check for any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and ducts. Sealing these can prevent air leaks and improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Tips for Reducing Your Summer Electricity Bill

Breaking these bad habits can lead to substantial savings on your electricity bill during the summer months. Here are some additional tips to help you keep cool without breaking the bank:

• Use Fans Wisely: Ceiling fans, box fans, and oscillating fans can help circulate cool air, making you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat.
• Cook Outside: Using your oven can heat up your home. Opt for grilling outdoors or using smaller appliances like microwaves and toaster ovens.
• Optimize Your Fridge: Ensure your refrigerator is set to the optimal temperature (around 37°F for the fridge and °F for the freezer) and keep it well-stocked but not overcrowded.
• Plant Trees: Strategically planting trees around your home can provide natural shade, reducing the amount of heat that enters your home.

By becoming aware of these common energy-wasting habits and taking steps to change them, you can enjoy a comfortable summer without the shock of a high electricity bill. Small adjustments in your daily routine can lead to significant savings and a more energy-efficient home.

Father’s Day is just around the corner, and you’re probably wondering what to get for the dad in your life. Well, we’re here to help…by telling you what gifts to absolutely avoid at all costs. Trust us, dads have seen it all when it comes to lame, useless or just downright awful Father’s Day presents. Steer clear of these 15 terrible ideas:

1. Novelty Neck Ties
Unless your dad is a quirky kindergarten teacher or has specifically expressed his love for off-the-wall novelty ties, skip this played-out gift. Dads have received enough neckties plastered with tacky cartoon characters, bad puns, or garish patterns over the years to strangle the entire population. He likely has an entire drawer stuffed with these so-called “humorous” ties he’ll never wear.

2. Mugs Declaring #1 Dad
There’s nothing quite like the unintentionally insulting “#1 Dad” mug to remind Dad that his parenting skills are, at best, average. While mugs can make decent gifts if personalized tastefully, those campy “No. 1 Dad” ones with childish prints or cringe-worthy fonts just scream “I took no thought in this gift.” It comes off less as a sincere gesture and more like a not-so-subtle insult about his dad skills being mediocre. Plus, does he really need another mug inevitably collecting dust in the back of the cabinet?

3. Generic Tool Set
While good tools can make excellent Father’s Day gifts for dads who are avid DIYers or constantly tinkering with projects, a cheap, generic tool kit from the hardware store misses the mark. It’s an incredibly lazy and impersonal gift that lacks any meaning. A generic toolset essentially says “I had no idea what to get you, so I grabbed the first thing I saw that vaguely relates to stereotypical dad interests.” Put in a little more effort to get him quality tools he’ll actually use.

4. Bad Pun-Filled Greeting Cards
Dads are usually pretty appreciative of a solid pun or dad joke. But the cringe-worthy, immature puns and gags in most Father’s Day greeting cards are enough to make any dad roll his eyes into the next dimension. Why waste money on a card that attempts laughably bad jokes about farts, belly bulges, or how mom “wears the pants” in the family? Save a few bucks and skip the card altogether if you can’t find one that avoids this lazy humor.

5. Ugly Sweaters, Slippers or Clothing
Listen, we get it – dads can be hopelessly stuck in an outdated style rut sometimes. But unless he specifically requested some newThreadCzar Reyn Spooners or luxe slippers, giving dads ugly clothes or footwear just breeds resentment. You’re essentially telling him his sense of style is pathetically stuck in the Stone Age, all while forcing him to smile and pretend to like your passive-aggressive “gift” that’s really just an insult wrapped in colorful paper. Express your fashion advice through love and support, not scratchy sweaters and sandals he’ll never wear.

6. Exercise Equipment (Unless Requested)
Treadmills, weightlifting gear, exercise bikes and other home fitness equipment can be great gifts…if he’s explicitly asked for it. Otherwise, you’re not-so-subtly implying he needs to work on shedding his dad bod or improving his health. No dad wants to unwrap home workout gear from their loved ones, as it’s a harsh reminder that his children think he’s out of shape. Definitely a good way to get uninvited from family BBQs and holiday gatherings.

7. Power Tools (for Non-Handy Dads)
For dads who don’t know a Phillips head from a flat head screwdriver, lavish power tools and expensive tool chests are pretty much worthless and impractical gifts. They’ll likely gather dust in the garage or attic before you decide to regift them next year out of frustration. Unless he’s specifically mentioned needing or wanting tools for an upcoming project, it’s best to stick to gifts better tailored to his actual interests and skillset.

8. Barbecue Tools/Aprons (for Dads Who Don’t Grill)
Gifting grilling accessories, utensils, cookbooks or kitschy BBQ aprons for the dad who never touches the barbecue or has zero inclination to grill is just missing the mark completely. It mistakenly assumes that all dads love to char meats and veggies over open flames. Get him a gift suited to his actual preferred cooking interests and methods instead of perpetuating grilling stereotypes.

9. Bad Knockoff Brand Cologne
Unless he’s specifically mentioned wanting to try a new cologne or fragrance, don’t waste money on those cheap, overpowering knockoff brands found at drugstores and discount retailers. Those generic body sprays with bizarre names like “Rec’ing Borg” or “Mallard for the Satin” won’t make him feel like a sophisticated gentleman – just someone who reeks of excessive chemical scents. Stick to his favorite, well-known brand when it comes to male grooming gifts.

10. Useless Desk Accessories
Guys, any gift labelled as a “unique desk accessory” or “office prank gift” from those SkyMall-type catalogs is just code for an overpriced paperweight that will clutter his workspace. Busy executive dads really don’t need cheap plastic toys disguised as office supplies or decor. Those often quickly get relegated to the Goodwill pile or garage storage bins.

11. Regifted Candles or Bath Products
Just don’t do this – ever. Dads know when they’re getting your dusty, unwanted hand-me-downs in the form of those stale-smelling vanilla candles or half-used bath gift sets from your aunt or grandma. Not only is it lazy and impersonal, but those re-gifted bath products will just get unceremoniously tossed in the trash or re-gifted again next year in a vicious cycle of regift purgatory.

12. Gifts “From the Dog/Cat”
Listen, we love our furry companions as much as the next person. But pets have zero comprehension of holidays, gift-giving occasions, or even what a “dad” is. Getting a pet-themed gift for dad, like a cheesy mug that says “Dad Fur-Ever” or a tacky decorative dog bone, is just bizarre and impersonal coming from a human child old enough to buy gifts. Plus, it has that regifty vibe of grabbing something from the back of your own closet rather than putting real thought into his gift.

13. Generic Nut or Sausage Gift Baskets
While food gifts can seem like a convenient and practical option, those pre-made summer sausage, cheese and nut gift baskets you grab from the grocery store lobby feel like the ultimate cop-out for lazy gift giving. Those hastily-assembled boxes of bland snacks are just disappointing, especially if dad has more refined tastes. Put in a little more creativity to curate a gourmet food basket tailored to the flavors and snacks he actually enjoys.

14. Family Photo Apparel
As funny as those cheesy novelty t-shirts, socks, or aprons emblazoned with posed family photos might seem to the gift giver, they’re really only amusing to small children or the most eccentrically-dressed relative. Most dads with at least a shred of dignity would prefer not wearing mugs adorned with their family members displayed across their chest or feet. Leave the embarrassing family photo-wear as gag gifts for the in-laws.

15. Shaving Supplies (If He’s Rocking the Beard)
Take a good look at dad this year – is he fully embracing the lumberjack beard trend and rocking some serious facial hair? If so, then razors, shaving creams and beard trimmers are essentially useless gifts that completely miss the mark on his grooming needs and interests. Wait until he’s sporting a clean-shaven look once again before splurging on shaving products and accessories. Otherwise, it’ll just lead to eye rolls and regifting those grooming products to your uncle or brother.

So there you have it – 15 gifts that should stay on the store shelves this Father’s Day. A little creativity, thoughtfulness, and paying attention to his actual interests can go a long way to make Dad feel appreciated without subjecting him to bad puns, tacky neckties or that cringeworthy “#1 Dad” mugs. Dads have endured decades of lame gifts, but this year you can break the cycle!

Who says you need to break the bank to achieve a stunning makeup look? In a world where beauty products can often come with hefty price tags, there’s a treasure trove of affordable and quality makeup waiting to be discovered right in your local stores. By being a savvy shopper and knowing where to look, you can build a collection that rivals those of high-end aficionados, all while keeping your wallet happy. Here are 15 tips to guide you on your quest for budget-friendly beauty:

1. Explore the Aisles of Major Chains

When it comes to finding affordable makeup, don’t underestimate the power of major retail chains like Walmart, Target, CVS, and others. Their makeup aisles are brimming with hidden gems from respected brands such as e.l.f., Wet n Wild, Milani, and NYX. You’ll be amazed by the variety and quality you can snag for such reasonable prices.

2. Venture Into Beauty Supply Stores

For those seeking professional-level products without the hefty price tags, beauty supply stores are a goldmine. Places like Beauty Supply Warehouse, Sally Beauty, and local beauty supply shops offer brands like LA Girl, Black Radiance, and J.Cat Beauty at steep discounts. Prepare to be dazzled by the array of options available to you.

3. Raid the Drugstore

Never underestimate the makeup prowess of your neighborhood drugstore. Brands like Revlon, Maybelline, CoverGirl, and L’Oreal consistently churn out high-quality products at prices that won’t break the bank. Keep your eyes peeled for sales, coupons, and loyalty rewards to maximize your savings potential.

4. Keep an Eye on Clearance Sections

Clearance sections are a savvy shopper’s best friend. Whether you’re perusing drugstores, supermarkets, or discount retailers, always take a detour to the clearance endcaps and sections. You never know what discontinued or older makeup shades and products you might find at steal prices.

5. Explore Ethnic Beauty Aisles

Ethnic beauty aisles are often overlooked but shouldn’t be underestimated. Brands like Black Opal, Iman Cosmetics, and Fashion Fair offer products that rival high-end lines in quality and pigmentation, all at significantly lower costs. Don’t miss out on these hidden treasures.

6. Hit Up Dollar Stores

While not every dollar store makeup item is a winner, you’d be surprised at the quality brands you can find. Keep an eye out for e.l.f., L.A. Colors, Wet n Wild, and other hidden gems. Just be sure to do your research beforehand and check for newer stock.

7. Look for Value Packs and Sets

Stretch your budget further by keeping an eye out for makeup value packs and sets. These bundles often provide more bang for your buck, allowing you to stock up on brushes, eyeshadows, lip products, and more for a fraction of the cost of buying them individually.

8. Don’t Sleep on Store Brands

Store brand makeup shouldn’t be overlooked. While not all store brands are created equal, some, like E.L.F., offer fantastic exclusive lines at affordable prices. Give them a try and you might just be pleasantly surprised by what you find.

9. Utilize Online Coupon Codes

Before making any makeup purchases, whether online or in-store, take a moment to search for applicable coupon codes. You’d be amazed at how much you can save off already affordable beauty brands with just a few clicks.

10. Opt for Multi-Use Products

Get more mileage out of your makeup by opting for multi-use products. Lip/cheek tints, highlighting sticks, and eyeshadows that double as eyeliners are great ways to stretch your budget without sacrificing versatility or quality.

11. Signup for Loyalty Rewards

If you find yourself frequenting certain beauty stores, it’s worth enrolling in their rewards programs. Not only can you score discounts and freebies, but you’ll also earn points towards future purchases, making your budget stretch even further.

12. Wait for Sales and Holiday Promotions

Timing is key when it comes to snagging the best deals on makeup. Keep an eye out for major blowout sales around holidays and seasonal events, as brands often offer deep discounts during these times. Plan your purchases accordingly for maximum savings.

13. Subscribe to Brand Emails

Stay in the loop about sales, promotions, and exclusive offers by subscribing to the email lists of your favorite affordable makeup brands. You’ll be the first to know about any deals, allowing you to pounce before they’re gone.

14. Check for “Dupes”

Do your research and you might just find affordable drugstore dupes or alternatives for high-end cult favorite makeup items. Why splurge when you can achieve similar results at a fraction of the cost?

15. Maintain and Preserve Products

Make your affordable makeup last longer by practicing proper maintenance and storage techniques. Use primer to prolong wear, sanitize products between uses to prevent bacterial growth, and store cosmetics in a cool, dry place to prevent them from drying out.

With these savvy shopping tips in your arsenal, you’ll be well-equipped to curate an enviable makeup collection from quality affordable brands found right in your local stores. Who says you can’t achieve a glamorous look without breaking the bank?

As the temperature climbs and the sun shines brighter, there’s no better way to beat the heat than by indulging in some refreshing water activities. However, the allure of water fun often comes with a hefty price tag, especially when considering admission fees, equipment rentals, and other associated costs. But fear not! With a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can enjoy a splashing good time without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of frugal water fun ideas that are perfect for the whole family.

1. Backyard Water Park
Why travel far when you can create your own water park right in your backyard? With just a few simple supplies, you can transform your outdoor space into a refreshing oasis. Set up a sprinkler or hose to create a makeshift water fountain, lay out some inflatable pools or water slides, and voila – you have your very own water park! Encourage the kids to get creative with water games like water balloon toss or sponge relay races. Not only is this a budget-friendly option, but it also offers the convenience of enjoying water fun right at home.

2. DIY Water Toys
Instead of splurging on expensive water toys, why not get crafty and make your own? From DIY squirt guns made from plastic bottles to homemade sponge balls, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from. Get the kids involved in the creative process by brainstorming ideas and crafting together. Not only will this save you money, but it will also provide hours of entertainment as you enjoy your homemade water toys in the backyard or at the local park.

3. Visit Public Parks and Beaches
When it comes to frugal water fun, public parks and beaches are your best friends. Most public parks offer free or low-cost access to water features such as splash pads, fountains, and swimming pools. Pack a picnic lunch, grab your sunscreen and towels, and spend the day cooling off at your local park. Likewise, many beaches offer free admission, providing ample opportunities for swimming, sandcastle building, and beach games. Just be sure to check for any parking fees or restrictions before heading out.

4. Take Advantage of Community Resources
Many communities offer a variety of free or low-cost water activities for residents to enjoy. Check out your local community center or recreation department for upcoming events such as pool parties, water aerobics classes, or canoeing excursions. These activities are not only budget-friendly but also a great way to meet new people and get involved in your community.

5. Explore Nature’s Waterways
Beat the summer heat by exploring nature’s own waterways. Whether it’s a nearby river, lake, or creek, there are endless opportunities for outdoor water fun. Pack a kayak or canoe and spend the day paddling along scenic waterways, or try your hand at fishing or tubing. Many state parks and wildlife areas offer free or low-cost access to waterways, making it an affordable option for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

6. Host a Water-themed Potluck
Gather your friends and family for a water-themed potluck party. Ask each guest to bring a water-related dish or beverage to share, such as fruit-infused water, watermelon slices, or seafood snacks. Set up a makeshift water station with a variety of water games and activities, such as water balloon toss, water limbo, or a DIY slip and slide. Not only is this a fun and frugal way to spend time with loved ones, but it also allows everyone to contribute to the festivities.

7. Plan a Camping Trip
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature with a camping trip. Many campgrounds offer access to lakes, rivers, or streams, providing ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, and water sports. Pitch a tent, build a campfire, and spend your days exploring the great outdoors. Camping is not only an affordable vacation option but also a great way to unplug and reconnect with nature.

In conclusion, summer water fun doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With a little creativity and ingenuity, you can enjoy a splashing good time without breaking the bank. Whether it’s creating your own backyard water park, exploring nature’s waterways, or hosting a water-themed potluck, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from. So grab your swimsuit and sunscreen and dive into a summer filled with frugal water fun for the whole family!