Don’t want to waste money by running your AC all summer? Don’t have air conditioning? Here are 8 tips to help you beat the summer heat using common household items.

Turn off heat sources. Switch off your computer and lights when not using them. Instead of incandescent and halogen lamps, use compact florescent ones that produce less heat.

Alternative air conditioner. If it’s hot but not humid, place a bowl of ice in front of a fan. As the ice melts and evaporates, it will cool you off.

What’s the wind doing? If there is a breeze, try circulating air by opening windows on the north and south sides of your home or apartment. Block solar heat with white window shades that deflect the sun.

Traditional desert technique. If the air outside is dry and cooler than the air inside, hang a damp sheet in an open window. Any breeze passing through the sheet will be cooled by the evaporating water.

What to wear? Something loose-fitting, preferably of a light color and cotton, which will keep you cooler than many synthetics.

Quick fix. Fill a spray bottle with water and keep it in the refrigerator, and use it for a quick refreshing spray to your face after being outdoors.

Fan strategically. At the end of the day when your home is steaming with trapped air, try some nighttime ventilation to help cool you while you sleep. Face the blades of a window fan to the outside to draw warm air out of the house and pull cooler air in. A fan that is blowing in seems an obvious choice, but it’s not as effective as one blowing out.

Running a fan and an air conditioner simultaneously. If you turn your air conditioner to low, set a fan to blow air over you. The air conditioner removes humidity from the air while the fan helps move heat away from your body. Continue to save by turning off your fan before you leave, because fans don’t cool a room, they just make you feel cooler.

From practical to decorative, Solutions carries a wide selection of lights with energy-efficient LEDs. What makes them so great? Read on to find out!

1. Less energy – lower utility bills
2. Last forever – less landfill waste
3. Battery-powered – no cords
4. Generate little heat – won’t burn on contact
5. Small in size plus shock-resistant

Visit our LED Lights category at Solutions.com for lots of bright ideas in LED lighting.

During last July’s heat wave we got a sticky reminder that moist air retains heat. Now you can use that knowledge to your advantage to warm your home while lowering your energy bill! Simply invest in a humidifier (or adapt your existing heating system to include one) and turn the thermostat down 2 to 4 degrees. The house stays cozy and the savings add up!

Summer’s the perfect time to take a trip! These tips will help you trim the cost of your vacation so you can spend less time worrying about expenses, and more time enjoying your time off!

Continue Reading 10 Tips To Make Travel More Affordable

Resolution: Save money.
Advice for sticking to it: We can’t change prices, but we can help keep money in our wallets by making smart decisions and planning ahead. Before buying something, ask yourself if you really need it. Don’t rush to upgrade your car, computer, cell phone or other items if they’re working fine – and keep in mind it may be more cost-effective to have them repaired if they’re not.

More ideas: 10 bright ideas for lowering the light bill

Featured product: Lower energy bills with insulated curtains!

Today more than ever, cost of living has become an issue for many families. In addition to the alarming rise in gas prices, food prices are also going up due to the increased cost of shipping.
Continue Reading Save money on groceries

Solutions is all about solving problems. Browse through our library of household tips for simple ways to solve everyday challenges.

Use a lint brush once a month to clean your dryer’s lint trap. Your dryer will run more efficiently, saving you money and reducing fire risk

Save money and natural resources by installing a programmable thermostat in your home; then use it to automatically lower the heat while you’re asleep or away.
Continue Reading Energy Savers & Earth Smart Clever Tips

Rising energy costs have you worrying about your utility bills this winter? With a “whole house” approach to heating, you can save money and stay warm! Here are some ideas for keeping your bill low while you keep your house toasty:

Continue Reading Lower your heating bill, cold weather tips for your home