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CUB Tips

Spring into savings with CUB’s energy efficiency tips

It’s time to get your home ready for warmer weather. Remember: Energy efficiency is just as important during the spring and summer as it is during the winter so make sure to include these home maintenance tasks on your spring cleaning checklist:   Air conditioning maintenance. Clean or replace your air…...

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Five questions every gas and electric customer should ask when reading their bills

CUB holds hundreds of events across Illinois to analyze consumer utility bills, but we also want to make sure people know to read it themselves if needed. “If you get a high bill, it’s important to ask a few questions,” said CUB Communications Director Jim Chilsen. Here are five questions…...

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CUB’s 5 ways to mark Earth Week (and any week!)

In this week leading up to Earth Day, on Saturday April 22, we’ve rounded up a list of five ways you can mark the moment, with the help of CUB resources. This year’s Earth Day theme is “Invest in our Planet,” which fits nicely with CUB’s message that clean energy…...

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What’s the deal with air source heat pumps? CUB investigates

By David Weaver Carbon Free Buildings Coordinator Do you have questions about Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs)? What are they? How do they work? Are they capable of heating my home in the winter? Will they save me money? Should I make the switch?  These are all important questions that…...

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A guide to energy efficiency programs for income-qualified households

By Kate Shonk Sustainable Communities Liason Facing high energy prices and the rising cost of living, many consumers want to cut down on their monthly utility bills. In Illinois, consumers have access to energy efficiency programs offered by utility companies–including ones for income-qualified households.  The programs designed for lower-income customers…...

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Video: Protect yourself from utility disconnections

Protect yourself from disconnection with the following tips–and watch and share our new video.   Be proactive. If you’re having difficulty paying your bills, call your utility. Here are the direct hotlines for major Illinois utilities: Ameren Illinois – 1-800-755-5000 Aqua Illinois – 1-877-987-2782 ComEd – 1-800-334-7661 Illinois American Water –…...

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Tips for staying safe, warm and energy-efficient during Illinois winters

Illinois winters are notorious for snowfall and below freezing temperatures. Here are some tips to stay warm, safe and energy efficient. Staying safe in low temperatures Check on neighbors and loved ones. If you or someone you know doesn’t have access to heat, Keep Warm Illinois lists warming centers near…...

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Tell CUB: How do you fight climate change? (You could win a prize!)

Recent United Nations (UN) reports on climate change have painted a grim picture of the current climate crisis. The good news is that the UN is optimistic that the consequences of climate change–extreme weather, rising water levels, droughts and more–can be avoided or lessened if we take action now. In…...

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Winter preparedness: Weatherstripping

Using weatherstripping in your home to seal air leaks is a simple and effective way to improve energy efficiency and save money on heating bills. Weatherstripping can also protect the integrity of your home’s insulation by preventing warm, moist air from escaping through it.  But before you take a trip…...

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Your Winter To-Do List: Save Money, Keep the Chill Out

Grocery stores have started selling Halloween candy, and Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spiced Latte is back on the menu: Fall is upon us, and chilly weather isn’t far behind. Start preparing for colder temps with these five to-dos to keep your home warm and safe this winter. Weatherstripping – Weatherstripping can be…...

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