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saving money

8 ways to stay comfortably warm this winter

By Samantha Vercellino Polar vortex or not, winter is always cold—but staying warm and cozy shouldn’t break the bank. Follow CUB’s simple tips to live comfortably, and save, during the bitter cold. Heat efficiently. Your heating system, like any other machinery in your home, will eventually break down. That’s why…...

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CUB helps Chicago landlord out of $1,048 electric mistake

By Samantha Vercellino Hoping to get the property’s electric service switched back to his name, the Chicago landlord immediately called ComEd to sort out the details. According to Mark, a company representative claimed it would be an easy fix. However, two days later, Mark was hit with a $1,048 power bill.…...

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How to save $650+ per year

Little steps can have a big impact on your pocketbook. Just ask Northbrook resident Tracey Becker, who slashed her power bills by 30 percent this year, in part by taking simple actions recommended by CUBEnergySaver.com, the Citizen Utility Board’s (CUB) free online service that builds a customized money-saving plan for your home.…...

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Debunked: 5 Home Heating Myths You Still Believe

It’s time for Mythbusters: CUB Edition. As temperatures drop, make sure you’re not falling victim to these home heating myths.  Learn how to heat your home efficiently and economically this winter. 1. MYTH: The higher you set your thermostat, the faster it will heat your home. FACT: After coming in shivering from…...

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Great advice and savings at CAPS Energy Efficiency Event

CUB was honored to be invited to a CAPS (Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy) Energy Efficiency Event at Chicago’s 7th District Police Station Thursday.  Several CUB staffers were on hand to help residents uncover savings in their phone, gas, and electric bills. Aimee Gendusa-English, CUB’s community service liaison, had the opportunity to look over the…...

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Tips for an energy-efficient kitchen

Now that the weather is getting a little cooler, it’s tempting to turn the oven on, throw in a casserole, and warm the kettle for some evening tea.  But all that kitchen work can crank up your electricity usage. Follow these tips to cook up a storm–without burning up the bills: Buy only Energy…...

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5 things to turn off before you leave the room

by Esther Leonard Most people know to turn off their electronics or the AC before leaving the house. However, few people realize that they can save money while in the house by simply turning off electronics in unoccupied rooms. Before you leave the room, consider turning off these five energy…...

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Top 3 tips to save money this summer!

Summer electric rates are going up, up, up, but never fear: CUB has you covered with the top 3 money-saving tips to reduce your electric bill over those sweltering summer months. 1.)    Keep it cool…without cranking the AC! Without a doubt, the biggest contributor to high power bills in the…...

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Cycle and save

Those hot summer days can be brutal on your electricity bills. One way to fight the summer-bill-blues is to take advantage of your utility’s energy efficiency incentives. Case in point: ComEd’s Smart Ideas® Central Air Conditioning Cycling. ComEd will credit you $5 or $10 off your monthly electric bill between June…...

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New meters = new opportunities to save

CUB has been highlighting some of the worst electric deals this week with our report on the state of the Illinois electric market. But it’s not all bad news! In fact, the gradual introduction of digital electric meters has opened the door to all kinds of unique pricing plans that could…...

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