Switching to natural gas can be a smart move for those looking to save money on energy costs. Natural gas is a clean-burning, reliable, and affordable source of energy that can help reduce energy bills and lower carbon emissions. In this blog, we will explore how switching to natural gas can save you money in four key areas.
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The holidays are a time for joy and giving back to the special people in your life, but it shouldn’t only be about giving back to them. There are millions of people around the world that don’t get any presents for the holidays, and you can help! Here’s 3 different ways to give back to those in need during the holidays.
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Halloween is one of kids favorite holidays. They get to dress up as their most loved fictional character and collect unlimited candy goodness. We want this Halloween to be as special as any other, so here’s some tips to keep your kids safe during Halloween.
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The weekend of all weekends approaches. The 4th of July is the official holiday of fireworks and BBQs! Do you partake? Billions of dollars worth of fireworks are purchased and shot skyward, to the delight of young and old but to the chagrin of animals everywhere. Unfortunately with the good comes the bad, and thousands of fireworks injuries are reported every year! Ranging from mild burns to even death, you want to keep yourself and your family safe! Read on for our important safety tips for fireworks.
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Summer season is known for heat, sun, and fires? We may think of Michigan summer months as beautifully long days that turn into bonfire nights. But are you keeping yourself safe while having fun? Michigan firefighters respond to over 10,000 wildfires a year, don’t let your lawn be one of them! We’ll run down our easy checklist highlighting safety tips that will keep your summer worry-free.
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Saving money is a seasonless goal. We all try to save where we can, in order to splurge where we want. We follow the tips from the gurus like Dave Ramsey, reduce and reuse in as many instances as we can. But when all is said and done, buying items is a necessity. Did you know that there are specific times throughout the year that you should be making big purchases? Let us help you get the most bang for your buck; let us tell you what you should buy in June.
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Are you thinking of upgrading your appliances? Spring sales often interest homeowners across the country. After-tax returns, families are known to spend money on essentials, varying from bills to groceries. So why not make an investment in an everyday appliance that can save you money throughout the year?
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Have you ever wondered if you could recycle something; but ultimately just chucked it into the bin? Are you positive you know all the rules when it comes to which item goes where? That three arrow triangle is often what we look for when deciding if the material is recyclable, but we may miss the details of where and how we can. Not everything is fit for the catch-all bin we place on our curbs. We want to clear up what can and cannot be recycled. Save the workers at the recycling plant time and hassle, and make you a better global citizen!
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Monday kicked off Great Lakes Week, have you heard about it? The Great Lakes are a precious resource that those in Michigan and around the world appreciate. The largest source of fresh water on Earth, these lakes provide irrigation and life for several ecosystems. From swimming to fishing, to drinking, residents of Michigan have experienced the best of these bodies of water. So how can we protect them for future generations?
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How do you heat your home? Almost one-quarter of Americans use natural gas. This reliable, cost-effective energy source is one of the cleanest fuels that one can employ. Many home dwellers have natural gas to heat their spaces, but what do you really know about this particular energy service? We give you a rundown of what you should know, why it matters and how you can use it to your advantage!
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Does winter make you feel dry? You are not alone. Are you aware that winter is the most common season for dehydration? Sounds ludicrous, but it’s true. During the winter, we no longer have the heat as a reminder to drink! As humans, we need relatively the same amount of water intake to keep our internal functions working in tip-top shape, and our outside environment has a big factor in our external appearance as well. If you are tired of being parched, read on to learn the best ways to keep yourself hydrated throughout the coldest time of the year!
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Did you know that seasonal affective disorder, SAD, wreaks havoc on almost 280 million people per year? SAD takes a toll on your health not only physically, causing your immune system to weaken and appetite to be suppressed. But also mentally as well. Even without the clinical diagnosis, most Michiganders can agree that January begins to drag. The long, dark hours coupled with the below-freezing temperatures can all start to add up. Do you feel sluggish? Extra tired? Have brain fog? How can you keep yourself sharp, when the weather around you starts to make you dull?
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Thanksgiving has passed and the calendar has us all looking towards the next holiday. Any way you celebrate, you are most likely looking at a few weeks of planning, shopping, cooking, and visiting family. While all these activities may bring initial joy, holiday stress can easily creep in. According to a poll conducted by verywellmind.com, more than 80% of us find the holiday season to be ‘somewhat’ or ‘very’ stressful. After the last few years of lockdown these activities may feel overwhelming, are you prepared mentally and emotionally to take on these tasks? We have some excellent tips to combat the financial, physical, and mental strain that the holidays sometimes extract on you.
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Looking for a new home? With low-interest rates, the housing market in the United States is booming, with many families even moving across state lines to find the best deal. Have you considered changing your homestead? You may be touring houses, oscillating between fixer-uppers with “good bones” and brand spanking new properties. Perhaps you are willing to take on a few projects, will you go it alone, or hire help? We have a list of pros and cons that will help you decide.
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College football holds a special place in most Michigan homes. From the rivalry of Michigan vs. Michigan State, to family recipes handed down throughout the years, this seasonal activity comes with a secondary tradition, tailgating. Despite the cooler temps, many still brave the outdoors for the special Saturday hangout. Others retire to the comfort of their couch. How do you tailgate? We have tips on how to create the perfect tailgate of your own, indoors or out.
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Do you have a cottage? A second residence? Perhaps even a rental unit that doesn’t have occupancy year-round. If this is true for you, have you thought about what you need to winterize your property yet? The weather is cooling off and the summer heat is dispersing. This may be the perfect time to make those adjustments to a place you may not see again for the next few months. You need to beat the first frost; keep your property in tip-top shape with these winterizing musts.
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Natural gas appliances can be used in many places in the home. From stoves to air-conditioning units, there is a natural gas counterpart to almost all-electric ones. And as with any appliance, upkeep is a vital part of keeping the longevity and efficiency of your items at their highest. Do you know the proper ways to stay on top of these household duties? Read on for a detailed list.
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We often think of New Year’s resolutions happening in January after the holiday season. But what if you take the end of summer as a time to recollect instead? You can set yourself up for a successful rest of 2021. The end of summer rapidly approaches, and a new school year begins, you are able to reset your mindset and your homestead. Keep reading for approaches to re-organize your life for autumn and beyond.
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Upgrading your closet can make getting dressed fun again! Beyond just the simple aesthetics there are several benefits to creating a more beautiful closet space. When upgrading your closet, you can expect a high return on investment (ROI). Typically, homeowners can expect to recoup up to 56% of their costs! That tacks directly on to the price tag of your home. Learn what other projects help increase your home’s value. There are also mental productivity benefits to a clean closet, believe it or not. Providing clarity, peace, and promoting quicker decision-making throughout the day. Sold on your closet upgrade? Good, because we have tips for every type of budget.
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Grilling in the summer is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, eat healthier, and save money! With seemingly no downsides, this method of cooking has been around since the cavemen roamed the Earth and has blossomed into true gourmet status. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or dining solo we have some excellent tips that can help you get the most out of your grilling!
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Saving money on your utilities during the summer can help to put you in a good place for the upcoming winter months. You may not want to think about those brutal temperatures or high bills just yet, but let's tackle a very manageable season, summer! Now summer is not without its challenges, (heat waves anyone?) but you can use your brain and these tips to work smarter not harder during these long summer days. Staying cool keeps the summer fun rolling without any unnecessary interruption.
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Painting can be the easiest DIY that really spruces up old spaces. Are you itching for a change without wanting to spend a fortune? With colors galore, you can easily change a room’s energy, light, and theme with a few gallons and brushes. Painting is even a time manageable project, most undertakings can be accomplished in an industrious weekend timeline. So what should you paint, and more importantly, what jobs should you avoid?
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Home improvements can be inciting for any homeowner, not only do you beautify your space, but you can also add value to your home. Are you interested in upgrading your space with large projects, a new coat of paint, or even a new statement piece? Before you run to large, chain home goods stores, have you thought of how these upgrades affect the planet? Perhaps you’ve heard of a circular economy, in which waste is eliminated by refurbishing and reusing much of what is produced. Have you considered this sustainable model for your home improvements? The perks of going green go beyond saving the planet; you can also save some serious cash! Learn 3 clever ways to pick more sustainable home upgrades.
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With the rise of the digitized age, online scams are now part of our norm. The newsreel runs with stories, every week, of people finding themselves in hardships because of a cleverly disguised scam. How do you stay safe when there is so much misinformation floating around? Regularly checking the FTC website can help you be aware of what may be currently flying around the interwebs. We also have three easy ways to stay on top of any would-be fraud attempts to keep you and your bank account safe.
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Do it yourself, or DIY has become more accessible and desirable in recent years. Thanks to an entire network dedicated to it as well as countless vloggers, this information and know-how have permeated our culture. Technavio predicts that this industry will top 13.9 billion in 2021! It makes sense; with more time at home and the urge to save money, doing it ourselves has a powerful draw. As more homeowners turn to tackle projects on their own, you should be aware of some excellent and easy-to-tackle tasks, as well as ones to leave to the professionals!
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Have you or your family wondered about becoming a less wasteful household? Maybe you've noticed that you are filling up your trash bin more often than you'd like. Or perhaps you are seeing things go to waste that shouldn't. An average individual throws away 1,361.4 pounds of trash each and every year! Yikes! To reduce this trash heap this helps create a greener Earth, a more sustainable household, and saves you money in the long term! Follow these tips to become a less wasteful household.
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Having a beautiful yard can equal hours of upkeep. Are you prepared to weed, mulch, spray, and plant every week to maintain such incredible exterior landscaping? This is common with many households for various reasons. You may be a family with young children, travel, for work, or without the physical means for the demanding labor. Whatever it is, do not despair. We have several tips for creating a low-maintenance lawn, one that will keep you happy and healthy.
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Filing your taxes breeds insecurity and anxiety for the average American. For 2020, nothing was the same, and this includes taxes. Even though April 15th is the official date for taxes in the United States, starting to collect and organize your finances now will pay off in the long run. Whether you are planning on doing it yourself or hiring a professional, be sure to check on these helpful tax deductions and tax filing tips.
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We, Kratos Gas & Power, have natural gas as our passion. We realize that perhaps this passion is not yet shared by the general public. It could be because it's such a utilitarian item, you’ve heard about it most of your life but never cared to dip deep into it. Energy isn’t always interesting. It could be because you don’t know the depths and levels that natural gas has. Well, we are here to change all that! You’ll learn a brief history, its many uses, and why natural gas is an integral part of your life.
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We, Kratos Gas & Power, have natural gas as our passion. We realize that perhaps this passion is not yet shared by the general public. It could be because it's such a utilitarian item, you’ve heard about it most of your life but never cared to dip deep into it. Energy isn’t always interesting. It could be because you don’t know the depths and levels that natural gas has. Well, we are here to change all that! You’ll learn a brief history, its many uses, and why natural gas is an integral part of your life.
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Dating is a necessary step to take total strangers into future lovers. We wine, we dine, laugh, and joke in scenarios that sometimes cost an arm and a leg. Why do we stick to the old rules of dating? We no longer have to follow the tired, old routine of generations past. Here are four new ideas for date nights that save you some cheddar.
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Valentine’s Day is often touted as the made up holiday by Hallmark. Designed to make us spend money to prove our love and buy heart shaped items. Millennials are expected to spend over 200$ this Valentine’s day! Surprising because we thought Millennials were killing capitalism. If your wallets are like ours and still recovering from the holiday season, try some of these alternative options to spending half a paycheck for Valentine’s Day.
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Working out at home can be a task no one looks forward to. But in a time of closed gyms, cold weather, and tight budgets, it might be the best choice you make for your body and wallet, this year. The beginning of January is a new chapter in many people's lives. They resolve to get in shape, lose weight, and feel better than ever. This decision does not have to cost hundreds of dollars, require new gym clothes, or any new equipment. We run down what you need to start working out at home.
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The working landscape is very different from a year ago. Many are still remote from home, adjusting to the new normal. Companies have been forced to make changes and sometimes cuts, when it comes to employees. Perhaps you are now part-time instead of full. Maybe you are looking for a change in a career. Either way, you might be wondering what job is correct for you, what options are right for your lifestyle, and how much money you can make from a side job. We are running down the options for all different job types here today.
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Winter is the longest and most brutal season in Michigan. There is a possibility for snow from October to May with no real predictability in between. Preparing for this season may feel never ending and overwhelming, there are always projects to do! Just a reminder, did you winterize your home this year? But with the right knowledge and tools, winter weather safety can be tackled and handled.
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Winter in Michigan is no joke. The season lasts almost half of the year and can come and go unpredictably. No matter if you are born and raised Michigander, or a new transplant, there are always new things you learn about the cold season. Did you know that people spend 25% more on heating bills every month in winter? There are many ways to winterize your home to make sure that you are not spending extra money on keeping yourself warm.
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Keeping your wits about you will be extremely important in the upcoming weeks. Some are now forced into roles that we may have not imagined. Working from home, distancing from friends, homeschooling. Without much notice or direction, what is one to do? This series of blog posts will break down some tips and help create a plan for these uncertain waters.
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Buying a Michigan cottage, an up north vacation location, is a dream of many that live in Michigan. Home to the Great Lakes, Michigan is also blessed with several bodies of water more inland, as well as the almost untouched and unspoiled beauty of the Upper Peninsula. Blessed with the option of driving north into basically a new state, many long time residents choose to vacation close, with generations of families sharing fond memories of their Michigan cottage. Because of the unique selling climate of 2020, you might feel like holding your assets close to your chest is the best option. But in reality, this may be the best time to buy the property of your dreams. Learn why, here and now.
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Summer in Michigan may be winding down, but with Labor Day on the horizon, we wanted to create a bang up list of how to stay safe in any situation you may find yourself. Summer safety pertains to many different celebration ideas in a lot of different ways, so let's breeze over these points to remember!
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Do chores feel monotonous? Perhaps the day in and day out approach gets pretty stale, so what can you do to spice things up a bit? Perhaps if you knew that you were cleaning for the betterment of the planet you could muster up some excitement? That’s what we will break down today; how you can change your day to day around the house activities with eco-friendly choices. These will add up to big changes across the planet and in your household.
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We have been hearing it for years, save the bees! We see t-shirts and coffee mugs and bumper stickers. But how do you really help these pollinators? You can easily and cheaply plant for bees at your home. With a little bit of sweat equity, you can create a beautiful and helpful oasis for these super key players in the growth cycle.
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4th of July is shaping up to be a very different holiday this year. Usually full of backyard BBQ’s, large scale fireworks displays, and outdoor events. With Governor Whitmer announcing that plans to reopen the state will be slowed, 4th of July events are being axed. We have the most up-to-date list of fun events happening near you this weekend.
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Dehydration is a killer of houseplants, skin cells, and summer fun. It can sneak up on you when the days become sunnier, longer, and hotter. With increased time outside and summer activity at an all time high, this is an equation for dehydration and even more seriously, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. We want all our fellow Michiganders to stay safe this summer, so quickly brush up on how and why water intake is so important.
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Energy myths have been floating around like old wive’s tales and sometimes permeate our minds until we believe fiction is fact. There are many common ones that might actually be costing us time and money! Learn about a few that we’ve debunked below.
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Have you ever heard the term, “You have to spend money to make money?” Well we are saying, you have to spend money to SAVE money. That’s what we are promising you! Did you know that buying certain items during specific times of the year can actually save you money long term? It might seem like sales come and go but there are actually months in the year where you should LEAP to grab that deal. We are going to run down some awesome sales in June to capitalize on.
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When thinking of natural gas, you often think about heat. The blue flame, that warm feeling. When weathering the storm of a Michigan winter, you need to have a reliable resource for heat. Long into Spring you will need to have a natural gas supply you can count on, seeing as snow flurries crept into May this year (BOO!). But natural gas in the summer? Do you even need it? We, the experts, will explain why you need your natural gas service throughout the year, and why you can save money during the summer by following our tips.
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Spending more time at home doesn’t have to feel like you're missing out on the fun. There are excellent ways to upgrade your backyard into a fun and functional place to keep all ages occupied through the next upcoming weeks. Learn how to take advantage of the beautiful Michigan summers and enjoy the outdoors.
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Energy efficient insulation is sometimes an afterthought in the warmer months. We think of bundling up not only ourselves but also our home during the cold and sleet, but did you know that energy efficient insulation can allow you the coolest summer on record, without breaking the bank? We have several ways to stay economical and comfortable throughout these next months.
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With the rise of technology aimed at making our lives easier, comes the unfortunate downfall, scams. Credit cards, online banking, shopping, whatever might be your choice when using technology, are all vulnerable to crime. With the stimulus check arrival across the United States, hackers are ramping up scams like never before. IBM released a report this week that found a 6,000 percent increase in spam emails related to COVID-19 since early March. It is important to be a savvy internet user when dealing with suspicious emails and using a level head when dealing with suspect calls. This is how to keep yourself safe from stimulus check scams.
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When researching natural gas companies, you start to learn new vocabulary. Price per centum cubic feet (CCF) vs. MCF, utility vs. natural gas provider, and most importantly, variable vs. fixed rate. This terminology can seem confusing and hard to figure out what your best choice is. Natural gas service might not be the first thing on your mind when moving to a new place, but it is an important way to save money in your household. No matter the month, saving money is always in season!
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In Michigan, classrooms for the rest of the school year are officially closed. District to district there are different expectations for students and parents alike. “Remote learning” could vary from optional to a full curriculum. Life sure does look differently these days. All routines have shifted and we are all forced to adjust. Not only our work and social life, but for those who have children, their schooling is now in our hands as well. Most families did not expect to take on this role; how do you homeschool successfully? We run down some great ways to adapt your home into a creative learning environment.
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Home ownership is a dream of many across the United States. Instead of paying extravagant rent, sometimes accounting for 15-30% of the average income, we hope to put our hard earned income towards a permanent placement. If you are hoping to purchase this year or still planning for a future homestead, these tips can help you be an informed and ready buyer.
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As we become older, our vocabulary broadens; have you heard the word deregulation before? Deregulated is a term commonly paired with energy, are you getting warmer? To be frank deregulation is the reduction or elimination of government power in a particular industry, usually enacted to create more competition within the industry. This means that you, as a consumer, now can choose which supplier you would like to heat and light your home. It means better pricing and more saving within a one closed off market. We help illuminate some of the more confusing aspects of Michigan deregulation and what it means for you.
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Michigan is a gem on the Midwest. Freshwater lakes surround lush green forests and a moderate hilly landscape. Known for their craft beer, juicy cherries and competitive collegiate teams, Michigan holds something of interest for everyone. With a competitive cost of living, it is becoming a great place to raise a family. Are you thinking of making the move to Michigan? Here are a few things to consider.
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A new study shows that Michigan is the sickest state in the US! 7% of Michiganians are experiencing flu-like symptoms, the national average is only 5%. If you find yourself dodging every cough and sneeze this winter, you are not alone. Short of finding a large bubble to wrap yourself in, you will be exposed to flu and cold carriers everyday. We want you to stay healthy, here are a few ways to do so.
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The holiday season is a train that keeps on chugging. It seems like every week holds more parties, get-togethers, and cookie exchanges. Mulled wine flows, presents arrive and get wrapped. Have you begun celebrating yet? Maybe you are looking for an extra special event to take your loved ones to! We have a list of a few excellent events that will satisfy all types of celebraters.
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Christmas has been celebrated on December 25th since as early as 336! For years the cold and dark winters became a little more bearable with rich foods and family gatherings. We had something to look forward to, bringing fir trees into our homes and decorating, with hope that Spring would bring a healthy harvest. The modern day Christmas has no real resemblance to that of seasons passed, with decadence winning over more quaint celebrations. The average family is projected to spend over $1,000 in 2019. With all this undue pressure to keep up with the Jones’, how can you stay within budget this holiday?
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The holiday season has arrived. Do these words bring warmth to your heart or strike fear into your bones? It seems as if every year the season arrives sooner; making us partake or panic for longer. How are you feeling? Navigating this holiday season may feel like a never ending labyrinth, but with our easy tips you can keep your head above holiday water.
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Michigan is a very special place. A peninsula surrounded by 84% of the Earth’s fresh water supply. With dense forests and beautiful wildlife, there is plenty to see for residents and visitors alike. The cities hold just as much beauty and history, with Ann Arbor being one of the go-to cities. From the hallowed halls of the university to the best deli in Michigan, we will break down the must see locations in this 200 year old city.
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As football season enters full swing, watch parties will also start to kick into high-gear. Not to mention fall is the start of the holiday season, with Oktoberfest and Halloween parties, Friendsgiving and beyond. Have you thought of hosting one yourself? Entertaining in your home can be a mixed bag. A rollercoaster of emotions that starts as soon as you decide to hold a gathering. We offer you, dear reader, a solid list of quick tips to ease your nerves. Whether you are a seasoned party hosting vet or a newbie, this article is for you.
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Everyone deserves to be comfortable in their own home. After long days at work, errand running, or whatever else that takes us away from our own personal sanctuary. Pillows arranged, lighting just-so, and the dwelling at the perfect temperature. As fall quickly sets in, the cooler temperatures begin to affect your own home. When is the correct time to turn on your heat? Over 90% of homes in the United States are expected to have higher heating costs than last year. There is a delicate dance between holding out to save money and protecting the integrity of your pipes. We will breakdown when is the best time to turn on your heat.
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Halloween, All Hallows Eve, All Souls’ Day; whatever the name, we look forward to the spooky events of October. Planning your costume, decorating your home, and indulging in some confectionary treats top the list of things to do. To revel and celebrate in good company we have compiled a list of all the best events happening in Michigan.
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Household appliances are one of the perks of the modern age. Gone are ice-boxes, line-drying, and hand washing. Now we have convenience at our fingertips! With such advances in technology, upgrading your appliance may seem like a no-brainer. You may be on the flip side of the coin, dragging your heels in the past and claiming that your current appliance is just fine. Learn the pros and cons of each of these positions in our helpful article.
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