Consumer Corner
5 Ways to Trim Home Energy Bills
(Family Features) After the mortgage, utility costs, including electricity, likely make up one of the most significant portions of monthly budgets for the typical American household. In fact, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average residential electric bill in the United States is $143.
However, reducing your family’s energy costs is possible by following some smart, practical, cost-cutting tips from the heating and cooling experts at Mitsubishi Electric. Consider these ways to help dial down your energy bills.
Service HVAC Systems Regularly
To ensure the best performance and efficiency possible, find a licensed contractor to keep your heating and cooling system well-maintained and serviced throughout the year. There are some tasks many homeowners can handle on their own, like keeping outdoor units free of debris and changing air filters. Some filters are removable and washable, saving you money. However, bringing in a professional 1-2 times a year for maintenance and to ensure proper function of ductwork and electrical components is also essential.
Use Appliances During Non-Peak Hours
Rather than using stoves, ovens and clothing dryers in the afternoon hours, consider doing so early in the morning or late in the evening. Peak time for many electricity providers is noon-6 p.m., meaning using these appliances outside of this timeframe when conventional heating and cooling systems are likely running full throttle can help lower energy costs.
Upgrade Your System
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) incentivizes homeowners that opt for energy-efficient air-conditioning and heating options to replace fossil-fuel-fired furnaces. This includes upgrading your existing HVAC system to a qualified heat pump. For example, Mitsubishi Electric heat pumps provide more energy-efficient cooling and heating that equals cost and energy savings as well as a reduced carbon footprint for homeowners.
Installing a smart electrical panel alongside an all-electric heat pump enables homeowners to monitor and control energy consumption on-site or remotely using a smartphone for better overall efficiency and utility cost savings.
Harness the Sun’s Energy with Solar Panels
According to the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, the amount of sunlight that strikes the Earth’s surface in 90 minutes could power the world’s total energy usage for a full year. Investing in solar panels can help decrease energy bills and increase your home’s sustainability. Additionally, some utility providers and government entities, including the IRA, offer incentives to help reduce installation costs.
Avoid Heating or Cooling Unused Spaces
One mistake many homeowners make is forgetting to adjust their temperature settings when leaving the house. Whether you’re headed out for the weekend or just headed to work for the day, running your system in an empty house can result in unnecessarily high utility bills.
Multi-zone, all-electric heat pumps like those from Mitsubishi Electric allow homeowners to set the comfort level and adjust the temperature in each room, reducing the energy waste of cooling unoccupied rooms. With a smartphone app, you can even adjust the settings remotely.
Find more ways to increase energy savings while making your home more sustainable by visiting MitsubishiComfort.com.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
SOURCE:
Mitsubishi Electric
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Consumer Corner
PMI to Introduce Booksy: New Patented Collectible Toys That Spark a Love for Reading & Play
PMI Kids World launches ‘Booksy’ this fall, collectible toys featuring miniature books from Monster Tales, PAW Patrol, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to inspire reading.
This fall, families can collect toys with tiny books inside, featuring characters from Paramount’s PAW Patrol™, Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and PMI’s very own Monster Tales!
Booksy’ collectible toy line
TEL AVIV, Israel, Sept. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – Uniting the exciting world of toys with the imaginative world of books is the brand new patented and trademarked ‘Booksy’ collectible toy line by renowned global toy company, PMI Kids World. In an era where screens dominate, this collectible toy line offers children and families a unique way to foster a love for play and reading. Featuring tiny books cleverly housed inside unique collectible figures, Booksy engages children in the tactile and imaginative experience of play and reading, one Booksy at a time. The line will launch in October with PMI’s original Monster Tales at Amazon, followed by an expansion in November with licensed character versions from the hugely popular worlds of PAW Patrol, produced by Spin Master Entertainment and airing on Nickelodeon, and Paramount+ original series Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, at Walmart.
Designed, written, and illustrated for children and families, Booksy collectible figures are the perfect steppingstone to nurturing children’s literacy through the excitement of collecting both books and appealing figures. The core Booksy collection, titled Monster Tales, introduces a series of original characters, stories, and a special Monster Tales bookcase for young readers to place and display their growing mini book collections. Characters from mega popular franchises, such as Chase and Skye, pups from PAW Patrol, and Raphael and Michelangelo from Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, will also bring familiar faces to the world of Booksy, making reading even more exciting for young fans of the beloved franchises.
Patented and trademarked, the Booksy toy line and the Monster Tales brand are PMI’s very own intellectual properties that introduces an innovative story-focused product variety featuring the talents of Christian Tremblay, branding specialist and a titan of the family entertainment industry with over 30 years of experience.
“As a parent and lifelong reader, I understand the importance of encouraging children to discover a love for reading and play that truly ignites their imaginations,” says Omer Dekel, CEO at PMI Kids’ World. “Booksy is particularly special to me because it’s an IP we’ve developed in-house and patented, blending the excitement of toys with the educational value of relatable life lessons and adventures in collectible books. I’m incredibly excited to see how Booksy will inspire and nurture the next generation.”
In October 2024, the Booksy Monster Tales Six Pack, featuring Monster Tales Dome figures, will launch on Amazon in the USA. This collection offers six unique characters for children aged 3-8 to collect. Additionally, the Booksy Monster Tales Bookshelf Collector Set, including a Monster Tales Booksy figure and a Collector’s Bookshelf, will also be available on Amazon. The first licensed version will be launched November 2024, introducing Booksy One Pack PAW Patrol and Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Dome figures at Walmart, and offering 12 beloved characters for young fans. Globally, the Booksy Monster Tales toy line is set for a Fall 2024 release, with key markets including the United States, United Kingdom (exclusively distributed by Character Options), France (exclusively distributed by Bandai France), the Middle East (exclusively distributed by iBrands), Canada (exclusively distributed by Red Planet), and more. The Booksy PAW Patrol and Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles toy lines will be sold exclusively at 3,000 Walmart stores across the USA.
Renowned for turning trending IPs into must-have toys, PMI Kids World is excited to introduce their very own brand and line of Booksy toys, right in time for the holidays.
About PMI Kids World
Established in 1995, PMI Kids World is a leading gaming-sector toy manufacturer focused on licensing consumer products in over 170 countries. PMI Kids World gives licensed intellectual properties (IPs) a vibrant existence by creating high-quality, innovative, affordable toys and collectibles. We’re here to bring the mega children’s brands and the coolest lines to kids worldwide. Our lineup includes esteemed names like Sonic Prime, Pudgy Penguins, Brawl Stars, and many others. Rooted in our purpose is the aspiration to ensure that every child can partake in the delight of play, irrespective of their circumstances.
For more information on PMI Kids’ World, follow PMI on:
About Booksy
Patented and trademarked by PMI Kids World, Booksy is the global toy company’s newest innovation in collectible toys and storytelling. Launching with PMI’s very own Monster Tales IP in October 2024, each Booksy character figure houses a miniature, full-colored storybook that empowers kids’ imagination by merging engaging play patterns with storytelling. Following Monster Tales, Booksy will also release versions based on popular kids licenses such as PAW Patrol and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in November 2024. Designed for boys and girls ages 3 to 8, each story introduces kid-relatable life lessons that children, families, and teachers will love and enjoy.
About Paramount Consumer Products
Paramount Consumer Products oversees all licensing and merchandising for Paramount (Nasdaq: PARA, PARAA), a leading global media and entertainment company that creates premium content and experiences for audiences worldwide. Driven by a diverse slate of consumer brands, Paramount Consumer Products’ portfolio is based on content from platforms including Paramount+, CBS (including CBS Television Studios and CBS Television Distribution), cable networks (including MTV, Nickelodeon and Showtime), and Paramount Pictures. Additionally, the division operates Paramount Game Studios. With properties spanning animation, live-action, preschool, youth and adult, Paramount Consumer Products is committed to creating the highest quality product for some of the world’s most beloved, iconic franchises. To view our range of consumer products and Paramount branded apparel, visit ParamountShop.com.
SOURCE PMI Kid’s World
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Join us at Looking for an entertainment experience that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than STM Daily News Blog’s vibrant Entertainment section. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of indie films, streaming and podcasts, movie reviews, music, expos, venues, and theme and amusement parks.
Discover hidden cinematic gems, binge-worthy series and addictive podcasts, gain insights into the latest releases with our movie reviews, explore the latest trends in music, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of expos, and embark on thrilling adventures in breathtaking venues and theme parks. Join us at our Entertainment Section and let your entertainment journey begin! https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment/
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Consumer Corner
Mattamy Homes Begins Sales of New Homes in Highly Sought-After Wesley Chapel, Florida
Pendleton at Chapel Crossings offers new homes in an idyllic setting that gives homebuyers the best of the Tampa Bay area with everyday conveniences just around the corner
TAMPA, Fla. /PRNewswire/ – Mattamy Homes, North America’s largest privately owned homebuilder, is thrilled to announce a new homebuying opportunity at Pendleton at Chapel Crossings, an amenities-rich community in highly desirable Wesley Chapel, Florida.
Mattamy Homes
With innovative, open-concept floorplans available, Mattamy’s new homes are priced from the upper $300,000s. The one- and two-story designs, stretching from 1,506 to 2,319 square feet, include two to four bedrooms, two to three baths, and two-car garages and flex rooms. A decorated model home is open daily.
New home sales have just begun and offer a variety of options to meet homebuyers’ needs. QuickStart Homes are available now for those wanting to move in soon. Or they can choose their homesite and home design, as well as personalize their new home to their taste and personality with finishes and other options in the Mattamy Design Studio.
Each home provides a large, covered lanai; a paver driveway; and versatile living space that can be used as a loft or home office. Stainless-steel appliances and a smart-home tech package are also included with every home.
Residents at Pendleton at Chapel Crossings enjoy exclusive access to brand-new amenities in the Chapel Crossings masterplan community, including a resort-style pool and clubhouse, Abbott Station Social Hub. Amenities also include a fitness center, lazy river, pickleball, paw park and tot lot.
Situated less than one mile off State Road 54 and just five miles from I-75, the community boasts excellent access to hotspot destinations from Pasco County to Tampa and beyond. Take advantage of premier shopping at The Shops at Wiregrass, 7 miles away and Tampa Premium Outlets and The Grove within a 15-minute drive.
Surrounded by lakes, golf courses, parks and nature preserves, the community opens endless recreational opportunities. AdventHealth Center Ice, the Southeast’s largest ice facility, is just nine miles from home. The Gulf Coast’s white-sand beaches and historic Tarpon Springs are within 35 miles. Elementary, middle and high schools in the Pasco Country Schools district, which Niche.com scores with high rankings, are all within five miles.
“We are excited to now offer single-family homes at Pendleton at Chapel Crossings in such a desirable and vibrant Wesley Chapel location,” said Bob Meyn, Division President of Mattamy’s Tampa & Southwest Florida Division. “Our homes are designed to enhance the lifestyle of homebuyers today and for years to come.”
Also within Chapel Crossings, Mattamy offers townhomes in Twin Creeks, paired villas in Timberdale and final single-family home opportunities in Asbury. A variety of move-in ready homes are available at these communities.
The Pendleton new homes are selling from Mattamy Homes’ New Home Gallery at Timberdale/Asbury in Chapel Crossings, just around the corner from Pendleton at 5873 Timberdale Ave., Wesley Chapel, FL 33545.
About Mattamy Homes
Mattamy Homes is the largest privately owned homebuilder in North America, with 45 years of history across the United States and Canada. Every year, Mattamy helps more than 8,000 families realize their dream of homeownership. In the United States, the company is represented in 11 markets – Dallas, Charlotte, Raleigh, Phoenix, Tucson, Jacksonville, Orlando (where its US head office is located), Tampa, Sarasota, Naples and Southeast Florida – and in Canada, its communities stretch across the Greater Toronto Area, as well as in Ottawa, Calgary and Edmonton. Visit www.mattamyhomes.com for more information.
SOURCE Mattamy Homes Limited
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
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Consumer Corner
How to Prep Your Home for Cooler Weather: 4 projects that provide high ROI
(Family Features) As the leaves begin to change and temperatures start to drop, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your home for the cooler months. With a few simple steps, you can ensure your haven of comfort stays warm, inviting and energy-efficient throughout fall and winter.
Ideas for Cooler Weather
Consider these home projects from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products– a leader throughout North America in innovation, design and production of exterior and interior building products including siding, trim, mouldings, roofing, stone, windows, outdoor living and more – based on Zonda’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report to get your home ready for the cooler seasons.
Upgrade Your Garage
New garage doors typically come with energy-efficient features and advanced security measures but are also relatively low-cost updates compared to the significant perceived value and resale benefits. In fact, replacing a garage door boasts a 193% return on investment, according to the report. Pairing new garage doors with updated trim can also offer a tight seal from exterior elements such as wind, snow and water.
Insulate for a Warmer Interior
Insulated siding can play a crucial role in enhancing your home’s thermal performance. By providing an additional layer of protection, it helps reduce heat loss, ensuring your home remains warm and your energy bills stay manageable. Plus, according to the report, vinyl siding replacement has an 80.2% return on investment. An option like CraneBoard Solid Core Siding from Westlake Royal Building Products offers superior durability and insulation. Its solid core construction provides added strength and impact resistance while also contributing to better energy efficiency. In addition, the solid core reduces external noise and is designed to endure extreme weather conditions.
Leak-Proof Your Home’s Windows
Windows can be substantial energy drainers and let warmth out when they’re not properly sealed. If you notice a draft coming in around your windows, sealing cracks or gaps with aesthetically pleasing trim can make a significant difference in keeping the heat in and chilly air out. For extreme drafts, consider replacing windows altogether, which can provide sellers with an average 67.1% return on vinyl window replacement, according to the report.
Shield Your Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Check for damaged shingles or tiles and make necessary repairs to prevent leaks. If a roof replacement is needed – which provides a 56.9% return on investment using asphalt shingles, according to the report – consider incorporating a high-quality roofing underlayment to provide an extra layer of protection against water, heavy snow and ice. For example, Sol-R-Skin BLUE, an external insulating underlayment from Westlake Royal Building Products, complements steep slope roofing. This underlayment serves as a secondary water protective layer, energy-saving radiant barrier and above-deck roof insulation blanket that is all-in-one. It incorporates an anti-glare coating in cool blue, making it easier and safer to install than alternative shiny radiant barrier options.
To learn more about high-performance products for your home, visit WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts.com.
SOURCE:
Westlake Royal Building Products
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