Wi-fi Connected Smart Thermostats: What to Look For

Whether you’re living in a newly constructed or older dwelling, it can still become the home of the future. Quickly evolving technology is allowing homeowners to improve the functions of a wide range of their household systems.

Wireless thermostats are one great example. The latest versions are helping households regulate temperatures with greater speed and precision, which can ultimately lead to cost savings in every season.

What is a smart thermostat?

A Wi-Fi thermostat, also known as a programmable thermostat, allows you to program the temperature in your home automatically. You won’t need to turn the knob every time you want to cool or warm your home. You can set it to automatically adjust temperatures at different times of the day or night. You may also control these thermostats while you’re away via a connected app on your smartphone.

What should you look for in the best Wi-Fi thermostat? Here are 5 important features to consider:

A Wi-Fi thermostat that integrates with smart home platforms: The best wireless thermostat can integrate with a smart home platform and allow you to make adjustments by using a smartphone or tablet app. That means one app can let you control the thermostat and other areas of a smart home, including lighting, security cameras, garage doors and alarm systems. On the app, you’ll see the current home temperature, which you can change with the click of a button from anywhere you have an Internet connection.

You can also program the thermostat from the app. That means telling the thermostat to change temperatures every night at 11 p.m., for example, or to keep the heating system at 70 degrees on weekends and starting at 4 p.m. on weekdays.

Voice control: Some Wi-Fi thermostats can be controlled by voice via programs on communications devices. These include Siri on the iPhone and Google Home or Alexa on the Amazon Echo or Dot.

Thermostat learning: A few leading Wi-Fi thermostats will learn your routines. If you set the thermostat at a certain temperature each morning, the thermostat will begin to follow suit automatically. Also, using sensors and your phone location, the Wi-Fi thermostat will know when you’re away and can adjust the temperature to  .

Alerts: The best smart thermostat will alert you when the temperature drops so far that your pipes could freeze and burst. That’s especially helpful if you’re on vacation. Such alerts can give you enough warning to send someone to your house to fix a problem before it has a chance to damage your home.

Custom display: Some programmable thermostats will light up when you enter the room so you can see the temperature, time or even a weather reading. Some brands may even allow you to choose the face of the thermostat so it matches your home decor.

Integrating a smart thermostat into your home is one way you can make effective use of innovative new devices and enjoy energy and cost savings. For other ways to save on protecting your home, Nationwide can help.

5 Reasons to Start Your Business in a Small Town

Big cities, home to a range of fast-growing industries and a diverse, talented workforce, would seem ideal for launching a business. But business owners scouting out potential cities should look beyond just New York City and Los Angeles.

While lacking the flashiness of big cities, small towns can be great environments for up-and-coming businesses.

A 2015 analysis from NerdWallet found smaller markets like those in the Midwest and parts of Texas were the most conducive to startup success. Still not convinced? Check out these five reasons why you should consider setting up shop off the beaten path:

1.     Lower costs

It’s no surprise that it takes money to thrive in a large city. Besides the cost of renting a workspace, even the most mundane goods and services tend to be more expensive in big cities. Throw high city and state taxes into the mix, and emerging business owners face an uphill battle.

If you’re operating on a modest budget, smaller markets tend to be much more financially accessible to small businesses getting off the ground. With a lower cost of living, you can afford to take more risks that could help your business grow. Local governments may also offer new businesses money-saving incentives to put down roots, such as low- or no-cost rent.

2.     Less competition

In a big city, your business could be one of dozens, if not hundreds, similar to it. With that level of oversaturation, it can be challenging to make your business stand out from the crowd. But in a smaller market, there’s ample opportunity to experiment with your business model.

Your business could also be the first of its kind in a small town. That singularity allows you to carve out a niche that will set your business apart: Being the sole athletic gear provider or ice cream vendor in the area is a great way to build your brand.

3.     Community relationships

Establishing a business in a small town means you get to become a part of the greater community. The better the connections you can make with customers, the more successful your business will be.

“We know our neighbors. We attend each other’s get-togethers. We sit next to each other at basketball games,” Jim Nelson, vice president of external affairs for the Illinois Manufacturers Association, told the Southern Business Journal. “What that does is create a real sense of what matters to communities”. That camaraderie extends to the other small businesses in the area, too, making for a strong support network.

4.     Slower pace

While some people crave the energetic pace of a big city, living in a quieter community has its perks, especially in terms of work-life balance. Metropolitan areas can take a toll on residents while small-town life can be less stressful but just as productive.

“Rural communities provide a good home for companies and manufacturing firms,” Nelson said. “Many times, companies locate in these places because owners prefer their own small-town environments as a place to live and work. Other benefits include easy access to the marketplace, to transportation and to suppliers.”

5.     Reliable workforce

With jobs opportunities more abundant in big cities, the turnover rate tends to be higher than it is in smaller towns. But that doesn’t mean the workforce outside of big cities is any less qualified. Rather, the talent in smaller markets is generally eager to pursue new job opportunities.

Safe Driving Tips During Deer Season

With deer season upon us, your chances of hitting a deer are much higher during the fall and winter months. Stay safe while on the road with these tips from the University of North Carolina Highway Safety Research Center.

Be cautious while driving during dusk or dawn

Deer are most active during sunrise and sunset, especially during mating season, which is in full swing from October through December. Ensure that you and your passengers are wearing seat belts at all times, even in the back seat, just in case you have to make a sudden stop.

Pay attention to deer crossing signs

Be alert and observe your surroundings for any signs of wildlife while on the road. Deer are abundant in forested areas, but may wander into suburban neighborhoods in search of food, so it’s important to drive cautiously even if you’re no longer in a deer-crossing zone.

Stay alert if you spot a deer

Deer tend to travel in packs – so if you see one deer, slow down and proceed with caution. Even if you spot a deer on the side of the road or surrounding areas, remember that there could be others about to cross your path.

Take precautions when driving in the dark

Nighttime driving can put a strain on the eyes, so be safe by driving at a moderate speed. If there is no oncoming traffic, turn on your high beams: You’ll not only be able to see clearer, but you’ll have a greater chance of spotting a deer from a distance

Don’t swerve to avoid hitting a deer

Do not swerve to avoid a deer collision. By swerving you put yourself at risk for a worse collision with another vehicle or running off the road. Stay in your lane and try to slow down.

Get comprehensive coverage for your car

Did you know that physical damage to your car as a result of something other than a collision with another vehicle might not be covered by standard car insurance? With comprehensive car insurance, you will receive additional coverage and protection when the unexpected happens. For more information on common road hazards that can lead to accidents, head over to the Nationwide Learning Center.

Report the deer collision

If you’re involved in a deer accident, contact your local authorities and insurance company to file a claim.

Now that you know what steps to take to minimize deer accidents while on the road, be sure to check out our roadside emergency checklist for more helpful tips!

Guaranteed income is a key component of a diversified product portfolio

Preparing for and living in retirement has become more complicated and riskier than ever for Baby Boomers. They face challenges including the shift from defined benefit plans toward defined contribution plans and rising inflation, interest rates and health care costs.

Despite these challenges, several carriers have considered drastically reducing or even eliminating products offering guaranted income in retirement. However, Nationwide continues to believe strongly in the value of guaranteed income as a key component of a strong, stable and diversified portfolio.

“Nationwide believes that annuities and lifetime income options will play a critical role in providing retirees guaranteed and sustainable income – no matter what the future holds,” said Eric Henderson, senior vice president of Nationwide’s annuity and life insurance businesses. “We’re committed to the annuity business and we intend to be here for the long-term to help America’s workers with insured retirement products.”

Too often, those nearing retirement focus too narrowly on account balances rather than the level of guaranteed and sustainable retirement income. Annuities can help protect what’s most important to them with guaranteed income, with a death benefit or with special joint options for couples.

When it comes to the well-being of the family, one of the largest worries is providing for a spouse or loved one. This is especially important when investors are doing estate planning. While annuities offer guaranteed income, they can also provide a guaranteed death benefit which is especially important if they pass away during a down market.

“The ideal retirement now focuses on ‘peace of mind’ which includes financial security and family well-being,” Henderon said. “For most, having guaranteed income and protecting assets are much more important than achieving higher-risk returns. There are a number of products that may provide retirement income. However, annuities if planned properly may insure against outliving your retirement income.”

Talk to an advisor

As a mutual company, Nationwide’s focus is on helping advisors create solutions that are right for their clients, not selling products. Nationwide provides advisors with superior choices that solve client needs, presented in a clear and actionable way.

“We’ve grown faster than the industry in several categories during the past five years, and we’re a top ten overall annuity carrier,” Henderson said. “We offer some of the strongest death benefits and income guarantees in the industry. We can help advisors help clients prepare for and live in retirement with income replacement solutions you can count on.”

Visit https://www.nationwide.com/annuity-investments.jsp to learn more.

The Average Life of Car Batteries and 7 Tips to Extend Your Car Battery Life

Car batteries are an essential part of an automobile. From getting your car started to charging your phone on-the-go, batteries provide the zap your vehicle needs to keep rolling. That’s why it’s so important to know when to start considering a car battery change, as well as what you can do to extend its lifespan.

The Average Car Battery Life

On average, car batteries last between 2 and 5 years. One of the most important factors that affects how long a car battery will last is the weather. A running engine under the hood is already producing high levels of heat. Throw in a scorching hot day and you have a severe drain on your car battery, which can lead to an increased chance of a dead battery if you don’t take proper summer driving precautions.

Within 24 hours of driving in hot weather, a car battery will begin to discharge. That’s why the average car battery life in hotter regions is about 2 and a half years, compared to almost 4 and a half years in colder regions. So when estimating how long your car battery life will last, consider the climate you will do most of your driving in.

Regardless of the temperature you drive in, properly taking care of your car battery can help keep it running. Check out the 7 tips below on extending the life of your car battery:

1. Limit Short Rides

Quick car rides prevent your car’s battery from fully charging. Maintain your car’s battery power by driving it frequently and for longer periods. If you don’t use your car often, consider investing in a portable car battery charger. These portable chargers can jump start your battery without another vehicle in case you’re ever stranded.

2. Keep Your Battery Tightly Fastened

A battery that’s not securely fastened could end up vibrating, potentially resulting in internal damage and short circuits. Have your battery terminal checked regularly, especially if you frequently drive on bumpy roads, to ensure it is tightly and properly positioned in the mounting bracket.

3. Turn Off All the Lights When You Exit

Accidentally keeping your headlights and car door lights on can put a heavy toll on your vehicle’s battery. To keep yourself from forgetting, here are some tips – post a note on your dashboard, attach a sticker reminder on your car remote or park in a direction where you must walk past your headlights to get to your destination.

4. Control the Corrosion

Battery terminals corrode over time, but keeping them clean from buildup is a great way to extend the life of your car battery. Scrub the terminals with a toothbrush dipped in a baking soda and water mixture. Then, using a spray bottle with cold water, rinse the mixture off and follow up with a thorough drying with a clean cloth.

5. Test Your Battery Often

Knowing the condition of your car battery matters when you want to maximize its life. Test your battery’s output voltage level with a car battery tester to keep track of how well you’re maintaining it and if you’re due for a new one.

6. Don’t Use Electronics When Idle

Turn off functions like the radio or air conditioner when your engine isn’t running to put less wear and tear on your battery power. Extended periods of idling also can wear a battery down.

7. Care for Your Car as a Whole

Your car is comprised of many parts working together. The battery is just one, so properly maintaining your car is vital for extending its life and the life of your battery.

No matter how well you maintain your car battery, you can’t always foresee when it may die. Learn more about roadside assistance and how it can help you in the event of an emergency.

Safe Driving Tips During Deer Season

With deer season upon us, your chances of hitting a deer are much higher during the fall and winter months. Stay safe while on the road with these tips from the University of North Carolina Highway Safety Research Center.

Be cautious while driving during dusk or dawn

Deer are most active during sunrise and sunset, especially during mating season, which is in full swing from October through December. Ensure that you and your passengers are wearing seat belts at all times, even in the back seat, just in case you have to make a sudden stop.

Pay attention to deer crossing signs

Be alert and observe your surroundings for any signs of wildlife while on the road. Deer are abundant in forested areas, but may wander into suburban neighborhoods in search of food, so it’s important to drive cautiously even if you’re no longer in a deer-crossing zone.

Stay alert if you spot a deer

Deer tend to travel in packs – so if you see one deer, slow down and proceed with caution. Even if you spot a deer on the side of the road or surrounding areas, remember that there could be others about to cross your path.

Take precautions when driving in the dark

Nighttime driving can put a strain on the eyes, so be safe by driving at a moderate speed. If there is no oncoming traffic, turn on your high beams: You’ll not only be able to see clearer, but you’ll have a greater chance of spotting a deer from a distance

Don’t swerve to avoid hitting a deer

Do not swerve to avoid a deer collision. By swerving you put yourself at risk for a worse collision with another vehicle or running off the road. Stay in your lane and try to slow down.

Get comprehensive coverage for your car

Did you know that physical damage to your car as a result of something other than a collision with another vehicle might not be covered by standard car insurance? With comprehensive car insurance, you will receive additional coverage and protection when the unexpected happens. For more information on common road hazards that can lead to accidents, head over to the Nationwide Learning Center.

Report the deer collision

If you’re involved in a deer accident, contact your local authorities and insurance company to file a claim.

Now that you know what steps to take to minimize deer accidents while on the road, be sure to check out our roadside emergency checklist for more helpful tips!

How to Clean Your House Fast: 11 Efficient House Cleaning Tips

Everyone hates to clean but everyone loves a clean house. Is there a best way to clean your house fast?

Most novices aren’t sure if they should dust or vacuum first. They wonder whether they should clean the kitchen before the bathroom or vice versa.

Follow this step-by-step guide, based on years of hard-earned experience, to make the most of your time and clean your house fast:

1. Clean the whole house, not one room at time

Cleaning is much more efficient if you pick one task (dusting, vacuuming, mopping) and do the same task in every room in the house, rather than cleaning the kitchen, the bathrooms and then the bedrooms. Doing it that way prevents you from feeling like you’re in an endless cleaning cycle, starting the same task over and over again.

2. Gather all your cleaning tools in a caddy

Whether it’s a caddy, bucket or tote, having everything you need to clean in one portable place makes it much easier to get the job done. You won’t waste time looking for tools while you clean, and don’t have to worry about gathering them before your next go around.

3. Clear the clutter

Before you even start cleaning, go room to room and pick up the clutter. As you pick up each item – magazines, well-read paperbacks, old sneakers – consider whether you should put it away, toss it or donate it.

4. Dust and vacuum

Before you start dusting, make sure ceiling fans are turned off. Concentrate your dusting on the tops of furniture and the undersides of shelves, on handrails, picture frames, knickknacks and TV screens. For hard-to-reach areas, like blinds and upper shelves, tie a microfiber cloth to the end of a mop or broom. Change the sheets in the bedrooms before you vacuum.

5. Wipe mirrors and glass

Use one damp microfiber cloth, followed by one dry cloth in wiping clean all the mirrors and glass surfaces.

6. Disinfect countertops and surface areas

Go through your house and wipe down the hard surfaces – from countertops, appliances and cabinets to doorknobs, light switches, TV remotes and telephones. You should disinfect some of those surfaces, particularly the ones that might deliver germs to people’s fingers and faces. Make a nontoxic disinfection solution by mixing one-fourth to a half cup of white or apple cider vinegar with a cup of water.

7. Focus on tubs, sinks and toilets

Spray cleaner on the kitchen sink then on bathroom sinks, tubs and toilets. Let it sit for a few minutes so the cleaner has time to dissolve dirt and stains. Then return to the kitchen and start scrubbing. Don’t forget to wipe down the inside of the microwave. Clean toilets last.

While in the kitchen, you also want to make sure your garbage disposal is in tip-top shape. If you aren’t sure the best way to clean a garbage disposal, click herefor some useful DIY garbage disposal cleaning tips.

8. Sweep, then mop

Sweep the kitchen and bathroom floors. Start mopping from the farthest corner of the room and move backwards towards the doorway (that is, don’t mop yourself into a corner). Rinse the mop every time you complete a 4-by-4-foot area.

9. Keep moving when you vacuum

Don’t worry about getting every nook and cranny when you vacuum. Just keep moving through the house, running the vacuum in every carpeted room in one pass through.

Some tasks don’t need to be done each week. These include waxing the furniture, cleaning the windows, and washing area rugs and bath mats. Inspect these accessories and use your own judgment.

10. Don’t forget to routinely wash your cleaning tools

An often overlooked part of cleaning the house is maintaining your cleaning tools. Using a dirty mop or a vacuum with a full bag is much less effective, and you’ll end up spending more time trying to clean.

11. Make cleaning a group activity

Making cleaning a team effort is one of the best ways to clean a house fast. Schedule a time in advance with your family, and assign tasks to each person. Working together can add some fun to cleaning, and your house will be sparkling in no time.

Now that your home is spotless, it’s time to move onto your car. Check out our expert tips on how to detail your ride with a DIY car wash.

How Much Air Should You Put in Your Tires?

Tire maintenance is one of the most important things you can do for your car from a safety and cost standpoint. The easiest way to care for your tires is both quick and inexpensive: maintain the correct tire pressure.

Driving on under-inflated tires is one of the biggest causes of tire failure, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and under-inflated tires present many other problems. They wear out more rapidly, handle poorly and reduce fuel efficiency. In addition, over-inflated tires are more susceptible to damage from road irregularities, and this also creates a bumpier ride. Overfilling your tires is just as dangerous as under-filling them, so it’s important you know what is recommended for your vehicle.

Determining your tire pressure requirements

Since tire pressure is so important to your safety and your car’s overall performance, it’s important to know what tire pressure is right for your vehicle. Air pressure in tires is measured in pounds per square inch, or PSI; usually, the recommended pressure ranges between 30 and 35 PSI.

To learn what your tire pressure should be, look for your manufacturer’s recommendation, which is printed on a label inside your car. Depending on the vehicle, this label may be on the edge of the vehicle’s door, on the doorpost or in the glove box. The label will usually give recommendations for the front and rear tires as well as the spare, and it’s important you stick to those guidelines. (While you’re at it, check the air in your spare tire, too. It loses air pressure over time.) Even after you’ve replaced your tires, the same pressure guidelines on your car’s label apply to new tires of the same size. If your tires are larger than the stock models that came on your car and you’re unsure of the recommended PSI, check the tire’s sidewall to find the maximum cold PSI level.

Pressure recommendations are based on readings taken from Check the pressure first thing in the morning or wait at least three hours after driving; this provides sufficient time for them to cool back down.

Maintaining ideal tire pressure

Of course, knowing your recommended PSI isn’t enough. You have to ensure you’re checking your tires regularly. Some experts recommend you check the air pressure every time you refuel; others say once a month is sufficient. Monitoring the amount of air in your tires will let you know if you have a small leak and can help you avoid an unexpected flat tire.

Frequently checking your PSI becomes even more important in the fall and winter, when outside temperatures drop and weather conditions fluctuate causing your tires to lose air more quickly. Generally speaking, your tire will gain or lose one PSIfor every 10-degree change in temperature, which means if you have a sudden drop of 30 degrees, you could lose three PSI overnight. If your tires were already low, this could cause tire damage, steering problems or even a flat tire.

Knowing and maintaining the right air pressure is important to the safety and longevity of your tires. All it takes is a and a few minutes of your time.

Once you have the right tire pressure, make sure you also have the right coverage. Learn more about how Nationwide auto insurance can help protect you and save you money.