4 quick ways to save

Article by: TARA MCALISTER , McClatchy News Service
Updated: August 29, 2012 - 3:28 PM

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Nail salon: Pedicures are a must-do when it's sandals and flip-flops season. Visit a salon at the beginning of the week when it is less crowded and more likely to offer specials. Bring your own nail polish so you can easily repair chips. Maintain your manicure and pedicure by applying a good top coat every three days.

Medical expenses: Get them under control and organized. A recent Harvard University study found that more than 60 percent of all personal bankruptcies are attributable to overwhelming medical expenses. Often consumers end up not paying because they don't understand what they owe and why. Try Simplee.com, which helps sort medical charges and spot billing errors.

Holiday shopping: Toys are filling the clearance shelves to make room for hot holiday items. Now's a great time to start on Santa's list.

Energy savings: Plug appliances into surge protectors, which allow you to manage the flow of electricity in your home. They can also protect your electronics during an electrical surge. Look for "smart" surge protectors that shut off automatically when an energy-draining unit is not in use. The US Department of Energy says the top energy drainers in your home include spas or Jacuzzis, pool pumps, refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, dryers, heaters for water beds, electric stoves, dishwashers, aquariums and home computers.