7/18/12

In the hot summer months, a window unit air conditioner can help cool rooms and make living more bearable. Keep in mind, though, that not all air conditioners are designed the same. Some are smaller and use less energy for smaller rooms, while larger ones are designed to cool large, open spaces. And units are designed to remove both heat and humidity from the air. Using a unit that is too large for the space will cool the room quickly, but will remove only some of the humidity. The result? A room that is damp and cold. The right size unit will create a perfect environment and save you energy in the long run.

7/17/12

Be wary of donating clothes to those drop boxes that are often found in supermarket parking lots. Yes, the clothes dropped in those bins are collected and recycled, but they are often designated for questionable for-profit companies that make money selling used clothes for textile recycling. It’s best to donate to reputable charities like Goodwill and the Salvation Army, where you know your donation will go to good use.

7/16/12

If you want to help our feathered friends build a softer, stronger nest for their chicks, look no further than your hairbrush. Run your fingers through the bristles, and remove the small clumps of hair. Place the hair where birds can discover it easily -- near a bird feeder or on a dense bush. The birds will pick up the strands, which will help build a stronger, more resilient nest that will stand up to the elements.