9/16/13

As the air outside gets cooler and we’re working to keep our homes warmer inside, consider if you actually use your fireplace during the fall and winter months. If you never use it, plug and seal the chimney flue. Warm air rises up and out of the house, and the No. 1 place it does so is through the chimney. By plugging the flue, you'll prevent air from escaping and help reduce heating costs. Plus, it’s not permanent: If you ever want to use the fireplace again, the plug can be removed easily.

9/15/13

Know the difference between storm drains and public septic systems? Public sewage systems collect wastewater from household drains and toilets and send the contaminated matter to treatment facilities to clean and properly dispose of. Storm drains are the opposite: They collect excess rainwater and dispose of it directly into natural water sources. In the fall months, be careful to not dispose of grass clippings and leaves into storm drains. Not only can it create blockage and cause flooding, but grass clippings from chemically treated lawns can end up polluting natural waterways, ultimately contaminating public water supplies. Instead, compost leaves and grass at home or bring them to a commercial composter to be made into beneficial mulch.

9/14/13

Many of us volunteer our time with nonprofit organizations as a way of giving back to the community. Whether we're cleaning parks, planting trees or walking dogs at the animal shelter, we know giving time can make a difference. But did you know your actions are also tax-deductible? If you drive to volunteer, you can deduct 14 cents a mile and include tolls and parking. Using public transportation? Your fare is also fully tax-deductible. Photocopies, treats for shelter dogs, postage and art supplies are also deductible. Just make sure the organization is a registered 501(c)(3) charity in order to take advantage of the savings.