Solar-powered garden lights are an easy and ecological way to add illumination to your yard, porch or sidewalk without using any electrical wiring. Since they are powered by an integrated solar panel that charges during the day and turns on when it becomes dark outside, make sure you place them in strategic spots for maximum efficiency. Be sure to place them away from competing nighttime light sources like porch and streetlights. When other light sources turn on, the solar light sensors will react to it and either decrease the light output or not turn at all. Also, be sure to wipe down the sensors from time to time. Pollen and dust can prevent the lights from recharging during the day.

If you're in the market for a new set of pots and pans, consider two things when shopping: Look for copper-bottomed pots and pans. Copper is the best conductor of heat and creates an even and more efficient cooking surface. Also, test the lids on your new pots to make sure they are tight fitting. Tight lids help shorten the overall cooking time and save you energy. And one more bonus tip to save energy at the stove: Be sure the reflector pans inside are spotless. Clean reflectors on electric stovetops help reflect heat upward when cooking, which improves efficiency.

Most of us know throwing away leftover paint, chemical cleaners and prescription medicines isn't just bad for the environment, but it's illegal, too. Those items are called "household hazardous waste," and they need to be properly disposed of. But did you know that common household items like hair dye, nail polish remover, nail polish and even batteries are also considered hazardous waste? If these items end up in the trash or down the drain, they can interact with other chemicals and create deadly gasses and explosions. Your community has designated hazardous waste collection days where you can drop off these items. They are properly contained and disposed of, so save your waste for those special collection days.