The automatic dishwasher is the most energy- and water-efficient way to wash dishes whenever you wash a full load. But did you know that pre-rinsing plates and utensils isn't just a waste of water, but it can actually harm your glassware? Modern dishwashers and dishwashing tablets are designed to work with soiled plates. The detergents are activated by grease and work well to get everything clean. When items are pre-rinsed, the detergents don't have enough to work with and attack the top-rack glassware, making them scratchy and damaged. So just scrape food into the trash and let your dishwasher do its magic.

Over the winter season, many of us may have accidentally left our rubber garden hoses outdoors. With the harsh winter conditions and freezing temperatures, the hoses can crack, causing leaks. Test your hose this spring, and if you find leaks, don't toss it just yet. Instead, use a permanent marker to indicate where the leaks are. Then use electrical tape to cover the cuts and leaky areas. You will be surprised at how watertight this makes the hose, and you will get one more season of use out of the hard-to-recycle garden hose.

Want to save about $300 a year in heating and cooling costs in just one easy step? Install a chimney draft stopper on your fireplace. If you never use your fireplace, invest in an inexpensive and easy-to-install chimney cap. It covers the chimney and prevents cool air (in the summer) and warm air (in the winter) from escaping. And if you do want to light some logs on a chilly night, the chimney cap is a cinch to remove. Over time, you'll save hundreds of dollars from doing this very easy install. A bonus feature: Critters like squirrels and bats won't be able to call your chimney home.