It's common knowledge that a simple way to save energy in the warm months is to raise the thermostat to cut back on air conditioning. But that's not the only thing in the house that reaps the benefits of raising the thermostat: Do it to the fridge. According to utility company Pure Energies, set the freezer temperature to 5 degrees, and you'll still have an ice-cold freezer; raise the refrigerator temperature to 38 degrees, and your food will stay chilly. And remember, a packed freezer helps maintain a cold temperature naturally, which helps to save electricity.

The Humane Society of the United States says it's easy for us to help our feathered friends this spring with a few easy seasonal tips. If you have bird feeders at home, hang them where they gather (far away from windows) and away from where predators might be hiding (near brush piles, for example). Mix in crushed eggshells with birdseed and offer nesting materials like clean human hair clippings, pet fur and even bits of natural twine and yarn. Never add bread -- it has no nutritional value for birds and can quickly mold.

Your car air filter is something that should be replaced about every 15,000 miles to help your car run as efficiently as possible. A dirty air filter can affect your car's fuel economy and overall performance. But to help keep your car's air filter in tiptop shape between replacements, consider giving it a fast cleaning. Simply removing the air filter and using a nozzle attachment on your vacuum can remove dirt, debris and other contaminants. And while soap and water will definitely get it cleaner, you risk putting a wet filter back into the car, which can cause more harm than good.