An automatic thermostat is an easy upgrade to put in your home and one that pays for itself in very little time. When installing a thermostat, it’s location that’s the most important thing to consider. Because the thermostat regulates the temperature in your home when it senses if it's too hot or cold, avoid placing it near a bathroom door (where hot steam can escape), near a door that goes outside (letting in cold or warm air) or on window-filled walls where hot rays could shine directly on it. And never place it on an outdoor wall; it will always read the temperature as too cool or too hot and will never get your indoor temperature right.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Over a billion birds die every year when they hit man-made structures like windows, walls and doors, and it's our buildings that have become one of their biggest threats, often endangering the survival of certain species. To help lessen the blow, consider investing in inexpensive items designed to help prevent bird collisions. Bird tape is a product that adheres to windows and allows light in, but is visible to birds. The rolls of tape are a cinch to install and last up to four years on the window. Outdoor curtains look stylish and are see-through and airy, and they also help warn birds of walls and windows.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Leftovers can be saved and enjoyed the next day, but a few simple steps are needed for both food safety and protection of your appliances. First, always use airtight containers; glass is best, since it doesn’t stain or leach chemicals. If you have a lot of leftover food (like a big pot of chili), don’t store it in a large container. Instead, divide it up into small containers; it’ll cool faster, and bacteria has a smaller chance of germinating. Generally, refrigerate leftovers within two hours; hot foods need to cool down to a moderately warm temperature before going into the fridge.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION