One of the most expensive items in your home is likely the HVAC system that keeps the inside of your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. And it’s well-known that you must replace the air filter frequently so that it can keep the indoor air free of dust, debris, pollen and other air pollutants. But a clean filter also prevents those same particles from building up inside your HVAC unit. The dirtier it is inside, the less efficiently it can work, or worse, it can malfunction altogether. If the idea of buying disposable filters bothers you, look into ones that can be rinsed and reused instead.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Ever rent or buy a home that was once inhabited by a cigarette smoker? Getting rid of that lingering smell can seem like a daunting task, but would you believe the most effective way to deodorize is with plants? Plants emit water vapor, which pulls in the stinky, contaminated air and turns it into plant food. The result is cleaner and happy plants, and it’s all done without the use of chemicals. The best plants are English ivy and Gerbera daisies; not only do they deodorize, they also absorb benzene, which is a chemical found in cigarette smoke.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you have a few drops of cooking or olive oil left in a bottle, turn it upside down and let it drip into a soft rag or microfiber towel. This does two things: It cleans out the bottle to ready it for recycling and it gives you the perfect rag to clean around the house. Use the lightly oiled cloth to polish leather furniture, or on dull wood to moisturize and bring it back to life. You can even clean door hinges that squeak with just a few drops of old oil.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION