If you have a window air conditioning unit that you cannot remove when not in use during the colder months, consider investing in an insulated cover for it. Home improvement stores have specially made covers that fit snug on the inside and exterior part of the air conditioner. They are waterproof and tough (so they can withstand the elements), but they also block cold drafts from blowing into your house. These covers pay for themselves over time in energy savings.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Invasive insect species have been wiping out tree species all over the country by creating serpentine tunnels inside the tree, making them weak and susceptible to breakage and death. In Pennsylvania, the emerald ash borer insect is close to wiping out more than 300 million ash trees. If a tree does fall on your property and you decide to turn it into firewood, use it only at your own home. Do not share infected wood with neighbors, and especially don’t bring it if you go camping. It is actually illegal in some places to move any firewood from trees, logs, limbs, branches and roots from state to state.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Many of us have compost bins in the backyard where we layer raked leaves, grass clippings and kitchen waste to break down into beneficial mulch. Don’t neglect seasonal items for your bin, too, during the holidays. Items like evergreen branches, rotting pumpkins and tabletop Indian corn arrangements can be added to a compost bin after the festivities are over. Just be sure to remove non-biodegradable items like ribbon, rubber bands and twist-ties before tossing into the bin.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION