If you're tired of discovering wasp nests on your home, don't call the exterminator or use chemical sprays to remove them -- prevent them from being built in the first place. An all-natural device called a "wasp deterrent" looks like a pretty outdoor lantern, but it's actually designed to play on a wasp's natural territorial instinct to avoid building a new nest where one already exists. The fake nest will keep wasps about 200 feet away, so place a few around the house in the spring to prevent nests from being built.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Natural plants that have a high level of fragrant oil are not only pleasant to have outside, but they are also terrific natural deterrents to keep wasps, mosquitoes and other pesky insects away. Consider planting herbs like spearmint, thyme and peppermint, and plants like citronella, eucalyptus and wormwood. They all look beautiful, some are edible, and they are all prolific growers that can serve double duty: beautifying and deterring at the same time.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

A programmable thermostat helps you save on energy costs by giving you complete control of the heating or cooling schedule in your house. While most of us know not to place a thermostat near a heat source like a stove or space heater, it is also a mistake to place one near a television or lamp. Any electric product that generates heat can trick a thermostat into reading the room as warmer than it actually is, forcing cooling units to work longer and use more energy. By placing it away from any sources of heat, you can keep your programmable thermostat working properly.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION