Take the time to go around your house and unscrew lightbulbs to give them a good dusting. Dust that builds up on top of lightbulbs can be a safety hazard if sparks fly, but more commonly the dust covering limits the amount of light the bulb emits. The EPA estimates a coating of dust on a lightbulb can reduce light output by as much as 50%. For maximum light output and safety, make it part of your regular household cleaning routine to give all of your lightbulbs a thorough dusting!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

How do you know if it's time to water the lawn? A simple trick will tell you: According to the Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense program, if you step on your lawn and the grass bounces back, there's no need to water. If you step on the grass and it stays flat on the ground, give it a good water early in the morning or late at night so the sun's hot rays don't evaporate the cool drink your lawn needs.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Have you had houseplants outdoors during the summer and want to bring them back indoors? It’s not as easy as simply moving them back inside; it’s important to acclimate them to your home environment over time. Start the process by bringing your houseplants indoors at night, when it’s coolest, and then taking them back outside in the morning. Do this for a few days. Eventually, the plant will become acclimated and will have a much better chance of survival indoors.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION