After you've boiled a pot of pasta or potatoes, do you ever wonder what you can do with all that leftover starchy water? Instead of pouring it down the drain, let it cool down to room temperature and reuse it to water your houseplants and garden. The residual starch in the water actually spurs the nutrients in soil, which helps feed the plants and makes them stronger. In essence, they are carbo-loading for strength! Just remember this one tip: Don't add any salt to the water when cooking, since salt is harmful to all plant types.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

While we all know that an old door or ill-fitting window can create a draft and allow cold air to waft into your home, you may not realize there are other sources of heat loss. When it's cold outside, remember that a door mail slot or a doggy door can act like a small window left open to the outdoor elements. Take the time to make sure they are completely shut. Even using an old wool blanket to cover the slot or door is enough to make a significant insulating difference.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Here's a simple way to help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer: Check your ductwork. Many newer homes have ductwork with dampers that are adjustable, and when they are installed, they are often marked with two words: summer and winter. Shifting the switch to the right season will ensure that the air flow in your home is maximized to direct either warm or cool air into the rooms where you need it most.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION