With the GrainHome Improvement Tips and Tricks

Maintaining an air conditioner is just as important as ensuring a heating system is running efficiently in many parts of the country.  Without maintaining these appliances, a lot of costly repairs and high-energy bills could be the reality.

Here are some links to lead you:

• Energy Savers: Maintaining Your Air Conditioner
• How Stuff Works: How to Maintain Your Air Conditioner
• eHow: How to Maintain an Air Conditioner

For those who are unsure about tackling a project such as this, be sure to find a contractor or other professional for assistance. Finding an experienced friend or family member to help with maintenance is another option to consider.

Why do people put their used coffee grounds in their garden beds?  Good question!

When coffee grounds are added to garden soil right before watering (or prior to rainfall), they slowly release nitrogen into the mix.  This fertilization keeps the soil in balance in order for better plant growth. Placing the grounds around plants with crushed eggshells also repel pests. 

Use of tea bags and coffee filters (with their grounds) are a good additive for compost heaps, as well, to keep the nitrogen balance in check. Don’t worry about the paper filters or tea bags because they break down fast.