If you buy organic for only a handful of fruits, do it for apples, blueberries, grapes and strawberries. According to the nonprofit advocacy organization the Environmental Working Group, it found 98 percent of the apples tested contained detectable levels of pesticides. Conventionally grown blueberries had more than 42 types of pesticide residue on them. Grapes tested for the highest amount of pesticides, with more than 64 types in the testing. And in just one strawberry, it found a whopping 13 pesticides. Since many fruits are like sponges that absorb whatever is sprayed on them, even washing most of these fruits can still lead to the ingestion of chemicals. Go organic with these if you can.

Solar-powered garden lights are an easy and ecological way to add illumination to your yard, porch or sidewalk without using any electrical wiring. Since they are powered by an integrated solar panel that charges during the day and turns on when it becomes dark outside, make sure you place them in strategic spots for maximum efficiency. Be sure to place them away from competing nighttime light sources like porch and streetlights. When other light sources turn on, the solar light sensors will react to it and either decrease the light output or not turn at all. Also, be sure to wipe down the sensors from time to time. Pollen and dust can prevent the lights from recharging during the day.

If you're in the market for a new set of pots and pans, consider two things when shopping: Look for copper-bottomed pots and pans. Copper is the best conductor of heat and creates an even and more efficient cooking surface. Also, test the lids on your new pots to make sure they are tight fitting. Tight lids help shorten the overall cooking time and save you energy. And one more bonus tip to save energy at the stove: Be sure the reflector pans inside are spotless. Clean reflectors on electric stovetops help reflect heat upward when cooking, which improves efficiency.