Are your outdoor solar lights not looking so bright? This is usually a very easy fix and may involve just replacing the battery. Solar lights use rechargeable batteries that are charged from the sun’s rays on integrated solar panels. Those batteries can be recharged about 1,000 times before they wear down or die out. To replace, remove the old battery and replace with a new rechargeable battery. Then recycle the old batteries for free in collection boxes at almost any hardware store. Also, wipe down the solar panels, since dust and pollen can make them less effective.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you have a backyard swimming pool, it can feel wasteful to not make use of some of the water in the pool (especially when watering the lawn or garden). You can use chlorinated water for watering plants by following these two simple steps: The first is to fill a bucket with pool water and let it sit, untreated, for several days to allow the chemicals and chlorine to dissipate. Then use a simple DIY test (which most pool owners have) to measure the PH balance of the water. Once the PH level reaches a 7 or 8, it’s safe to use.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

A lot of people like to add white vinegar to the automatic dishwasher to help boost the cleaning power inside and leave dishes and cups sparkling clean. The only issue with using vinegar is this: It’s a strong acid that can actually melt the rubber gaskets inside your dishwasher over time. Instead of adding vinegar to the dispensers, consider spraying white vinegar over your dishes, plates and flatware with a spray bottle before hitting the ON button. This will give you all the benefits without any of the acidic damage.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION