Expert Advice for your Lawn & Garden TV Host of Today's Homeowner^® and home expert for The Weather Channel

If you’re like me, walking into a hardware store or home center can be dangerous. If I see a tool I don’t have, then I want it. But, in reality, there are tools that I simply don’t need. This is where it really pays to examine the option of renting a tool.

According to a study by Worldwatch News, water tables are dropping steadily in several major food-producing regions as groundwater is pumped faster than nature replenishes it. We can make a difference, though, if we all practice these few water saving tips

A plumbing leak can cost you hundreds of dollars a year in wasted water. A simple toilet leak can use 50 extra gallons of water a day. Since many areas are concerned with water shortages, using some of these common sense tips can benefit us all.

In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your loved ones. They are the single most important means of preventing fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal — so you and your family can escape.

Even though the EPA banned the use of lead-based paints in 1978, there are still potential hazards of lead poisoning around your home that you should be aware of. Any older home has the possibility of containing lead paint.

Hard water is water that has a high mineral content, such as calcium and magnesium. While it’s not considered dangerous to safety or health, it can create costly maintenance problems in the home. The most effective way to solve hard water problems is by installing a water softener.

Carbon monoxide has been called the “invisible” killer. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, every year more than 100 people die from unintentional exposure to carbon monoxide produced from using a charcoal grill, exhaust from an automobile, portable generators and various gas appliances.

There are several reasons when you need to know exactly where your property lines are located, such as putting up a fence, or creating new landscaping. You’ll want to find out what the local building codes are in relation to any construction, and you must locate your property line.

A home warranty is a service contract, that usually lasts for one year, which helps protect homeowners against the cost of unexpected repairs or replacement on their major systems and appliances that break down due to normal wear and tear. This annual contract can be a significant savings, especially if you are not particularly handy with home repairs.

As more homeowners have recognized the need to properly seal their home to improve energy efficiency, the resulting effect has been a dramatic reduction of indoor air quality. Replacing the heating and cooling system of your home can be very costly, but there are ways to help improve the indoor air quality without going to such expense.