(ARA) - Do you take clean water for granted? As one of the basic necessities of life, you are constantly consuming water. Whether you are drinking it, cleaning with it or using it in your home appliances, the quality of your water affects your life.

However, a recent Kenmore and Sears consumer survey on water treatment highlights the need for additional education on the water we consume, as not all Americans understand the differences and benefits of treated versus untreated water. In fact, the survey reveals that 85 percent of respondents are aware they could be drinking more contaminants in their unfiltered tap water compared to the treated alternative; however, they don't currently have an in-home water filtration system. Does this mean you are too trusting when it comes to the quality of water in your home?

(ARA) - While small things help, it's the big steps consumers take to improve their home's energy efficiency that truly make a difference, according to researchers at Scientific American magazine.

Of the 505 Americans surveyed by the Earth Institute and Center for Research on Environmental Decisions, more than 40 percent said the most effective way to save energy was to turn off lights, drive less or adjust the thermostat. Less than 10 percent identified what researchers say are more effective measures -- improving your home's overall efficiency, like buying energy-saving appliances or replacing old windows with more energy-efficient ones.

(ARA) - The shorter days and cooler nights that fall brings mean entertaining that once took place on porches, patios and decks is slowly beginning to wane. Soon, family and friends will gather inside the home for holiday festivities, putting the spotlight back on some of the most-used rooms, one of which is the guest bath.

For most people, overnight house guests go hand-in-hand with the holidays. Rather than waiting until the last minute, when stress levels are already high, fall is the ideal time to begin preparing for company and refresh the guest bath. You can do a few simple things long before anyone arrives to ensure their stay is a comfortable one. In fact, updating a tired bathroom can be an easy goal to achieve on any budget. You don't need tens of thousands of dollars. Instead, a little paint, the proper tools, a few decorating elements and some creativity will do the trick.

(ARA) - It's amazing what we can do to our homes today to make them more energy efficient, from green roofs to geothermal heating. While some new homes are built with green in mind, you can also make your existing home more environmentally friendly while also saving some cash.

Whether you are looking to conserve energy or save money, reviewing the EnergyGuide label on appliances and looking for the ENERGY STAR label on appliances, electronics and other energy-using products is a great way to identify the most energy-efficient products on the market. By making a few adjustments in your home energy use, such as choosing ENERGY STAR qualified products, you can save on your utilities bills and make a positive impact on the environment as well.