CUT UTILITY COSTS

Dear Heloise: Reducing my electric bill is important to me, so I’ve developed some helpful habits that save me money every month:

With my dishwasher, I skip the heated dry cycle. When the final rinse is finished, I open the door and let the steam escape. If I give the racks a gentle shake to knock off excess water, the dishes usually air-dry quickly while they’re still warm.

For laundry, I wash most loads in cold water. Modern detergents work just fine and save energy. When I can, I hang clothes to dry on hangers or racks. In the winter, the extra indoor moisture even helps with dry air.

I also wipe condensation off the toilet tank during humid weather so that it doesn’t drip onto the floor over time. These small steps add up on my monthly bills.

— Harvey Versteeg, in Augusta, Maine

PET PAL

Dear Heloise: We fostered two kittens from the Corona Animal Shelter this past November and planned to adopt one when he reached an appropriate weight. Of course, we fell in love with both kittens. A year later, the brothers from the same litter are best buddies! Starry and Stormy bring us much joy. We love your column!

— Julie Uhl, via email

Readers, to see Starry and Stormy, as well as our other Pet Pals, go to Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the Week.”

Send a great hint to Heloise@Heloise.com.