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Dear Heloise: Fans don't cool the air, whether it's a ceiling fan or another type of fan. They remove the heat from one's body, be it a human or an animal. So, if you leave a pet at home, leave a fan running for them. My dog laid right in front of our floor fan for most of this past summer.
Definitely turn fans off if no one's there. You might leave a house fan on for pets if you don't have a portable fan. -- Frank A., in Ventura, California
Frank, after consulting with a fan manufacturer, here's what they suggested:
-- Air flow: The moving air flows across your skin and hair, making sweat evaporate faster and lowering your body temperature.
-- Room temperature: The room's actual temperature stays the same, or on occasion, the fan can even cause the room to feel warmer due to its motor.
-- Cost savings: If you or others aren't in a room, you can turn off your ceiling fan to help lower your energy bill. -- Heloise
KEYBOARD CLEANING
Dear Heloise: I have a laptop keyboard and two different detachable keyboards. All have oily fingerprints that I want to remove without hurting the keys. I have tried using liquid detergent, microfiber cloths, and even a magic eraser. None have worked! I'm hoping you or your readers have a solution to get rid of the oily fingerprints! I read you in the Oregonian in Portland, Oregon. -- Jane S., in Milwaukie, Oregon
Jane, I spoke with a couple of people about your problem, and apparently, it's rather common. It was suggested that you use a commercal screen cleaner, spray it on a soft cloth (not directly on the keyboard), and try cleaning the oil off this way.
Well, readers, how do you clean your keyboards? I've had a little luck cleaning mine with a disinfecting wipe, but do any of you have a method that you’d like to share? Let us know at Heloise@Heloise.com. -- Heloise
CREATIVE GIFT GIVING
Dear Heloise: I'd like to add some suggestions for gift giving in response to the letter that was submitted by Carol J., in Michigan. Don't forget donations to organizations in honor of or in memory of a family member or friend. Seniors who have all that they need can receive a card or a note commemorating the gift.
If they have a pet or like animals, there are humane societies or rescue organizations that would appreciate a donation. There are tree-planting organizations that will plant trees in the forest of your choice and send recognition. My favorite is Samaritan's Purse, which annually provides a catalog that lists opportunities to fit any budget. You can support ministries that match your interests.
As a senior, I love finding gifts for those who don't need anything! -- Diane, via email
Diane, this is an excellent idea. Thanks for taking the time to write in! -- Heloise
PACKAGING BATTLES
Dear Heloise: Purchase a rotary leather punch online and use the large cutting punch to cut the heat-sealed spots between batteries. Then separate the upper and lower plastic that holds batteries captive. Afteward, just put the batteries in an empty pill bottle. It's the safest way to get the batteries out. The sharpest scissors cannot cut the hard plastic without the potential danger of cutting yourself. -- James S.
SEND A GREAT HINT TO: Heloise@Heloise.com