Nearly every time a major appliance or electrical gadget breaks, I find myself wondering if spending money to replace the item is a better choice than spending money to repair it. In addition to the financial factor, there are several others to consider:

• How long will the appliance last after it's repaired?
• What is the environmental impact of purchasing a replacement?
• What options exist for recycling the old item?
• How much more energy efficient would a newer product be?
• How long will the repair take?

'TheGreenGuide' offers a quick reference and explanations for their recommendations in online article:  Repair or Replace. This is definitely worth reading and bookmarking for future reference.

Need a special tool for a project you're working on? I know, it's tempting to buy one, but then you'd have to store it. And will you use that tool again (within the next three years)?

You could rent it, but that can be relatively expensive (depending on the situation). Still, it's probably a better option than buying something you won't use frequently.

Tool libraries are such a wonderful idea. Some libraries have tools available at no cost; others charge a small fee. For a directory of tool libraries across the country, click here. If there's not one in your area, why not start one?

I love web sites and blogs that are uncluttered and simple to navigate. The Home Know-It-All blog covers a broad assortment of home- and garden-related topics, including step-by-step instructions for many projects. Information on selecting a ceiling a fan discusses details you'll want to consider before purchasing a new fan. Be sure to check out the Green Living page, too.

Someone recently asked me what my favorite tool is. That's a tough question because whenever I'm using a tool that really works like it's intended, I feel a sense of satisfaction.

Which tool is most versatile? That would probably be my table saw. In addition to cutting square or mitered (angled) cuts, I use it to rip boards to narrower widths. With the added dado blades, I can make more elaborate, and stronger, joints.

Which tool saves me the most time? Electric sanders. I'm not sure what it is about sanding by hand that makes me crazy. Maybe it's the repetitive motion. Perhaps the fact that it takes so long to see much progress — not like cutting, drilling, etc. Possibly, it's because the primary goal of sanding is aesthetic. In any event, both my belt sander and palm-held sander are wonderful, time-saving tools that greatly improve the results of my woodworking projects.

Still, I'd have to say that the table saw is my favorite. What about you? What's your favorite tool? Why? Share your thoughts in the comments section.