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The best generators for camping and tailgating

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The best generators for camping and tailgating

Portable inverter generators such as the $4,000 Honda EU7000is and the $3,700 Yamaha EF6300iSDE stand out not only for their high prices but for what that money buys: quiet running and the cleanest power, which is key for powering sensitive electronics and appliances in the home. In addition to powering households during blackouts, a lower-wattage inverter generator can also come in handy for recreational use at campgrounds and tailgate parties. And while Honda and Yamaha are key manufacturers of these products, engine maker Briggs & Stratton has introduced a pair of inverter generators aimed at the same market.

Our generator Ratings include only models you can connect to a transfer switch, which itself gets permanently wired to your home’s service panel. But for the many instances away from the home where a 7,000-watt generator would be overkill—and a low-wattage inverter insufficient—a 1,000- to 3,000-watt inverter generator can supply all that’s needed without raising a racket. Briggs & Stratton’s two new models are the P3000 PowerSmart Series model 30545, about $1,200 on Amazon.com, and the P2000 PowerSmart Series model 30553, about $650.

The P3000 model 30545 is rated for 3,000 starting watts, which supply the surge some items need when they power on, and 2,600 running watts. Both models have efficient overhead-valve engines, low-oil shutdown, and recoil start. Briggs & Stratton claims 10 hours of run time, but that’s at only ¼ load. At 84 pounds without gas, it has two handles for lifting plus a luggage-style, telescoping handle. For connections, there are four 120-volt household outlets; a 120-volt, 30-amp locking outlet; a 12-volt DC charging outlet, and a USB port. You can also run two units in parallel for roughly 4,800 watts at 120 volts; a parallel kit costs an extra $100.

With 1,000 watts less for surges as well as running, the P2000 model 30553 is claimed to run up to 6.5 hours, again at ¼ load. Its tank holds a gallon of gasoline (compared with 1.5 for the P3000). This model weighs only 56 pounds without gas. It has two 120-volt outlets and a 12-volt DC accessory battery-charging outlet.

Briggs says both units’ wattage levels are ideal for powering lights, a radio and TV, small appliances, and portable electronics. But keep in mind that even a relatively quiet inverter generator might not be welcome at all campgrounds. As with any generator you plan to take to a park or campsite, check your destination's regulations before making your plans.

For a home generator you won’t take on the road, we’ve tested more than 40 portable and stationary (standby) models. Check out our buying guide before narrowing your choices using our generator Ratings.

—Ed Perratore (@EdPerratore on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Why your air conditioner isn’t cooling you off

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Why your air conditioner isn’t cooling you off

Now that we’re halfway through the summer your air conditioner may be showing its age. If it’s not cooling properly, there are some simple things you can check like the filter. Other issues are more serious and may require you to call a pro. Here are some common problems and what to do about them with advice from the experts at Consumer Reports and the Department of Energy.

Won’t start at all. If your air conditioner won’t start, the compressor and fan controls could be worn out from the system turning on and off too frequently. If this is the case, you should call a technician to check the electrical connections.

Wrong temperature. Check your thermostat to make sure it’s set properly and that it’s reading the correct temperature.

On but not cooling. Your refrigerant could be low or leaking. Call a pro to repair any leaks and recharge the system.

Not working like it used to. If you have a window unit, the thermostat sensor may be knocked out of position. Carefully bend the wire holding it in place to properly position it.

Leaking water. Check your unit’s drain to make sure it isn’t clogged. If it is, carefully pass a stiff wire through it.

Low airflow. A clogged filter restricts airflow through the unit decreasing its efficiency and reducing the ability to effectively cool the air. If you haven’t already cleaned your filter this summer, do it now.

Warm air is leaking in. Check the window seals around your unit to make sure hot air isn’t getting in or cold air seeping out. If so, reseal around your unit.

Top air conditioners from our tests
If your air conditioner is a goner, it’s time to get a new one. When buying a window air conditioner, make sure you get the right size air conditioner for your room. Too small and you’ll be uncomfortable, too big and your room will cool too quickly without removing enough moisture from the air, leaving you cold and clammy. Here’s a top performer for each size we test.

Central air. In our survey of 34,000 of our readers who recently installed central air conditioning, American Standard, Bryant, and Trane logged the fewest repairs. Choosing one of the more reliable brands in our survey can boost the odds that you’ll be comfortable for the rest of the summer.

—Mary H.J. Farrell (@mhjfarrell on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Find a freezer that fits your family's needs

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Find a freezer that fits your family's needs

While refrigerators are becoming more stylish and feature-filled, today’s freezers look a lot like the ones Consumer Reports tested decades ago. The good news is that they use less energy than they used to, especially models that bear the Energy Star label. Freezers are pretty basic but before you shop take time to consider what size and type best suits your needs. Here are five things to consider.

Upright or chest? Upright freezers take up less floor space, and their shelves and bins make organizing and finding food easier. But those shelves also reduce usable space. Chest freezers offer the most space for the money, but organizing and retrieving items buried on the bottom can be a challenge. Some chest freezers have bins and shelves to help organize the interior.

Location matters. If you plan to put the freezer in an unheated area, such as a garage, make sure the area won’t get hotter or colder than the manufacturer’s specified operating temperature range.

Pick the right size. Freezers, whether chest or upright, come in four basic sizes, ranging from compact (5 cubic feet) to large (more than 18 cubic feet). Your choice should depend on available space and family needs.

Consider energy use. Although manual-defrost freezers require some extra work (you usually have to empty them to remove ice buildup every six months), you can save a lot of energy and money by choosing one of these models. Chest freezers combine low energy use with respectable temperature uniformity within their large, open cavity, though they sacrifice convenience.

Pick the right type. You’ll find both self- and manual-defrosting models. Which you choose depends on how much you value a manual-defrost models’ quiet and energy efficiency over a self-defrosting models’ superior convenience and temperature performance.

Best freezers from our tests
Most of the chests and self-defrosting uprights we tested delivered impressive temperature performance, maintaining 0° F quite evenly throughout the interior. But all of the manual-defrost upright models had trouble keeping their door shelves as cool as the rest of the interior. Here are the best from our tests.

Convertible freezer/refrigerator. If you entertain a lot, you may want to consider the Frigidaire FKCH17F7HW, $750, which is the industry's first stand-alone freezer that also doubles as an extra refrigerator. In its refrigerator mode, the Frigidaire delivered excellent temperature control and energy efficiency. As a freezer, the Frigidaire also delivered excellent temperature control, plus it’s self-defrosting, so you won’t have to do that task by hand.

—Adpated from Consumer Reports' Appliance Guide

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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7 ways to make the most money at your garage sale

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7 ways to make the most money at your garage sale

Are your ready for your garage sale? Surely you haven’t forgotten that National Garage Sale Day is tomorrow. That’s right, on Aug. 9—National Garage Sale Day is always the second Saturday in August—we celebrate the coming together of people with lots of stuff they no longer want with people who want lots of stuff they don’t have.

Whether you're planning one tomorrow or some time in the future, garage sales (or yard sales or tag sales) are big business, even if the average selling price of goods is only 85 cents. Just multiply that by the 4,967,500 goods that are sold at garage sales each week, and the total weekly revenue that U.S. garage sales generate is $4,222,375, according to the website StatisticBrain.com.

Running a yard sale is not difficult, but it does take a little planning. Start by gathering the goods you no longer want from every room in your home–old indoor and outdoor furniture, electronics, housewares, garden tools, appliances, clothing, and the like. Store them in an out of the way corner-say, in your basement or garage. Pick the day, and check with your town government to see if you need a permit to hold a sale. Have lots of change and small bills on hand.

  • Get the word out on social media, in local papers, and on free listings sites such as eBay Classified, Craigslist, GarageSaleHunter, and YardSaleSearch.
  • Schedule your garage sale to coincide with a local event that’s likely to generate extra traffic near your home.
  • Place the items with the broadest appeal close to the street to grab attention and lure potential buyers up the driveway.
  • Sort clothing into categories—by sex, season, and age group, for example—and display those items, if possible, on hangers.
  • Keep a mirror handy if you’re selling accessories.
  • Place fresh batteries in items that require them and keep a power source handy so shoppers can try out electronics and other plug-in appliances.
  • Don’t price anything.

Why skip the price tags? See our additional tips on running a successful garage sale, plus how to make the most money selling your stuff at auctions, consignment shops, and websites.

––Mandy Walker

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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When it pays to replace your windows

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When it pays to replace your windows

Owning a home has its joys but there’s always something to add to the to-do list. Replacing all the windows comes to mind when rooms feel drafty and flyers arrive in the mailbox claiming you’ll save lots of money on heating and cooling. Sounds great, but here’s why saving money isn’t the reason to take on this project, plus a look at the best windows from Consumer Reports’ latest tests.
 
“If your windows are drafty, don’t easily open or close, you’re tired of painting them, or don’t like the way they look then it’s time for new windows,” says Rico DePaz, the engineer who oversees our window tests. “Sure, you’ll cut your heating and cooling costs, but it could take decades to recoup the thousands of dollars you’ll spend on new windows and installation.”
 
Estimated savings. Energy Star-qualified windows can lower your energy bills by 7 to 15 percent. Energy Star estimates that’s about $27 to $111 a year for a 2,000-square-foot single-story home with storm or double-pane windows, or $126 to $465 if your home has just single-pane windows. But replacing all the windows is expensive—you can spend anywhere from $8,000 to $24,000 or more. So tally the money you spent on energy for a year or so and take a look at Energy Star’s estimated energy savings by region.

The best from our tests. We tested 21 double-hung and four casement-style windows, two popular choices, with frames made of wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. All were 3x5-foot. Working with an outside lab we subjected the windows to heavy, wind-driven rain and winds of 25 and 50 mph at outdoor temperatures of 0°F and 70°F. We found that price didn’t indicate performance and there were big differences between brands in window types and frame materials. The casements excelled at keeping out cold air and rain and can be used in any area of the country. But among double-hung some are better at keeping out cold air or water so look at the overall scores in our ratings then focus on test results that apply to where you live.
 
If high winds and cold temperatures are common where  you live, look for windows that excelled at low-temperature wind resistance, such as the top-rated Andersen 400 Series. A double-hung window, the exterior of this wooden window is clad in vinyl so it won’t need painting and at $310 per window it’s a CR Best Buy. If you live in a rainy climate take a look at the Weather Shield EnduraShield, $430 each. Among double-hung wood windows it’s the only one to ace our rain tests and wind resistance was impressive. The wood is clad in fiberglass so put away your paint brush. Four vinyl double-hung windows aced our rain tests and several offer impressive or better wind resistance, including the top-scoring Simonton Pro-Finish Contractor, $260 each.

Our window Ratings tell the full story and given the expense of this project you can rely on the results of our window tests to help you learn as much as you can before talking to installers.

 —Kimberly Janeway (@CRJaneway on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Are programmable thermostats good for electric heat pumps?

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Are programmable thermostats good for electric heat pumps?

Q. Many sources, including Consumer Reports, extol the advantages of programmable thermostats. But are they a good thing for electric heat pumps, which deliver less heat over a longer time than electric ones?—Larry Jackson, Spartanburg, SC

A. Any energy savings occur only during the setback period: about 1 percent savings for every degree difference compared with the normal house temperature. Heat-pump systems tend to have less excess capacity, and during cold weather they can take longer to recover to normal temperatures. To compensate, you can reduce the amount of temperature change, though a smaller setback means less savings.

Check our thermostat buying guide, find the best programmable thermostats, and learn more about central air conditioning and gas furnaces.

Send questions to ConsumerReports.org/askourexperts.

This article also appeared in the September 2014 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Can you use a mulching blade if you're bagging lawn clippings?

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Can you use a mulching blade if you're bagging lawn clippings?

Q. I always mulch when mowing, and sometimes I bag clippings to reduce thatch buildup. How is bagging efficiency affected as a result of using a mulching rather than a regular/all-purpose blade?—Ed Krautsdorfer, Denham Springs, LA

A. Depending on whether you’re using a walk-behind mower or a lawn tractor, using a mulching blade for bagging is not the best idea. A bagging blade has a bend or wing at the back to create more airflow to send the grass to the bag. Almost all walk-behind mowers have a combination blade, which does all modes without changing the blade. Many lawn tractors have a specific blade for mulching, which is designed just for the double cutting action needed for good mulching. Using mulching blades for bagging will result in reduced bag filling. It is best to bag using the bagging blades.

Check our lawn mower and tractor buying guide for more information. If your current mower is on the fritz, figure out whether you should repair it or replace it.

Send questions to ConsumerReports.org/askourexperts.

This article also appeared in the September 2014 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Top treadmills for every budget

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Top treadmills for every budget

You can spend $400 on a new treadmill or 10 times that amount. Based on our latest treadmill Ratings of more than 40 models, paying top dollar will get you top performance—specifically the Precor 9.31, a $4,000 non-folding treadmill that combines superb ergonomics, solid construction, and a bevy of useful features. But you can get similar quality for a fraction of the cost, especially if you plan to use the treadmill for walking only. Here are the details. 

$1,000 or less

Several models from our winners’ list of budget folding treadmills sell for an even grand, including two picks from NordicTrack, a big name in exercise equipment. The recently introduced NordicTrack C970 Pro performed particularly well in our tests and it’s quite versatile, a good thing if multiple people in your home will be using it. If you only plan to walk on the treadmill, you can go for a less expensive model with a shorter deck length, say 52 inches or less. With its 50-inch deck, the new Gold's Gym Trainer 420 misses our recommended list by a wide margin. But it should do the job for walkers, and at $377 it’s an amazing bargain; try the treadmill out first in the store to make sure it fits your stride.

$1,000 to $2,000

This mid-range price category includes many recommended folding and non-folding models. If space isn’t a concern, definitely check out the Sole S77. It’s one of our highest-rated non-folding treadmills, whether you’re walking, jogging, or doing intense interval training. You might even do better than $1,900 we paid, since Sole has since introduced a newer version of this machine. 

If you need a folding treadmill in this price range, we really liked the ProForm Pro 2000, $1,250. This well-built, versatile machine is also iFit compatible, meaning it can generate real-world routes on Google Maps (say if you're training for the Boston Marathon) or let you compete against friends; note, however, that the required module is sold separately.   

$2,000 and up

In addition to the abovementioned Precor 9.31, there are several extremely solid and innovative options among high-end treadmills. Consider the Landice L7 Cardio Trainer, a $3,800 non-folding model with exceptional performance and some high-tech features, including iPhone connectivity. There’s also the True PS300, $3,000, with its wide range of exercise programs that are easy to follow on the console’s crisp LCD display.        

Each of these price categories also contains a number of treadmills that were less impressive in our tests, so be sure to check our treadmill Ratings carefully before making your final decision. Our buying guide offers additional helpful information, including a video from our labs of how we test treadmills.  

—Daniel DiClerico (@dandiclerico on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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12 small appliances with extra-large capacities

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12 small appliances with extra-large capacities

Refrigerators, washing machines, and pro-style ranges have been getting bigger and bigger and now we’ve noticed that small appliances are also living large. In fact, some of the top-performing blenders, food processors, coffeemakers, toaster ovens, and stand mixers in Consumer Reports’ tests also have the biggest capacities. The good news is that they don’t take up more space on your countertop. Here are some of the best from our tests.

Stand mixers
The KitchenAid Professional 6500 Design Series, $550, features a six-quart bowl, which is one to two quarts larger than the typical stand mixer.  It costs more than most but is filled with features and impressed in our mixer tests. The KitchenAid combines excellent whipping, mixing, and kneading, plus it can take on an assortment of power attachments, including a pasta maker and food grinder. It comes with a whisk, flat beater, and dough hook.

Food processors
A big food processor is good for cooks who make batches of coleslaw or chop plenty of vegies for stir-fries. The Breville BFP800XL/A, $400, can hold 16 cups—at least two cups more than most other models. We also liked the large capacity Cuisinart Elite Die-Cast 16-Cup, $300. The Breville was excellent at chopping, slicing, shredding, and grating and the Cuisinart was very good at those tasks in our food processor tests.

Blenders
Two recommended blenders by Ninja, the Ninja Professional NJ600, $100, and Ninja Kitchen System 1100 NJ602, $160, both hold nine cups, which is almost twice as much as some blenders. Four of the nine models on our list of top blender picks have capacities of eight cups including the Vitamix 5200, $450, and the Waring Xtreme MX1000R, $350. Of course, they also have hefty price tags. From one of the biggest names in premium blenders, the Vitamix has long been our top-scoring blender. Waring’s commercial blender is one of the quietest models we tested, which you’ll appreciate if your kitchen is within earshot of the rest of the house.

Coffeemakers
The Cuisinart Crystal SCC-1000 Limited Edition Perfec Temp, $200, is the only drip model in our coffeemaker tests that can brew a full 14 cups. And with its jewel-like Swarovski elements it makes a big impression as well. It's top-notch brew performance is matched by a carafe we found easy to hold and pour from. It's also programmable. For half the price but the same performance and capacity try the similar Cuisinart Perfec Temp DCC-2800, $100, which comes without the crystals.

If you prefer coffee make in a French press, consider the Remington iCoffee RCB100-BC12, $170, which is like a drip coffeemaker on steroids. It makes 12 cups in an unusual brewing system that uses jets of water to swirl the grounds, akin to a French press. Remington says the process eliminates the bitter aftertaste of drip coffee.  It's the only recommended model of the new so-called "electric French press" coffeemakers in our tests.

Toaster ovens
The Breville Smart Oven BOV800XL, $250, is priced higher than other models in our toaster oven tests, but its top performance and sleek, sturdy design might justify the cost. It was very good at baking and broiling, and it's roomy enough to handle a 4-pound chicken, a 12-inch pizza and six slices of toast. And unlike many toaster ovens, the Breville is also very adept at making toast.

While it’s not as stylish, the Oster TSSTTVMNDG, $80, can also accommodate a 4-pound chicken, 12-inch pizza and six slices of toast. Oster is known for making inexpensive small appliances that perform well, and this toaster oven is another example of that. It proved particularly adept in our tests at baking and broiling but due to its basic design was not as easy to use or clean as others we tested.

—Mary H.J. Farrell (@mhjfarrell on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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6 ways to improve your vacation or staycation

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6 ways to improve your vacation or staycation

Whether you're coming time off is a staycation or the voyage of a lifetime, the gadgets and products featured here will help make your R&R that much more enjoyable. Be sure to read our advice for making your vacation memorable, not miserable, don't forget to keep your home secure while you're away, and use our luggage buying guide to get the right bags.

—Maggie Shader

1. Headphones

You don't have to spend a lot to upgrade from the mediocre earphones that came with your phone or music player. The Panasonic RP-TCM125 ($10) deliver very good sound and have a one-button remote and mic. Check out these five great, cheap headphones and our buying guide for more options.

2. Tablet

While compact, the 7.9-inch Apple iPad Mini with Retina display ($400 for the 16GB model with Wi-Fi) is big enough for you to enjoy videos, read books and magazines, play games, and surf the Web. It has a great high-res display and a 12.8-hour battery life. Check our buying guide and Ratings of more than 140 models.

3. Wireless speakers

The most portable of the budget speaker systems that we've tested, the JBL Charge ($100) can connect with your media device via Bluetooth or analog audio input; you can orient the speaker vertically or horizontally. Check our our buying guide and Ratings to find a model that's right for you.  

4. Plastic bag

We're not kidding! You don't need a high-tech solution to keep your electronic devices safe from sun, sand, and water or any tasty libations you might be sipping. Check out the best electronics devices for your vacation.

5. Sunscreen

If you're going to be in the sun, slather on Walmart's Equate Ultra Protection SPF 50 ($9), a Consumer Reports' Best Buy, or any of the other highly rated sunscreens from our tests. For good protection, you should apply about one fluid ounce of sunscreen every four hours.

6. Insect repellent

Summer’s insects can be more than annoying. Try a plant-based repellent such as Repel Lemon Eucalyptus, and follow our tips to stop bug bites. Plus find out how to bug-proof your backyard and what to wear to keep mosquitoes and ticks away.

For a staycation: Create a backyard oasis

This month you can find great deals on outdoor furniture, and the right purchases can help you make the most of your outdoor space. Follow our shopping tips so you know what to look for in outdoor furniture. And while you're at it, you should check out the other products on deep discount in August.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Sleep Number beds differ in price not performance

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Sleep Number beds differ in price not performance

What’s the difference between a $1,000 Sleep Number adjustable air mattress and one that costs three times that? Not much according to Consumer Reports’ latest mattress tests. The Sleep Number c2 Bed matched the Sleep Number Innovation Series i8 bed Pillowtop, $3,000, in our tests for back and side support. Even better, we bought the Sleep Number c2 Bed on sale for $700. Here are the details plus news on other new mattresses in our tests.

For our body-support tests we graph the spine’s natural curve on a range of test subjects. Then we evaluate back support by recording how thoroughly a mattress maintains that curve. For side support, we check whether the mattress keeps the spine relatively horizontal when a test subject lies on her side. The best mattresses have a good score or better for both.

In our tests, across various firmness settings, the Sleep Number c2 Bed and the more expensive Sleep Number Innovation Series i8 bed Pillowtop both delivered impressive side support and even better back support. And the c2 Bed was more stable, which means less annoying to your mate when you change sleep positions.

When we took a closer look at the two mattresses we discovered that both were comprised of the same pair of identical air bladders—one for each side, so each partner can customize firmness. But with the Sleep Number c2 Bed, the foam layer on top was significantly thinner than the one you get with the Innovation Series bed. While this difference wouldn’t show up in our body-support tests, you might notice a difference in overall comfort. That’s another reason to try out mattresses in the store before buying, as we routinely advise.

Among adjustable air beds, we also tested the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Choice Supreme, at $3,200 the most expensive of the trio in our tests. Although it was impressive for back support, the Tempur-Pedic was an also-ran behind the two recommended Sleep Numbers. But another Tempur-Pedic, the $1,200 Tempur-Pedic Tempur Simplicity, was among our top picks in foam mattresses.

Once a mattress starts showing its age and is lumpy or sagging, we suggest replacing it even if it’s newer than the 10 years normally recommended. Before shopping, check our buying guide for mattresses and look at our mattress Ratings of 25 innerspring, foam, and adjustable air mattresses priced as low as $515. We also have reader recommendations for mattress retailers and brands.

 

—Ed Perratore (@EdPerratore on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Top cooktop and wall oven combinations

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Top cooktop and wall oven combinations

The flexible combination of a wall oven and cooktop has become more affordable. In fact, some combos cost less than some standalone ranges—especially pro-style models—though installation can add to the cost. Unlike a range, a wall oven allows you to put the oven exactly where you want it: at waist- or eye-level so that you won’t have to bend to pull out heavy pans. Cooktops can go wherever counter space allows, including on an island or a peninsula. That lets you face out into the kitchen rather than in toward the wall. Here are three combos to consider from Consumer Reports’ cooktop and wall oven tests.

Speedy pair
The GE Profile PHP900DMBB cooktop delivers fast heat and precision simmering. Two large ovens in the GE PT9550FSSS wall oven let you bake and broil at once; both ovens also have a convection option. The Wi-Fi-enabled ovens can be controlled from a smart phone, allowing you to save time by changing settings without having to be in the kitchen.

Affordable duo
Two of the four elements on the Maytag MEC7430WS cooktop are high-powered for fast heating and boiling. Low-heat cooking is also superb. The Maytag MEW7530AW wall oven outperformed models costing two and three times as much thanks to its large capacity, impressive baking, and excellent broiling.

Cooking with gas
This combo mixes brands to tap the top models in their categories. Fast heating and superb simmering made the Thermador SGSX365FS our best 36-inch cooktop; three of five burners are high-powered. For the Whirlpool WOD93EC0AS double oven, oven space and convection in the upper chamber are potential time-savers.

—Adapted from Consumer Reports' Kitchen Planning & Buying Guide

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Do you really need an air purifier?

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Do you really need an air purifier?

For a lot of folks, air pollution is synonymous with belching smokestacks and smog-filled skies. But pollutants found right under your roof, including mold spores, dust mites, and even carbon monoxide, are often the bigger problen. Consumer Reports' latest tests of more than 40 air purifiers yielded a handful of winners that could help clear the air.  

Before you make the investment, follow our advice for improving indoor air quality through enhanced ventilation, better moisture management, and the control of source contaminants in your home. If, after all that, you or others in your home are still suffering from allergies, asthma, headaches, or the like, look for an air purifier that excelled in our tough tests, in which we fill a room with smoke and dust and let the machines prove their cleaning power.

If your home has a forced-air heating or cooling system, consider a whole-house purifier, which is a basically a super filter that replaces the standard filter inside your furnace. Installing a 1-inch-thick filter, such as the $20 3M Filtrete 1900 MPR, can be an easy, inexpensive do-it-yourself project. Thicker purifiers, including the top-rated Lennox Healthy Climate CarbonClean 16, $100, require professional installation, adding a couple hundred bucks to their initial cost.   

Portable room air purifiers, which typically weigh between 10 and 20 pounds, are designed to clean a single area of your home. Larger models, including our top-scoring Honeywell HPA300, $250, tend to capture the most airborne particulates in our tests at both high and low speeds because of the increased surface area of their filters.  

As you sift through our air purifier Ratings, remember that you'll have to routinely replace the filter on your air purifier. This expense is reflected in our annual cost and could be the difference of $100 or more in your pocket each year.

—Daniel DiClerico (@dandiclerico on Twitter)                  

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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The best countertops for busy kitchens

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The best countertops for busy kitchens

Replacing a scratched, scorched, stained, or just plain unattractive countertop can transform any kitchen. Happily, there are lots of options in a wide range of prices. A new laminate countertop can cost as little as $10 per square foot. Or you could easily spend 10 times that on quartz, granite, or recycled glass. Consumer Reports tested more than a dozen popular types of countertops to see how well they resisted stains, heat damage, cuts, abrasion, and impact, and found seven that passed muster. Here are the details.

In our countertop tests, performance varied from one material to the next but there was little difference among competing brands of each type, so be sure to shop around for the best deal on your countertop of choice. The prices below are for a typical kitchen with 56 square feet of counters and include installation. For the pros and cons of each type, see the numbered entries below.

1. Quartz
Cost. $2,240 to $5,600
Pros. It mimics the look of stone yet needs less maintenance. Hot pots, serrated knives, abrasive pads, and most stains were no match for quartz, which is a combination of mineral, color, and resin. It comes in vibrant colors in addition to patterns that look like granite and marble.
Cons. Edges and corners can chip, and you’ll need a pro to repair them. Rounded edges help.

2. Granite
Cost. $2,240 to $5,600
Pros. Each slab of this natural material is unique; rare colors and veining cost more. Heat, cuts, and scratches didn’t harm granite in our tests. Polished and matte finishes resisted most stains when properly sealed, so pick the look you prefer.
Cons. Periodic resealing is needed to fend off stains. Like quartz, edges and corners can chip and must be professionally repaired.

3. Soapstone, limestone, and marble
Cost. $2,800 to $5,600 (soapstone or limestone), $2,800 to $8,400 (marble)
Pros. Soapstone isn’t as common as granite, and it’s superb at resisting heat damage. Small scratches can be repaired by sanding finely and applying mineral oil. Limestone (pictured) and marble are classic materials.  Limestone also has a natural-stone look without heavy veining or graining and it resists heat.
Cons. Soapstone nicks, cuts, and scratches easily, and some stains are too tough to be washed away. Limestone and marble also have those drawbacks, and heat damaged our marble.

4. Laminate
Cost. $560 to $2,240
Pros. Inexpensive, easy to install, and so much better-looking than you probably remember, thanks to new printing technology and decorative edges. Stains and heat didn’t damage the laminates we tested.
Cons. Cutting directly on it easily and permanently damages laminate, so use a cutting board.

5. Solid surfacing
Cost. $1,960 to $5,600
Pros. Available in a variety of colors and patterns, it can be used for counters, sink, and backsplash, creating a seamless look because joints are almost invisible. And like quartz, its color won’t vary much from the store sample. Solid surfacing is resistant to most stains, and small nicks and scratches can be repaired.
Cons. It scratches and cuts easily, so a cutting board is a must.

6. Recycled glass
Cost. $3,360 to $6,720
Pros. Large shards give it a fun, contemporary look; finely ground glass makes it less busy. Most glass counters we tested resisted stains, cuts, scratches, and heat.
Cons. It’s the only material for which we found a difference among brands. Cosentino’s Eco counters were the only ones that developed a thin crack during our heat tests.

7. Butcher block
Cost. $2,240 to $5,600
Pros. It adds warmth and is easy to install and repair, but the finish makes a difference. Varnish improved stain resistance, but penetrating oils diminished it.
Cons. Nicks and scratches can easily happen, though they can be sanded out.

—Adapted from Consumer Reports Kitchen Planning & Buying Guide

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Be prepared for the next big storm

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Be prepared for the next big storm

Staying warm and keeping your home’s plumbing from freezing this winter could be a challenge if a storm shuts down the power. The best portable generators can run your furnace, refrigerator, and other essentials for as little as $600. Larger, stationary models, which install permanently outside your home, add an electric oven and dryer, central air conditioning, and other comforts to that list. And some of both types make less noise and use less fuel than others, though you pay for those benefits up front. Here are the details from Consumer Reports' generator tests:

The king of quiet. Efficient inverter technology helps keep the portable Honda EU7000is at roughly the level of normal conversation, compared with the equivalent of a loud vacuum cleaner for most other models. Automotive-style fuel injection also helped this 5,500-watt machine sip gasoline, rather than guzzle it. But at $4,000, it costs more up front than even the largest stationary generator we tested. A better value: the Generac RS7000E, a CR Best Buy for $900, which makes far more noise but offers even more power.

Power without pooping out. All generators should be able to deliver the wattage they’re claimed to provide, plus a little extra to handle temporary surge demands for refrigerators and other motorized items that cycle on and off. The portable Generac RS7000E and the stationary Kohler 8.5 RES-QS7, $3,200, and Cummins 13GSBA-6722B/12B, $4,300, were among the best at delivering that reserve power without bogging down or stalling. Kipor promises its portable Kipor IG6000h can “easily power appliances with a power-draining startup.” But this $2,300 generator cut out under even moderate loads and proved relatively noisy, despite its inverter technology.

Protection for sensitive stuff. Smooth, steady power without dips and steps helps protect computers and other electronics and keeps refrigerator motors from overheating. Several stationary generators delivered that power in our tests. But though most portables handled our household loads capably, few matched the smoothness of the pricey, inverter-equipped Hondas in our generator Ratings

A chain saw might come in handy in the wake of a weather emergency. Get the details below. And read about lessons learned from Superstorm Sandy.

Shopping tips for generators

Look for smart features

Portables with electric start save you the effort of pulling on a starter cord. Most automatically shut down if engine oil gets low. A fuel shutoff helps you drain gasoline from the carburetor and lines.

Decide on portable or stationary

In addition to offering more power, stationary generators start automatically when the power goes out. And ­because they run on propane or natural gas, they save you the hassle and safety risks of storing many gallons of gasoline.

Plan for safe setup

A transfer switch (about $500 to $900 installed) safely connects a portable generator to your home’s wiring. Avoid carbon-monoxide risks by running portables at least 15 feet from the house, away from open windows and doors.

Factor in fuel

Most portables use about 12 to 20 gallons of gasoline or four to eight 20-pound propane tanks per day. Stationary models can run 8 to 15 days on a 250-gallon propane tank.

Don't forget cost of installation

To install a stationary generagor, figure on $2,000 to $5,000, along with the required town or municipal permits. Your contractor should be familiar with proper setback distance, noise, and other local requirements.

What you need in an emergency

• A whistle to attract help, dust masks, duct tape, a wrench or pliers, flashlights, and batteries.

• At least 1 gallon of water per person per day for three days, moist towelettes, plus garbage bags.

• Sleeping bags.

• A first-aid kit, hand sanitizer, pain medicine, tweezers, and sharp scissors.

• At least three days’ worth of crackers, cereal, canned foods—and, yes, a manual can opener.

Got trees? Add a chain saw to your list of emergency gear. In Consumer Reports' chain saw tests, the models below buzzed through 6x6-inch oak beams and include an array of safety features.

Before you start cutting, always keep safety in mind. Most saws have a brake that stops the chain if the bar kicks back toward the operator, but you’ll still need protective chaps, gloves, steel-tipped boots, a helmet, face shield, and hearing protection. (That gear costs about $200.) Start gas saws on the ground at least 10 feet from a fuel source. Use two hands when sawing. Don’t lean into the cut or saw above shoulder level. And avoid cutting with the tip to help prevent kickback.

Best for most needs

The Stihl combines speedy sawing with low kickback and a chain you adjust without tools. Paying more for the Echo buys less weight and easier handling.

For heavier work

All three are rated for 300 hours of use. The Echo and Husqvarna 455 Rancher are fast but heavy and kicked back more than some in our tests. The Husqvarna 445 trades some speed for less weight.

For more occasional use

Choose the gas Craftsman if power outages are common. Top performance at a low price makes the Worx a standout among corded saws, and the Ego topped our tests of cordless saws.

This article also appeared in the October 2014 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Don't fall for fall home improvement scams

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Don't fall for fall home improvement scams

With autumn on its way, you’re probably thinking about preparing your home for cooler weather. While you do that, scammers are thinking about how take advantage of you. Here are four fall home improvement scams you shouldn't, uh, fall for. In all of these, con artists may advertise using flyers, or by placing ads in newspapers, the phone book, or online. Some use telemarketing, and still others go door to door.

Your ductwork is making your home unhealthy. You’ll probably see lots of ads for ductwork cleaning services. But ductwork cleaning is often unnecessary, and it can even damage your heating system and create a health hazard. In July, the St. Louis-based Better Business Bureau issued an alert about a ductwork cleaning company that consumers complained was advertising low-cost cleaning services and then charging hundreds or thousands of dollars more for additional work. The BBB said consumers reported that the company used high-pressure sales tactics and misrepresented itself as being associated with well-known local companies. Over the years, we’ve seen many similar complaints about ductwork cleaning firms.

Your chimney needs repairs. Scammers sometimes advertise special discounted rates for chimney cleaning and inspection. Following the inspection, they tell homeowners their chimneys needs expensive repairs, such as liner replacement. They may offer a discount for those that pay with cash. Once they have a victim’s money, they may leave without having done anything, or they may perform shoddy and unsafe work.

Cut your heating costs with a free energy audit. Con artists may advertise “free” energy audits, sometimes misrepresenting themselves as being from the local utility. The goal is to trick you into paying thousands of dollars for items such as insulation or solar blankets for your attic. Another concern is that letting someone you don’t know into your home could be inviting theft or even worse.

Your gutters need cleaning.  Gutter cleaning is particularly difficult for elderly people, who often end up being victimized the most by this con. Someone may offer this service for as little $30. They often go door-to-door, saying they're working nearby and can therefore provide a discount off the usual price. The actual work may be poorly done or, as with the other cons, the scammers may use this as an opportunity to charge for unnecessary repairs.  We’ve seen a couple of cases in which victims reported having their homes burglarized.

Planning a major project? Read "How To Hire a Reputable Remodeling Contractor."

What to do

Get expert advice. When it comes to winterizing your home, some tasks are important, such as having your heating system inspected. Others, including cleaning your home's ductwork, may be unnecessary. If you’re not sure, do some investigating, perhaps by using a Web search. There is lots of advice available from state and federal agencies, industry trade groups, and others. For instance, the EPA provides plenty of information about whether you should have your ducts cleaned and how to choose a reliable company. It also has tips on the steps you should take to make sure your heating system is operating correctly, including, of course, changing filters. The U.S. Department of Energy has advice on home energy audits (There’s a lot more to it than you probably think).

Don’t be victimized by fly-by-night companies. Finding contractors by using ads in your local newspaper or phone book could be inviting trouble. It’s much better to get names of reliable companies from friends or relatives. Be especially dubious if a contractor contacts you. Don’t be lured by claims that the company can offer you a special deal because it’s working nearby or has material leftover from another job.

Check the company’s reputation. Look for a report at the Better Business Bureau. (Don’t rely on the BBB’s letter grade alone. Check the number and types of complaints, if any).  Use a Web search with the company name and such words as “reviews” and “complaints.”

Check for licensing. Depending on the state or locality, some contractors may need to be licensed or registered. And some jobs may require building permits. Consult your town or state consumer agency. In some states, including Connecticut, Maryland, and Massachusetts, dealing with a licensed or registered home improvement contractor can make you eligible for reimbursement from state guaranty funds that reimburse consumers for improper or incomplete work.

Don’t pay up front. Never pay for services in advance. You’re inviting the company to abscond without doing anything. And you can lose your leverage if things go wrong. The same goes for paying by cash or check. Using a credit card is the best way to protect yourself. If a company doesn’t accept credit cards, it could be a sign that it’s a fly-by-night. An exception may be for major projects that cost many thousands of dollars, such as remodeling your home, in which you might need to pay by check.

—Anthony Giorgianni

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Color-changing LIFX LED lightbulb is ready to party

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Color-changing LIFX LED lightbulb is ready to party

Few lightbulbs come with as good a story as LIFX. Phil Bosua invented these LEDs. His previous gigs include electrician, drummer, and app designer—experience that he used to create color-changing LEDs that connect to a Wi-Fi network for smart phone control. Bosua pitched his idea in a video on the Kickstarter crowdfunding website. Funders, also known as strangers, pledged $1.3 million in six days. Consumer Reports’ lightbulb experts were intrigued and put LIFX through some initial tests and then started playing with it.

As a lightbulb, it’s bright. We paid $99 for a LIFX LED and in our preliminary tests this dimmable bulb met the claims we tested. It was nearly as bright as a 75-watt incandescent, used about 17 watts of energy, and cast light like a floodlight does. When we first turned the LED on the light color was bright white, but after a tester installed the app on a smart phone and set up the bulb with a home Wi-Fi network he changed the light color from warm yellow to a bluish white and then any color he wanted. You can use a light switch to turn the LED on and off, but a smart phone lets you brighten and dim the LED remotely. LIFX says you can connect LIFX to a Nest thermostat and when it switches to away mode the lights turn on and off to create a lived-in look. LIFX claims this LED lasts 40,000 hours. That’s nearly 37 years when used 3 hours a day.

Party mode. Our tester set up the bulb with his home Wi-FI network and started playing with colors, setting a mood and transforming a space, and sampled six effects. One caused the light to pulsate to the beat of the music and switched colors. The candle effect created a yellow-orange light flicker, while lava light cycled through intense colors. Some effects didn’t work at first, but eventually they did, although some stopped on their own. The LIFX website says more features are coming via free app updates.

Security weaknesses found. According to the U.K.-based Context company, its experts hacked into a private Wi-Fi network via LIFX LEDs and then notified LIFX. Context does note on its website that an attacker would have to be within wireless range, making a large scale hack impractical. LIFX announced on its website in late June that new firmware was available for downloading which offers security improvements and bug fixes.

The lighting revolution continues. We're looking for the next big thing, but if you need energy-saving sources of light—minus the special effects—take a look at our lightbulb Ratings of dozens of LEDs and CFLs. 

—Kimberly Janeway

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Cordless Hoover upright doesn't cut it for carpets

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Cordless Hoover upright doesn't cut it for carpets

Shop for a hand or stick vacuum, and you’re more likely to find a battery-powered model than a corded one, and cordless stick vacs even seem to have an advantage over plug-ins in Consumer Reports' tests of small vacuums. But when it comes to running a full-size vacuum off a battery, the $300 Hoover Air Cordless BH50140 is another indication that the technology still has a long way to go.

The bagless Hoover isn’t without charm. Even when equipped with one of its two included lithium-ion batteries, the unit weighs a mere 10 pounds, making it one of the lightest full-size vacuums we’ve tested. As a result, its handling score—how easy it is to push, pull, and carry—was among the best. We also found it superb at cleaning bare floors, as with most uprights, and picking up pet hair. Features you might appreciate include a removable cleaning wand, battery-life indicator, and rinsable filter.

Yet it’s deep-cleaning carpets that brings out a vacuum’s full capability, and it’s there that the Hoover let us down despite the company’s claim that it can “lift and remove deep down embedded dirt with three channels of suction.” Worse, the vacuum had scant airflow for its included tools, and in our emissions test it spewed out much of what it picked up.

This isn’t the first cordless upright that's claimed to be as powerful as a full-size, corded vacuum. The Gtech AirRam, $350, which Slate called “the Tesla of vacuum cleaners,” didn’t exactly go the distance in our tough tests. On bare floors, it did great, and handling the roughly 8-pound unit was impressive. But it was mediocre at deep-cleaning carpets, worse for pet-hair pickup, and on the noisy side—like most corded vacuums.

The challenge of balancing deep-cleaning power for carpets and the common desire for a lightweight vacuum is why you don’t often see such vacuums at the top of our Ratings. Still, our picks for uprights include models that come close to satisfying both criteria including the bagged Hoover WindTunnel Max UH30600, $180, and Hoover WindTunnel T-Series Pet UH30310, $150, both 17 pounds, and the Sebo Felix Premium, $600, which weighs 16 pounds. Among bagless uprights, the Dyson DC65 Animal, $600, and Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away NV501, $260, weigh 17 pounds each.  At 14 pounds, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352, $200, is the lightest upright vacuum we recommend.

In the market for a new vacuum? Check out our buying guide for vacuums before diving into our Ratings of almost 140 vacuums of all shapes, sizes, and weights.

—Ed Perratore (@EdPerratore on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Chikungunya virus may come to a town near you

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Chikungunya virus may come to a town near you

This summer you took your chances if you visited the Caribbean. If you were bitten by a mosquito carrying a disease called chikungunya, you could be very sick for 7 to 10 days with fever and severe joint pain. And that is exactly what happened to nearly 600 people, who then carried the disease back to the U.S. with them. Nearly every state has reported cases from travelers, with the most in Florida, New York, and New Jersey.

And now there are mosquitoes in Florida that carry the disease, and they're waiting to infect more Floridians. It's just a matter of time before chikungunya travels to more states, because parts of the U.S. have the right type of mosquitoes for that task.  

Health officials are worried about this disease for a few reasons. Most people recover, that's true. But it can cause a crippling arthritis that persists for months, says Roger Nasci, Ph.D., chief of the arboviral diseases branch in the division of vector-borne diseases at the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Also, unlike West Nile virus, where about 1 in 5 of the people who get infected gets sick, about three-quarters of the people who get infected with chikungunya develop symptoms, he says.

Add to that the fact that the insects that carry the disease in the U.S., the Asian tiger mosquito and the yellow fever mosquito, bite during the day as well as at dawn and dusk.

Learn the best way to stop bug bites and limit your risk from chemicals. And find out how to control other backyard insects, including ticks and stinging insects.  

But help may be on the way, eventually. There are currently no licensed vaccines for chikungunya virus, but a study published today in The Lancet says one shows promise. A trial involving 25 healthy volunteers ages 18 to 50 showed that even the lowest doses of the vaccine were effective and only a few people reported mild to moderate side effects.

The next stage would be for a much larger trial to be done. Because the cost of developing a vaccine such as this is estimated to be $200 million to $500 million, it's not certain whether it will become an option for consumers in the near future. But it should be encouraged, especially if chikungunya becomes a major health threat, says Ann Powers, Ph.D., of the CDC.

Meanwhile, what can you do to protect yourself? Consumer Reports recommends taking these steps.

  • Stop mosquitoes from breeding. Because they are drawn to murky water, keep your yard free of containers filled with water, such as gutters, birdbaths, tires, wheelbarrows, wading pools, and swimming pool covers. Clear away ivy and decaying leaves, because mosquitoes like cool, dark places.
  • To discourage bites, use LED or yellow light bulbs on your porch and around your house, and plug in a fan when on your deck. Citronella, in candles or in the oil in tiki torches, is a mild repellent.
  • When you’re outside, cover up. Wear long sleeves, long pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes. Avoid tight clothes (mosquitoes can bite through them), dark colors, and perfume or aftershave (both attract them). You can purchase clothes treated with the repellent permethrin, or spray it on your clothes (but never on your skin). Manufacturers say that one application lasts several weeks, but our tests of treated clothing a few years ago found that permethrin didn’t work well.
  • Try a plant-based insect repellent. Examples include Repel Lemon Eucalyptus (which has a synthetic version of a naturally occurring chemical) and Natrapel or other products that contain 20 percent picaridin (a chemical similar to a compound in black pepper). In our 2010 tests, both worked for at least 7 hours. The risk of side effects for both is low, but the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says not to use the Repel product on kids younger than 3.
  • When you use deet, keep levels low. Our experts recommend using no more than 30 percent deet, ever. If you’re, say, on an overnight camping trip and need long-term bug protection, reapply a product with 15 percent deet (such as Off FamilyCare Smooth & Dry spray) and use it sparingly. Each application will protect you from mosquito bites for at least 8 hours.

If you get a mosquito bite, use cool compresses and an over-the-counter steroid cream, such as hydrocortisone (Cortizone-10 and generic), to ease itching. Applying calamine lotion or dabbing on undiluted white vinegar might also help, says Marvin M. Lipman, M.D., Consumer Reports’ chief medical adviser. See a doctor if you develop a fever, a headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, swollen lymph glands, or a rash on your torso.

—Sue Byrne

Why is it called chikungunya?

This mosquito-borne disease (pronounced chik-en-gun-ye) was first identified in what is now Tanzania in 1952 following an outbreak in a Swahili village. The name comes from the regional word used to describe the symptoms, meaning "that which bends up" or "walking bent over," referring to the stooped posture of the patients.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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Reduce your food waste and your grocery bill

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Reduce your food waste and your grocery bill

An astonishing 36 million tons of discarded food ends up in landfills each year. Not only does that waste the money spent to buy the food and the energy to keep it fresh but when the food decomposes it produces methane, a harmful greenhouse gas. To reverse this trend, the Environmental Protection Agency is encouraging people to reduce food waste and asking restaurants and supermarkets to donate unused food to food banks. You can do your part by following the tips below from the EPA.

  • Shop your refrigerator first. Cook or eat what you already have at home before buying more food.
  • Plan your menu before you go shopping and buy only those things on the menu.
  • Buy only what you realistically need and will use. Buying in bulk only saves money if you're able to use the food before it spoils.
  • Be creative. Use the edible parts of food that you normally do not eat. For example, stale bread can be used to make croutons and beet tops can be sautèed for a side dish.
  • Freeze, preserve, or can surplus fruits and vegetables—especially abundant seasonal produce.
  • At restaurants, order only what you can finish by asking about portion sizes and be aware of side dishes included with entrees. Take home the leftovers and keep them for your next meal.
  • At all-you-can-eat buffets, take only what you can eat.
  • Compost food scraps rather than throwing them away.
  • Nutritious, safe, and untouched food can be donated to food banks to help those in need. Here’s how to find a food bank near you.

Best refrigerators from our tests
Of course, the best way to keep food fresh is to have a top-performing refrigerator. The best refrigerators in our tests have superb temperature performance and are energy efficient. Here are the winners from our tests of six types.

Convertible freezer/refrigerator. If you like to buy in bulk, you may want to consider the Frigidaire FKCH17F7HW, $750, which is the industry's first stand-alone freezer that also doubles as an extra refrigerator. In its refrigerator mode, the Frigidaire delivered excellent temperature control and energy efficiency. As a freezer, the Frigidaire also delivered excellent temperature control, plus it’s self-defrosting.

—Mary H.J. Farrell (@mhjfarrell on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S.

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