You might not consider Electrolux a household name. But that's likely to change the next time you're shopping for a new washing machine or kitchen range, thanks to the Swedish manufacturer's $3.3 billion acquisition of GE Appliances. With the deal, Electrolux catapults past Whirlpool as the major appliance market leader in the U.S. Here's what you need to know about the new number one, based on Consumer Reports' testing.  

The Electrolux brand is geared toward higher-end consumers with a preference for European styling and innovation. Think Kelly Ripa, who the company hired as its spokesperson in 2008 to burnish its reputation for style and sophistication. Electrolux also owns Frigidaire, which it positions as a mass-market alternative. GE appliances, including its Cafe, Profile, and Monogram lines, will continue to be sold under the GE name.     

Electrolux's current brands have had a lot of success in Consumer Reports' tests. For example, several of our recommended electric smoothtops are from the Electrolux family, including the 30-inch Electrolux Icon E30EC65ESS, $1,200, and the 36-inch Frigidaire Professional FPEC3685KS, $1,000. We were also very impressed by the $1,800 Frigidaire Gallery FGIF3061NF, a 30-inch range with induction.

Electrolux also figures prominently in our vacuum Ratings. Many models are middle-of-the-pack, but it has a handful of capable performers, including the Electrolux UltraCaptic EL4650, a $700 bagless canister vacuum that's particularly tough on pet hair and bare floors.

The laundry category is where we expect to see the biggest growth for Electrolux, especially as the company leverages GE's deep ties with U.S. homebuilders. But they've got their work cut out for them, since Samsung and LG have been dominating our Ratings of washing machines and clothes dryers. The competition should be a good incentive, and a boon to consumers.    

As for GE, Electrolux is acquiring the iconic barnd at a good time. The recently launched refrigerator factory in Louisville, Kentucky has been cranking out some very impressive and innovative French-door models, including the GE Profile PWE23KMDES, $2,600, which is tied for the top spot among all our tested refrigerators.

GE also brings to Electrolux its exceptional distribution network, which is capable of delivering a new major appliance to your doorstep within 18 hours of purchase. Think about the next time your oven goes kaput the day before Thanksgiving. As far as our range Ratings are concerned, GE and Electrolux are two brands to consider.      

—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.

Remember coil-top ranges? Style and status aren’t the reasons to buy one but it’s good to know that for well under $500 you can buy an excellent range. Electric smoothtop ranges are the big sellers, and induction deliver the fastest cooktop heat yet have been slow to catch on in the U.S. Here’s a look at some of the best electric ranges Consumer Reports has tested. All are top range picks.

Smoothtop
LG LRE3083W, $1,000
Here’s the deal: Superb simmering and fast cooktop heat helped put it on top. Baking and self-cleaning were impressive, broiling was superb.
Need to know: There are four rangetop cooking elements, including two high-powered that are handy for quickly bringing large pots of water to a boil and good for searing and stir-frying. The range-top warming element keeps side dishes warm while you do the rest. The large oven has a timesaving convection option and the steam-clean feature is meant for light cleaning.

Slide-in smoothtop
GE Café CS980SNSS, $2,800
Here’s the deal: The control panel and knobs are up front so there’s no back panel and the look is built-in and stylish. That’s why it’s priced so high. This range was excellent at simmering, baking, and broiling, and impressive at delivering fast cooktop heating.
Consider this: Oven cleaning was so-so and while there are five range-top elements only one is high-power.
Need to know: The large oven has convection and there’s a warming drawer below.

Smoothtop double oven
LG LDE3037SB, $1,300
Here’s the deal: Pairs a smaller top oven with a larger oven below. It was the only smoothtop to ace all our tests and is top rated. It was superb at simmering and delivered fast cooktop heat. Baking, broiling, and self-cleaning were excellent and the combined capacity of ovens is excellent.
Consider this: It costs less than most double-oven ranges in our tests and you might be able to get by using the smaller oven for daily dinner and the larger for hosting holiday and dinner parties.
Need to know: Four range-top elements, including two high-power, and a warming element. The ovens have a steam-clean function for light cleaning and the lower oven has convection. But since there are two ovens there’s no drawer to store pots—something had to go.

Induction
Kenmore 95073, $1,530
Here’s the deal: Induction rangetop heat is the fastest we’ve tested—about 25 percent faster than smoothtops. In addiition to being fast, this Kenmore delivers precise simmering and control. The large oven offers impressive baking and broiling, and this is one of the few induction ranges that excelled at self-cleaning.
Consider this: It costs less than the other induction ranges we tested but all induction models require magnetic cookware.
Need to know: It has four cooktop elements, including two high power, convection option, and a warming drawer.

Coil top
Kenmore 94142, $430
Here’s the deal: It’s a basic range and a CR Best Buy. Will you see Kelly Ripa hawking it on TV? Nope. But it’s the best of the coil ranges. Fast heat, superb simmering, and a large oven that was impressive at baking are what you get. This range even aced our tough self-cleaning test.
Consider this: Broiling is so-so, and when we said basic, that’s what we mean. Forget convection.
Need to know: There are four range-top elements, including two high-power. It’s available in stainless.

More choices. There are dozens of electric, gas, and pro-style ranges in our range Ratings. Use them to find the one that fits your space and budget.

—Kimberly Janeway 

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

Gone are the days when a kitchen sink was just a rectangular stainless-steel hole in the counter. Today, you not only have a wide array of sizes, shapes, and configurations to choose from, but also à la carte accessories—like drop-in cutting boards or the utensil holders—that can turn your sink into a multipurpose prep and cleanup zone. Here are some types to consider plus the sink materials that did best in Consumer Reports' sink tests.

Top-mount (drop-in, self-rimming)
Best for a tight budget. It sits directly on top of the counter. Top-mounted sinks work with any countertop material and are the simplest type to install.
But grime tends to build up around the lip of the sink. And top-mounts can detract from the look of stone countertops.
Price: $100 to $500

Farmhouse (apron-front)
Best for many kitchen styles. Stainless-steel models work well with modern designs; copper or enameled cast iron suit a country style. It’s typically a deep single bowl with the faucet installed in the counter or wall.
But farmhouse sinks are pricey and may require special cabinets. Plus, water can drip onto the cabinet below, causing damage to the finish or even the wood.
Price: $900 to $3,700

Undermount
Best for a sleek look and easy cleanup. You can wipe spills and crumbs from counters directly into the sink. Faucets are installed into the counter or mounted on a wall behind the sink.
But this type is usually more expensive and limited to waterproof solid-surface countertop materials, not laminate counters or most woods.
Price: $200 to $1,000

Trough
Best for use as a prep or bar sink because it’s long and narrow—from 8 to 14 inches wide and up to 50 inches long. Longer versions can be used by more than one person at a time.
But they’re expensive and more fun than functional. And they might require custom cabinetry; typical sink cabinets aren’t designed for such a long, narrow fixture.
Price: $500 to $2,100

Top sinks in our tests
Stainless steel sinks outperformed all over materials in our sink tests. The stainless sinks were excellent at resisting stains, abrasions, sharp impacts and high heat. A drawback is that they can be noisy whenhit with running water. Next best was solid surfacing, which homeowners like because they can be paired with counters made of the same material for a seamless look. But in our tests high heat and dropping a sharp, light object, similar to a knife, damaged solid surfacing. Enameled steel and enameled cast iron typically cost less but stain more easily and the enamel can chip or crack if you drop a pot or sharp object. Acrylic sinks might look like enamel but they scratch more easily and heat can be damaging. Fireclay was the most expensive and the poorest performer.

Don’t forget the faucet. Buying a new sink gives you the opportunity to replace your faucet. In our faucet tests, models with a physical vapor deposition or PVD finish stood up to the most punishment.

—Adapted from Consumer Reports' Kitchen Planning and Buying Guide

Photos courtesy of the Kohler kitchen gallery

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

With schools back in session, washing machines across the country are getting a workout cleaning those smelly gym and sports clothes. But do you know how often you should be washing your everyday clothes, sheets, and towels? Perhaps more often than you think. Here are some recommendations from the American Cleaning Institute for when it’s time to wash sheets, jeans, shirts, socks, underwear, and other items followed by some of the top laundry detergents from Consumer Reports’ tests. Of course, if you spill something on your best blouse wash it immediately.

Remember to match your detergent to your washing maching machine. More and more detergents are designed for both conventional and high-efficiency machines but if you use standard detergent in an HE machine it can generate too much suds and make the machine work harder.

When to wash what:

• Sheets. At least every two weeks, more often if you sweat a lot.
• Pajamas. After 3 or 4 wearings (if you shower before bed, you may get a few more).
• Towels. After 3 or 4 normal uses or more frequently if you play sports.
• Socks and underwear. After each wearing.
• Bras. After 2 to 3 wearings.
• T-shirts, tank tops and camisoles. After each wearing.
• Dress shirts and khakis. Can be worn a few times before washing unless you are sweating or they are visibly dirty.
• Jeans. Can typically be worn 3 times before washing.
• Leggings. After every wearing to get rid of the baggy knees.
• Bathing suits. After every wearing.
• Whites and silks. After every wearing because they’re prone to discoloration.

The best laundry detergents from our tests
Tide holds the top two spots in our tests of high-efficiency laundry detergents and the top spot in detergents for conventional machines. Here are our picks:

• Tide Ultra Stain Release (HE)
• Tide HE Plus Bleach Alternative (HE)
• Member's Mark Ultimate Clean (Sam's Club) (HE)
• Wisk Deep Clean (HE)
• Tide Ultra Free & Gentle (conventional)

Washers and dryers. And if your washer or dryer is laboring under the extra loads, check out our full Ratings and recommendations of washing machines and clothes dryers.

—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.

With their bounty of barbecue, fancy frozen drinks, and hot hors d'oeuvres, tailgating parties can be as competitive as the game. White table linens and candelabra have been spotted in the parking lots of some tony colleges while Weber reports that one of every three tailgate hosts brings a full-size grill to the party. If you’re new to the game, we found some products from Consumer Reports’ tests that guarantee a good time. Here’s the score.

Portable grill
While the Weber Q 2200, $220, didn’t make our list of top grill picks because it lacks the versatility of its bigger brethren, it’s a handy little grill that’s very good at preheating and at grilling at both high and low temperatures. It also has plenty of shelf space on both sides of the cooking box. The grill is fueled by a one-pound propane cylinder. And you gotta admit, the Q could stand for cute.

Inverter generator
If you really love tailgating and often go camping too, the Honda EU7000is portable inverter generator, $4,000, is worth a look. It did well enough in our tests to make the list of top generator picks. Two plusses: the Honda provided especially clean power with consistently high voltage and was very quiet from a distance of 23 feet so you can still carry on a conversation. The generator can run for 8 to 16 hours but at 292 pounds you’ll need help getting it in and out of the car.

Blender
A blender is one thing you can power with that generator. You can’t go wrong with the Ninja Master Prep Professional QB1004. It costs only $60 and aced our icy drink and ice crush tests. Tied at the top of our blender Ratings is the $450 Vitamix 5200. It also excelled in our frozen drink, puree, and ice crush tests and it's one of the few models that makes hot soup, perfect for those crisp fall days.

Pizza box
Want to impress your friends with pizza on the grill? Try the BakerStone Pizza Box, $150, which turns your grill into an outdoor pizza oven. In our tests, it turned out tasty pies in about four minutes. If this appeals, keep in mind that you’ll have to use a bigger grill. The porcelain-enameled steel box, which weighs 27 pounds, needs to be placed on top of a grill with three or more burners.

Grill accessories
You can also make pizza on a regular pizza stone on your Weber. Or bring along some other grill accessories such as a rib rack, grill wok, or a basket to cook delicate fish. We found them to be very handy in our tests of eight grill accessories. And instead of getting caught in the traffric leaving the game, sit back and let a GrillBot clean your grates, although it was a bit noisy in our tests.

Need a new grill? See our full gas grill Ratings and recommendations. It's a good time to look for sales at your local home improvement store.

—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.

This week’s early snowfall in South Dakota and Canada is a reminder that the rest of us should get ready for what the Farmers’ Almanac predicts will be a rough winter. One of the most vulnerable parts of your house is the roof, which can sustain damage from wind, snow, ice, heavy rains, and fallen trees. Failing to make needed repairs is one reason a roof can fall prey to the elements. Here are some things you should do before the snow flies as well as the best roofing materials from Consumer Reports’ tests.

“Many types of severe weather can put added stress on roofs, from high-speed winds ripping off shingles, heavy debris and ice getting caught in gutters, to the weight of excess snow,” said Jim Gustin, Senior Property Specialist, Risk Control at Travelers Insurance. “As we gear up for fall, there’s no better time to inspect roofs for damage, make any necessary repairs and clean the gutters to help prevent some of the most common causes of damage that occur.”

Travelers recommends taking the following steps to ensure your roof is in good condition and to prevent potential damage:

• Trim trees and remove dead branches so they won’t damage your home if they fall because of wind, ice, or snow.
• Clear gutters and downspouts of debris. As the leaves fall, make sure they aren’t building up in the gutters.
• Check for any roof damage. Pay attention to surface bubbles and areas with missing gravel on flat roofs, or missing or damaged shingles or tiles on sloped roofs.
• Add extra insulation in the attic to guard against ice dams. When too much heat escapes, it can melt the ice and snow on the roof. When it refreezes, it can cause an ice dam, causing water to back up into your home.
• Check the flashing on the roof to make sure it’s in good condition to help prevent water penetration.
• If your roof needs replacing, consider impact-resistant roofing materials, especially if you live in a hail-prone area.

The best roofing materials from our tests
In Consumer Reports’ roofing tests, we pull and pound shingles for months to simulate the high winds, temperature extremes, hail, and falling branches that a roof is subject to. And we expose them to ultraviolet light to simulate the fading effects of sunlight. Here are the winners from our tests.

Owens Corning Berkshire Collection, $225 per 100 square feet, and CertainTeed Grand Manor, $325, are tied at the top of the roofing Ratings. Both were excellent in our strength and impact tests although the Owens Corning was a bit better than CertainTeed on the weathering test in which the shingles are subject to water spray, heat, and ultraviolet light. Both brands also made our list of CR Best Buys including Owens Corning Oakridge, $68, and CertainTeed Landmark, $70. Both did very well on the strength, impact, and weathering tests.

Shingles from Tamko and Atlas also made our list of top roofing picks. Keep in mind that some installers may push certain brands. But given the wide differences in overall quality that we found, we suggest that you insist on the roofing you want, even if you have to pay extra for a special order or hire a different installer. For more choices see our full roofing Ratings and recommendations.

—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.

As the housing market recovers slowly but steadily from its 2007 collapse (some 5.15 million homes are projected to change hands in 2014, according to the National Association of Realtors), Consumer Reports is examining the relationship between consumers and real estate professionals. What makes a great agent or broker in today’s market? How has the flurry of real estate websites changed the buying and selling process? Have the rules of negotiation between pros and clients changed in any meaningful way?

If you’ve bought and/or sold a home in the last few years, please help us out by filling out the questionnaire below. 

—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.

Just because your kitchen is short on square footage doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish and functional. Consumer Reports talked with designers, architects, and professional organizers to get their best strategies for making the most of every square inch. They shared some common sense and some surprising tricks that can make your small kitchen seem larger.

All of our pros agreed that tailoring a kitchen to the needs of its users is job one. Doing that when you’re working with a limited footprint can be a bit of a challenge. But there are secrets for doing just that.

Start with the work triangle. You’ve probably heard of this concept: the sink, cooking surface, and refrigerator should form the three points of a triangle, with a minimum distance of 4 feet between each, for maximum efficiency. In a small space, it’s natural for you to be tempted to skimp. But “if you don’t use the triangle, you may not be able to open your refrigerator when your dishwasher is open,” says the interior designer and radio host Lee Anne Culpepper of Culpepper Carpets and Interiors in Atlanta.

Prioritize your countertop needs. How much is enough? Here’s what the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) recommends:

• Sink: Plan 24 inches of counter on one side and 18 inches on the other.
• Cooktop/range: Figure on 12 inches on one side and 15 inches on the other, with added counter space behind the cooktop if it’s in an island or peninsula.
• Refrigerator: You want 15 inches on the handle side of a traditional fridge or on either side of a side-by-side or French-door model. Or plan at least 15 inches of landing space that’s no more than 48 inches away from the fridge. If you must, “trade the counter near the fridge for counter space near the cooking and cleaning areas, where it counts most,” says Anne Postle of Osmosis Architecture in Niwot, Colorado.

Consider traffic flow. Mary Jo Peterson, a certified kitchen designer and author of the NKBA’s “Kitchen Planner,” recommends an aisle that’s at least 36 inches wide between opposing work areas. Got multiple cooks? Allow 42 to 48 inches. “Make sure no doors swing into that space,” she adds. Culpepper goes further. “If possible, eliminate all but one door,” she says. “Each extra door steals 31 inches from your wall space—about the width of the refrigerator.”

Capitalize on cabinets. Small kitchens are one place where storage has to work extra hard. Start by taking an inventory of what you need to store. Be realistic—now is the time to start a donation or yard-sale pile for anything you don’t really use. Then take advantage of every inch, horizontally and vertically. Run cabinets all the way up to the ceiling, if possible. Install shelves or hooks on your backsplash for spices, utensils, and the like. Trade toe kicks for shallow drawers to hold things like trays, placemats, and pet supplies. And don’t forget the ceiling: Pot racks can help free up much needed cabinet space. Frameless cabinets are another space-saver. “You’ll get an extra inch all the way around,” Culpepper says.

Also be sure that each unit is truly functional. “The ‘universal reach range,’ the area where people can grasp items easily, is 15 to 48 inches off the floor,” Peterson says. Ensure accessibility by opting for drawers instead of shelves and by fitting cabinet interiors with accessories like slide-out shelves and swing-out Lazy Susans for blind-corner cabinets.

Slim down appliances. Peterson also stresses being smart about scale when choosing new appliances—and prioritizing your picks. “If you really want a 36-inch range, that will probably mean getting a smaller refrigerator or dishwasher,” she notes. “There are many options available, like 18-inch dishwashers, 30-inch ranges, and 18-inch column freezers.”

Also consider opting for multi-functional appliances. Can’t squeeze in double ovens? Choose a microwave or toaster oven that doubles as a convection oven, or a 30-inch range with two ovens. Counter depth refrigerators won’t save space horizontally, but because they don’t jut into the room as much as standard refrigerators do, they can allow you extra inches in a walkway, and they can offer a sleeker, more streamlined look. If you need the larger interior capacity of a standard refrigerator, you can get the same effect by recessing it into a wall.

—Adapted from Consumer Reports Kitchen Planning & Buying Guide

For more ideas and inspiration check out our Kitchen Planning Guide where you'll find the results of our tests of refrigerators, ranges, dishwasher, microwaves and other appliances.

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

Cooler temperatures have arrived. Let the baking season begin. Whether you're baking bread, cookies, or cake, you’ll need the right kitchen gear, starting with a capable mixer. Just about any mixer will do for simple tasks. Hand mixers cost less and can handle light chores such as whipping cream or mixing cake batter. But if you routinely make bread and cookies from scratch, you’ll want a more powerful stand mixer that doesn’t walk across the counter when handling heavy dough. Here's how to choose a mixer plus the best mixers from Consumer Reports’ tests.

Decide how much mixer you need. Just about any mixer can handle basic whipping and mixing. If you’re a dedicated baker, look for a heavy, powerful model with one beater that spins in one direction and moves around the bowl in the opposite direction. Mixers with two beaters that spin against each other didn’t do as well in our tests.

Check wattage and speeds. Manufacturers stress power and number of speeds, but neither necessarily provides better performance. Some stand mixers have as many as 16 speeds. We think five well-differentiated speeds are sufficient. The slower the lowest speed, the better; slow mixing prevents splattering.

Consider size and weight. Some stand mixers weigh more than 20 pounds, giving them the stability to handle tough jobs. Make sure you have enough clearance if you plan to store it on the counter below a cabinet; be aware that most stand mixers have heads that tilt up, taking up even more room.

Top 3 hand mixers from our tests
KitchenAid KHM926, $100. This mixer costs more than other hand mixers, though it did perform very well in our tests, combing very good mixing and whipping time. It also scored points for versatility, thanks to its dough hooks, whisk attachment, and liquid blender rod, which is designed to blend soups, smoothies, and more.
Cuisinart Power Advantage HM-50, $40. Cuisinart’s 5-speed hand mixer had no trouble powering through stiff cookie dough in our tests and it was very quick at whipping. We also like the well-priced mixer’s wire beaters, which are easier to clean than the traditional center-post variety.
KitchenAid Architect KHM7210, $80. KitchenAid’s 7-speed hand mixer delivers superb mixing, say for folding chocolate chips into stiff cookie dough. It's also very good at whipping, for example when you're beating egg whites for meringue. In terms of features, we like this model’s easy-to-clean wire beaters and its separate whisk attachment. On the downside, it lacks a slow-start option to prevent spills and it doesn’t come with a dough hook.

Top 3 stand mixers from our tests
Breville BEM800XL, $300. Breville was excellent at whipping cream, mixing large batches of cookie dough, and kneading bread dough. It beat out favorites from KitchenAid and other brands thanks to a bevy of convenience features, including a leaf beater with a flexible edge that scrapes the bowl as it turns and a timer that lets you set your desired mixing time.
KitchenAid Professional 6500 Design Series, $550. Though it costs more than most, KitchenAid’s 6-quart mixer is among the best from our tests. It 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.
KitchenAid Classic (250 watt) K45SS[WH], $200. KitchenAid’s classic 5-quart mixer has been among our highest-rated models for a long time, and at $200 it’s a very good value. It 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.

For more choices see our full mixer Ratings and recommendations.

—Adapted 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.

Got stink bugs? If so, the federal government is asking you to count them over the next month beginning today. The smelly pests wreak havoc on crops and freak out homeowners when they come inside at this time of year looking for a warm place to spend the winter. To find out how many stink bugs there are and how they behave, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is asking citizens for daily counts from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. The goal, of course, is to figure out how to manage this invasive species, which has no known predator in the U.S.

Officially known as the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, the pests have been found in 41 states and two Canadian provinces but are mostly clustered in the mid-Atlantic states with the most serious infestations in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia with populations growing in surrounding states. Estimates of crop damage caused by stink bugs approach $21 billion.

Stink bug researchers are hoping that last winter’s sustained frigid temperatures took a toll on the stink bug population. As Consumer Reports reported in February, an entomology professor at Virginia Tech discovered that 95 percent of the stink bugs he was studying succumbed to the cold temperatures. But we’ll have to wait for the results of the stink bug census to see if those findings hold true for other affected areas.

How to get rid of stink bugs

In the meantime, the best way to keep stink bugs out of your house is to block them from entering, according to Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences. Seal cracks around windows, doors, siding, pipes, behind chimneys, and underneath the wood fascia and other openings using good quality silicone or silicone-latex caulk. Repair or replace damaged screens on your doors and windows.

Typically, stink bugs get in by crawling through cracks under or behind baseboards, around window and door trim, and around exhaust fans and ceiling lights. Seal these openings as well as you can with caulk or other suitable materials. In addition to blocking the bugs, you’ll save energy by preventing cold air from coming in and warm air from escaping.

If you find you are constantly plucking the slow-moving insects off your walls, dump them into a pail of soapy water, where they’ll die. You can remove living and dead stink bugs with a vacuum cleaner but use a bagged model and be forewarned that the vacuum may take on the odor of the bugs. In fact, if you have a serious infestation, you may want to dedicate an old vacuum for that purpose.

To start your own stink bug count, download the form from the USDA website. On it, the agency asks you to note the color and structural material—brick, vinyl, wood—of your home as well as characteristics of the surrounding landscape—wooded, urban, agricultural. Finding 10 or less stink bugs a day is considered “a few” while 100 or more is “lots.” The USDA asks you to note how many you see a day as well as when and where. Let the counting begin.

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

Main photo courtesy of USDA-ARS

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

His nickname is the Shark, but on Saturday it was another set of teeth that injured Greg Norman. The golfer said he was cutting tree branches at his Florida home when a limb came down and pushed his left arm into the blade of the chain saw, cutting his wrist. While recovering in the hospital, Norman posted on Instagram, "Working with a chainsaw ALWAYS be respectful of the unexpected." Indeed.

Norman’s accident is a reminder that  every year there are nearly 29,000 injuries from chain saws with the most common being cuts to the fingers, knees, and legs. "Thank God the blade wasn't running full speed or it would have taken my hand off," Norman told the Associated Press. He’s expected to make a full recovery. (You can see more photos on Norman's Instagram site.)

While it’s hard to say what happened with Norman’s chain saw, most chain saws have a brake that stops the chain if the bar kicks back toward the operator. Still, when operating a chain saw you should use protective chaps, gloves, steel-tipped boots, a helmet, face shield, and hearing protection. And follow these tips:

• 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.
• Avoid cutting with the tip to help prevent kickback.
  

This wasn’t the first time that Norman mentioned his chain saw on Instagram. Last week he captioned a photo of himself trimming a tree, “Time to trim the sea grapes today. Never ask someone to do something that you can do yourself. Love to work!”

As one of Norman’s fans posted, “Maybe you should let someone else use the chain saw from now on.” Something to consider. Trimming branches is one thing, but the experts at Consumer Reports say that cutting down a tree is a job best left to the pros, particularly for trees larger than about 6 inches around. While trees often fall in the direction they’re leaning, it can be tricky to know where a tree will come down.

—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.

Contrary to what some ads say, saving money on your energy bills is not the reason to replace your windows. That’s because it could take decades to recoup the $8,000 to $24,000 you’ll spend on new windows and installation. Energy Star-qualified windows can lower your energy bills by 7 to 15 percent. That’s only about $27 to $111 per year for a 2,000-square-foot, single-story home with storm or double-pane windows, or $126 to $465 if that home has just single-pane windows. So why bother?

New windows can make your home quieter, more attractive, and less drafty, and they don’t need painting. They’re also easier to clean than old windows with combination storm and screens and can reduce your carbon footprint.

To check which windows can keep out rain and wind without leaking, we tested 21 double-hung and four casement-style windows, two of the most popular configurations. We found significant differences between brands in types and frame materials. 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.

Replacing windows involves many decisions. If you want new windows, we’ll help you choose the best ones for your home. Here’s what you need to know.

Price doesn’t indicate performance

Among double-hung clad wood windows, a pricey and bottom-rated window from Andersen, $500, wasn’t good at keeping out cold air and was so-so at keeping out rain. A $450 Kolbe vinyl double-hung was impressive, but a top-rated $260 Simonton was even better. All of the casement windows aced all tests. Prices varied by frame material; the top-scoring American Craftsman vinyl window, $260, is the least expensive casement. All prices are for a 3x5-foot window.

Match windows to climate

Look at the overall scores in our window Ratings, then zero in on test results that apply to where you live. If your home is exposed to high winds and cold temperatures, look for windows that were excellent at low-temperature wind resistance.

Don’t overspend on options

Upgrades can easily add 50 percent or more to the base cost of a window. Focus on features that add value. Low-E coatings improve efficiency, but triple glazing probably isn’t necessary unless you live in an extremely cold climate. Double-hung window sashes that tilt in make cleaning easier, and full screens allow optimum airflow when the top window is lowered and bottom window raised. Finer meshed screens let more light through and do not obscure the view as much as standard screens.

1. Frame provides structure.

2. Cladding protects the exterior of a wood or composite window and is made of vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass, eliminating painting.

3. Sash is the moving part of the window; it can be tilted in for easy cleaning.

4. Insulated glass Double-glazed windows have a sealed space between two panes of glass filled with air or another gas that insulates better than air. Argon gas is standard on many windows, but the energy savings won’t justify paying extra for it.

5. Low-E coating is transparent and improves the efficiency of the glass by reflecting heat yet letting light in. The coating is applied to the outside of glass in warmer climates to reflect the sun’s heat out; in colder areas, it’s applied to the inside glass to keep heat in.

6. Grilles are decorative and are available in different patterns to match architectural styles.

Know the numbers

You’ll see these numbers on Energy Star and National Fenestration Rating Council window labels:

U-factor, or U-value, usually ranges from 0.20 to 1.20. The lower the number, the better the window is at keeping heat in.

Solar heat gain coefficient is between 0 and 1. The lower the number, the better the window is at blocking unwanted heat from the sun. In warm climates, you’ll want the lowest number you can find; in cold areas a higher number is better.

Visible transmittance indicates how much visible light a window lets in and is between 0 and 1. As the number increases, so does the light.

Even if you choose budget-friendly windows, upgrades can easily add 50 percent or more to their cost. Here’s a look at upgrades and starting prices for a 3x5-foot double-hung window, according to experts at Pella.

Some manufacturers don’t recommend ammonia-based cleaners, such as some Windex products, for cleaning new windows. So check before you spritz.

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.

What’s the cheapest type of heating fuel?

Prices are in constant flux, and they vary by region. Natural gas, the most common fuel type, cost the average U.S. household about $660 last winter. Based on current energy prices, heating with oil would cost $1,590, propane would cost $1,750, and electricity, $2,135.

If your system is over 15 years old, it’s worth upgrading to more efficient equipment and perhaps a different fuel source. Switching to natural gas costs about $10,000, but you could recoup that in seven years if you include your water heater. Geothermal heat pumps, which use the Earth’s constant temperature to heat and cool, are another option. Average installation is $17,000, but a federal tax credit covers 30 percent, lowering the payback period to between 5 and 10 years.

Do I need to get my ductwork cleaned?

Unless dust, mold, or signs of vermin are visible, cleaning your ducts is unlikely to improve your home’s efficiency—or air quality. That’s despite aggressive sales tactics that can cross the line into false advertising, according to the Better Business Bureau.

But duct sealing is a great way to improve efficiency, because 25 to 40 percent of conditioned air is lost through ducts that leak. You’ll need to hire a pro, but sealing can save hundreds of dollars per year. Traditional methods treat leaks from the outside with tapes and mastics. A newer technology, called aerosealing, was developed by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Microscopic particles of sealant are blown into ductwork, where they form airtight bonds over leaks, according to Aeroseal, which owns the patent. The average cost is $1,500 to $2,500, with promised annual savings of $250 to $850, the company says. Learn more at aeroseal.com.

How often should I have my heating system serviced?

We recommend once per year, ideally before it’s taxed by cold weather. Make sure the contractor has proper certification; North American Technician Excellence, or NATE, is one. The Air Conditioning Contractors of America has a national directory, at acca.org. Consider entering into a service contract, which might cost $100 to $400, so that you don’t have to remember to schedule a call. If you have a forced-air system, help it run efficiently by changing the filters several times throughout the winter. Also make sure the registers aren’t blocked by furniture.

What’s the best way to deal with drafts?

A professional energy auditor will run a blower door test to find leaks. The service costs $250 to $800, though rebates apply; check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency, at dsireusa.org.

You can also do a low-tech draft test using an incense stick. Turn on all of your home’s exhaust fans and hold the stick near windows, doors, and electrical outlets. If the smoke blows sideways, you’ve got a leak that should be plugged with weather stripping, caulk, or expandable foam. Go to energy.gov for more information.

How can I tell whether I have enough insulation?

Climb up into the attic with a ruler. There should be at least 11 inches of fiberglass or rock wool insulation, or 8 inches of cellulose insulation. That goes for the attic hatch as well as the floor.

Before laying insulation, it’s important to seal any openings in the floor, including those around plumbing vents and electrical boxes. That will prevent the so-called stack effect, in which heated air escapes through the attic and is replaced with cool air from lower levels, leading to drafty rooms and elevated heating bills.

Can I use a space heater in a bathroom?

Some are marketed as bathroom-safe. Yet among the models we tested, only the Holmes HFH436 and DeLonghi TRN0812T had ground-fault circuit interrupter plugs intended to prevent electric shock, including in moist areas. Even with the GFCI plug, their manufacturers warn against using the heaters near water.

What should I set my thermostat to during the winter?

Since central heating went mainstream in the 1960s, the average temperature for occupied rooms is up to 70° F, and overnight temps are around 68° F. For optimal efficiency, those temperatures should be 68° F and 60° F, respectively. Lowering the thermostat could save you $100 per year. It could also help you maintain healthy body weight. “Temperatures in the 60° to 62° F range burn an extra 100 to 150 calories per day,” said C. Ronald Kahn, M.D., professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, who studies the effect of temperature on energy-burning brown fats. “Even if you’re only burning 50 calories a day at higher temperatures, that’s still half a pound of fat every month.”

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.

Operating a snow blower has never been a quiet job—for the operator or the neighbors. But even if we get a lot of snow this winter, clearing it could be a bit more peaceful thanks to a pair of new Craftsman snow blowers. Sears claims that the Craftsman 88694, $900, and Craftsman 88972, $800, have "America's quietest dual-stage snow thrower engine." Consumer Reports is putting that claim to the test and so far the results have been promising.

We’ll be buying the Craftsman 88694 as soon as it's available in mid-October. But in preliminary testing of a Craftsman 88694 that we borrowed, it was noticeably quieter at the operator’s ear than the Toro Power Max 726 OE 37771, $900, a 26-inch machine we tested that's somewhat quieter than other dual-stage snow blowers. What’s more, when we tested the Toro it had a Briggs & Stratton engine. That has since been replaced by a Chinese-made engine, which have typically been noisier in our snow blower tests.

Other than the muffler design, the Craftsmans match the construction and features of other 26-inch, MTD-made snow blowers we’ve tested, including the $750 Craftsman 88970, the $900 Cub Cadet 526 SWE 31BH54TS, and the $770 Yard Machines 31AM63FF. Being dual-stage, both Craftsman models add an impeller behind the usual auger for throwing out what the auger scoops up. So far they have cleared on par with the other three models—not the best we’ve seen, but more than adequate for their size. And you pay no premium for the quiet operation.

The two models share the same overhead-valve, 208-cc engine, along with 12-inch impellers, electric start, and single-hand operation—which frees you to adjust the chute without pausing. They differ in steering: For the extra $100, the Craftsman 88694 offers trigger-controlled steering that allows for easy turning.

Ready to buy a snow blower now to beat the rush? We’ve got nearly 100 models in our snow blower Ratings, and we're wrapping up tests of a dozen more. Before you shop, be sure to read our buying guide.

—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.

There you are, standing in a kitchen design store or home center, and the stainless-steel appliances dazzle, the granite countertops add just the right warmth. This is what money, lots of money, can buy. But before you spend a dime, look for the downside, that thing that will disappoint or drive you crazy. Here, from the experts at Consumer Reports, is what the salespeople won't tell you.

Refrigerator door-front water and ice dispensers

Buyers ask for this feature more than any other. Kids also think they’re cool, and dogs sometimes find them handy.

What you’ll want to know: As a group, refrigerators with water and ice dispensers require considerably more repairs than those without dispensers, according to Consumer Reports' surveys. Water and ice dispensers also up the price and energy use while robbing space.

What to do: Consider our top picks that don’t have a door-front dispenser, such as the Samsung RF261BIAESR, $2,100, the top-rated French-door bottom-freezer, or the $1,510 Kenmore Elite 79043, the best conventional bottom-freezer.

Pro-style ranges

With their heavy, stainless construction, pro-style ranges boast a commercial look that commands attention. Beauty has its price, but does it have to be so steep?

What you’ll want to know: Prices often range from $4,000 to $8,000, but don’t expect top performance and this is not the time to go with the least expensive model. We test 30- and 36-inch pro-styles and the bottom-rated also happen to cost the least.

What to do: Consider all your options. Look at the KitchenAid KDRS407VSS, $4,000. It was the best of the 30-inch pro-styles, but has a small oven and broiling is just so-so. Among 36-inch models the KitchenAid KDRU763VSS, $6,000, was best. Both are dual-fuel ranges, pairing a gas cooktop and an electric oven. Also take a look at stainless slide-in ranges. The controls are up front so there’s no back panel and the look is built in. Among the tested slide-ins, check out the GE Café CS980SNSS, an electric smoothtop, or the GE PGS920SEFSS, a gas range that was impressive overall but its broiling was mediocre. Both slide-ins are $2,800 and top picks.

Granite countertops

Granite remains a popular choice for kitchen countertops—some would say it’s been overused—but style isn’t the only thing it’s got going for it. It’s near the top of our ratings of 14 countertop materials and only quartz was slightly better. In our tests, granite was great at resisting cuts, scratches, and heat, and impressive in fending off stains, but it can chip if you drop a heavy pot on it.

What you’ll want to know: Granite looks terrific in kitchen showrooms in part because it hasn’t been used. As you cook grease gets spread around and starts to soak into the granite, says Andy Graves, a countertop installer in Anaheim, California. “The more grease, the more dust sticks to it. You typically see this around the cooktop or range where the color of the material appears darker due to the saturation of grease,” says Graves.

What to do: Due to the stone’s porosity, grease and oil tends to be absorbed quickly. Clean granit counters daily and make sure they are sealed after installation. Graves suggests using granite cleaner to remove grease and oils and resealing granite every six months to a year.

—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.

Today’s more-efficient gas furnaces can save you up to $40 for every $100 you spend on fuel compared with older models. That means that even though replacing a furnace can be expensive, your costs will be paid back over time through lower energy bills.

If you’re replacing your gas furnace or buying a new one, you'll want to check the results of the latest reliability survey by the Consumer Reports National Research Center. The survey covers 21,132 natural-gas furnaces bought between 2008 and early 2014.

Reliability is especially important because when a furnace failed, 77 percent needed significant work. A majority of those broke down completely, with nearly a third producing no heat for more than a day. For 40 percent, the repair cost $150 or more.

If a key part such as the heat exchanger or control module fails, you’re better off replacing the furnace if it’s more than 15 years old (furnaces typically last 15 to 18 years). Otherwise, repairing rather than replacing a furnace might make more sense. If your furnace is on the fritz, try the following before you call a contractor or start shopping, and see our gas furnace buying guide for more details.

Check the filter. If you’re getting low airflow, check the air filter on the furnace. A clogged filter could cut airflow down to a trickle. The highly rated 3M Filtrete 1900 MPR, $20, traps dust better than the usual furnace filter, so it can also help clean the air. Check it monthly, and replace when dirty.

Inspect electrical parts. Loose wires or a thermostat malfunction could also cause heat problems. If your thermostat runs on batteries, try changing them. And make sure that burned-out fuses or tripped breakers haven’t shut power to the fan or circuit board.

Ensure your safety. Every home with a gas or oil furnace should have a carbon-monoxide alarm on each floor and near (not inside) an attached garage. One we recommend is the First Alert CO615, $30. Test the alarm weekly, vacuum it monthly, and replace it every five years. Don’t remember how old the alarm is? Look on the back for the manufacture date.

For more information on gas furnaces including features to consider, consult our gas furnace buying guide.

—Mary H.J. Farrell

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

If you've been thinking about investing in a juicer, join the club. Sales of this small appliance surged more than 25 percent last year, and social media is, well, atwitter with juice enthusiasts swapping favorite recipes for reaping vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients from freshly squeezed fruits and vegetables. Consumer Reports tested 13 new juicers from brands like Bella, Cuisinart, and Omega to see which models stand out from the pack.

While juice output is key, you also want a machine that's easy to use and loaded with conveniences—or it could quickly end up collecting dust in a dark corner of your kitchen cabinets. Our testers paid close attention to how easy juicers are to assemble, the size of their feed tube, whether parts are dishwasher safe, and other factors that are sure to color your overall experience.                                 

We tested two common types of juicer. Juice extractors, also known as centrifugal juicers, use a rapidly whirling disk to cut fruit or vegetables into tiny pieces that are then spun to separate the juice from the pulp. Auger-style juicers, which you might also see referred to as masticating or cold press juicers, work by slowly crushing and mashing the fruits and vegetables. There are pros and cons to both juicer types, so the decision is mostly a matter of price and personal preference.

Extractor juicers. First-time juicers often find extractor juicers easier to use, and they tend to be less expensive. Case in point: the $100 Juiceman JM800S, which our testers found very easy to use; its large feed tube (big enough to fit tennis ball-size pieces) means you won't waste time cutting up fruits and vegetables. Like all extractors, juice from the Juiceman was pretty frothy, due to the high speed of its cutting blades. But the blades can handle harder produce, such as carrots and beets, and extractors tend to have fewer parts so they're often easier to clean. 

Auger juicers. Cold press juicers are typically more expensive—our top-rated model in this category is the $430 Kuvings Whole Slow B600. The machines can also take some getting used to, since the augers can jam when grinding tough fruits and veggies. Every machine we tested has a reverse button for this reason, but that makes for an even more hands-on process. The big upside with auger-style juicers: the models we tested tended to leave behind more pulp, which can result in healthier, more fiber-rich juices.

—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.

On Sept. 20 and 21—that's this weekend!—the World Maker Faire descends on New York City. It's a festival featuring all things made by hand, from handcrafts to sophisticated science projects, a real treat for DIYers. And Consumer Reports is joining the exhibitors again this year.

Consumer Reports has a lot in common with the so-called maker movement, and our collective DIY mindset melds well with the spirit of Maker Faire. We test all sorts of products in our labs—vacuum cleaners, smart phones, baby strollers, you name it—and frequently our project leaders and technicians have to build their own testing devices. You'll see some of those devices at the Faire this year. (Take a look at the time-lapse video below to see how we test TVs.)

Can't make it to the Maker Faire? Follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

When we started testing treadmills, for example, we needed a way to test their durability. So we built a machine we dubbed Johnny Walker (shown). It's a spinning aluminum drum with "feet" attached that's propelled by the running belt of the treadmill, simulating a 170-pound runner.

We've also built machines to test dental floss, pedometers, tablet battery life, and much more. We even purchased a 3D printer to create custom pieces for our testing fixtures.

If you plan to attend the Maker Faire, stop by our booth to see videos of our labs and meet some of our testing experts, who love to meet real people once in a while! And you'll have a chance to help us out with some actual testing, too. See you there!

—Carol Mangis

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

Spending a few thousand bucks on a refrigerator will get you all the latest bells and whistles, including a state-of-the-art ice-and-water dispenser, LED theater lighting, French-door styling, and a door-in-door compartment. But if all you want is a refrigerator that will do its main job of keeping food fresh, there are plenty of fine—and affordable—options in Consumer Reports' latest refrigerator Ratings. Here are five to consider.

Kenmore 69313, $950
This conventional bottom-freezer from Kenmore combines superb temperature control, energy efficiency, and quietness, plus its attractive stainless-steel styling gives it a more expensive look. It doesn't have all the features of pricier models—no temperature-controlled meat/deli bin or adjustable shelves, for example—but it does give you gallon door storage and touchpad controls.

Amana ABB1921WE[W], $850
Another conventional bottom-freezer, this 30-inch-wide Amana costs $100 less than the Kenmore, if you don't mind the basic white finish. There's no trade off with temperature control and its storage capacity is about the same. It has some helpful features too, including gallon door storage, touchpad controls, and a freezer light.

Frigidaire FKCH17F7HW, $770
This is the perfect model if you're shopping for a second refrigerator. That's because it's the only one of its kind that can be converted to a stand-alone freezer with the flip of a switch, say to hold a big haul of frozen foods from the warehouse club. In its refrigerator mode, the Frigidaire delivered excellent temperature control and energy efficiency. Temperature control was also excellent in freezer mode, plus it’s self-defrosting, so you won’t have to periodically do that task by hand.  

Haier HT21TS45SW, $700
If you're looking for a conventional top-freezer, Haier has several budget models on our top refrigerator picks list, including this 32-inch-wide unit. It's your basic white box, but the refrigerators is very good at maintaining consistent temperatures, plus it's one of the most energy efficient models we've tested, so its annual operating cost is quite low.  

Hotpoint HSH25GFB, $900
Very few side-by-side refrigerators sell for less than $1,000, so this Highpoint is a real value. It's fairly far down our Ratings chart, but that's because it lacks many convenience features, such as a temperature-controlled meat/deli bin and adjustable shelves. But temperature control and energy efficiency are both solid, plus it's extra-tall water dispenser makes it easy to fill pitchers and other oversized containers.  

—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.

MTD, maker of Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt and other outdoor-gear brands, seems to be going all-out to woo anyone considering a lawn tractor in the coming year. Consumer Reports got a preview of the company’s Cub Cadet XT 1 and Cub Cadet XT2 Enduro Series tractors, which show numerous upgrades from the previous line and some competitive pricing. We plan to buy them for our mower tests this winter in Florida.

The Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro Series starts with the LT 42, a $1,500 machine with a 42-inch stamped deck, an 18-horsepower Kohler Courage engine, a premium Tuff Torq hydrostatic transmission, and manual power takeoff (PTO). At the high end of the seven-model lineup is the GT 54 FAB, $3,000, which has a 26-hp, twin-cylinder Kohler 7000 engine, a higher-end Tuff Torq hydrostatic transmission, and electric PTO. It has a 54-inch, fabricated deck.

For $1,800, the XT2 Enduro Series LX 42 has the same 42-inch deck, Tuff Torq hydrostatic transmission, and manual PTO as the XT1 LT 42, but for the extra $300 you get an 18-hp, twin-cylinder Kawasaki FR Series engine. The six-model XT2 lineup ranges up to the $3,300 GX 54 FAB, which shares the 54-inch decks, transmission, and PTO of the XT1 GT 54 FAB but offers a 26-hp Kawasaki FR engine.

What impressed us at first blush, however, goes beyond the specs: These machines offer improved steering, better transmissions, and a more durable drive system. “I’m impressed with two things,” said Peter Sawchuk, who directs our outdoor power equipment tests. “First, there’s the ergonomic design—they paid a lot of attention to how you fit in the tractor—plus the contoured, high-back seat and position of the wheel. And for both the brake and engagement pedals, both are angled in a certain position that makes it comfortable for your foot to reach them with your foot.”

Ease of maintenance also stood out for Sawchuk. “The parts you need to get to, such as the oil, fuel and air filters, and how accessible they are shows a lot of forethought about the need for service,” he said. Both lines come with a five-year warranty on the chassis and front axle, and three years on the powertrain.

We’ve seen these decks before. The 42-inch, stamped deck is also found in MTD’s Troy-Bilt Mustang 42" 17WFCACS, $2,300, a zero-turn-radius rider that was among a select few machines to offer superb evenness in side-discharge mode, the most commonly used for riding machines. And the 54-inch deck, also found in the $3,000 Cub Cadet RZT L54, offered top-notch evenness in the same mode despite having three blades and a fabricated deck, two design factors that usually compromise cutting evenness.

Another innovation these machines offer was inevitable in this age of connected gear and appliances. The Cub Connect app for Bluetooth connects with the machines’ dashboards and gives you alerts for changing the oil and filters and performing other maintenance. You can also view the operator manual you misplaced, find your nearest dealer, and order parts.

As the industry readies outdoor power gear for the 2015 season, we’ll be following more announcements from MTD and several other manufacturers. And in late October we'll be reporting from the Green Industry Equipment + Expo in Louisville. If you’re looking for a late-season bargain, though, check out our mower buying guide and our Ratings of almost 170 mowers, lawn tractors, and riders.

—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.