Tip of the day: Save water, save money

The federal Energy Star program has revamped its standards for dishwashers. Machines made after mid-August 2009 must be at least 48 percent more efficient than federal energy-use standards require to qualify. What's more, for the first time, Energy Star qualification also hinges on how much water a dishwasher can use. Qualifying standard-size machines will be able to consume a maximum of 5.8 gallons per cycle, down from 7 gallons a cycle for current models.

But you don't have to shell out for a new dishwasher to save water at home. Considering that the government stated in 2002 that at least 36 states anticipated water shortages between 2003 and 2013, now's a good time to cut down on the average 100 gallons of water you use each day at home. Kicking some of your water-wasting habits is easy and will save you money.

Bad habit: Running the water while shaving and brushing your teeth
New routine: When shaving, filling the sink with water and rinse your razor as you shave, and when brushing your teeth or shaving, turning on the faucet only when needed.
Savings: 4 to 10 gallons a day

Bad habit: Indulging in long showers
New routine: Taking quick showers
Savings: 5 to 10 gallons per shower

Bad habit: Running a water-hog showerhead
New routine: Using a low-flow showerhead
Savings: 2.5 gallons or more per minute

Bad habit: Rinsing dishes before loading them into the dishwasher
New routine: Scraping food off dishes or wiping them with a damp sponge and let your dishwasher do the rest
Savings: Nearly 20 gallons per load

Bad habit: Using—and not fixing—a leaky toilet
New routine: Keeping your commode leak free
Savings: 30 to 50 gallons daily

To test for a toilet leak, add enough food coloring to the toilet tank to turn the water dark; wait 30 minutes. If dye appears in the toilet bowl, the flapper valve is leaking, and you should replace it ASAP. To be sure you buy the right replacement and save yourself another trip to the hardware or plumbing-supply store or home center, bring the old flapper valve with you.

If you need to replace your toilet, consider one that carries the Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense label; toilets that qualify for the program use 20 percent less water.—Kimberly Janeway

Essential reading: Learn 50 ways to save water and calculate how much water your showerheads use. And watch the video on how we test dishwashers (above).
 

CES Product Previews: iRobot Looj, PlantSense EasyBloom

Michael DiLauro, a product-information specialist for Consumer Reports, attended the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Here's his report on a couple of noteworthy home gadgets he saw at the Digital Experience event on Wednesday, January 7. Note that we have not yet tested either of these products.

iRobot Gutter Cleaner
Manufacturer of robotic home vacuum cleaners, iRobot, introduced the second generation of the Looj, its robotic gutter cleaner (shown). The company says improvements over the previous model include a flexible auger, designed to clean better as it moves through gutter; a slower forward speed that's supposed to provide more thorough cleaning; and a faster reverse speed, intended to return the robot to you more quickly when the job is done. done. The new model is expected to be in stores this spring and sell for $130.

PlantSense EasyBloom
Gardening has gone high tech. One of the most interesting products at the Digital Experience was the EasyBloom from PlantSense. This sensor ($60) is supposed to save you money and produce better results by taking the guesswork out of gardening. You place the EasyBloom in the soil for 24 hours to measure soil conditions, light, and temperature of outdoor or indoor plants. Next, you plug the EasyBloom into your computer via USB; the device then correlates its readings with a plant database to determine what you should in grow in that spot. The database uses algorithms to match its 5,000-plant database with the collected data and the weather based on your ZIP code. The EasyBloom is also designed to monitor the heath of plants in your garden. You place the sensor in the ground near a plant for one watering cycle and then hook it up to your computer. The EasyBloom will produce care recommendations for the plant.

New California regulation impacts ozone-generating air purifiers

Under a regulation that the California Air Resources Board finalized in the fall, manufacturers of room air purifiers that generate ozone to kill germs and remove other indoor-air pollutants have until October 18, 2010, to get their products tested, certified as emitting safe levels of ozone, and labeled, in accordance with the new regulation.

Ozone in the stratosphere protects us from some solar radiation. But ground-level ozone, even at relatively low levels, has been linked to decreased lung function and increased risks of throat irritation, coughing, chest pain, and lung-tissue inflammation. Studies have also shown that ozone reacts with scented cleaners, air fresheners, and other household products to produce potentially harmful substances like formaldehyde, a carcinogen; acrolein, a toxic irritant; and ultrafine particles.

Ozone generators have produced ozone at levels as high as 4,300 parts per billion in our tests. And the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has warned against using such devices. After the October 2010 deadline, air purifiers that produce ozone levels greater than 50 ppb in any mode cannot be marketed or sold in California for personal use in occupied spaces such as homes, businesses, and schools.

The other two most common technologies used to purify air are:

• Mechanical filtration, which uses a fan to draw air through a filter, often a HEPA-quality filter. These models typically generate no ozone. (CARB requires these types of products to be certified to UL 507 and so labeled, and the manufacturer must submit design drawings to CARB to prove the model does not produce ozone and that it is only a mechanical filter.)

• Electrostatic precipitation, which produces levels of ozone that tend to be less than 50 ppb, the level CARB considers hazardous.

Whole-house ("in-duct") models, which attach to forced-air heating/cooling systems, are not restricted as part of the regulation; neither are devices made, sold, and used only for industrial use.

Eliminating allergens and ventilating spaces are more effective than any air purifier, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the American Lung Association. But if you're considering buying an air purifier, read our ratings-based report, "Filtering the Claims."—Ed Perratore

Essential information: Learn about the different types of air purifiers.

Buy the best microwave oven

When we tested 23 microwaves for our March 1981 report, we wanted to find out how good microwave cooking could be, as noted on the whimsical cover of the issue (click on the cover, right, for a better view). So our Tech department staff spent hundreds of hours preparing comfort foods like roast beef, meat loaf, stew, and pudding.

The testers noted the ease or difficulty of preparation for each oven and evaluated how the food looked and tasted. They found that microwaves weren't ideal for all dishes: Meat loaves turned out juicy and flavorful, but, the story concluded, "In our opinion, microwave cooking is no way to treat a $15 roast—cook it in a conventional oven instead."

Twenty-eight years later, our February 2009 report on microwave ovens covers more than 60 models. While all of the latest microwaves can handle basic tasks like making popcorn, some ovens promise to make cooking main meals as simple as preparing snacks. A few models can produce nicely browned, crispy chicken.

For specific details on the ovens, check out our Ratings (available to subscribers).—Kimberly Janeway

Essential information: For more advice on choosing a new oven, visit our updated microwaves product page and watch the video buying guide (right).

Forum Friday: Reliability reigns among today's consumers

In these tough economic times, more of the discussions on our appliances forum are focusing on product reliability.

For months, members have been buzzing about decreasing dependability of, excess vibration with, and mildew smells in front-loading washers. "Protect Your Investment: Repairs for Your Washing Machine" and our latest report on washers have covered these concerns.

Another discussion on the reliability of microwave ovens complements our February 2009 report on microwave ovens. In the forum, you'll see numerous mentions of common problems with specific models.

Other members have shared their experiences with double-drawer dishwashers. And one poster offered his take on why today's ranges might not last as long as older models.

If you're a coffee lover, check out the slew of reviews of the Cuisinart Grind and Brew Thermal DGB-600BC, one of dozens of models in our recent report on coffeemakers. Also watch the video buying guide, right.

Essential information: Our reliability Buzzword details how manufacturers are under pressure to provide long-lasting products to consumers.

Q&A: Can I save on my heating bills by using an electric blanket?

I'd love to cut my wintertime heating bills by using an electric blanket. Will this help me save?

Manufacturers of electric blankets are benefiting from the frigid weather and a frozen economy. Instead of turning up the heat, consumers are turning on their electric blankets, which must please blanket makers. Sunbeam Bedding even puts a dollar figure to the pitch, claiming you can save up to $131 on heating bills by using a heated blanket. The company hopes to add to the 25 million homes that, it claims, currently use heated blankets and mattress pads. (The photo is from our 1954 report on electric blankets. We placed blankets in a temperature- and humidity-controlled test room and measured for heat. The changes in temperature in the blanket were recorded by the machine at right in the photo.)

We ran the numbers, and found that the savings might be even greater. The typical full-size electric blanket consumes 100 watts, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Keeping the blanket on continuously for 8 hours a night, 25 weeks a year would use about $15 worth of electricity, based on the national average of 10.8 cents per kilowatt hour. Even factoring in the $50 or so someone you might spend on a blanket and even if the blanket were to use more than 100 watts, your net savings the first year would still be around $150 to $175, even greater thereafter. Savings are based on the $233 the average household would save by lowering the thermostat by 8°F for 24 hours a day, 25 weeks a year.

The holes in Sunbeam's calculations are that they don't account for the purchase and use of more than one electric blanket or the hours when you're home but not in bed beneath the covers. Presumably you wouldn't lower the thermostat by 8°F then, which will limit the savings. But even with that caveat, keeping warm while you sleep by using an electric blanket instead of heating your entire home makes some financial sense.—Daniel DiClerico

Essential information: Learn other ways to cut your heating bills this winter.

Tip of the Day: Get the most out of your sewing machine

In advance of our sewing machines product report in the March 2009 issue (on sale and online in February), our experts unravel some common misconceptions about sewing and sewing machines so your trusted machine works well and is always at the ready whenever you start a new project or need to make a quick repair.

Myth: The quality of the thread you use doesn't matter, so it's fine to use the cheapo stuff from Betty's Bargain Basement.

Reality: Cheap thread tends to be fuzzy and might fray, which can lead to thread breakage, lint in the bobbin case and messy seams with stitches that are too tight or too loose. In addition to frays, poor-quality thread could also have thin or weak spots that could break while you're sewing or worse when you wear or your handcrafted labor of love, a real hassle. So buy high-quality thread and store spools out of direct light, say in a dry, dark spot to keep the thread in tiptop shape.

Myth: It's okay to use needles until they bend or break.

Reality: Dull or bent needles can make tiny pulls in fabric and damage it. Needles are relatively inexpensive, so use a new one at the start of each project. Go easy when feeding fabric through the sewing machine, or you could bend the needle backward.

Myth: Sewing over pins that hold together fabric isn't a problem and won't damage the material or the machine.

Reality: When the machine's needle hits a pin, it could deform the needle tip enough to snag your material with every stitch. What's more, striking a pin while sewing at high speed can throw off the timing of or cause mechanical damage to the machine.

Myth: It's important to oil a sewing machine often.

Reality: Many of the latest sewing machines don't need to be oiled; in fact, manufacturers of many of these models advise against it. To determine whether you need to lubricate your mechanical or electronic machine (and how often), consult the owner's manual. If you use your sewing machine frequently, bring it to a reputable service center for the occasional tune-up.—Kimberly Janeway

Essential information: Read our most recent blog posts on sewing machines, including this inside look at our testing, tips on making costumes, and details on an organization that helps kids.

Homemade cleaners can save you money

Resolved to reduce household expenses this year? Consider concocting homemade cleaning products, which will cut your costs for these supplies. Some of the cleaners you make will do just as well as products you buy at the supermarket or warehouse club, as was the case for a simple solution of ammonia, dishwashing liquid, and rubbing alcohol that equaled many well-known glass cleaners. 

Other household products are effective cleaners, as detailed in this article from our February 2009 issue. Baking soda, borax, castile soap, cream of tartar, and lemon juice can clean even some stubborn stains from a range of surfaces. And hydrogen peroxide can save expensive carpets from wine and soda stains, as the video at right shows.

Distilled white vinegar is especially versatile. You can use it as part of a second rinse for cloth diapers to help prevent diaper rash and on delicate fabrics. It's also good for cleaning wood floors and removing carpet stains.  Manufacturers recommend distilled white vinegar for clearing mineral-scale buildup from humidifiers and even to clean a coffeemaker. Just don't use it or a vinegar-based cleaner on a calcareous-stone countertop.

Baking soda shows its mettle as silver cleaner. Line a glass or plastic container with aluminum foil, add tarnished silverware, sprinkle on some baking soda, and pour in hot water. This will create a chemical reaction that transfers the tarnish from the silver to the foil. For antique or intricately patterned silver, a store-bought silver cleaner might work better. Watch our video on silver cleaners.

Essential information: Our Cleaning Supplies page offers reviews of traditional and green household cleaners.

The growing trend in shrinking consumer products

A recent post on our new sibling site, Consumerist.com, details the downsizing of Dawn Ultra antibacterial dishwashing liquid and hand soap—the erstwhile 11-ounce container has lost 0.7 ounces.

We've been covering this consumer-product trend for years, most recently in the October 2008 story "The Lowdown on Downsized Products," which offers some tips to stretch your shopping dollars as manufacturers shrink their packages but rarely lower your cost.

We also know that you're aware of these moves by manufacturers. Seventy-five percent of respondents to a July 2008 survey conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center indicated they noticed that they're getting less in packages; 71 percent said the desire by companies to hide price increases from consumers was the main reason for the contracting containers.

If you come across other shrinking home products—dishwasher detergents or dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents or fabric softeners, and other household cleaners—send us a note with all the details or post a comment below.

Essential information: Learn about the best dishwashing liquids. For Dawn devotees, you might be able to offset any packaging shenanigans with special offers from manufacturer Procter & Gamble.

Forum Friday: Lots of talk about washers and dryers

Based on the chatter in our appliances forum, prices for washers and dryers are falling fast. One member is seeking help deciding between LG and Whirlpool Duet models. Feel free to toss in your own opinion on these brands.

It pays to remember that choosing the best laundry appliances for your home includes a number of factors, not just the overall score in our Ratings of washers and dryers (available to subscribers). These include capacity, cycle time, vibration, water and energy consumption, brand repair history, warranty length, style, and more.

You'll also want to remember these mistakes to avoid when buying a washer and dryer, which could save you a bundle. Once you have your new washer at home, these repairs for your washing machine can help extend its life, saving you even more money and the hassle of shopping for a new machine.

Essential information: Visit our washers and dryers product pages for buying advice for these laundry appliances.

What's on your mind: Our most popular blog posts of 2008

Before we get too far into 2009, we thought we'd look back at the most popular posts on the Home & Garden blog from 2008. The 10 blogs below generated the most buzz last year.

Inside CR Test Labs: Sewing machines
This sneak peak at our March 2009 report on sewing machines (shown) generated quite a thread in the comment box. Around 150 readers chimed in, including the commenter who implored, "please don't lump in embroidery machines with general sewing machines." Roger that, as you'll see in the full report, coming in the upcoming story, whose issue is on sale and online in February.

Own a tankless water heater? Take our survey
Some 1,200 readers answered that call (another 100 commented directly to the item). The results of the online survey informed our October 2008 report on tankless water heaters, in which we revealed significant variations in installation costs, energy savings, and overall satisfaction.

Mold can be a problem for some front-loading washers
Here, we reported on the buildup of mold that many readers told us was occurring in the rubber gasket of the door to their front-loading washer. Sixty commenters jumped into the issue, some supporting the claim with tales of foul-smelling clothes, others reporting no complaints with their front-loading washing machine.

Why Consumer Reports doesn't rate specific models of mattresses
Not everyone rested easy with our explanation of why we don't rate mattress models. Wrote one commenter: "I subscribed to CR specifically for a mattress report and instead get a report on why you don't do a mattress report." Visit our new mattress product page for more details on mattress shopping.

Buying Advice: Portable air conditioners
Cooling the air was obviously hot on readers' minds when this blog posted on June 20. Our take on portable air conditioners is lukewarm at best—not only do they deliver less relief than manufacturers claim but the units also tend to be pricey.

Greener cleaners go mainstream
The launch of a line of natural cleaners from Clorox prompted this March 24 post.

Buyer's guide to pellet- and wood-burning stoves
Surging home-heating costs in recent years has fueled interest in alternative ways to keep warm during the winter. Hence the flurry of comments to this buying guide. In fact, there's been so much interest that we're now planning a testing-based report on these products.

Buzzword: Radon
Of all our 2008 Buzzwords, none resulted in as many comments as this entry on radon. Several weeks later, The New York Times ran a story covering concerns about radon in countertops, raising the buzz again.

Tip of the Day: Don't get ripped off by an alarm company
Dozens of readers responded to this blog with their own experiences with alarm companies, crooked and credible alike. One unlucky homeowner tells how she was swindled out of $360.

Are EdenPure space heaters just a lot of hot air?
That question spurred significant interest from readers. Some defended their EdenPure space heater, others didn't recommend these appliances. Read our report on space heaters for more information.—Daniel DiClerico

Ringing in an energy-efficient new year

If your New Year's Eve plans include watching the festivities on TV, be sure to tune in at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time, when a bigger, brighter, and more energy-efficient ball will start to drop over New York City's Times Square. I saw the ball up close during its unveiling last month, and it's a stunning spectacle.

The first Times Square New Year's Eve ball drop took place in 1907, when a 700-pound wood-and-iron ball signaled the start of 1908. This year's ball is twice as big as any previous version, a geodesic sphere that weighs nearly 12,000 pounds (shown). It's covered in 2,668 Waterford crystals and powered by more than 32,000 Philips Luxeon Rebel lights. These LED lights can create more than 16 million colors and billions of patterns, producing a magical kaleidoscope effect. The ball consumes the same amount of electricity per hour as it takes to heat two ovens, making this the most energy efficient ball ever, Philips claims.

The ball will be on display throughout 2009, so if you plan to visit New York City next year, stop by Times Square at night to see the ball.—Kimberly Janeway

Essential information: Learn more about LED lights and check out our Buzzword on solid-state lighting.

10 Questions for . . . Libby Langdon, Interior Designer

In this installment of 10 Questions for . . . , Senior Editor Daniel DiClerico speaks with Libby Langdon, a New York City-based interior designer who appears on HGTV's Small Space, Big Style; her new book, Small Space Solutions, is due out in March 2009. Here, Langdon reveals her favorite paint colors, shares several space-expanding tricks, and talks about the latest in lightbulbs.

What's your attraction to small spaces?
While traveling the country for my first show, Design Invasion, I saw that people have space constraints everywhere you go. I realized that I have a lot of tips for people who are intent on making their tight quarters feel larger and function better.

What are a few of your favorite tricks of the trade?
• Use full-scale shelves and cabinets. Pieces that go all the way up to the ceiling visually draw the eye upward making the ceiling seem higher and your space feel larger.
• Put your walls to work by mounting shelving to display collections and store items that would otherwise waste precious table space and create clutter.
• When hanging drapes, mount the rod where the ceiling meets the walls. This will also expand the space visually.
• Avoid using all wood furniture, which gives a room a clunky feel. Mix in glass-topped tables to give the room a lighter, airier and more open appearance.
• Position a large mirror on the wall directly opposite a window or a door with panes in it. This will amplify the available natural light.

Can color be used to expand a space?
People are often petrified to paint a small space a color because they think it's going to make it look smaller. That can be the case if you paint all four walls a bold hue. Instead, choose an accent wall, maybe the wall that your headboard is on in the bedroom (see picture) or that your sofa is on in the living room. Paint that accent wall a rich, wonderful color and keep the other three walls a neutral, mellow color, like a soft tan. What happens visually is that the dark wall recedes and it tricks the eye into thinking the space is bigger than it is. (Learn more about specialty paints.)

What advice do you have for choosing paint colors?
Flip through a few design magazines to find colors you like. Nine times out of 10 they'll list the names of the colors in the resource guide at the back of the magazine.

What role does lighting play in opening up a space?
Layers of light add depth and dimension and make a small space seem visually much larger. This might mean a combination of overhead fixtures, undercabinet lighting, wall sconces, and table lamps. Always try to light all four corners of a room. If you can't see a corner, it's as if it isn't even there. I can't tell you how many times I go into small rooms that are lighted by a single lamp. Even in a small room, four or five lights are not too many. You also want to think in terms of tall, large-scale lamps. People tend to fall into the "small space, small accessories" trap. But a tall lamp will spread a lot of light, while again tricking the eye by creating a sense of scale and height.

You use a lot of lights. Are you a fan of compact fluorescent lightbulbs?
I do like CFLs for efficiency but not always for the quality of their light. I prefer LED lights, which manufacturers say last up to 60,000 hours. I find the quality of LEDs to be brighter and truer. I've found some that are around $40, so they're starting to come down in price.

(The quality of light from CFLs has improved. CFLs labeled "soft" or "warm" white will more closely resemble incandescent lightbulbs, while those tagged "bright white," "natural," or "daylight" will give off a whiter, crisper light.)

California gets even tougher on greenhouse-gas emissions

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has stepped up its fight against global warming with the recent approval of the scoping plan for Assembly Bill 32. The state agency wants to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions in California to 1990 levels by 2020, a reduction of about 30 percent; by 2050, the goal is to drop emissions to 80 percent below 1990 levels.

A key element of AB 32, known as the Global Warming Solutions Act and signed into law by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2006, is a cap-and-trade program covering 85 percent of the state's emissions. CARB estimates these measures could save each household $400 to $500 annually by 2020. Several measures could affect consumers directly:

• New codes and standards call for tougher building codes and appliance-efficiency standards.

• A solar-roofs program requires publicly owned utilities to drop the costs of these systems by implementing incentives for solar power. (Learn more about incentives for alternative-energy systems, including solar.)

• Smart-meter technology will provide real-time energy-use information to consumers to help them use less electricity. (Read more about demand-response pricing.)

• Water-use measures will boost efficiency and conservation efforts.

• Weatherization incentives will encourage consumers to insulate their homes, upgrade heating and cooling systems, install high-efficiency windows, and more.

State officials hope the plan will be a stimulus for California's economy (and perhaps decrease smog in Los Angeles, shown above). "By moving first in the nation, California maintains its position at the front of the line in attracting venture capital, and positions us as a leader in the race to develop the clean technology products, patents, and projects the global market demands and needs," said Mary Nichols, CARB chairwoman.

Opponents aren't so sure about the economic impact. As part of a peer review of CARB's plan, Robert Stavins, Ph.D., a professor at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government and director of the Harvard Environmental Economics Program, wrote: "I have come to the inescapable conclusion that the economic analysis is terribly deficient in critical ways and should not be used by the state government or the public for the purpose of assessing the likely costs of CARB's plans."

"We stand by our macroeconomic analyses," says CARB spokesman Stanley Young, who suggests that AB 32 is as much about safeguarding public and environmental safety as it is about dollars and cents.—Daniel DiClerico

Essential information: Read about CARB's and the EPA's efforts to lower emissions from lawn mowers and tractors.

EnergySavers.gov can help cut your heating bill

If you live in a cold-weather climate, you don't need a thermometer to know that winter and its cold weather have arrived. (That said, the temperature exceeded a balmy 60°F at my New York City suburban hometown yesterday.) Even as home-heating fuel prices have dropped, you'll still want to trim your wintertime utility bills.

A friend swears that wearing sweaters and other warm clothing is the best way to save, so he turns the thermostat way down. He definitely saves, though his stinginess makes his house uncomfortably cold—so chilly that his mother-in-law refuses to visit. Perhaps that frostiness mirrors the relationship he has with her. . . .

You don't have to take such measures to save. The U.S. Department of Energy recently launched EnergySavers.gov, which features free and inexpensive ways to lower energy costs and a guide to do-it-yourself energy audits. Your utility company might also provide a free or low-cost energy audit; if you need to hire a company, use this directory of certified professionals and learn what a professional audit should entail.

If you or someone you know needs help paying their heating bills this winter, check out the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.—Kimberly Janeway

Essential reading: Use our experts tips to save energy and money. And learn how cutting your utility bills could boost the value of your home. 

Can you turn your car into an emergency generator?

Our recent "Tip of the Day: How to safely use a generator during a weather emergency" provided you with details on the importance of generators during a power outage.

But what if you don't have a generator like those covered in our ratings-based review of these emergency-power supplies? A December 23, 2008, post on the Green Inc. blog from The New York Times detailed how a Massachusetts homeowner rigged his Toyota Prius (full model information available to subscribers) to provide electricity to his storm-battered home.

This novel use of the hybrid car got me to wondering about weather-related emergencies and what types of system(s) you might have jerry-built to cope with the situations. It also struck me that maybe our trusty vehicles can be more than just people movers.

If you've got an interesting tale to tell, share your experiences by posting a comment below. Meanwhile, I'm going to explore ways to turn my mundane minivan into a profit-making venture, perhaps as rolling drive-in theater for families of five (popcorn and soft drinks not included).—Steven H. Saltzman

Essential information: Visit our Storm & Emergency Guide for expert advice on coping with natural disasters.

Happy holidays to all—and keep warm

If you're of a certain age and grew up in the New York City area, you probably remember watching the Yule Log on WPIX on Christmas Day. Channel 11 used to show a fireplace aglow for hours on end, a goofy yet—if not literally—warming looping log.

Some of us used to look for the spot where the loop ended and started again—perhaps not the most exciting thing to do on a holiday but if the bowl games were boring or the weather too nasty to go outside, this detective work did provide a diversion.

While most wood- and pellet-burning stoves won't allow you to watch the burning logs, they clearly have grabbed the interest of many consumers who are looking for less expensive ways to heat their homes. If you're considering adding one of these devices to your home, read our buyer's guide and these blog posts on an innovative pellet-delivery system and the fluctuating price of fuel for these stoves.—Steven H. Saltzman

 

Q&A: Are high-Btu burners and induction cooktops worth their added cost?

The Btu ratings of the burners on ranges and cooktops seem to have increased, and induction cooktops are becoming more popular. Does the performance of these high-output appliances justify their higher prices?

That depends on the amount and the type of cooking you do.

Our latest report on gas ranges included models with gas burners rated at 18,000 Btu/hr.: GE PGS975SEM[SS], $2,500, Electrolux EW30GF65G $2,000 and EW30GS65G $2,300; and dual-fuel Dacor Epicure ER30D, $6,000. Each brought a 6-liter pot of water to a near-boil in 15 to 16 1/2 minutes. "But less expensive gas ranges with burners rated at 15,000 or 16,000 Btu/hr. offered comparable water-boiling performance," says Tara Casaregola, a program leader in the Consumer Reports Technical division. "High heat is also useful for stir frying large quantities," notes Casaregola.

Gas ranges are now being outperformed in some areas by induction cooktops, which use electromagnetism to heat iron-based cookware while leaving the heating element itself relatively cool. High-output induction elements bring water to a boil faster and are better for certain specific cooking tasks than other electric burners. In our latest tests, the GE Profile PHP900DM [BB], $1,650, and the Thermador CIT302D[S], $1,725, brought 6 liters of water to a boil in less than 8 minutes. The Thermador's overall performance and versatility—it excelled at simmering and combines induction and electric elements—earned it a spot in our top 100 products of 2008 (available to subscribers).

A recent First Look on the Kenmore Elite 9991 range (shown) points to why induction appliances are generating a buzz. The induction cooktop on the Kenmore boiled water rapidly and did well in our low-heat test, melting chocolate on its lowest-power element without scorching and holding tomato sauce below a boil on its largest element at a lower setting.

But induction might not be for you. "If you're choosing between a high-powered induction cooktop and a gas range, you still can't beat the 'feel' of gas," says John Macchia, a senior laboratory technician in our technical division who studied at the Culinary Institute of America. "If you cook on a regular basis with gas, you'll know what I'm talking about."

Macchia is talking about the visual cue you get when cooking with gas, the ability to see the size of the flame and gauge the amount of heat being pumped out. His sentiments are shared by many participants in the induction-cooking discussion on our appliances forum, where a growing number of induction users have been sharing their experiences. Drop in and tell others about your favorite cooking appliance.

Essential information: See our updated product pages for more information on gas and electric ranges and cooktop and wall ovens.

Buzzword: SERP

What it means. In the early days of Web search engines, SERP—search engine results page—was only part of new-media pioneers' jargon. In today's wired world, we all encounter SERPs countless times a day when we google someone (to find out what became of a high-school flame) or something (to check out the price of the bottle of wine you got from your boss).

A SERP, a listing of Web pages returned by a search engine in response to a query, in a way serves as an up-to-the minute measure of what people are looking for online; how well a Web page is optimized (the ever-important search-engine optimization, or SEO); and which search terms companies are paying for (the sometimes pricey search-engine marketing, or SEM).

Every organization with a Web site pays attention to SERPs, be they derived from internal or external searches. At Consumer Reports, for example, we've seen that many of you are searching for information on wood- and pellet-burning stoves. We've done a buyer's guide to these increasingly popular devices and have covered news surrounding them in the Home & Garden blog, like these posts on their rising sales and a new pellet-delivery system. We're also planning a testing-based report on these product.

Why the buzz? SERP plays a big role in the Web 2.0 world, which emphasizes social networks and interaction. (A related buzzword, reputation economy, highlights the user review nature of this new model). Still, as valuable a pulse-taker as SERP is, it's not always a reliable measure of quality. Consider the recently published "Looking for a Vacuum?" item on AOL.

After some breezy if not exactly exhaustive buying advice ("Most people want something light-weight with great sucking power . . . "), the author provides a list of the most searched vacuum cleaners on AOL. They include, in order from 1 to 10, Dyson, Shark, Rainbow, Kirby, Hoover, Eureka, Oreck, Dirt Devil, Miele, and Bissell.

This search-term popularity contest not only omits leading nameplates Kenmore and Electrolux but also isn't an accurate measure of how the 10 brands perform. In our latest report on upright vacuums, canister vacuums, and handheld vacuums, for instance, Dyson models didn't rank as highly as the AOL Dyson search did. (Ratings of canister and upright vacuums are available to subscribers.) Kirby is another highly searched brand on AOL, and people interested in that company's vacuums will be happy to know that it was among the highest-scoring—but priciest—upright vacuums we tested.

The discrepancies between popularity and performance are many, and we haven't even touched on brand reliability. This is not to say SERP is useless. The wisdom of the crowd can be a good starting point in your search for information. But when it comes to vacuum cleaners and other major appliances, be sure to cross-reference the cyber chatter with the test-based findings of our engineers.—Daniel DiClerico

Essential information: Read our Value Index for cordless drills, a new tool designed to help you get the biggest bang for your buck.

A good corkscrew is key for any celebration

I've broken more than my share of corks when opening my favorite wines over the holidays. And it seems to happen as we sit down for dinner, a most Scrooge-like occurrence on the part of the host and the corkscrew.

One rookie mistake I used to make was storing my wine standing up in too warm a space since I didn't have a wine cellar. Proper storage would have kept the corks on older bottles from becoming dry and more likely to crumble.

I've used waiter’s, T-shaped, and wing-style corkscrews, some of which require a modicum of skill and/or a bit of strength to use. I’d have upgraded to a better-engineered manual or electric corkscrew, but some of them were even pricier than the wines I coveted.

But for our recent report on electric corkscrews, we found $20 electric models from Emerson and Oster that removed both natural and synthetic corks quickly, easily, and relatively quietly (watch the video here to see them in action). “These models are especially useful for anyone with limited hand strength, or anyone who has trouble using a traditional corkscrew,” says Adam Kaplan, a Consumer Reports project leader who oversaw the tests.

Both top-rated electric corkscrews come with a rechargeable battery, charging base, and foil cutter. We also tested some advanced manual openers that might be worth considering. And if you’re on a budget, read the report mentioned above to learn about the pros and cons and costs of classic corkscrews.­—Gian Trotta

Essential information: Find out which Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Shiraz, and sparkling wines are good buys (ratings are available to subscribers). Then tap into our tips on proper temperatures for serving wine, saving it for later, and mastering wine lingo.

Forum Friday: Top forums in recent weeks

Washing machines: This has been the most popular appliances forum recently, with the least-repair-prone front-loading washer and LG washer smell among the hottest discussions. These topics have emerged as our other top forums.

Vacuums: Vacuum aficionados have been posting in our best vacuums topic, while picks and pans of deep and steam cleaners have drawn numerous reviews.

Refrigerators: A newer French-door refrigerator discussion has sprung up to replace the old discussion on the same topic, along with a call for the quietest refrigerator.

Mattresses: The hottest non-appliance forum has many folks chatting about latex mattresses. And thanks to the member who posted the last word on how to buy a mattress.

Dishwashers: The I love my dishwasher discussion continues with passionate posts. Can top one member’s tale of her 24-year-old dishwasher?

Central heat/air conditioning: Cold weather and energy prices probably stoked discussions, like Which gas furnace should I buy?, which ranks as our most viewed discussion. We're looking forward to responses to a member's call for opinions on integrated heating and hot-water systems.

Ranges: These kitchen appliances have seen more activity as the holiday-cooking season kicked off and Consumer Reports published new ratings. The pros and cons of induction cooking is especially useful.

Small appliances: Coffeemakers dominate here. As detailed in a recent Forum Friday, numerous threads are percolating away in the wake of our latest review of coffeemakers.

Dryers: You’ll find numerous discussions of particular brands and some interesting exchanges on ventless condensation dryers and ways to prevent clothes and sheets from “balling.”

While it didn't crack the Top 10 in traffic, the energy saving in your home forum has had some wonderful insights to put more green in your holidays.

Find the best value in cordless drills

Choosing the best cordless drill for yourself or as a holiday gift isn't as tough as using one of these tools to build a deck. But if you’re unfamiliar with this type of equipment, finding just the right cordless drill could be a hassle, especially when stores are heavily promoting them as a holiday gift and pricing is volatile.

So we've created the Consumer Reports Value Index™ (below) to help you get the best general-purpose cordless drill for your money. (If tougher tasks are on tap, see our ratings, available to subscribers, of drills designed for heavy-duty work, including models from manufacturers below and DeWalt, Ridgid, and Skil, as well as Black & Decker, Bosch, and Milwaukee.)

This exclusive interactive below combines our ratings of 27 drills—focusing on speed, power, run and charging times, and handling—and the approximate retail price as of December 18, 2008, laying them over a chart with higher-, medium-, and lower-value zones. Products toward the upper-right side of the chart offer comparatively better values than at the bottom-left side. Note that prices here might differ from what you see in our Ratings and in stores.

To use the index, roll your cursor over a model name in the list at the right of the chart, which includes a selection of drills in order of value. Doing so will highlight that model in the chart, revealing its price, battery type, and a link to its model page. Or just mouse over any of the 27 points in the index to pop up the same information. You can use the chart to compare the relative value among two or more models, giving you the needed information to decide which one gives you the most bang for your buck.

The drill that tops ours performance ratings, the Panasonic EY6432GQKW, $185, isn't necessarily the highest-value drill. Lower-priced Ryobi, Craftsman, and Makita models performed well in our tests, so they merit a higher Value Index ranking.

The top values are the Craftsman 11588 and the Ryobi ONE+ P811 (shown above), each a CR Best Buy at $100. In our tests, the Craftsman edged out the Ryobi in speed, power and run time, but both are easy to handle, have short charging times, and come with two NiCd batteries. Smart alternatives to this Craftsman and Ryobi are the Hitachi DS12DVF3, $80, and Makita 6390DWPE, $140.

Lithium-ion, or Li-Ion, drills provide longer run time in a lighter package. The Ryobi P813, $180, was the only drill in our latest report that offered a battery with a built-in charging indicator. That's an important feature, as our tests revealed that several Li-Ion batteries couldn't be recharged after we discharged them fully and that letting a Li-Ion battery sit for longer than 6 months with a full charge can shorten its life.

The ultralightweight Ryobi HJP1001K, $80, makes a great stocking stuffer, but its Li-Ion power and run time are less than those of some other drills—don't expect to use it for a major project. The Makita BDF452HW, $200, and Hitachi DS18DFLPC, $150, are lightweight lithium tools, but their prices are not as svelte. The Ryobi ONE+ P811 comes with NiCds but can also take Li-Ion batteries in case you want the option to upgrade in the future.

Remember, the Value Index provides you with a relative price-and-performance comparison of these cordless drills. So learn more about each drill by reviewing the model pages and reading our buying advice, then use the index as a guide. If you find a cordless drill at a price different from what we show, you can use the chart to determine whether that model will fall into the medium- or higher-value zone. You'll be a more informed shopper when you hit your local home center.—Gian Trotta

Essential information: For more information on buying cordless drills, see our product page, and learn more about other tools and outdoor power equipment. We've also created a Value Index for digital cameras, flat-panel TVs, and GPS devices. Tell us what you think about this tool by posting a comment below.

Tip of the Day: How to safely use a generator during a weather emergency

A series of devastating ice storms recently knocked out power to hundreds of thousands of residents in New York State and New England, and carbon-monoxide poisoning caused by backup generators has claimed three lives.

Thousands of homes were without power several days after the storms hit, and more wintry weather has been forecast throughout the country for this week. So it's a good time to review the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's alert on portable generators and our advice for using generators safely (also watch the safety video, right, and our video buying guide).

If you're in the market for a generator, read our report on portable and whole-house generators and use our free wattage calculator to determine which model you need.

Essential information: Our Storm & Emergency Guide offers expert advice for coping with a wide array of natural disasters. To get advance warning of bad weather, visit the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Center.

For an even greener holiday, get the LED(s) out

Green is among the colors traditionally associated with Christmas, but green can be more than just a year-end-celebration decorating theme.

As we noted last year in our review of holiday lights, in which we compared mini and standard-size incandescent light strings with LED light strand, LED lights use a lot less energy than traditional holiday lights. Lots of people have apparently switched over to these energy-efficient lights: "Our sales of LED holiday lights are up high-double-digit over last year," says Tia Robinson, a Home Depot spokeswoman.

Don't miss this advice for using a ladder, important when you're putting up the lights or mistletoe, and these general tips for staying safe during the holidays festivities.

Essential Information: LED lighting isn't just for festive occasions—it's beginning to see increasing application in the home.

A meat thermometer can help make your holiday meal a success

The table setting is beautiful, a warming fire dances away in the hearth, good spirit and tasty spirits abound, and cheerful music provides the background for the compelling conversation. Friends and family have gathered for what's expected to be a sumptuous holiday feast.

This scene is played out in family and living rooms all over the country at this time of year, as is this one in countless kitchens: The cook is sweating and fretting over the pricey roast cooking away, unsure when to take it out. Remove it from the oven too soon, and it could be raw on the inside. Let it go too long, and a charred mess could emerge. But there is a simple solution, and it doesn't entail ordering from an overpriced caterer.

The easy way to ensure your main dish doesn't turn into an under- or overcooked nightmare is to use a meat thermometer. We recently tested 11 different leave-in and instant-read models ranging in price from $15 to $40. One model, the Weber 6439 Audible, even has a wireless probe, allowing you to check food temperature or get notified when the desired temperature has been reached up to a football field away.

Read "How Accurate Is That Meat Thermometer?" for more details on our tests and watch our video (right).

Essential information: If turkey is on your holiday menu, read our Thanksgiving tips. And check out or wine page for information on the best values in reds, whites, and sparklers.