Honda has recalled 52,615 of its 2007-2008 Acura TL sedans because over time, the power steering hose can deteriorate and develop a fluid leak, leading to a loss of power steering assistance.

In addition, if fluid leaks onto a catalytic converter it can result in smoke or a fire. To date, no crashes, injuries or fires have been reported in relation to this recall.

Owners of vehicles affected by this recall can go to an authorized Acura dealer as soon as they receive notification of this recall from Acura. Dealers will replace the power-steering hose.

Notifications will be mailed to vehicle owners beginning in mid-June. In addition to the mailed notifications, consumers can see if their vehicle requires repair by visiting recalls.acura.com or by calling 800-382-2238, and selecting option 4.

Source:
Statement by Acura Regarding Power Steering Hose Recall: 2007-2008 Acura TL [Acura]

YONKERS, NY — Consumer Reports is pleased to announce Lane Rasberry as the organization’s first Wikipedian in Residence.    Mr. Rasberry, a Wikipedia expert, will support Consumer Reports’ exploration of shared opportunities involving the world’s most widely-viewed, general information resource that was founded on principles of neutrality, openness, and public service.  He will focus primarily on sharing evidence-based consumer health information to support “Choosing Wisely,” an initiative led by the ABIM Foundation and Consumer Reports.

Mr. Rasberry will also assist Consumer Reports in understanding how patients use Wikipedia to get information on which they base decisions about the risks and benefits of health procedures. Initially, his efforts will focus on improving the quality of consumer health information on Wikipedia in support of “Choosing Wisely,” which aims to provide evidence-based information about medical tests, treatments, and procedures to both physicians and consumers.

This initiative is part of the ABIM Foundation’s goal of promoting wise choices by clinicians in order to improve health-care outcomes, provide patient-centered care that avoids unnecessary and even harmful interventions, and reduce the rapidly-expanding costs of the health care system. This initiative is built on a coalition model, with experts on both consumer issues and medical science working together for the public good. With the addition of the Wikipedian in Residence position, Wikipedia editors will have the opportunity to collaborate with Consumer Reports and over two dozen partner organizations including over nine leading specialty medical societies involved in “Choosing Wisely”.

Mr. Rasberry has been an active Wikipedia contributor since 2008, contributing to health articles, participating in various outreach programs, and working with health providers to explore how Wikipedia relates to their work. This has included conducting clinical research for the University of Washington, serving on the HIV Vaccine Trials Network’s community advisory board, and promoting open access to biomedical research through the Open Science Federation. Mr. Rasberry’s interests include access to health information in India?where he is a member of two NGOs?and human subject research ethics.

The Wikipedian in Residence position at Consumer Reports, along with related efforts to engage with Wikipedia, was established with the assistance of Pete Forsyth of Wiki Strategies.

“The Choosing Wisely” initiative shares important values with Wikipedia?a dedication to sharing evidence-based, scientific information free of the influence of special interests, and a collaborative process,” said Mr. Forsyth. “Lane Rasberry’s extensive background in both Wikipedia editing and clinical research will serve the project well.”

“I look forward to helping medical experts and Wikipedia volunteers work together toward common goals and learn from one another’s experience,” said Mr. Rasberry.

The Wikipedian in Residence model was established in 2010 at the British Museum, and has been implemented at world-class museums and archives.

The ethical issues faced in science are inextricably linked with the ethics of publication and journalism. Wikipedia represents a new approach to mission-driven publication, while Consumer Reports has deep expertise in this area through its decades of work in the public interest.  Through collaboration, both organizations hope to gain new insights and capabilities.

Consumer Reports is the world’s largest independent product-testing organization. Using its more than 50 labs, auto test center, and survey research center, the nonprofit rates thousands of products and services annually. Founded in 1936, Consumer Reports has over 8 million subscribers to its magazine, website and other publications. Its advocacy division, Consumers Union, works for health reform, food and product safety, financial reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

About 183,000 toilet locks and 685,000 cabinet locks from Safety 1st are being recalled, warned two government agencies, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada. The locks fail to keep children out of toilet bowls and prevent drowning nor do they secure household cabinets which may contain harmful home cleaners and other chemicals.

Dorel Juvenile Group, which markets the recalled Safety 1st locks, has received 110 reports of failing toilet locks and 278 incidents of failing cabinet slide locks. In one of reports, a failing cabinet slide lock enabled a 13-month old child access to a craft kit and swallow small, toxic beads. (The child was treated at a hospital and released after overnight observation.)

As with the recall of 900,000 Safety 1st cabinet locks in March, safety experts recommend that parents should keep the 24-hour hotline to the American Association of Poison Control Centers (800-222-1222) close at hand in case of such toddler emergencies.

This current safety recall involves Safety 1st Sure Fit toilet locks with model numbers 48003 and 48103 as well as Safety 1st cabinet slide locks with model numbers 12013 and 12014. (Model numbers can be found on the back of the locks.) The toilet locks and cabinet locks were sold at major national retail chains such as Home Depot, Target, Walmart and Bed, Bath and Beyond from January 2005 to April 2010 and January 2000 through March 2009, respectively. Amazon.com also sold both lock through April 2012.

Consumer are urged to stop using the recalled safety locks immediately and contact DJG (toll-free: 877-416-8105 website: www.djgusa.com) for free replacement locks. Cleaners and other dangerous household chemicals stored in now-unlocked cabinets should be kept out of reach of children and access to bathrooms should be monitored, warns the CPSC.

For more safety advice, see:

• Simple tips to keep kids safe at their grandparents' house
• Consumer Reports' Babies & kids section
• Consumer Reports video: Poison safety

Sources:
Safety 1st Toilet and Cabinet Locks Recalled Due to Lock Failure [US CPSC]
Consumer Product Recalls [Health Canada]
Safety Notices [Dorel Juvenile Group]

With some of the warmest months on record, folks took to calling 2012 the year without a winter. But we're certainly going to have a summer. Three-quarters of the nation will experience temperatures that are higher than normal from June through August, according to the federal Climate Prediction Center. To help you beat the heat, Consumer Reports has new Ratings of window air conditioners. We also have the results of our central air reliability survey in which readers told us which systems worked for them, as well as energy-saving tips so you can run your A/C without running up your utility bill.

So far this year, we've experienced the fourth warmest January and February, the hottest March and the third warmest April. Expect more of the same, says the Climate Prediction Center, especially if you live in places below a line that stretches roughly from the mid-Atlantic states west to southern Idaho.

Now that you've been forewarned, it's a good time to check whatever cooling system you typically rely on. If you have an older window unit or central A/C system that needs replacing, you can realize big energy savings by getting a new, more energy-efficient model that meets Energy Star standards. You can save even more by taking performance and reliability into account. Our survey of 40,000 readers who installed central air within a recent five-year period revealed that Amana, Goodman and York logged the most repairs.

All of the window air conditioners we tested in our labs were excellent at cooling. What separated the best from the rest was quietness, convenient controls and the ability to keep working in brownout conditions. You can get a lot of cooling for as little as $150, the cost of the Kenmore 70051, which we recommend. Trade up in size and price and you can buy the sleek Friedrich Kuhl, $800, which is efficient, quiet and comes with panels that match your decor.

There are ways to save on hot summer days. Using a ceiling fan as part of your cooling strategy is one way. Instead of setting the air conditioner at 74 degrees F to 76 degrees F, raise the temperature to 78 degrees F and let the fans do the rest. Each degree you lower the thermostat increases cooling costs by 2 percent. And don't waste money cooling an empty house. Program your thermostat or time your window unit to come on just before you get home.

Netbooks could be going the way of the rotary phone: We've seen very few new models in the past several months, and that's not surprising. After all, the Apple iPad and some Android tablets are much more elegant solutions for most of the tasks you'd do on a netbook, and thin-and-light laptops such as Ultrabooks are squeezing netbooks from the other end.

The Asus Eee PC Flare 1025C features a powerful processor, long battery life, and a low price. But it's still a netbook, and it suffers from the shortcomings of the format. Senior electronics editor Donna Tapellini recently visited Into Tomorrow to discuss her review of this new netbook. Listen to our podcast for details.

Every week, Consumer Reports experts produce a short audio segment that covers a wide variety of issues regarding consumer electronics and technology for "Into Tomorrow with Dave Graveline." The recording featured on the Consumer Reports News Blog was aired on the prior weekend's "Into Tomorrow" broadcast.

About Into Tomorrow
Now in its 17th year, "Into Tomorrow with Dave Graveline" covers the latest in consumer electronics and technology available today and into tomorrow. The show airs on more than 180 AM and FM radio stations around the U.S. and can be heard globally through various sources—including America's Armed Forces Networks and podcasts of previous "Into Tomorrow" episodes.

It used to be that spending less on an entry-level refrigerator meant settling for a bare-bones design and limited features. Picture the inside of an old top-freezer, with its wire shelves, single-bulb illumination, and freezer devoid of storage compartments. But our latest report on refrigerators tells a different story, with many low-priced models boasting features once reserved for the higher-end.

Among top-freezers, we like the new 20.5 claimed-cubic-foot fridge from Frigidaire, $700, which delivered very good temperature performance and excellent energy efficiency in our tests. It's the Frigidaire's features that really impress, however, including its temperature-controlled meat/deli bin, spillproof glass shelves, and a full-width freezer shelf. Those add-ons help the refrigerator's relatively roomy interior feel even bigger. Frigidaire's slightly smaller 18.2 claimed cubic-foot top-freezer comes with the same expansive list of features for $100 less.

Our latest refrigerator tests found impressive bargains in other configurations. The French-door bottom-freezer and side-by-side categories each feature new CR Best Buys at the top of the Ratings, from Kenmore and GE respectively. There's plenty more value to be found in our Ratings of more than 200 models. Before you dive in, spend a few minutes watching our Refrigerator buying guide video to help size up your needs and desires.

iExit Interstate Exit Guide helps take the guesswork out of road trip pit stops, by identifying what restaurants, gas stations, hotels, and other services are available at each exit by name. Make a selection, and the smart-phone application gives the option of turn-by-turn directions or calling ahead to a business with one touch.

The app lets you search up to 100 exits ahead or even in another state for trip planning. It allows you to filter by categories and brands/company names, and even to search for campgrounds, diesel or alternative fuels. iExit even offers specialized information for RVers and truckers, including parking and where to find scales. And if all you're looking for is a quick break, it also lists rest areas.

This can add up to a real time saver, especially if you and yours are picky about your favorite road food when traveling. Because of its narrow focus, and limited navigation aid, iExit Interstate Exit Guide is best considered a travel tool in our app arsenal, rather then an all-purpose guide.

We noticed some minor differences between Android and iOS versions of the app, but both were easy to use and helpful. The upgraded iOS version adds more filtering and customization, while removing the banner-style ads found in the free versions. You can try the free version of the app if you're interested. If you use an Apple device and found the "lite" version useful, the upgrade is worthwhile.

What we like: iExit is easy to use, with simple menus. As long as it's turned on, it knows where you are and what's nearby. We found information to be reasonably current and complete, with some exceptions. But we've seen the same thing with GPS device point-of-interest information, or even road signs and friendly locals. iExit limits its selections to choices within a couple of miles of the highway, which can save time, but it might eliminate some favorite attractions. A map button gives the option of pinpointing selections on a map instead of a list.

What we don't like: Like so many apps, iExit can lead to distraction and is best used by a passenger or at a standstill, especially if venturing past the basic display. (The application says as much in the user agreement, displayed upon initial start-up.) Buttons and font sizes are small, and it would be dangerous for a driver to try to use behind the wheel. And they're not kidding by calling it iExit Interstate Guide. If you're looking for guidance on a parkway, lesser four-lane road, or anything that isn't part of the Interstate system, you're out of luck. Google is the default navigation app for turn-by-turn directions, and that functionality is not available to iPhone users.

What could be improved: Voice control would be helpful. Larger icons would also be nice. Some of us experienced frequent system crashes using the app.

Compatibility: A "lite" version of iExit Guide is free for Android and iOS (iPhone, iPad), and the full version is currently $.99 for iOS.

Related:
Waze - Free navigation app with traffic and potential for unnecessary distraction
GasBuddy app can help save money on gasoline
Navigon updates iPhone, Android navigation apps

The HTC Evo 4G LTE should be a fine phone, once it actually reaches consumers and the network technology to support it is up and running. That's my take on this new Sprint phone after using a press sample for a few days.

It was slated to be available today from Sprint for $200 with a two-year contract, but apparently the Evo 4G LTE has been delayed in customs. Sprint has told those who pre-ordered the phone that they will still be among the first to receive their HTC EVO 4G LTEs, but the company offered no word on when it will be available. (Buyers also have the option of selecting another product or canceling their order by calling 866-789-8292.)

The phone uses a new voice-quality enhancement called HD Voice, and is among the first phones to run on Sprint's new LTE-based 4G network. Unfortunately, neither of those technologies are yet online. Atlanta, Baltimore, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, and San Antonio will be the first cities to have Sprint's LTE network later this year.

The lack of 4G network support means the phone will run on Sprint's 3G network for now. It can't even handle map and Web searches while it's on a phone call, as can Sprint phones that are based on WiMax, a 4G technology Sprint is quietly phasing out. While I haven't yet seen Sprint's LTE network in action, I was impressed with HD Voice technology when it was demonstrated to me at a press event back in April.

What I could check out on this new EVO was impressive enough. The phone boasts a 4.7-inch HD display, a 1.5GHz dual-core S4 processor by Qualcomm, and the same intriguing 8-megapixel camera HTC put on its One series of smart phones. Despite the large display, the phone measures a palm-friendly 5.3 x 2.7 x 0.35 inches. And the EVO 4G LTE weighs a reasonable 4.7 ounces, despite such advanced hardware as a 2000mAh embedded battery (it's not removable).

This EVO comes preloaded with Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich), which did away with a permanent Google search button—an odd omission on a phone whose operating system is touted for working well with the search engine known as Google.

Here are the details:

The display. The EVO 4G LTE's 4.7-inch Super LCD display has a resolution of 720 x 1280 (about 310 pixels per inch), which is sharp enough to reveal the most minute details on any Web page or document. Though colors didn't appear as dazzling to me as on the Super AMOLED screens that adorn the Samsung Galaxies and Nokia Lumia 900, they do appear quite natural. I also think reading e-mails and other text in sunlight was easier on the EVO's LCD than on the AMOLEDs.

The camera. The EVO's 8-megapixel camera has a short shutter lag, and I truly appreciated the feature that lets you snap stills while shooting video. But overall quality seemed just OK for photos shot in bright light, while details became noticeably muddy in low-light conditions. Ditto for videos shot at full HD in low-light conditions. And the high dynamic range (HDR) feature, which is supposed to balance exposure when the subject is sandwiched between bright sun and shadows, produced photos with a bluish tint.

In preliminary tests of the HTC One S on T-Mobile, which has the same camera, our engineers failed to find anything exceptional in performance. Still-picture quality at ISO settings up to 800 was good, and the quality of video recorded at 1080p was only adequate compared to the better HD pocket camcorders (see our sample video below). The camera can also shoot a sequence of photos in rapid-fire succession, a.k.a. burst mode.

Audio. As with many other HTC smart phones, The EVO 4G LTE comes with Monster Cable's Beats Audio app, which is claimed to enhance music quality, particularly when paired with optional Beats-branded headphones ($100 to $300). I tried listening to music with the Beats app using a $100 pair of in-ear Beats headphones, as well as the $50 Philips set I use every day. Both sounded equally good.

The app appears to boost bass, which did make rap, house, rock, and other percussion-dependent music sound better. The improvements were less noticeable for jazz and softer music genres. You can't (legally) add Beats "technology" to a phone that doesn't have it; at CTIA, an HTC spokesperson told me that's because the phone's hardware had to be calibrated to work with the app at the factory. Whatever.

Battery life. I found that I could get a full day of heavy use out of the EVO 4G, spending 75 percent of my time on Sprint's 3G network and the remaining time on Wi-Fi. The real test will come when Sprint's LTE network finally is up and running. In New York, where I'm based, that may be a year away.

Bottom line: The HTC EVO 4G LTE seems well-equipped to assume the top spot in Sprint's impressive lineup of phones. But having a 4G phone in your pocket without a 4G network to connect to is like driving a Ferrari on a dirt road—a bit limiting

Sprint Confirms HTC EVO 4G LTE Delay [GottaBeMobile]

We've told you before to stay away from so-called toning shoes because of apparent safety risks. Yesterday's settlement between the Federal Trade Commission and Skechers over the company's deceptive and unsupported claims gives you another reason to consider other fitness footwear.

Skechers agreed to pay $40 million to settle FTC charges that the company deceived consumers by making unfounded claims that its Shape-ups, Resistance Runner, Toners, and Tone-ups shoes would help you lose weight, and strengthen and tone your buttocks, legs, and abdominal muscles.

Our medical experts have been noting since last May that there's little evidence that Shape-ups and similar rocker-style shoes are more likely than other athletic shoes to promote physical fitness. Orly Avitzur, M.D., a Consumer Reports medical adviser, also warned about injuries from toning shoes:

Many consumers, including several of my patients who suffered injuries, were duped into thinking that these shoes could allow them to achieve unrealistic results. Hopefully, this action will help deter such misleading claims in the future.

David Vladeck, director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, said Skechers' unfounded claims went beyond stronger and more toned muscles: "The company even made claims about weight loss and cardiovascular health. The FTC's message, for Skechers and other national advertisers, is to shape up your substantiation or tone down your claims."

In September, 2011 the FTC announced that Reebok would pay $25 million to settle charges that advertising of EasyTone and RunTone Shoes was deceptive and made unsupported claims that the shoes strengthened and toned muscles.

If you bought Skechers Shape-ups, Resistance Runner, Toners, or Tone-ups shoes, you can submit a claim for a refund.

See our Ratings of athletic shoes.

Previously:
Toning shoes: One false step can lead to the ER
Skechers Shape-Ups: A wobbly experience
Are toning shoes unsafe? Reports of injuries raise concern

Source:
Skechers Will Pay $40 Million to Settle FTC Charges That It Deceived Consumers with Ads for "Toning Shoes"

We just took delivery of a car that is made for spring: a "Mars Red" SLK250. This two-seat convertible is just what the doctor ordered to get us out of the winter doldrums. And if the cold weather reappears, our SLK has a folding hardtop, heated seats, and the automaker's exclusive "airscarf neck-level heating system," which features vents in the head restraints that blow warm air on your neck. It's a nice touch that we really liked in the last SLK, and its SL big-brother we tested.

What's new with this generation? Joining the Audi TT and BMW Z4, the SLK is now available with a small, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The new SLK engine puts out 201 hp; we equipped ours with the six-speed manual transmission.

As with many things, the fun in the sun comes at a price. We fitted our SLK with several options that boosted its $42,500 base price, including parking guidance, dual-zone climate control, and the Premium 1 Package. Adding those items resulted in a $48,045 bottom line.

The last SLK we tested was fun to drive, with quick, communicative, and well-weighted steering and a direct and smooth-shifting manual transmission - traits we normally don't experience in a Mercedes. We look forward to seeing if the new generation measures up.

Stay tuned as we put on break-in miles with our SLK and get ready to test it against the Audi and BMW... and maybe another competitor.

A safety recall alert for breaking glass lids included in 13-piece Circulon cookware sets have been issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The lids for the 5-quart sauté pan in the sets may crack, break or shatter during use and pose cut hazards to consumers, warns the federal safety agency.

The CPSC says Meyer Corp., the makers of Circulon, has received 65 reports of broken lids but none involved injuries. Still, about 4,600 of the non-stick kitchen cookware sets were sold exclusively through Costco, a big-box retailer that scored well among consumers in Consumer Reports' Ratings of chain stores.

There are four glass lids included in each 13-piece Circulon set. But the current recall affects only the 11-inch glass lid which bears "IMCP1108" code stamped on its side.

Consumers are urged to discontinue use of the 11-inch Circulon glass lid and contact the company (toll-free: 800-326-3933 website: www.circulon.com) for a replacement.

Source:
Circulon 13-Piece Cookware Set Recalled by Meyer Corporation Due to Laceration Hazard from Glass Lid [CPSC]

A 2010 decision by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to allow the sale of gasoline blended with up to 15 percent ethanol (called E15) has come under fire from many groups. The latest is the Auto Alliance, an auto industry lobbying group representing several major automakers. The Alliance has published a new study saying that up to 5 million cars on the road today may be damaged by the higher concentrations of ethanol.

The study showed problems with damaged valves and valve seats in some car engines from the 2001 to 2009 model years, which could lead to the need for valve or cylinder-head replacement. Costs for such work could run from $2,000 to about $8,000, the study says.

Testing 16 vehicles, with eight different engines on a 500-hour durability cycle designed to simulate 100,000 miles of usage, the study showed two engines suffered damage to the valves or cylinder heads in the test, says Alliance spokeswoman Gloria Bergquist. Another engine fell out of compliance with emissions requirements when running on E15.

The 5 million-vehicle figure is based on examining the metallurgy and other component materials used in the damaged engines, then surveying automakers about how many engines they produced with similar materials.

The study also showed that the engines got poorer fuel economy running on E15, which mirrors our own findings that showed significant drops in fuel economy from ethanol blends. (Our tests were based on a vehicle running on E85, a blend of 85 percent ethanol with 15 percent gasoline that is approved for use only in specially equipped "flex-fuel" vehicles.)

The study was funded by automakers and by oil companies, both of which have a financial interest in reducing ethanol use. The federal Department of Energy has criticized the study for testing engines it says are known to have durability problems anyway, for failing to test the engines running E10 (the most common fuel sold in the U.S. today), and for not providing a baseline test of the engines running on straight gasoline (E-zero).

In 2010, EPA approved a two-part "waiver" allowing E15 fuels to be sold at stations across the United States for cars from the 2001 model year and later. E15 would be sold at specially labeled pumps alongside traditional gasoline, which may contain up to 10-percent ethanol.

Makers of small off-road engines, such as for lawn mowers, as well as boats, and ATVs, have objected to the waivers, claiming that consumers are likely to mix up the fuels and fill their equipment with E15, which isn't authorized for any non-road engines. Further, the manufacturers are concerned they could be held liable for warranty claims caused by excess ethanol.

So far, no gas stations sell E15, because no gas pumps have been certified to dispense the fuel.

Consumers Union, the advocacy arm of Consumer Reports, has advocated that EPA address the likelihood of consumers misfueling older vehicles and small engines with E15, as well as warranty concerns of owners of vehicles still under warranty that could incur higher costs of repairing or replacing an engine that is incompatible with E15.

See our guides to alternative fuels and fuel economy.

Related:
Warranties void on cars burning E15, say automakers
Move over E85, here comes E15
EPA approves E15 fuel, raises concerns
You can skip ethanol in your lawn gear for a price

Earlier this week, during Internet Week in New York, we reported on LG's new Google TVs, which will be available this month. I also had a chance to try the TVs briefly, to see how well they performed and what the Google TV platform added to LG's already robust Smart TV Internet service.

My interest was especially piqued given the dismal reception received by the first generation of Google TV products, which included a few LCD TVs and a Blu-ray player from Sony and the Logitech Revue standalone set-top box.

As far as I can tell, there are no new Google TVs in Sony's 2012 TV lineup, though the company did announce a Google TV-powered set-top box (the NSZ-GS7 Network Media Player) and a Blu-ray player ( NSZ-GP9) at CES. Both are slated to arrive this summer. Logitech pulled the plug on the Revue box and hasn't announced a successor. But the platform could get a boost later this year if other manufacturers—such as, reportedly, Samsung and Vizio—debut Google TV-powered devices, including TVs, Bu-ray players, and set-top boxes. Last fall, Google addressed some of the shortcomings of the Google TV platforms via an updated that streamlined the interface, improved search (via an app called TV & Movies), and perhaps most important, added access to the Android market, now called Google Play.

LG's first Google TVs. LG is the first company to bring second-generation Google TV products to market. Although price-wise, the new G2-series LCD TVs sit in the middle of LG's 2102 TV lineup, they're fairly full-featured models that include the company's passive Cinema 3D technology, edge LED backlights, LG's TruMotion 120Hz anti-blur technology, built-in Wi-Fi, and of course, access to online content. The idea is that Google TVs will appeal to a younger, tech-savvy audience, so they can't be priced as top-of-the-line models. Still, at $1,700 for a 47-inch set and $2,300 for a 55-inch model, the TVs aren't inexpensive.

The G2-series sets are thin, stylish models that sit atop an elegant "ribbon" stand. They come with six sets of polarized 3D glasses, and like many 3D TVs, they have a 2D-to-3D conversion feature that can create 3D effects from regular 2D programming. The sets also have a 3D depth control that can be used to adjust the level of the 3D effect with converted content.

Based on this demo, the LG sets are the best implementation of Google TV I've seen to date. The TV's response was quicker than I remembered, most likely due to the use of a dual-core processor—it's the first Google TV device to include one—that helps load Web pages faster. It also enables multi-tasking, so I was able to continue watching live TV in a window while selecting apps from the main screen.

Two standout features. The two features of the set that really impressed me were its comprehensive search capabilities and the new Magic Motion remote control, which allows the TV to be controlled using Wii-like gestures and voice commands. Unlike LG's other gesture-based remotes, this one has a full QWERTY keyboard on the flip side, which was useful when I used the Chrome browser for Internet searches. The remote also includes an integrated microphone for voice control. It responded well to gestures, and the voice commands worked even in the noisy environment of the Internet Week demo space.

In the G2 sets, Google TV is more or less integrated within LG's own Smart TV online service. During the demo, I was impressed by Google TV's ability to comprehensively search multiple avenues of content, including streaming apps such as Netflix, Internet sites such as YouTube, and even live TV shows. (The TV was connected to a Time Warner Cable box). I was told that the TV can even search through DVR content if Google has worked with the TV service provider, as it apparently has with Dish Networks.

Unlike the earlier version of Google TV, the updated platform now allows access to the full Android market in Google Play, with the exception of those apps that require a touch screen, GPS, or telephony. Though these apps will work with Google TV, you'll get a much better experience with those apps—currently about 150—that have been optimized for Google TV and larger screens. For example, the videos I saw using the Google TV-optimized version of YouTube looked far superior to those called up simply by accessing the site via the browser on my TV at home.

During the demo, I got a glimpse of another benefit of the Google TV platform—a third-party Android app called Airtight, which makes the G2-series TVs Airplay-compatible so you can stream photos and videos stored on your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch to the TV, provided it's connected to the same network.

Some trade-offs. One I noticed was that the G2 sets had access to fewer streaming-movie and -TV services. While LG's other models with its Smart TV platform have access to CinemaNow and Vudu, they were absent on the Google TV models.

Given my limited time with these sets, it's too early to decide whether Google TV is a worthwhile addition to the growing number of Internet platforms now available on more and more TVs. Certainly the improvements made last fall make it a more attractive option than we saw with first-generation products, and the addition of other manufacturers may give the platform a boost later this year.

We're looking forward to giving LG's G2-series models a full, comprehensive evaluation in our TV test labs, so check back with our blog—and our TV Ratings—for the results.

LG shows its first Google TV-powered HDTVs

Self-propelled walk-behind mowers are useful for most lawns under a half-acre, especially if you have any hills. If you don't want to shell out $350 to $600 for the better self-propelled models, which have multiple speeds for various cutting situations, you might consider a single-speed model. We've separated out single-speed self-propelled mowers, which start at $250 for recommended models, from multiple-speed in our recently updated Ratings for self-propelled mowers.

But while we believe our readers can appreciate the distinction, an e-mail from Sears let us know that not all mower companies agree. The retailer's complaint? That three self-propelled mowers we classified as single-speed, the Craftsman 37043 (see photo), 37040, and 37091, were technically not single- but multiple-speed.

We were sure of our findings but agreed to reexamine those models, which range from $260 to $360. On Sears' own website, the page for the 37040 indeed does indicate single-speed as of this publication date, despite Sears' claim. The other two claim to be multiple-speed.

Another look at these models, however, confirmed our initial findings. With all three, there's a second, lower bail besides the one you hold to keep the engine running. The ability to hold that lower bail in a partial position accounts for Sears' claim, since the mower could run at a slightly lower speed that way. But this doesn't make for true multiple-speed capability but rather a single-speed mower with the ability to partially engage the drive by not fully raising the lever. Moreover, holding the lever in this position as you mow is not practical for any length of time.

Multiple-speeds come in especially handy for parts of the yard you need to do slowly—say, when the grass is heavy or you want to avoid running over flowers. These Sears mowers seemed a reasonable medium between too slow and too fast. But if you want a true multiple-speed mower from Sears, consider the $350 Craftsman 37044. Besides being among our recommended models for fine cutting across all mowing modes, it has a handle-grip that's easy to hold in various positions as you mow.

Even in a weak housing market, consumers still prefer countertops with the look of luxury. A recent survey of potential home buyers found that granite or another natural stone was the most preferred material, with 20 percent of the respondents saying it was essential and another 53 percent who deemed it desirable.

Very few potential home buyers surveyed dreamed of having tile countertops, according to Stephen Melman, director of economic services for the National Association of Home Builders, the trade group that conducted the survey. Realtors tell us the look is outdated and the grout is hard to keep clean. Our tough countertop tests show that the grout between the ceramic or porcelain tiles stains, even when sealed, and can also mildew. Chipping is another problem with tile countertops.

In our tests, we stained, sliced, scratched, scorched and nicked 14 materials from leading brands. We found big differences in materials, but little variation among brands. That's why our Ratings are by material, and that brings us back to stone. Our tests include granite, soapstone, limestone and marble, and of course, engineered stone or quartz. Granite and quartz performed similarly, but marble and the other natural stones weren't as resilient and some need to be sealed to resist staining. Use the results of our tests to find a material that will hold up well over the years.

At $50 to $150 per square foot, marble is the most expensive. Granite and quartz were comparable in price at $50 to $100 per square foot. Tile, of course, costs less ($5 to $30 per square foot) but if you have to replace your counter more often, that's no bargain.

In our most recent telecom survey, seven out of 10 respondents with a triple-play service bundle didn't even try to bargain their bills down. But of those who did, more than 90 percent got some accommodation from their provider. We've been reporting for years that haggling with your telecom company can pay off—and now, one of our staffers can also testify that it does.

A Consumer Reports editor recently received a letter from Verizon, his home telecom provider, that offered him a $250 prepaid Visa card if he renewed his triple-play FiOS service a couple months early. He thought that was a great idea, but before he renewed, he decided to examine the myriad small charges on his current monthly bill.

Two items in particular stuck out: Star Play and Games on Demand/Quick Pack. He wasn't even aware he had those two services; it turns out that he hadn't remembered to opt out of them when the free trial periods expired. (As we advise in our telecom story, be sure to cancel freebie channels and services after their trial periods end, or they'll continue with a monthly fee on your bill.)

When our editor called Verizon, he expressed his interest in staying with the service but also hinted that he was not averse to checking out other options to provide his TV, Internet, and home phone. The company removed the two unwanted services, saving him $10.98 a month—and also gave him a $152.49 credit, since he had not been using them.

Verizon upgraded his Internet service to 50/20—that's 50 Mbps download/20 Mbps upload speeds—from 35/35. (Our telecom story provides guidelines to determine how much speed you really need.) Our editor also dropped an unneeded security and backup bundle from his bill, saving another $10 a month, and bundled his three home DVRs to save $3.98 a month.

And he still got the $250 Visa card. (By the way, this generous offer may be a result of the fact that he has a choice of telecom services in his neighborhood, instead of just one. Another of our staffers was also offered a pre-paid Visa card to retain Verizon FiOS—for $500!)

Our editor's monthly payment—for improved service—is now $179.98, down from $198.94 (both figures not including taxes).

For lots of tips and advice regarding home telecom services, see our story Cut your telecom bill. And for tips on how to negotiate better prices, see Get your haggle on.

Social Security's new online benefits statement is a useful new resource for anyone doing financial planning or future financial projections. And, as I learned when I signed up to view mine, the statements provide some interesting new information.

If you've begun to think about retiring--or if you're wondering whether it's even a financial possibility--you'll need a copy of your statement, which shows the Social Security retirement benefits you could collect if you claimed at the earliest possible time (age 62), the latest possible time (age 70), and at your "full retirement age" (a range that differs depending on when you were born.) As we report in a recent Consumer Reports Money Adviser article on how to get the most money from Social Security, those with patience and knowledge of how to work the system can maximize their payouts significantly. But first, you'll need to set up an online account at the Social Security site.

Setting up your account isn't much different than the process on a bank's web site. Social Security employs Experian, the credit bureau, to verify your identity by asking some additional questions specific to you. For instance, you might be asked to choose your mortgage company from among four listed companies, or the make of your current car. Social Security asks if you want to add another layer of security; to do so, you'll need to have handy either a major credit card (not including American Express), a tax return, a W-2 form or the last direct-deposit amount of your Social Security benefits.

My statement looked similar to what I'd been receiving in the mail. It included all my Social Security and Medicare annual wages since I started working, and estimates of what I'd receive monthly if I claimed benefits at different ages. Social Security says its estimates are based on my earning the same amount the I earn now until I retire. The agency provides plenty of tabs and links to more details, and other useful tools.

New and notable was a summation of everything that I and my employers have paid in Social Security taxes (more than $200,000 so far), and in Medicare taxes (a little less than $50,000). Depending on your point of view, you may feel like you've paid in more than your share, or that you're getting a better deal on your benefits than you ever imagined. In any case, it's interesting information for every worker--and voter--to consider.

Sony announced today two 16-megapixel, SLR-like advanced cameras—the Sony a37 and NEX-F3—that offer more automated features than usual. Some of these features are trickling up from point-and-shoots, such as Smile Shutter, which fires off a shot when the camera recognizes a smile, and Superior Auto, which selects an appropriate scene mode according to subject and lighting; others are custom-made for advanced modes.

Manufacturers have traditionally built advanced cameras for consumers who know a lot about photography and love to tweak their cameras manually, but Sony has taken a different tack: The company is attempting to move beyond the simple auto mode by developing these smart features, which expand the concept of automation.

Both of the new Sony cameras also include Auto Portrait Framing mode, which analyzes, crops, and resaves an image to create a more pleasing composition. (The cameras copy and save the original, as well; using digital zoom, the new file will be the same file size as the original.) Sony says this process not only yields more pleasing photos but also educates consumers on how to compose their photos.

The NEX-F3 also includes Easy Self-portrait mode: To use it, you flip up the 3-inch swiveling display so that the LCD faces toward the front of the camera and press the shutter button. The camera starts a 3-second countdown, then fire a photo. The display shows a mirror image, which Sony says will appear more natural to photographers.

Here are some other intriguing specs for both models.

The Sony a37:

• Can fire 12 frames per second (with full-time continuous AF) at full resolution.


• Has a 2.7-inch swiveling live-view LCD and high-quality SVGA viewfinder.


• Includes a translucent mirror technology and has 15 AF (auto-focus) points, with three cross sensors.

The NEX-F3:

• Has a 3-inch swiveling live-view LCD.


• Includes a built-in flash.


• Has longer battery life than the previous model, the NEX 3.


• Can be charged by a computer via USB.

Both models will go on sale in June, and each will cost $600 with the 18-55mm kit lens. The Sony a37 will be available with another lens, the 18-135mm, for $800. Sony has also redesigned its 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 zoom lens for NEX-series cameras, which will be available in July for $850.

Sony's Smile Shutter Seizes the Moment
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX66 review: A point-and-shoot that packs in the features

Sony NEX-F3 (Photo: Sony)

Ever since phosphates were eliminated from dishwasher detergents two summers ago, consumers have been complaining about "clean" dishware coming out of the dishwasher covered in a frosty-white film. The chorus of complaints caused Consumer Reports to add hard-water performance to its dishwasher detergent tests and the results changed the rankings of some products. When the new test was factored into the ratings, Finish Quantum, the detergent that was formerly number one for cleaning dropped to number three. Method Smarty Dish, formerly a fourth place finisher, scored the worst on the new test and tumbled to tenth.

Topping the latest dishwasher detergent ratings is Finish Powerball Tabs followed by Cascade Complete All in 1 ActionPacs. Both were very good at resisting film and discoloration and were excellent at cleaning our cooked-on goo from dishes. Kirkland Signature from Costco was excellent at resisting film and discoloration but because it was only fair at cleaning dishes and pots, it remains near the bottom of the 20 products in our Ratings.

Because phosphates foul waterways, they were banned by 17 states in July 2010 and manufacturers eliminated all but trace amounts from dishwasher detergents. (Laundry detergents were already phosphate-free.) The outcry from consumers was immediate, especially from folks who live in regions with hard water and that's more than half of the nation.

In the new tough test we take a set of clean glass dishware and uncoated aluminum sheets and wash them 20 times, simulating more than a month of machine washing, using the same detergent, and water that's harder than most.

The film left on the dishes is a residue of minerals. Cascade recommends that consumers remove any white stuff before using the dishes again. But doing so can be a water-wasting affair. Here's what the American Cleaning Institute recommends: Put two cups of white vinegar in a bowl and place it on the bottom rack. Run the dishwasher without detergent then rerun it with detergent to remove the residual vinegar. To spiff up discolored metal items use a stainless steel cleaner or silver polish.

Any bike helmet is better than riding with no helmet. But when you're paying $50 or $60 for one, you'd like to think that it's going to protect your head if you crash into a curb, a rock, or the ground, right?

To find out how well bike helmets absorb impact, we used a device to drop 13 different models onto differently shaped anvils at about 11 or 14 mph (the speed depended on the anvil used). We used an electronic sensor inside a dummy head to detect how much force would be transmitted to a rider's head in an accident.

Of the nine bike helmets for adults and four youth models we tested (see bike helmet Ratings, available to subscribers), all but two absorbed the force of impact within the limit set by the current Consumer Product Safety Commission standard. The two that scored Poor in our tests for absorbing impact were made for adults: one made by Nutcase and the other by Bern, both multisport helmets that claim to be usable for other activities such as skateboarding.

In our own more-stringent impact test of bike helmets, in which we dropped helmets on the anvils at about 2 mph faster, only one adult model provided the necessary protection. At $60, it is a CR Best Buy. In our tests of four youth helmets, which are meant for children 5 or older, we recommend only one model, which scored the highest marks in its category by also passing our more-stringent test.

We also evaluated the helmets for ventilation, ease of use, fit adjustments, weight, and other features.

Bottom line. We believe that the models we have judged to be Very Good for impact absorption should provide significantly better head protection in the case of a bike accident. Find out how to get a good fit when buying a bike helmet, and how to stay safe when riding a bike.

Energy and water efficiency standards released today by the U.S. Department of Energy will deliver clothes washers that use as much as 35 percent less energy and water and dishwashers that use about 14 percent less energy and 23 percent less water. While the standards don't take effect until 2013 for dishwashers and 2015 for clothes washers, many top models in Consumer Reports' current Ratings of these appliances already make the grade.

Clothes washers and dishwashers account for roughly 3 percent of residential energy use and more than 20 percent of indoor water use in homes across the country, according to the DOE. By reducing the amount of energy and water that all models on the market can use, the new standards have the potential to save consumers a total of $20 billion over the lives of the units. "These efficiency improvements for clothes washers and dishwashers will save consumers money and provide consumers with more efficient options that are still affordable and high-performing," said Shannon Baker-Branstetter, Policy Counsel at Consumers Union.

According to an analysis by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy and the Appliance Standards Awareness Project (ASAP), clothes washers that meet the new standard save between $400 and $600 in lower energy and water bills over their lifetime compared to today's basic models. The savings for dishwashers are about $100. Lower utility bills will offset additional upfront costs within about two years for both products.

Check Consumer Report's dishwasher and washer Ratings to find models that combine top cleaning performance with the latest efficiencies.

Hand-me downs are a part of growing up in many families. It can be a great way to save money, but not all things should be shared equally. For instance, child seats can be passed down, though there are key restrictions to keep in mind.

It's time to retire a seat if any of the following apply:

• It has passed its expiration date. All seats have a date after which they can no longer be used. It is based on the expected life span of various components, and the structure of the seat itself. The expiration date also takes into account that newer seats will incorporate the latest safety technology and meet the most current standards. Most seats have a six-year service life. Check the labels on your seat or the owner's manual to determine its age.
• It has been in a moderate-to-severe crash. Though most seats can be reused after a minor fender bender, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends replacing a seat if it has been involved in a collision that involved injuries, required the vehicle to be towed, deployed air bags, or damaged the seat or nearest door.
• The child has outgrown it. This one may seem obvious, but it's important to move up to the next size once your child has reached the weight or height limits of the seat.
• It is damaged. Check for cracks, loose parts, and worn straps and fasteners. If the seat is damaged, it may not offer as much protection in a crash.

If you're ready to retire a seat, you need to dispose of it properly. Most of the seats are recyclable and some towns offer car seat recycling. If not, here's what to do:

1. Remove all fabric, padding, and screws. Disassemble the restraint.
   
2. Use a screwdriver to remove as much metal as possible
   
3. Recycle all plastic and foam parts, and discard the rest.

As the spotlight has shifted to battery-powered cars, other promising alternative fuels have been left in the dark. That's especially true for yesterday's transportation stars, fuel-cell vehicles. But that doesn't mean progress has stopped.

California is still planning to get 20,000 fuel-cell vehicles on the road, starting in 2015. Part of the state's zero-emissions vehicle mandate requires oil companies to install 68 hydrogen-refueling stations in five cities and along highways between those cities by 2015. The hydrogen would most likely be produced on site from natural gas, although some would use renewable sources.

So far, a handful of these stations exist: 37 are funded or under construction and institutional backers are trying to raise $65 million to build the rest - from $45 million from the state, $12.5 million from regional air-quality districts, and $7.5 million from the U.S. Department of Energy. A partnership of automakers and California government agencies has set up a hydrogen infrastructure trust fund to manage the money. The requirements to create that infrastructure are triggered once automakers announce plans to collectively sell 20,000 fuel-cell vehicles in the state. Although in its infancy, that process is already under way.

While automakers such as Nissan and Mitsubishi seem to be committing to battery powered plug-in vehicles, Mercedes-Benz has delivered 37 F-cell fuel-cell-powered cars, Honda has leased 23 FCX Claritys in California, and dozens of Toyota and General Motors fuel-cell vehicles are driving around the state, which count towards the mandate. Craig Childers, an engineer at the California Air Resources board who helped write the state's zero emissions vehicle standards, says fuel-cell vehicles amass additional credits (over battery electrics), because of their typically long range and short refueling times.

We caught up with a few F-cell drivers at EVS26, the 26th annual Electric Vehicle Symposium held recently in Los Angeles. The drivers we spoke with are committed to ending their dependence on oil and each leased an F-cell for two years at $849 a month. (Mercedes has a new, more affordable program for three years at $550 a month with $2,500 down.) At an evening social gathering outside the Los Angeles Convention Center, they called each other by car numbers.

We talked to Harvey Cogen (aka Number 6), a computer consultant from Redondo Beach, Calif. He says he wanted a Chevrolet Volt, but lives in a condominium, and after consulting with his homeowners' board, the town, and various electricians, he could find no way to get a charger installed where he parks. He drove a fuel-cell Chevrolet Equinox as part of General Motors' Project Driveway and was sold. He says with federal, state, and local tax incentives, along with energy and insurance being included, the car will end up costing him just a few hundred dollars. Now he drives his F-cell 40 to 60 miles a day, and he says the biggest concern is what to get after the lease ends.

Here at Consumer Reports, we've driven most of the hydrogen cars on the market at one time or another and found they perform well, are refined, and have reasonable range. The only thing lacking for the vast majority of consumers has been a place to fill them up. Perhaps with the California push for more hydrogen fueling stations, and more cars on the market, Cogen and other fuel-cell vehicle advocates will find refueling stations continue to spread the reach and appeal of these green machines.

See our guide to fuel economy and guide to alternative fuels.

Related:
Electric car drivers left hanging in charger wars
California to boost mandate for electric cars
Purpose-built electric cars trump manufacturer-converted models
Wireless electric-car charging takes center stage
Plugless Power demonstrates cordless electric car recharging
Toyota introduces electric RAV4 SUV, starting at $49,800
Mercedes-Benz B-Class fuel-cell-powered car shows progress
Behind the wheel of the improved Coda electric car
We drive the first Chinese car expected in the U.S., the electric BYD e6
Do electric cars even need special chargers?

Catch a summer cold and you know you're in for about a week of feeling congested and crummy. But what if you could get rid of that cold a little sooner? A new study published online May 7 in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests adults who take zinc supplements within a few days of the onset of symptoms may shorten a cold by nearly two days. However, the study also showed that zinc might cause unpleasant symptoms, including nausea and bad taste.

The issue of whether zinc could reduce the duration of the common cold has been studied for a few decades. This analysis reviewed the evidence published since the mid-80s and in the end, after evaluating 17 randomized controlled trials of oral zinc preparations for the common cold, the Canadian researchers ended up with more questions than answers. The trials included 2,121 children and adults with naturally acquired and induced colds, who were given placebos, or compounds of zinc-containing lozenges, tablets, or syrup. Zinc appeared to reduce the length of colds in adults, but it did not make a difference in children. The researchers suggested that lower doses of zinc sulfate, delivered less frequently, in syrup may explain the lack of effect in children.

"Certain zinc compounds, such as zinc acetate, and treatment regimens with higher doses, seem to have the greatest benefit," says Michelle Science, M.D., lead author of the study and staff physician, Division of Infectious Diseases at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. But Science and her colleagues were unable to pinpoint appropriate zinc formulations, doses, and adverse effects among various age groups. "Personally I don't use zinc for colds, because I believe the side effects outweigh the benefits," said Dr. Science. She and the other researchers reported no conflict of interests with industry.

Ananda Prasad, M.D., Ph.D., an expert on zinc and Distinguished Professor of Hematology and Oncology at Wayne State University School of Medicine, has a different perspective. Prasad explains that zinc, a mineral absorbed when we eat protein in animals, fish and nuts, is critical to our immune system and cell growth. Taken as an oral supplement, zinc may behave as an antiviral agent, preventing rhinoviruses--responsible for most colds--from attaching to the lining of the nose and throat.

What should you do if you're about to travel, have a big event approaching, or simply want to get rid of your cold sooner? "I don't see a downside to people who are healthy, and especially those who travel, taking zinc for 3-5 days as long as they don't take too much," says Joseph Mosquera, MD, medical adviser to Consumer Reports and a board certified physician trained in integrative-medicine. Mosquera warns patients away from intranasal zinc-gluconate, which according to a 2006 Consumer Reports investigation and 2009 FDA findings may cause a loss of smell. He recommends choosing zinc products with proper USP verification and dosing.

See our guide to zinc

SOURCE
Canadian Medical Association Journal

--Sharon Kay

If your child takes medications such as Ritalin or Adderall to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), you should reconsider after two years or so whether the medications are still helping, according to a new CR Best Buy Drugs report. We found that while those drugs help most children and teens with the condition at first, it's unclear how long the benefits last.

We looked at an analysis of more than 400 studies of ADHD medications, including stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, and generics) and amphetamine (Adderall), as well as nonstimulants such as atomoxetine (Straterra), guanfacine (Intuniv), and clonidine (Kapvay). Our findings show that 60 to 80 percent of children with ADHD who take these medications improve their ability to focus, become less impulsive, and are less disruptive at home and school, at least for the first couple of years. But no good quality studies have looked at continued treatment for longer than that.

Several small studies found that the benefits of methylphenidate start to drop off as soon as six months to two years after starting treatment. The largest study, which followed nearly 600 kids ages seven to nine, found that medication combined with close monitoring by a physician was more effective than medication or behavioral therapy alone for at least 14 months. Follow-up with those same kids eight years later showed that nearly 70 percent no longer had ADHD, regardless of what kind of treatment they initially received. (See our ADHD Best Buy Drug report for more details on this study.)

Given these uncertainties, you and your doctor should periodically discuss whether it makes sense for your child to take a break from ADHD medications, even for a short time. Some children might benefit from continuing to take them, while others might "outgrow" their ADHD symptoms and no longer need medication.

When drugs are necessary, our analysis found that stimulant medications reduce ADHD symptoms slightly better than nonstimulant drugs. Among the stimulants, we recommend generic methylphenidate (the generic version of Ritalin), which costs as little as $15 a month, and is as safe and effective as related drugs.

Before starting any ADHD treatment, get a diagnosis from a physician or mental-health professional with expertise in ADHD, and a second opinion if you have doubts. Be skeptical if a doctor or therapist diagnoses ADHD at the first visit and immediately prescribes a drug. A thorough diagnosis usually involves talking to parents and the child's teachers, as well as direct observation of the child in various settings.

Read our latest, free Best Buy Drugs report for more information about ADHD and the effectiveness and safety of medications used to treat the condition.

Some bad kitchen habits can even hurt your health

YONKERS, NY — Putting knives in the dishwasher may save you time now, but can cost you money in the long run.  It’s just one of the many kitchen mistakes people often make that can lead to the premature breakdown of utensils, cookware and appliances.  The June 2012 issue of ShopSmart magazine, from the publisher of Consumer Reports, identifies fourteen costly cooking mistakes and easy fixes that help you save money and in some cases even protect  you and your family’s health. 
 
“Everyone goofs up a recipe now and then, but over time these kitchen mistakes can really cost you,” said Lisa Lee Freeman, editor-in-chief of ShopSmart.  “We decided to shine a light on some common, costly habits so that you don’t have to spend money on a roasting dish, extra ingredients, or even takeout.”

Costly Kitchen Mistakes & Their Easy Fixes

Here’s a sampling of some common kitchen mistakes and ways to correct them - the full list is available in June issue of ShopSmart.

• Don’t put your kitchen knives in the dishwasher.  The high heat of the machine’s drying cycle can cause the blade and handle to expand and contract, so you could end up with a warped blade or cracked handle.  Do wash knives by hand in hot, soapy water, and dry immediately to avoid rusting or spotting; then put them away.

• Don’t line the oven with foil.  It can trap heat, throwing off the oven’s performance, or melt, damaging the oven or even causing a fire. Your warranty may be voided if the oven has a foil warning.  Do use heavy-duty foil on the rack below the food that’s cooking – a sheet that’s a few inches bigger than the pan over it can catch drips and still allow heat to circulate properly.

• Don’t use nonstick pans over very high heat.   Very high temps can break down the coating and create fumes that can kill pet birds and possibly cause flulike symptoms in people.  Do use the pans on low or medium heat. Most pans indicate the maximum temperature on their label (usually 350°-400°F).

• Don’t run cold water over hot pots, pans, and baking sheets.  Over time the repeated expanding and contracting of the materials can cause permanent warping and cracking.  Do let the pan cool before removing stuck-on stuff from the bottom of a pan. For stubborn   food, add a little water to the pan and warm over a low flame, scraping up any browned bits.

• Don’t refrigerate your tomatoes.  Cold temperatures kill the flavor of tomatoes and can create a mealy texture. They also stop the ripening process.  Do keep all tomatoes (even fully ripe ones) on the counter. Always place them stem side up to prevent bruising.

• Don’t ignore instructions to rotate baking pans.  Many baking and casserole recipes suggest rotating pans during cooking to make sure the dish is uniformly cooked because home ovens might have pockets where one area gets hotter than another.  Do halfway through cooking, rotate pans 180 degrees. If you’re cooking multiple items, swap the pans onto different racks.

• Don’t boil when the recipe says simmer.  Even when you’re crunched for time, it’s important not to rush the cooking process. Foods will cook unevenly, meat can become tough, and the food at the bottom of your pot is likely to burn.  Do keep adjusting the heat to keep the simmer steady – you should just see tiny bubbles covering the surface of the liquid. If you start to see bigger bubbles and hear them pop, turn down the heat.

About Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports is the world’s largest independent product-testing organization. Using its more than 50 labs, auto test center, and survey research center, the nonprofit rates thousands of products and services annually. Founded in 1936, Consumer Reports has over 8 million subscribers to its magazine, website, and other publications. Its advocacy division, Consumers Union, works for health reform, food and product safety, financial reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

About ShopSmart magazine:
Launched in Fall 2006 by Consumer Reports, ShopSmart draws upon the publication’s celebrated tradition of accepting no advertisements and providing unbiased product reviews. ShopSmart features product reviews, shopping tips on how to get the most out of products and “best of the best” lists. It’s ideal for busy shoppers who place a premium on time. ShopSmart has a newsstand price of $4.99 and is available nationwide at major retailers including Barnes & Noble, Wal-Mart, Borders, Kroger, Safeway and Publix. ShopSmart is available by subscription at www.ShopSmartmag.org.

If you head to Wikipedia and spot an advertisement, be warned: It probably means your computer's been infected with malware. The non-profit site is ad-free and funded by donors, so no ad you may spot there is legitimate.

The ad-injecting malware can manifest as a browser extension called "I want this," which installs itself into the Google Chrome browser, according to a Wikipedia blog post; but there could also be other forms of the malware cropping up on additional browsers. As well, some Internet service providers (like those in Internet cafes or free Wi-Fi networks) may inject ads.

To prevent unwanted installation of browser add-ons, it recommends using the Web with a secure (HTTPS) connection, which can be automated using the HTTPS everywhere extension offered by the Electronic Frontier Foundation. See the Wikipedia blog post for more tips on preventing and removing the malware. And for advice and recommendations on security software, see our new buying guide at ConsumerReports.org.

Source:
If you're seeing ads on Wikipedia, your computer is probably infected with malware

Stream TV Networks announced today that it has struck a deal with a manufacturing company that will result in 3D-capable displays that don't require any 3D glasses.

According to Stream TV, the deal will result in its glasses-free Ultra-D technology being used by Unihan Corporation to develop a variety of 3D-capable displays. The initial product to be developed by the two companies will be a 42-inch 3D display. The companies did not mention the price, but said the goal is to produce the display later in 2012.

The two companies will also build an outboard 2D-to-3D converter box—called the Ultra-D Seecube—that can create 3D effects from regular 2D programming, as well as take stereoscopic material and convert it to glasses-free 3D on the fly. The companies say they'll also be working to develop a wide range of products, including tablets, smart phones, laptops, PCs, digital communicators and TV sets of various sizes, that can use the technology.

Stream TV describes Ultra-D as a combination of both hardware and software, which operate in sync. Displays use a layer of lenses that directs light at an optimal angle to create a 3D image for the human eye, while the software uses sophisticated algorithms to scan incoming video streams to determine the different layers that can help produce a depth effect.

The Seecube converter box will reportedly work with a variety of content, including regular and 3D cable and satellite feeds; Blu-ray players; video-game systems; streaming websites such as YouTube, Netflix and Vudu; and even Facebook and Skype. Stream TV said that the Seecube also supports Apple's iOS devices, including the iPad, iPhone and Apple TV.

The company promised that more information about products will be available during the upcoming Computex show in Taiwan.

Consumer Reports has long advocated that drivers check their car's tire pressure monthly to prevent uneven tire wear and tire failure. Now, a new study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reinforces that advice by determining that vehicles driving on tires underinflated by more than 25 percent are three times more likely to be involved in a crash related to tire problems than vehicles with proper inflation. And tires underinflated up to 25 percent run the risk of overheating, leading to failure, and at the very least adversely affecting handling and tread life.

The study looked at crash data from 2005-2007--before tire-pressure monitoring systems were required to be installed on all vehicles. The systems mandated for the 2008 model year alert drivers if any tire drops 25 percent or more below the recommended inflation level of your vehicle. Tire pressure monitoring systems are designed to alert a driver of a tire losing air pressure and are not intended to be used as a substitute for monthly tire pressure checks.

The study also found that five percent of all vehicles studied experienced tire problems immediately before a crash, with 66 percent of those representing passenger cars, 17 percent being SUVs, and the rest being pickups and vans. Half of the tire-related crashes involved a single vehicle, and just 31 percent of single vehicle crashes were not related to tires.

This shows that tire problems are evident in the pre-crash phase, which has a very small window for attempting a crash avoidance maneuver. Rollovers are more common among SUVs that experienced a tire problem before a crash--45 percent rolled over. On the other hand, passenger cars, pickups, and vans experiencing tire problems had fewer than a 25 percent incidence of rollover. Overall, the study concluded that tire problems in the pre-crash phase were more likely to lead in rollover in SUVs than other types of vehicles.

Tire problems combined with other factors, such as bad weather or an inexperienced driver, can increase the likelihood of a crash.

Aside from properly inflating your tires, it is very important to monitor your tire tread depth condition. This study showed that tire-related crashes were more likely as your tire's tread wears, with accident rates at just 2.4 percent when tires had near full tread depth to 26 percent when the tires were worn- out (0 - 2 /32" depth). We recommend consumers start shopping for new tires at 4/32" tread depth while some all-weather grip is still available. At this point tire-related crashes approached 8 percent.

A 2009 NHTSA analysis found that 57 percent of vehicles with tire-pressure monitoring systems had tires that were properly inflated.

The study reiterates the need for motorists to properly maintain their tires. Buying a tire pressure gauge and regularly checking your pressure can help avoid these tire problems and the increase risk of a related crash.

Related:
Tire buying advice and Ratings
Tire gauges help keep the pressure up to ensure your safety
Guide to car maintenance

Getting dinner on the table night after night can be one fine juggling act. Fortunately, many of the ranges on the market today have new features that trim cooking time and offer flexibility. If you haven't replaced your range in a decade or so, you'll be happy to see models with one or two high-powered elements, warming drawers and elements, and convection oven modes that speed baking.

For the fastest cooktop heating of all, induction takes the cake. Induction was typically 25 percent faster than electric smoothtops in Consumer Reports' range tests. And induction has come down in price. The cooktops we tested were excellent overall. The top-rated $1,700 Kenmore 43820 scored an impressive 99 with super fast heating and superb simmering. Most induction ranges were also excellent, outperforming other electric and gas models. Induction ranges from GE Profile, Kenmore, and Samsung are on our list of recommended models and cost $1,800 to $2,500.

If you prefer an electric smoothtop or gas range, look for at least one high-powered burner or element. It quickly brings water to a boil—handy when making pasta—and capably heats large pots of food. Expandable elements on electric smoothtop ranges let you switch from a large high-power element to the smaller, low-powered one within, giving you cooking options that match your menu.

In the oven, convection uses fans to circulate hot air and cut cooking time, and consider a range with at least five oven-rack positions for added flexibility. A warming drawer comes in handy when cooking for a crowd, and a dual-oven range allows you to roast a turkey in one oven while baking a pie in the other. You'll find such features noted on the model pages of the more than 120 ranges in our latest tests.

After two of the hottest summers on record, homeowners are now assessing their cooling needs for the coming months and budgeting ways to pay for them. Cooling accounts for nearly 20 percent of a home's utility bill, according to Energy Star. And if you have a leaky central air conditioning system or a window unit that's the wrong size for the room, you'll spend even more and get less cooling. But there are ways to save even on hot summer days.

For starters, keep whatever system you currently have in good working order with regular maintenance. If you're adding or replacing your room or central air conditioning, make sure you size up your needs correctly. Buying a cooling system that's the wrong size is the most common mistake people make, regardless of the type. To help you through the process, use our guide to summer cooling, which tells you everything you need to know about air conditioning but were too cool to ask.

And so you don't get hot under the collar when you see your utility bill, we included a dozen ideas for how to keep your A/C running without running up your bill. One good strategy is to use air conditioning and ceiling fans in concert. Instead of setting the air conditioner at 74 degrees F to 76 degrees F, raise the temperature to 78 degrees F and let the fans do the rest. Each degree you raise the thermostat lowers cooling costs by two percent.

For more information, including new Ratings of window units and what our readers said about the reliability of their central air conditioning systems, check the cooling guide.

To kick its addiction to oil, the United States needs a raft of alternatives; no single alternative is likely to replace such an entrenched market any time soon. But electric car advocates at the Electric Vehicle Symposium held recently in Los Angeles say battery-powered cars are the one alternative that can meet all needs. Electricity isn't a fuel per se, only an "energy carrier." To generate electricity, you have to produce power from some other fuel source, such as coal, oil, and nuclear, or harness energy from renewable source, such as wind, hydro, or solar. Interestingly, this flexibility answers some big concerns of alternative-fuel critics.

In covering the alternative fuel movement, we often encounter pushback from people who say they don't know how this or that fuel will ever make sense where they live. Some say ethanol won't work because there are no E85 pumps in much of the country, and the average price is often higher than gasoline once you factor in ethanol's lower energy content. Yet in the upper Midwest, there's no shortage of ethanol stations, and the fuel sells for significantly less than gasoline. (Learn more about ethanol.)

Others note that natural gas is not available in their region, and some report that electricity is produced from coal where they live.

Looked at holistically, it seems likely that such arguments may break down along regional lines: Ethanol may make sense close to where excess corn is grown. Electricity is cleanest in regions with abundant renewable supplies. Like electricity, hydrogen can be made from a variety of feed stocks, including fossil fuels and renewable resources, but costs are still high and vary dramatically by feedstock and region.

But it's hard to sell different cars running on different types of fuel across the country. Electric cars can bridge this gap, say supporters, because electricity is only an energy carrier. You could sell battery-electric cars across the country, then make electricity from different sources, depending on what makes the most economic sense in each location.

From where I sit, that seems a much more appealing solution for consumers than buying a car that effectively has regional ties due to the specialized refueling infrastructure. America is a mobile society, both traveling and relocating, and it requires a flexible automotive power source than can adapt to an ever-changing lifestyle. After being immersed in the electric car industry for a few days last week at EVS26, I came away with a renewed sense of the widespread benefits electric cars can provide, if only we can break through a few hurdles.

See our guide to fuel economy and guide to alternative fuels.

Related:
Electric car drivers left hanging in charger wars
California to boost mandate for electric cars
Purpose-built electric cars trump manufacturer-converted models
Wireless electric-car charging takes center stage
Plugless Power demonstrates cordless electric car recharging
Toyota introduces electric RAV4 SUV, starting at $49,800
Mercedes-Benz B-Class fuel-cell-powered car shows progress
Behind the wheel of the improved Coda electric car
We drive the first Chinese car expected in the U.S., the electric BYD e6
Do electric cars even need special chargers?

The safety of 2012 Hyundai Elantra sedans is being investigated after the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration received a report from an owner who had been severely cut from a piece of metal reportedly from the car's side air bag deployment during a collision.

According to photos of the victim's Elantra, the metal along with the side air bag protrudes from the left side headliner of the driver's seat. The driver's left ear was cut in half according to the complaint filed with NHTSA. Said the complaint "[that injury] could have been [to my] neck."

Neither Hyundai or NHTSA has yet examined the crashed 2012 Hyundai Elantra. However, as we noted in October, the 2012 sedan was one of 74 vehicle models to be crash tested by the NHTSA, which included a more comprehensive evaluation of front- and side-crash protection, and rollover resistance. And according to the NHTSA website, the four-door 2012 Hyundai Elantra received a 5-star rating for side protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash test of the Hyundai Elantra also resulted in a "Good" rating for side-impact. However, the IIHS also notes that Elantra drivers may still suffer from rib and pelvis fractures and internal organ injuries during a side impact.

Engineers at NHTSA's Office of Defect Investigation along with Hyundai will examine the suspect vehicle to determine if a broader safety recall of 2012 Elantra and 2012 Elantra Touring sedans are necessary.

If you have experienced a similar dangerous situation with the 2012 Huyndai Elantra or any vehicle you can file a safety complaint with the NHTSA on its website, www.SaferCar.gov.

Source:
Investigation: 2012 Hyundai Elantra / Elantra Touring - Side air bags   Action #: PE12012 [NHTSA ODI]
U.S. regulators investigate Hyundai Elantra on air bags [Reuters]
NHTSA investigating Hyundai Elantra air bags [The Detroit News]

Although the Google TV platform—which uses the Android operating system and Google's Chrome browser—hasn't met with much success, LG will try to change that situation with a new G2 series of 3D LCD TVs that will be available later this month. The company is showing the TVs now at the Internet Week conference in New York.

Initially, there will be two models: a 47-inch set for $1,700 and a 55-inch set that will sell for $2,300. LG says these TVs will be the first Google TVs in the U.S. to include a dual-core processor. The sets will also have a quad-core graphics processor and come with a five-mode, gesture-based Magic Remote that includes a QWERTY keyboard, and a wheel for scrolling through Web pages, menus, and applications.

The TVs also include built-in Wi-Fi, with access to an app called TV & Movies for accessing streaming services. The TVs also have YouTube, Google's Chrome browser, and access to the Google Play apps market. The TVs' main interface, called the Home Dashboard, has been designed to accommodate Google TV, and content menus can be customized by users.

The TVs also include LG's passive Cinema 3D technology and come with six sets of glasses.

A little later today, I'll attend a brief hands-on demo of the new Google-powered TVs, so check in tomorrow for my first impressions.

Related:
CES 2012: LG adds Google TVs, Smart TVs get voice and gesture control

Any consistent reader of the Consumer Reports blog knows that when buying test cars, we try to do nearly all of the research and interaction with the salesperson(s) online. And while most domestic and Asian brands work well this way, it's harder when buying German cars. Why is this?

What we've found is there are fewer German cars sitting on dealer lots from which to choose. Their purchase procedure often involves buyers spec'ing what they want, and then waiting anywhere from six weeks to multiple months for their car to arrive. Since we want to test cars quickly, we often end up choosing from cars that are on their way to the United States and negotiate the price from there. Given the voluminous options on some German cars (Porsche, in particular), it can be a trying process to find a car that is equipped similarly to its competitors we tested.

But it wasn't a tough process to buy our new Q5. This compact sporty SUV has been popular since it went on sale with the 3.2-liter V6 engine. In our tests, it jumped to the top of its Ratings category, and it has stayed there despite some strong competition.

When Audi dropped in the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, this version of the Q5 became the hot seller. Want a 3.2-liter V6 and its 19 mpg overall fuel economy? You can take your pick from a whole number of them at dealers all over. But if you want a less-expensive, more frugal 2.0T...Well, you have to either wait, wait some more, or get lucky. Which is what happened to us.

Our unclaimed Ibis White Q5 with Cardamom Beige leather was somewhere between the factory and a European port when I started shopping for our test car. Maybe it was the color; maybe it was because it didn't have navigation. But whatever the reason, it was available and I snapped it up. Only two options: Premium Plus package (including Xenon lights, heated front seats, panoramic sunroof, and a power tailgate, among other features), plus all-weather floor mats and trunk liner. So far, simple.

But the sticking point in car buying is always negotiating the price, right? Not here. I got $500 off the MSRP of $41,075 (with delivery)! That's it. These little SUVs are hot commodities and dealers can--and do--get what they want for it.

So, sporting the turbocharged engine that we've liked in the A3, A4, and A5 and the new eight-speed automatic transmission, the Q5 is back into our test program. It's proven popular among the staff so far, with its keys among the first chosen each afternoon for the evening commute home. There should be no problem with accumulating break-in miles on the Q5, and it will likely enter formal testing any day now.

A backyard barbecue skips the formalities and fills a patio with friends who answer the call of "come and get it" when steaks and corn on the cob are hot off the grill. This simple fare promises to taste even more delicious when eaten outdoors where the mood is relaxed, unless a problem flares up. Here are five gas grill goofs that guarantee your cookout will be unforgettable, although not in the way you intended.

Assembling the grill incorrectly. If the gas tank hose is too close to the firebox or the grease pan is a bit off, the risk of fire shoots up. Carefully read the manual before tackling this project, or ask if the retailer will assemble the grill for free or a fee. Just be sure the assembled grill can fit in your vehicle or check the cost of delivery.

Ignoring recalls. Cooking with a defective grill—a leaking regulator, a cracked hose—increases your chance of something going wrong. More than one million grills have been recalled over the past five years. Before firing up for the season, find out if your grill has been recalled by searching the database at SaferProducts.gov. You can also file a report if your grill is faulty.

Overcrowding the cooking area. Some flaring is normal when grilling fatty foods, but sustained flare-ups are another matter. Typically the greater the distance between the grates and burners or flavorizer bars, the fewer the sustained flare-ups. And don't overcrowd the cooking surface. Keep some space empty so that when fatty foods such as rib-eye steaks or salmon do flare up, you can move them to a cooler spot.

Use Consumer Reports' Ratings of 80-plus gas grills to find one with a cooking surface that matches how much food you normally cook, not the occasional bashes when you cook in batches. We group grills based on our measurements of the main cooking area. Manufacturers often count warming racks and searing burners as well.

Undercooking meat and poultry. Food poisoning guarantees that your guests will call after the party, but it won't be to thank you. Grilling meats and poultry can be tricky since they often brown quickly on the outside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the food is cooked to an internal temperature that destroys any harmful bacteria. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends a minimum internal temperature of 145 degrees F for whole meats, including pork, and then a three-minute rest before slicing. Ground meats should reach at least 160 degrees F, and all poultry, 165 degrees F or higher. Finfish should be cooked until it reaches a minimum of 145 degrees F or until flesh is opaque and separates easily with a fork. Never partially grill these foods with the intent of finishing the cooking later.

Some grills cook unevenly, and that's something we test for. Our recommended grills score very good or excellent in our high- and low-temperature evenness tests. Check our Ratings of meat thermometers. We found some that weren't so hot.

Cutting corners. Skip the safety check and maintenance and you could be playing with fire. At the start of grilling season inspect the hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes, and leaks and replace the broken parts if necessary. Check for gas leaks by mixing a small amount of dishwashing liquid and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution over connections and along the hose. Turn on the tank. Bubbling means you need to change a part or fix a loose connection. Follow the directions in the owner's manual and regularly clean the grill, especially the grease trap, and make sure the gas supply tubes are clear of spider nests and debris.

Coming soon to a store near you: sunscreens with labels that are easier to understand. The Food and Drug Administration plans to give manufacturers until mid-December to make all the changes, but many products already have the new labeling. Here are some of the biggest changes, which will also apply to moisturizers and cosmetic products that contain a sun-protection factor (SPF):

"Broad spectrum" will really mean something. The SPF value indicates a sunscreen's protection from ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, which is the primary cause of sunburn. But now sunscreens that claim broad-spectrum protection will have to prove they also protect against ultraviolet A radiation, which ages skin and contributes to skin cancer, as well as UVB rays. The FDA says sunscreens must pass a new critical wavelength test for UVA protection.

Water-resistance claims will be more specific. Sunscreens will now have to list on the front whether they're effective for 40 minutes or 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. The FDA says you'll no longer see words like "sweatproof" or "waterproof" on the label because all sunscreens eventually wash off. All sunscreens will be labeled "reapply at least every two hours".

The term "sunblock" will be banned. The FDA won't allow that claim on bottles because it overstates sunscreen's effectiveness.

Sun protection information will be listed on the back. Inside the Drug Facts box new information will explain that sun exposure increases your risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. Sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or higher that also pass the new broad-spectrum test will be able to say that they reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun. (Our sunscreen experts recommend using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.) Sunscreens that are not broad spectrum or that have an SPF of less than 15 must say they help prevent sunburn, not skin cancer or early skin aging.

All-day and instant protection will need to be proved. Sunscreen manufacturers will have to prove to the FDA that their product provides all-day or instant protection before they can make those claims. Our experts say you should apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outside so your skin can absorb it.

SPF 50+ might be the highest SPF you'll see on labels. The FDA says it doesn't have enough clinical data to prove that sunscreens with SPF values higher than 50 provide additional protection. But it has not yet made a decision about future labeling requirements.

Meanwhile, find out how 18 top-selling sunscreens performed in our latest tests (available to subscribers) and which ingredients you should be on the lookout for. Watch the video below to see how we conducted our tests.