Remodeiing your kitchen? Now's the time to considerthe added flexibility of a separate cooktop and wall-ovencombo. WW\\e gas and smoothtop electric cooktops stillmake up most of the market, prices are dropping for induction,which speeds cooking using an electromagnetic field.
What to looic for• A gas cooktop if you wantthe visual confirmation of aflame, a smoothtop electric foreasy cleaning• An induction model forquick heating; some now costjust over $1,000, though youcan still pay far more• At least one high-poweredgas burner or electric elementfor quick heating
What to skip• Buying by Btu. Short for Brit-ish Thermal Unit, this merely
indicates gas used and heatgenerated and doesn't guaran-tee better or faster cooking• Models with recipe databasesand other pricey features if youjust want good cooking
What you'll payYou'll probably pay $1,300 ormore for a separate cooktopand wall oven, while somehigh-performing electric andgas ranges sell for less thanhalf that amount.
For more buying advice, go toConsumerReports,org/cooktops
Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
0 Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
Page 2 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
C O O K T O P S 37
Most & Least Reliable
COOKTOPS
GE
Whirlpool
Frigidaire
Kenmore
KitchenAid
Jenn-Air
KitchenAid
GE
Kenmore
Wolf
Jenn-Air
0% 5% 10% 15% 20%
• ELECTRIC,,, GAS
Jenn-Air vïas the most repair-prone brand
of electric cooktops and among the most
repair-prone gas cooktops. Al though we
lacked sufficient historical data to include
Dacor and Whirlpool gas cooktops,. we did
have enough informat ion to conclude that
Whirlpool has been reliable and Dacor
repair-prone. That's what we found when
we asked over 16,000 readers who bought
a cooktop between 2007 and 2011 about
their experiences. The graph shows the
percentage of models for each brand that
were repaired or had a serious problem.
Differences of less than 4 points aren't
meaningful , and we've adjusted the data
to eliminate differences linked solely to
product age. Models within a brand may
vary, and changes in design or manufac-
ture may affect fu ture reliabil ity. Still,
choosing a brand with a good repair history
can improve your odds of get t ing a re l i - ,
able model.
Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey,Consumer Reports National Research Center.
Guide to the RatingsOverall score reflects cooktop performance at high and low heat. The displayed score is out
of a total of 100 points. Hlqh heat reflects how quickly the highest-powered element heated
a large pot of water to near boiling. Low heat reflects how well the lowest-powered element
melted and held chocolate without scorching and how the most powerful element, set to low,
held tomato sauce below a boil. Price is approximate retail cost.
Page 3 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
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Page 4 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
56 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
QuickGuide DISHWASHERS
You don't have to spend top dollar for great clean-ing or endure longer cycles to get an energy-saving dishwasher that's easy on your wallet.
Shopping tipThe three basiccycles-light,normal, andheavy-should beenough for mostchores, even forbaked-on food.
Scan this or see how, page 11
Brand 8 model
What to look for• Adjustable racks and otherloading aids for flexibility• A soil sensor to adjust thecycle's time and water use,improving efficiency• Rinse/hold cycle, to preventsoil from setting while youwait for a full load
What to sitip• Drawer models, which areexpensive and tend to usemore energy and water thanregular models
• If noise is one of your con-cerns, look for a model witha manual-clean filter
What you'ii payYou can pay $1,500 or morefor a dishwasher with hiddencontrols, interactive digitaldisplays, and special grime-fighting cycles. But when itcomes to clean dishes, spar-kling performance starts atabout $550.
For more buying advice, go toConsumerReports.org/dishwashers
Price Overaii score Test resuitsfiimiiar modeis, in smalltype, are comparable totested model.
I I I 3 I I g^ 5Í QD ^ O Sí aJ
LJJ '. 3 rdaj 11
110 100
P I F I G I V G l £
A CONVENTIONAL DISHWASHERg 1 Boscii Ascenta SHX3AR7[51
24 Bosch Integra 800 PlusSHX58E2l5]UC 800 Plus seriesSHX8ER5I lue, 800 Plus SeriesSHE8ER5I lue, 800 Plus SeriesSHV7ER5[ lue, 800 Plus SeriesSHE7ER5I lue. 800 Plus SeriesSHX7ER5I lue
25 LG L0F80721ST] LDr8S74[STl
26 Samsung 0MT800RH[W]
27 GE GDWT668V1SS]GDWn68V[SSl, G0WT368VISS],GDWT308V[|.60WT608V[l.GDWr7O8V(l
Guide to the RatingsOverall score is mostly washing performance and includes energy and water use (not shown),noise, cycle tinne, and ease of use. Displayed scores are rounded; models are listed by preciseoverall score. Washing is normal-cycle results with very dirty full load. Energy use is energyand water use for normal cycle. Noise covers listener judgments and sound-level measurements.Ease of use includes convenience factors and loading. Cycle time (rounded to the nearest5 minutes) is for normal cycle with very dirty full load; includes temperature-boost option and,if available, heated dry. Under brand & model, bracketed letters or numbers mean color code.Price is approximate retail.
Page 10 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
62 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
Most & Least Reliable
Whirlpool
Boseh
Kenmore (withpullout drawer)
Kenmore
Miele
KitehenAid
lenn-Air
GE
Asko
frigidaire
Fisher S Paykel (withpuilout drawer)
Amana
Maytag
LG0% 15% 20% 25% 30%
Frigidaire, Fisher S Payke!, Amana, Maytag,and LG were among the most repair-pronebrands; Amana and Maytag repair recordswere affected by major recalis in 2010.That's what we found when we asked morethan 82,000 readers who bought a dish-washer between 2007 and 2011 about theirexperiences. The graph shows the percent-age of models for each brand that wererepaired or had a serious problem. Differ-ences of fewer than 5 points aren't mean-ingful, and we've adjusted data to eliminatedifferences linked solely to age and usage.Models within a brand may vary, and chang-es in design or manufacture may affect fu-ture reliability. Still, choosing a brand with agood repair history can improve your oddsof getting a reliable model.
Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey,Consumer Reports National Research Center.
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Page 12 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
D R Y E R S 6 3
QuickGuide DRYERS
iviost dryers scored at least Very Good for dryingperformance. While the gas dryers in our Ratingsare similar to the electric models víe test, we'vefound that gas and eiectric dryers perform simiiariy.
What to look for• A moisture sensor, to cutdown on energy costs andavoid overdrying clothes• An extended-tumble set-ting without heat, to preventwrinkles when you don'tremove clothes immediately
What to skip• Extra large, super, and super-plus dryer capacity, becausethe differences aren't meaii'-ingful for everyday use
• Specialty cycles such as"speed dry," which usuallycan be replicated with stan-dard settings
What you'll payGas dryers cost about $80 to$150 more than comparableelectric models, but the likelysavings in fuel costs shouldmore than make up the dif-ference in the long run.
For more buying advice, go toConsumerReports.org/dryers
Shopping tipMany modelshave a warninglight that teilsyou it's time toclean the filter.
I Scan this or see how, page 11
Brand & Model
g -é Simiiar modeis, in smali type.'io S ,ire coniparable to tested modei.
H CR Best Buy These modeis offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
Uu Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
Page 14 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
D R Y E R S 6 5
Most & Least Reliable
DRYERS
LGSamsung
Whirlpool
Kenmore
Maytag
Bosch
•rigidaire
GEFishers
PaykeiLG
Whirlpool
GE
Maytag
Kenmore
Frigidaire
S
•JEWSE
: • • • 8
6
' 7
7
71
8
EE
Fisher & Paykel was the most repair-pronebrand of electric clothes dryers. That'swhat we found when we asked over 75,000readers who bought a dryer between 2007and 2011 about their experiences. Thegraph shows the percentage of brands thatneeded a repair or had a serious problem.Differences of less than 3 points aren'tmeaningful, and we've adjusted the datato eliminate differences linked solely toage and use of the dryer. Models withina brand may vary, and design or manufac-ture changes may affect future reliability.Still, choosing a brand with a good repairhistory can improve your odds of gettinga reliable model.
Source: Annual Product Reiiability Survey,Consumer Reports National Research Center.
5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
I ELECTRICGAS
Guide to the RatingsOverall score is based primarily on drying perforrnance, drum volume, and noise. The displayedscore is out of a totai of 100 points. Dryinq performance is measured for multiple fabrics andload sizes. Capacity refers to the drum volume of models we tested, which varied from about6 to 8 cu. ft. Convenience takes into account controls and ergonomics, such as ease of loadingand unloading, servicing the lint filter, whether the door couid clear a tall basket, and whetherthe machine has a raised edge to contain spills. Noise reflects panelists' judgments. Under Fea-tures, a stainless-steel drum is likely to resist damage better than plastic and painted metaldrums. A porcelain top resists scratching better than a painted one but generally adds to adryer's cost. Drying rack attaches inside the drum to keep items such as sneakers or sweatersfrom tumbling. Custom programs allows you to save your favorite settings. Generally, a waterhook-up is required with the steam option feature. In this cycle, a small amount of water issprayed into the drum while tumbling with heat. It helps to reduce wrinkles and odors, but it isintended only for a few garments at a time. Price is approximate retail for electric dryers.
Page 15 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
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Page 16 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
68 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
GAS GRILLSQuickGuide
The best grills can turn your backyard or deci< into anoutdoor i<itchen. Our tests show that you don't haye tospend a fortune for eyen heating, sturdy construction,and a raft of work-saying conyenlences.
What to look for• Burners made of high-quality stainless steel, cast iron,or cast brass, which typi-cally carry a 10-year or longerwarranty• Stainless-steel and cast-iron grates for sturdiness andrust-resistance (you'll need tooil uncoated cast grates)• A battery-powered elec-tronic igniter, usually easierand more reliable than push-button or rotary starters• Side burners to handle theveggies while the burgerscook; some can sear meat
What to skip• Buying by Btu, becausemore Btu/hr. doesn't guaran-tee faster preheating or bettersearing and cooking
What you'll payFigure on $300 to $500 fora grill that can handle mostof your cooking needs; someinclude stainless trim at that^rice. Several midsized grillsthat cost less than $500 out-cooked models that cost hun-dreds of dollars more.
For more buying advice, go toConsumerReports.org/grííls
Shopping tipThe more stabletine grill, thebetter. Whenshopping, gentlypush the grilifrom severalangles to seeif it tips.
Scan this or see how, page 11
Brand & model
Simiiar madsls, in smalltype, are comparable totested model.
Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. Ali are recommended.
[^ Recommended These are high-performing modeis that stand out.
Guide to the RatingsOverall score is based on performance, convenience, and features. Lovi temperatureperformance combines ttie evenness of tieating over the grill's surface at the low settingand the model's ability to cook chicken and fish on the grill at that setting without burningthe food. Hlqh temp, evenness evaluates the evenness of heating over the griil's surfaceat the high setting. Indirect cooking indicates how well the griii slow cooks foods whenoniy some of the burners are on and food isn't directiy over flames. Convenience evaluatesconstruction and materiais, ease of use, accessory burners, and propensity for flare-up.Price is approximate retail.
Page 19 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
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permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use.
Page 20 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
MICROWAVESQuickGuide
Most models did well with basic tasks like defrostingmeats, reheating leftovers, and making popcorn.Some offer convection, speed-cook, and a vastmenu of programs for preparing main meais.
What to look for• A sensor, which helps pre-vent over- or undercookingby measuring emitted steamto gauge when food is done• Convection, speed-cook,and grilling features if youwant to use your microwaveas a second oven—and arewilling to pay more
What to skip• A raft of prepregrammedshortcut keys if you're mostlydefrosting and popping corn
What you'll payCountertop models cost theleast (about $80 to $300) andare best for kitchens withlots of counter space. Mid-sized and large models addcapacity and features, withmidsized models selling themost overall. Over-the-rangemicrowaves ($300 to $900)save space but don't ventas well as well as a capablerange hood.
For more buying advice, go toConsumerReports,org/microwaves
Shopping tipSome brandsoverstate usablespace, so be sureto bring alonga large platterv hen you shop,to see if it fits.
Scan this or see how, page 11
Brands model I Price I Overall score I Test results
SifAiiar models,in snidll rype.arecoinpaialilelo tested motlel. . s >-• "
D CR Best Buy These modeis offer the best combination of performance and price. Aii are recommended.
l ^ Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
Page 22 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
84 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
Guide to the RatingsOverall score is based mainly on evenness of heating, ease of use, and auto-defrosting abil-ity. The displayed score is out of a totai of 100 points. Heating evenness refiects how evenlya model reheated a dish of cold mashed potatoes. Auto defrost is based on how well theautomatic-defrost program defrosted 1 pound of frozen ground chuck. Ease of use includeshow easy it is to set the microwave without referring to the instructions. MIcrowaving noisereflects how quiet the oven is while microwaving on high. Usable capacity (cu.ft.) is theusable space based on our measurements, and excludes the corner spaces for models withrotating turntables. Note that most over-the-range models allow you to turn the rotation offto fit large dishes (a few countertop models also offer that feature). With the rotation off.measured capacity approximates claimed. However, food may reguire extra tending and stir-ring. Price is approximate retail.
Most & Least Reliable
MiCROWAVES
0% 5% 15% 20% 25% 30%
Source; Annual Product Reliability Survey,Consumer Reports National Research Center.
We found no meaningful differences among thebrands for which we had enough data to includein our chart. Although we lacked sufficient datato include KitchenAid, data we have indicates ithas been among the more repair-prone brands.That's what we found when we asked more than14,000 readers who bought an over-the-rangemicrowave oven between 2007 and 2011. Thegraph shows the percentage of brands thatneeded repair or had a serious problem. We'veadjusted the data to eliminate differences linkedsolely to product age. Models within a brand mayvary, and design or manufacture changes mayaffect future reliability. Still, choosing a brandwith a good repair history can improve yourodds of getting a reliable model.
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Page 24 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
R A N G E S 99
QuickGuide RANGES
You'll find a smorgasbord of choices that outcook pro-styleranges. Still want to go pro? We've got several money-saving options.
What to iook for• On electric and gas ranges,at least one high-heat elementor burner to heat large quan-tities of food quickly• Dual ovens if you want tocook two meals at once• Induction, which uses amagnetic field to heat morequickly and efficiently. Pricesare dropping, though you'llneed magnetic cookware• At least five oven-rack posi-tions for flexibility
What to skip• Dual-fuel models, whichblend a gas cooktop withan electric oven but haven'tperformed better overall inour tests
What you'ii payAbout $400 to $600 for coil;$700 to $1,700 for smoothtop;$1,700 to $2,700 for induc-tion; $600 to $2,000 for gas;$3,000-plus for pro-style.For more buying advice, go toConsumerReports,org/ranges
Shopping tip! Many midpriced; models include a' convection oven,
which can reducecooking time,especially forlarge roasts.
Scan this or see how. page 11
Brands modei Price Overall score Testresuits
g g" ë" .$ ë' Elements
QJ O •—£ iO
0 100P I F I G I V G l E
A 30-liVCH SMOOTHTOP MODELS
Kenmore 92163
GECafe
CS980SNÍSS1
GE PB920ST5S
Kenmore 92803
MavtagMET8885X1S]
6 EiectroiuxEW30EF65G[W]
7 GEJB6500TWW
8 IGLDE3015ST
9 LG LRE3O125T Page 25 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
100 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
Brand S model Price Overall score Testresuits
sEo
0 100 I 4p I F I G IVGl E
A 30-INCH SMOOTHTOP MODELS continued10 LG LSE3O925T
GAS AND DUAL-FUELKitchenAidKDRU763V1SS1(dual-fuel)GE MonogramZDP364NDP1SS1(dual-fuel)Thermador ProGrand PG366B[S1Viking VGSC536-4G 7,200Kenmore Pro7962131 (dual-fuel)
106 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
Guide to the RatingsOverall score reflects cooktop performance, oven capacity, baking, broiling, and oven cleaning.The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points. Cooktop high is how quickly the highest-powered element heated water to near-boii. Cooktop low is how well the lowest-poweredelement melted and held chocolate without scorching and how well the most powerful element,set on low, held tomato sauce below a boil. Bakinq reflects even browning of cakes and cookiesIn multi-rack baking tests. Broilinq is even browning of a pan of burgers and high-heat searing.Oven capacity is our evaluation of usable space. Oven cleaning is the self-cleaning cycle's effec-tiveness after the oven is coated with a mixture of eggs, cheese, pie filling, and other ingredients.Price Is approximate retail.
Most & Least Reliable
GAS/DUAL-FUEL RANGES
Hotpoint
GE
Frigidaire
Kenmore
Whirlpool
MaytagKitchenAid
GE
0%
Hotpoint
GE
Whirlpool
Frigidaire
Kenmore
Maytag
KitchenAid
Jenn-Air
30%
ELECTRIC RANGES
5% 10% 20% 25% 30%
Hotpoint and General Electric were among theleast repair-prone electric-range brands; Kitchen-Aid ahd Jenn-Air were the most repair-prohe.KitchenAid was also the most repair-prone forgas ranges. We lacked enough data to includeKenmore dual-fuei and Jenn-Air gas and dual-fuelranges; data we have indicate Kenmore dual-fuelmodels have been reliable and Jenn-Air gas anddual-fuel repair-prone. That's what we foundwhen we asked over 76,000 readers who boughtan electric range between 2005 and 2011, or a gasor dual-fuel range between 2005 and the first halfof 2011, about their experiences. The graphs showthe percentage of models for each brand thatwere repaired or had a serious problem. Differ-ences ofless thah 3 points aren't meaningful, anddata are adjusted to eliminate differences linkedsolely to age. Models within a brand may vary,and changes in design or manufacture mayaffect future reliability. Still, choosing a brand witha good repair history cah improve your odds ofgetting a reliable model.
Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey,Consumer Reports National Research Center.
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Page 33 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
R E F R I G E R A T O R S 107
QuickGuide REFRIGERATORS
Sluggish sales have manufacturers working harder for your business,with temperature-controlled drawers, internal water dispensers, andother once-premium features on more and more mainstream models.
Shopping tipEnergy Starrefrigeratorsmust be at least20 percent moreefficient thanthe minimumreguired byfederal standards.
Scan this or see how, page 11
Brand & model
What to look for• Print-resistant stainless steelor faux-stainless finishes forbusy kitchens (also considerclassic white or black)• Temperature-controlleddrawers to keep meat, fish,cold cuts, and other foods atlower temperatures• Split shelves to make spacefor taller items as needed• Adjustable door bins andshelves, to make the most ofavailable storage space
What to skip• Automatic icemakers. Sure,they're convenient—and an
integral part of through-the-door dispensers. But thatluxury comes at a cost: Ourannual reliability surveyshave long shown that refrig-erators with icemakers tendto be more repair-prone
What you'll payCapable top-freezer fridgesstart at well under $1,000.Figure on $1,000 to $2,200for most bottom-freezer andside-by-side models, $2,500to $3,500 for cabinet-depth.
For more buying advice, go toConsumerReports.org/refrigerators
Price Overall score Test results
: Similar models, in small type,: are comparable to tested model.
A TOP FREEZERS
QJ + ^ -
0 IOOP I F I G I V G l E
so
go
.SP -a o.
.O O O
1 GE Profile PTS22LHS[WW1Profile PTS22SH5tl $1,400
Q CR Best Buy These modeis offer tiie best oombination of performance and price. Aii are recommended.
Lîd Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
Guide to the RatingsOverall score is based primarily on temperature performance and energy efficiency. Noiseand ease of use are also considered. Temperature performance denotes performance atdifferent room temperatures, including high heat, and how uniformly each maintained37° F in the refrigerator and 0° F in the freezer. Energy efficiency is energy consumptionas observed in the energy test we perform in-house at the aforementioned temperatures of37° F in the refrigerator and 0° F in the freezer and measured cubic feet. Noise is with com-pressors running. Ease of use assesses features and design including layout, controls, andlighting. Energy cost/yr. ($) is the estimated cost in dollars, based on the current year'saverage national electricity rate. Your cost will vary depending on the rate for eiectricity inyour area. Total usable capacity (cu.ft.) is our measurement of total usable interior space.Exterior height, width, and depth are without handle, rounded up to the nearest inch{37-inch-wide freestanding models fit in 36-inch openings). Under brand & model, bracketedletters or numbers are color codes. Price is approximate retaii.
Page 42 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
116 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
Most & Least Reiiabie
TOP-FREEZERS
Whirlpool
Frigidaire
Kenmore
GE
Frigidaire
Whirlpool
GE
Kenmore
5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
ICEMAKER
NOICEMAKER
BOTTOiVI-FREEZERS
Whirlpool
KitchenAid
Fewer ^ ^ Morerepairs ^ ' repairs
^ttE 1•H^nn
Kenmore • • • • • J SSamsung B I B I É Ë
LGEESQ]
''^IÊÊÊIÊIÊÊÊÊÊÊIÊEKenmore
Amana
GE
g
12
16
0% 5% 15% 20% 25% 30%
I ICEMAKERNO ICEMAKER
Whirlpool was among the more reliablebrands of bottom-freezers with icemakers.GE was among the more repair-pronebrands of top-freezers and bottom-freezerswith icemakers, while LG has been amongthe more repair-prone brands of side-by-sides with icemakers. That's what we foundwhen we asked nearly 61,000 readers whobought a refrigerator between 2007 and2011. The graphs show the percentage ofbrands that needed a repair or had a seri-ous problem. Differences of less than 5points aren't meaningful, and we've adjust-ed the data to eliminate differences linkedsolely to the age of the refrigerator. All re-frigerators in the graphs are free-standingmodels. Models within a brand may vary,and design or manufacture changes may af-fect future reliability. Still, choosing a brandwith a good repair history can improve yourodds of getting a reliable modei.
Source; Annual Product Reliability Survey,Consumer Reports National Research Center.
SIDE-BY-SIDES
5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
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Page 44 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
S P A C E H E A T E R S 121
QuickGuide SPACE HEATERS
Electric heaters tiiat quickly and safely heat a room-or justyou-start at well under $ 4 0 . Some even imitate a fireplace,faite flames and all.
Shopping tipDon't expect anyspace heaterto save energyunless you turndown the heatin the rest of thehouse.
Scan this or see how. page 11
What to look for• A fan to help diffuse theheat; some have multiplespeeds and oscillate tor addedcomfort and convenience• Safety features like asensor that shuts the heat-er off if it overheats and aswitch that shuts it off if theunit tips over• A thermostat to help keeptemperatures at their desiredsettings• Remote control is an addednicety, as is a timer that shutsthe heater off so you don'thave to
What to skip• Larger console heaters if
you're looking to save. Despitetheir furniture styling (andthose fake flames), none ofthese pricier models matchedthe best compact heaters inour tests• Propane or other fueledheaters for indoor use. Thesepose fume and fire risk andmust be used in a well-ventedarea away from fabrics andother combustible materials
What you'll payFigure on roughly $40 to$150 for smaller room heatersand $75 to $400 for consolemodels.For more buying advice, go toConsumerReports.org/heaters
Brands model Price Weigiit Overallscore Test results-(lb.) .
-i .!• ë S 1
o 100p I F 1 G I V G l E
A SMALL ROOM HEATERS These compact electric models have a fan for faster heating.
B LARGE ROOM HEATERS Some of these electric models are styled like furniture; most have fans.
2301 Duraflame
10HM4126-0107
Heat Surge HT-XL 400
Soleus AirHM2-15R-32
Edenpure GEN4
LaskO760000
OeLonghiTR00715T
Eco-HeaterNA400S
80
397
90
75
95
DON'T BUY: SAFETY RISK The Optimus H-5210 is the only electric space heater that got hotenough to pose a fire risk; ¡ts overheat sensor did not shut it off in time to prevent our test clothfrom igniting. Optimus claims to have macte a safety fix on 2012 models; heaters we bought inearly summer 2012 viere 2011 models, and there is no way to tell the model year from the hox.
optimus H 5210 25i Includes a ground-fault circuit interrupter plug for shock protection around water. A Lacks a fan. 3 Not applicable;model is wall-mounted.
Guide to the RatingsOverall score is the weigfited average of room and spot fieating, hot-surface and fire safety, easeof use, and noise. Room heating is tfie abiiity to heat a 200-square-foot room in 15 minutes. Spotheating is the ability to heat a person sitting in its path in 15 minutes, using a test dummy withsensors. Hot surface gauges the risk of a first-degree burn from touching a model's heat-exhaustarea. Fire safety is the potential for igniting fabrics, such as drapes or clothing. Ease of useincludes ease of carrying and using controis. Noise is ioudness based on the heater's highestsetting, using a sound meter. Price is approximate retail.
Page 46 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
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Page 47 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
V A C U U M C L E A N E R S 129
QuickGuide VACUUM CLEANERS
Carpets top the list of critical vacuuming chores, an area whereupright models have traditionally excelled. But the best canisterswe tested come close and can make other cleaning easier,especially on stairs.
Shopping tipSome vacuumsare easier thanothers to push,puii, and carry.Check weightsand our handiingscores-and seewhich ones feeibest at the store.
Scan this or see how, page 11
Brand & model
What to look for• Easy pushing, pulling, lift-ing, and carrying; be sureyou try before you buy• An upright, if carpet deep-cleaning is importantt A canister for cleaningdrapes, upholstery, on stairs,and under furniture, sinceyou move mostly the hoseand wand instead of theentire machine
What to skip• Splurging on extra cleaningtools, when the basic tools that
come standard should sufficefor most cleaning jobs• Bagless models if you haveasthma or allergies, becauseemptying their bin is typi-cally a dusty, messy chore
What you'll payI Capable bagless uprights' start at about $50; figure on
$200-plus for most canistersand bagged uprights.For more buying advice, go toConsumerReports.org/vacuums
Price Overaii score Weight Testresuits(Ib.).
simnarmodeis, ínsfii.all type. Dcomparabie to tested model. Il I lili
P i F
100
G IVGI E
A BAGGED UPRIGHTS These tend to be best for carpets.Hoover WindTunnei AnniversaryEdition U6485-90D TurboPowerWindTunnei Anniversary Edition IJH50000 i l '
Guide to the RatingsOverall score is mainly cleaning, airflow, handling, noise, and emissions; scores for previouslytested models may have changed. Carpet is ability to lift embedded talc and sand from mediumpile. Bare floors is vacuuming sand without dispersing. Tool airflow is through hose withincreasing amounts of dust-simulating wood flour. Noise reflects decibel-meter results; for Poorscores we recommend hearing protection. Emissions is release of small particles with motoron. Handling is ease of pushing, pulling, and carrying. Pet hair uses long cat fur on medium-pile carpet. Weight is vacuum and onboard tools. Price Is approximate retail.
Most & Least Reliable
VACUUMS
0%
Ramtjow • • EDyson • • • • £ !Miele j ^ ^ ^ ^
Kenmore | H H B | | E 1Hoover i H ^ ^ t a H H WÊBË
Electrolux J H H B ^ H H H I K IKirby
Dirt Deyil
Bissen
Kenmore
Eureka
Dyson
Hoover
1
oreck [ a M ^ l B ^ElectroiuxB||^ti: 10
Panasonic • • • ¡ ^ • I nSimplicity • m i ^ l ï l l i
Riccar
Kirby was among the least repair-prone-brands for upright vacuums. For canisters.Rainbow was among the least repair-pronebrands, while Hoover and Electrolux werethe most repair-prone. That's what we foundwhen we asked more than 100,000 readerswho bought a vacuum between 2008through the first half of 2012 about their ex-periences. The graphs below show the per-centage of models for each brand that wererepaired or had a serious problem. Differ-ences of fewer than 4 points aren't mean-ingful, and we've adjusted the data to elimi-nate differences linked solely to age andusage. Models within a brand may vary, andchanges in design or manufacture may af-fect future reliability. Still, choosing a brandthat has a good repair history can improveyour odds of getting a reliable model.
Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey,Consumer Reports National Research Center.
5% 10% 15% 20%
I CANISTERS
UPRIGHTS
Page 54 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
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Page 55 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
136 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
QuickGuide WALL OVENS
Flexibility is tiie biggest reason to ciioose a cooktopor viiall oven instead of a range. A v^all oven can alsoeliminate the bending required to cook in a rangeoven-but installation adds to the price.
Scan this or see how. paqe 11
For more buying advice,go to ConsumerReports.org/ovens
Brand & modei
What to iook for• Control lockout, if the con-trol panel will be within ayoung child's reach• Smooth cover or floor overthe bottom baking element,which can help with easiercleanup of spills• Five or more oven rackpositions, for more flexibil-ity in arranging racks andbakeware
What to skip• A small oven window,which won't give a full viewto the interior• Menu databases and otherperks if you want to save
What you'll payYou can get an electric cook-top and wall oven for as littleas $1,300 or so, though ca-pable ranges cost far less.
Price Overall score Test results
Similar models, ¡nsiiidll type,are tomparatîle to tested mocieí. .
1 TiiermadorME301E[51
2 Whirlpool WO551EC0AS
3 Bosch HBL54[50JUC4 Viiíing Professional
VE5O13OB5]5 EiectroluxlconE30EW75E1551
Icon E30EW75G[SSI
6 LG LWS3O81[ST17 GE Profile PT925DN1BB]8 GE Profile PT9165R5S9 GEJTP70SM[S5110 Kenmore Pro 41003U GECafèCT9185TS512 Frigidaire Professional •
Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combinatioh of performance and price. All are recommended.
0 Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
Guide to the RatingsOverall score reflects oven capacity and baking, broiling, and self-cleaning ability. Oven capac-ity nneasures usable space. Baking reflects whether cakes and cookies baked on two racks wereevenly browned. Broiling is based on even browning of a pan of burgers, and high-heat searingability. Oven cleaning gauges the self-cleaning cycle's effectiveness. Price is approximate retail.
Most & Least Reliable
ELECTRIC WALL OVENS
Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey,Consumer Reports National Research Center.
No one electric wall oven brand stood out as thenncst or least reliable in 2012. Although welacked sufficient historical data for all years toinclude Jenn-Air in the graph, our data indicatethat it has been a repair-prone brand. That'swhat we found when we asked mere than13,000 readers who bought an electric walloven between 2007 and 2012 about their expe-riences. The graph shows the percentage ofmodels from a brand that needed a repair orhad a serious problem. Differences of less than3 points aren't meaningful, and we've adjustedthe data to eliminate differences linked solely tothe age of the ovens. Models within a brand mayvary, and design or manufacture changes mayaffect future reliability. Still, choosing a brandwith a good repair history can improve yourodds of getting a reliable model.
Page 57 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
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Page 58 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
138 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U i D E 2 0 1 3
QujckGuide WASHERS
Improvements inciude mid-wasii soaking and moreaggressive agitation. You'll also find more programmablewash menus and even built-in USB ports that allow forfuture software upgrades.
Shopping tipWashers mustnow use 11percent lessenergy and 20percent lesswater to qualifyfor an EnergyStar seal.
Scan this or see how, page 11
What to look for• A porcelain top or lid, whichresists scratching better thanpaitited metal• A stainless-steel or porce-lain tub, which won't rust• An extra rinse cycle, if youor others in your home aresensitive to detergent residue• Dial controls, generally eas-ier to use than some touch-pad or digital controls
What to skip• Customized programs,because basic cycles and set-
tings can handle most wash-ing needs• Steam settings—the steammodels we've tested cleanedwell even when we didn't usethe steam option
What you'ii payCapable machines that com-bine performance and valuestart at well under $1,000.For more buying advice, go toConsumerReports.org/washers
Brands modei Price Overall score Test resultsSimilar models, in smrtlltype, are comparable totested model.
& er s- .2 g d ra 3 sS « .g £. 's; 5
^ ^ Dû aS s
s. a s.S o .Sd
OP I F I G I V G l E
A FRONT LOADING
Q 1 LGWM3470HIW1A[7{ 2 Whiripooi Duet
WFW94HEX1W]Duet AFW95HEXI I. DuetWrW97HEXII
0 3 Kenmore Eiite4l47[21 1.100
0 4 Kenmore 4137(2] 1.050
0 5 Samsung WF501AN1W] 1.100
[•] 6 Samsung WF511AB[W1 1,300
Page 59 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
W A S H E R S
Brand & model
Similar models, in smalllype. are comparable totested model.
Price Overall score Test results
i 1Su ^
c:QJ
S
oo
brat
iB(
mi
E iCU
LU
teei
t
¿i
cont
Q
E
0 100
p 1 F ! G I V G l E
A FRONT LOADING continued7 LG WM2650H1W1A8 Samsung WF461ABW1
LGWM3150H[W]CWhirlpool Duet SteamWFW9750W[W]LGWM3885H[W]CAEiectroiuxEWFLS70J[IW]GEWCVH6800J[WW]Maytag PerformanceSeries MHWE950W[W]Maytag 5000 SeriesMHWE550WIW15000 Series MHWE450W( I
144 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
Guide to the RatingsOverall score is based mainly on washing ability, capacity, efficiency, and noise. Washing per-formance reflects the degree of color change to swatches of fabric using the most aggressivenormal cycle. Enerqy efficiency is based on the ehergy needed to heat the water using a warmwash and cold rinse. Water efficiency is based on total water used for multiple loads. For top-loaders, capacity is based on how well the washer agitates increasingly large loads. For front-loaders, the score is based on our judgment of the maximum-sized load that the washer holds.Models that earned lower scores for gentleness are more likely to treat your clothes roughly,causing wear and tear. Noise reflects panelists' judgments during the till, agitate, and spincycles. Vibration reflects usage on a suspended woodeh floor. Cycle time (min.) is rounded tothe nearest 5 minutes. Price is approximate retail.
Most & Least Reliable
WASHERS
LG
Samsung
Kenmore
Whirlpool
Maytag
Frigidaire
GE
Roper
Maytag
Vihirlpool
Kenmore
GE
Fisher &Pavkel
mmmSma
1 1
1 110
1 1
n1 I15
B
5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
i FRONT-LOADING
TOP-LOAOING
Roper was the most reliable top-loaderbrand while Fisher & Paykel was the mostrepair-prone. LG and Samsung were themost reliable tor front-loaders, GE themost repair-prone. That's what we foundwhen we asked oyer 88,000 readers whobought a clothes washer between 2007and 2011 about their experiences. The graphshows the percentage of models for eachbrand that were repaired or had a seriousproblem. Differences of less than 3 pointsaren't meaningful, and we'ye adjusted datato eliminate differences linked solely to awasher's usage ahd age. Models within abrand may yary, and changes ih design ormanufacture may affect future reliability.Still, choosing a brand with a good repairhistory can improve your odds of getting areliable model.
Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey.Consumer Reports Nationai Research Center.
Page 65 of 66Consume Report Buying Guide 2013
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