Well, Consumer Reports did some testing and they recommend that if something goes wrong, most major appliances should be repaired within their first five years and at least looked at after that. A fridge should last 8 years on repairs. But a microwave that breaks down in even 2-3 years should be replaced.
Electronics (including digital cameras, camcorders and TVs) should also do with being repaired within 5 years. But a PC, repair within 2-3 and after that replace. The technology only lasts that long anyway, these days!
A lawn mower should probably be replaced after 4-5 years if it breaks. But riding mowers, snowblowers and treadmills should be repaired.
Summer was way too busy. I thought things would slow down, but now school's back in!
With our busy schedules it's hard to get everyone to sit down for a meal. We sometimes resort to fast food, but I try to limit it to once a week or less. Consumer Reports took some data from subscribers about Fast-Food Chains. Here's the top 3-5 from each category, based on food quality, value, service, and speed (notice that those pictured did not make the list!)- Burgers - In-N-Out Burger, Burgerville, Five Guys Burgers & Fries, Culver's, Back Yard Burgers
- Chicken - Chick-Fil-A, El Pollo Loco, Boston Market, Zaxby's
- Sandwiches & Subs - Jason's Deli, Firehouse Subs, Jersey Mike's, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Jimmy John's
- Mexican - Chipotle Mexican Grill, Rubio's Fresh Mexican Grill, Qdoba Mexican Grill
- Pizza - Papa Murphy's, Round Table Pizza, Little Caesars, Papa John's
And finally, I had to include some tips from readers and staffers at Consumer Reports:
- "Before you buy it, you're the boss. After you buy it, they're the boss."
- "Don't buy the extended warranty."
- "Press zero to get to a real person."
- "Never go grocery shopping when you're hungry."
- "If you don't need it, don't buy it."
- "Never buy the first version of anything."
- "If you want something, ask."
Info from CONSUMER REPORTS, August 2011
