Ask our experts

Does the shape of the nozzle make much of a difference when using a leaf blower?

Stephen Leo
Hurst, TX

A flatter nozzle shape is generally better for moving leaves, and a round, reduced nozzle shape is better for loosening surface debris. When shopping for a leaf blower, remember that a manufacturer's claimed speed rating can't accurately tell you how well a machine works. If you're going to buy a new leaf blower, check the sweeping and loosening scores in the Ratings (available to subscribers).

How can I uninstall the security software on my Windows computer? I don’t want to pay for tech support.

Steve Fowler
Lincoln, CA

Security software as a category is known to be tricky to install and uninstall. Our advice: The next time you restart your computer, repeatedly press the F8 key after the initial power-on message appears on the screen and choose "safe mode." That move prevents some services from starting and might allow you to complete the uninstallation of the software. Otherwise, you might have to pay for tech support from the software maker.

We tried to get a Kenmore appliance repaired, but the Sears rep said our warranty was null and void because a non-Sears company had done work on a part not covered by the warranty. Should Sears honor the warranty?

Victoria Magnan
Watertown, WI

A Sears appliance warranty won’t cover repair work done by a third party. But because the work was done on a part not covered by the warranty and the current problem is, the new repair should be covered, says Kimberly Freely, manager of corporate communications for Sears. Freely suggests you call Sears’ National Customer Relations (800-549-4505) to resolve the matter.

Is the advice to drink eight glasses of water a day just a myth?

Frank Wisniewski
Haddonfield, NJ

That conventional wisdom stemmed from a misinterpretation of a 1940s government advisory that recommended ingesting about 64 ounces of water each day. But that figure included the fluid a person gets from foods and other beverages. Let thirst be your guide, and use the color of your urine to help you gauge whether you're adequately hydrated. (Clear or pale-yellow urine indicates you are; scant or darker urine may mean you need to drink more.) And remember, beverages or foods containing water will help hydrate you, some better than others.

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