Why 2025 Will See Fewer New Car Models Than Ever

Whether you’re a car aficionado or just someone who catches the occasional commercials, new car models are exciting. Even if you’re not in the market for a vehicle, it’s still interesting to hear about the new features and the updated technology that automotive manufacturers are putting on the market. But 2025 is shaping up to have fewer new car models on the market than ever before.

How Many Fewer New Car Models Are Coming Out in 2025?

Bank of America puts out an annual study called “Car Wars.” While the event itself isn’t until late June 2025, the American International Automotive Dealers Association (AIADA) reports that there’s already been a teaser released. According to AIADA, one of the senior analysts has already given out some of the numbers in this year’s study. That analyst, John Murphy, told reporters that “we expect 159 models to be launched over the next four years….a dramatic decline from above 200 last year.” Automotive News adds that of those 159 models coming out over the next four years, only 29 of them are slated for release this year. Murphy also noted that this decline in new car models is primarily in the electric vehicle sector.

Why Are There Fewer New Car Models This Year?

In the teaser he presented, Murphy speculated that “the tumult caused by slowing EV adoption rates, tariffs and regulatory hurdles is causing automakers to retrench into their traditional strengths.” Some of these regulatory hurdles could take years to sort out. California, for example, passed legislation requiring that “all sales of new light-duty passenger vehicles in California must be [Zero Emission Vehicles] ZEVs by 2035. ZEVs include battery-electric and fuel-cell electric vehicles.”

However, that law is being challenged at the federal level and according to Cal Matters, the matter ” is likely to become a high-stakes legal and political battle between California and the Trump administration.” Until automotive manufacturers are sure what material costs will be and what kind of regulations will be codified, it seems that they’re pulling back on alternative fuels.

Source

Bank of America ‘Car Wars’: Automakers Pull Back Hard on EVs, While Dealers Need to Tap Lost Service Via Connectivity, American International Automotive Dealers Association, 2025.

Bank of America Car Wars: Automakers pull back hard on EVs, while dealers need to tap lost service via connectivity , Automotive news, 2025.

Electricity Laws and Incentives in California: Light-Duty Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Sales Requirement, US Department of Energy.

US Senate blocks California’s electric car mandate in historic vote, Cal Matters, May 22, 2025.

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• Do You Know What That Little Button on Your Seat Belt Is For?
• What Those Lines on Your Backup Camera Really Tell You
• Here’s What The Small Panel On Your Car’s Front Bumper Is For

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Why You Should Still Check Your Mirrors—Even with a Backup Camera

Backup cameras give you a better view of blind spots below your rear window’s line of sight that surpasses views provided by rearview mirrors. This makes driving and maneuvering in our driveways and parking lots safer. But a backup camera doesn’t show everything, especially objects low to the ground or outside its range. Relying on both your backup camera and rearview mirror will help you to spot obstacles prior to putting your car in gear and moving. The camera can help you see small children, pets, or other obstacles that you don’t want to back over, such as curbs or concrete parking blocks. But are backup cameras really safe?

Applying traditional safety checks of turning your head and checking mirrors before you take your foot off the brake in case someone or something suddenly enters your path also decreases the likelihood of accidents.

Read along as an experienced driver education instructor, an insurance expert, and an attorney help answer the question: Are backup cameras really safe?

What Is a Backup Camera?

A backup camera, or rearview camera, is a video camera (or cameras) mounted somewhere on the back of your car. The backup camera projects an image on a video screen usually located in the dashboard or rearview mirror that helps to reduce the number of blind spots around your car when in reverse.

According to certified driver education instructor Steven Norman, “[A backup camera] improves safety by providing a clearer view of the area where you are backing that might not be visible through mirrors alone.”

Does Every Car Have a Backup Camera?

It depends. Many older cars built before 2018 may or may not have a backup camera. However, recognized as an enhanced safety measure that reduced death and injury resulting from low-speed back-over incidents, several manufacturers added backup cameras to their fleet years before they became mandatory. All modern vehicles built after 2018 come with a backup camera as standard equipment.

Are Backup Cameras Safer Than the Rearview Mirror?

No, not really. “Both backup cameras and rearview mirrors serve important safety purposes, and neither should be used in isolation,” said Erika Tortorici, owner of Optimum Insurance Solutions. Tortorici added, “Rearview mirrors give drivers a broad view of traffic and movement behind the car.”

“Backup cameras are an excellent safety feature,” said Norman, “but are not foolproof.” Although they help reduce blind spots, “they should never be relied upon as the only way to check your surroundings before moving,” added Norman.

Backup Camera Safety Pros and Cons

Pros

• Reduces blind spots, which provides a clear view of obstacles behind the vehicle, helping prevent accidents.
• Makes maneuvering when parallel parking or parking in tight spaces easier.
• Reduces accidents involving children or small objects that may not be noticeable through mirrors.
• Makes aligning your vehicle and trailer hitching easier (if equipped with this feature).
• Research and data show that backup cameras have cut the number of police reported backup-related crashes.
• Newer vehicles integrate the backup camera with the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) or self-parking feature, offering a 360-degree view of your surroundings, improving parking and maneuvering.

Cons

• Overdependence on the camera may cause drivers to forget to check their mirrors or turn their heads to check their surroundings.
• Unable to visually capture everything, especially objects outside their field of view.
• Malfunctions, dirt, cracks, and misalignment can lead to distorted images or poor video quality.
• Drivers gain a false sense of confidence, leading to dangerous driving decisions.

Is It Safe to Only Use the Backup Camera?

“No,” said Norman. He added, “You lose overall situational awareness when only using the backup camera, that’s why it’s essential for drivers to turn their heads, check their mirrors and check the backup camera feed before moving.” Attorney William Pemberton of Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm added, “Using these tools in conjunction (camera and mirrors) with one another can help you potentially avoid a tragedy.” Here are the key factors why using the backup camera to accompany rather than replace, time-honored safety checks:

• Limited field of view: Even newer backup cameras that offer a wider viewing angles can’t see everything.
• Dirty or obstructed camera lenses: Dirt, ice, road salt or physical damage can block the lens, making the image unreliable.
• Environmental conditions: Low light or weather conditions may cause the camera to produce a blurred or indistinct image.
• Moving objects: Not all backup cameras track movement, meaning sudden obstacles might not be noticed in time.
• Guidelines: The guiding lines on the screen can be deceptive and confusing if you fail to adjust for steering angle.
• Technology: While backup cameras are a fantastic safety feature, the same as any other electronic component system, they can, and will, unexpectedly stop working.

FAQ

When did backup cameras become mandatory?

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) enacted a law mandating that all new vehicles built after May 1, 2018, with a gross vehicle weight of less than 10,000 pounds, come equipped with rear backup cameras that expand a driver’s view of their surroundings.

Will installing a backup camera lower my insurance?

“Probably not,” said Tortorici. She added, “Installing a backup camera, especially an aftermarket one, won’t lower your insurance premium.” While backup cameras reduce the risk of minor accidents, adding one can help you uphold your safe driving record, which over the years could help prevent premium increases,” said Pemberton, as most insurers do not consider a backup camera as a standalone safety feature that qualifies for a premium discount.

Experts

Steve Norman, M.Ed., has taught driver’s education in both the public and private sectors for over 15 years. He is a Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) and Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) certified classroom and behind-the-wheel driving instructor. As well as a certified driver’s license examiner. Steve is currently teaching physical education at Manavon Elementary School, Phoenixville Area School District. (Phone interview, June 8, 2025)

Erika Tortorici, founder, owner and principal of Optimum Insurance Solutions. With over 12 years of experience in the insurance industry, Erika has built a firm based in Hamilton, MA, committed to providing personalized coverage, transparency, and long-term client relationships over impersonal, one-size-fits-all policies. (Electronic communication, June 4, 2025)

Attorney William M. Pemberton. William graduated from the University of Wisconsin La Crosse in 2001 and Marquette University Law School in 2003. He received his admission to the State Bar of Wisconsin in 2004 and accepted a position at an insurance defense law firm in Milwaukee, WI, before founding the Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm. (Electronic communication, June 5, 2025)

Resources

• Laura Longero: Executive Editor, CarInsurance.com at CarInsurance.com
• Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): “Advanced driver assistance“
• SAE: “NHTSA mandates rearview camera technology“
• The Office of the Federal Register (OFR) of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA): “Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards; Rear Visibility“
• U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: “Driver Assistance Technologies“

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Shark TurboBlade Review: This New Bladeless Tower Fan is Razor-Thin for Tight Spaces

It’s officially June, which means fan shopping might be on your summer to-do list. Traditional indoor fans, however, can be bulky, noisy and—let’s be real—an eyesore. Even worse, they can pose a safety risk if you have curious kids or pets tempted by the spinning blades.

Let me introduce you to the all-new Shark TurboBlade, a powerful, bladeless tower fan designed for endless customization. With an ultra-slim profile and the ability to pivot between vertical and horizontal cooling, it fits seamlessly into nearly any space. I had the chance to test the new fan before hot weather hit, so let’s dive into its impressive cooling features.

On Sale

MARY HENN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Lowest Price in 30 days

I Tried It

Shark TurboBlade Fan

A bladeless tower fan with vertical and horizontal customization

299.9916% OFF$249.99 at Shark

299.9917% OFF$249.99 at Amazon

$299.99 at Target

What is the Shark TurboBlade Fan?

The Shark TurboBlade is a customizable tower fan with two slender vents that pivot both vertically and horizontally. Each vent can also twist independently in two directions and deliver airflow up to 80 feet—enough to reach nearly every corner of a room. If the tower fan is positioned between the cross-section of a living room and kitchen, for instance, you can also use the adjustable vents to cool two areas at once.

The fan’s compact design takes up less than a square foot of floor space, making it perfect for tight spaces. It features Dust Defense technology, which captures dust at the back of the base for easy cleaning and better performance. With 10 speeds and noise levels, plus special modes (like one that mimics the feel of a natural breeze), it provides a range of cooling experiences. It plugs directly into a wall outlet—no batteries or recharging required—and comes with a magnetic remote, allowing you to adjust settings from the comfort of your bed or sofa.

How We Tested It

The Shark TurboBlade arrived at my doorstep in a medium-sized box, securely packed to prevent any damage. Inside were the fan, remote and quick-start instructions. Setup was straightforward—I simply snapped the neck onto the base, attached the vents and plugged it in. No tools or assembly were required.

Similar to the Shark FlexBreeze Fan, I was immediately impressed by the TurboBlade’s sleek design. Dark gray with polished chrome accents, it looks sharp and modern straight out of the box.

With the fan oscillating, it had no trouble cooling the entryway next to my home office. I placed it in a corner just below the stairs—around 15 feet from my desk—and turned on Natural Breeze Mode for a calming, comfortable airflow. One of my favorite features is the peace of mind it offers: I don’t have to worry about my toddler running up and trying to stick her fingers into any blades.

The base is also sturdy, especially compared to the top of the fan. Unlike other tower fans I’ve tested, it’s not top-heavy, so I don’t have to worry about it tipping over.

I also love that dust isn’t an issue. There are no bulky grates on the front of the fan where dust can collect and then blow back into the room. The vents are slim, and the back of the fan (the part that pulls air) traps dust and can be removed and wiped down easily.

While Shark claims the TurboBlade’s airflow can be felt from up to 80 feet away, I found it most effective within 15 to 20 feet. Regarding noise, I wouldn’t call it silent, especially at higher settings. At levels five through 10, the fan produces a noticeable amount of noise, but it’s not harsh or disruptive. It’s more of a low, steady swishing sound—similar to an AC unit or a soft hand dryer—which gives it a white noise effect.

I actually think the fan would be perfect for my toddler’s bedroom. Our upstairs tends to get quite warm in the summer, especially in July and August, and the TurboBlade could provide safe, effective cooling along with the added bonus of white noise to help with nap time.

Pros

• Bladeless design is safe for homes with kids and pets
• Quick, hassle-free setup
• Sleek appearance
• Slim profile fits easily into corners and small spaces
• Highly adjustable for targeted airflow in multiple directions
• Telescoping neck for customizable height
• Magnetic remote attaches to fan for easy access

Cons

• Noticeably loud on higher speed settings
• Remote can be finicky; needs to be used within roughly 6 feet of fan
• Expensive

Product Features

The TurboBlade’s rotating vents make it unique—it truly can push air in any direction. With a wingspan of nearly 32 inches, it can create a wide blanket of cool air when positioned horizontally. Its remote control attaches discreetly and conveniently to the top of the fan via a magnetic connection for easy access. In addition to ten fan speeds, the TurboBlade features 180-degree oscillation and a telescopic neck for adjustable height and coverage.

Ryan Camp, president and CEO of Harrington Air Conditioning, a large, family-owned HVAC company in Tampa, says, “You should look for fans with multiple speed settings and oscillation features to help circulate air more evenly.”

The fan’s wipe-clean design and Dust Defense technology make cleaning easy. Natural Breeze Mode simulates the sensation of outdoor wind for a soothing indoor experience, while Sleep Mode dims the lights on the base, silences button sounds, and optimizes fan speed for sleep. You can also set a timer to run anywhere from one to 12 hours. For an extra burst of cooling, BreezeBoost mode provides powerful airflow you can feel from up to 80 feet away.

The TurboBlade is available in charcoal and white with chrome detailing, giving it a high-end look that fits seamlessly into any indoor space. “It’s worth considering whether you want a fan that complements your decor, especially if it will be in a visible space,” Camp adds.

In addition to looking great, the TurboBlade is backed by a two-year warranty against defects in material or workmanship.

Product Comparison: Shark FlexBreeze vs. TurboBlade

The key difference between the Shark FlexBreeze and the TurboBlade is their intended usage: the FlexBreeze serves as a portable fan designed for outdoor environments, whereas the TurboBlade is a bladeless fan intended for indoor spaces. The FlexBreeze includes a misting attachment, can operate both cordlessly and when plugged in, and easily converts from a pedestal fan to a tabletop fan when detached from its base. It’s hands down the most versatile fan I’ve ever used.

The TurboBlade, on the other hand, is ideal for discreet indoor cooling. Its bladeless design eliminates the risk of fingers or hair getting caught, making it a safer option for households with children or pets. It also offers more fan speeds and modes, along with adjustable vents that can be positioned for wider airflow coverage. Noise levels are fairly comparable between the two fans, and both feature convenient magnetic remote controls.

Final Verdict

After using the Shark TurboBlade Fan for a couple of months, I’m genuinely impressed with its design and performance. It’s stylish and versatile, and I especially appreciate the bladeless design—it not only looks modern but also prevents dust buildup.

That said, I do have a couple of drawbacks. First, it’s not as quiet as I expected, especially on the higher settings. Second, the price feels a bit steep. While it’s in line with other high-tech tower fans I’ve tested, like the Dreo Tower Fan, I do wish it were more affordable.

If you’re looking to invest in a stylish and effective indoor fan, the TurboBlade is a solid option. And if you need something more portable for outdoor use, I highly recommend checking out the Shark FlexBreeze.

Where to Buy the Shark TurboBlade

On Sale

MARY HENN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Lowest Price in 30 days

I Tried It

Shark TurboBlade Fan

A customizable tower fan with a compact footprint

299.9916% OFF$249.99 at Shark

299.9917% OFF$249.99 at Amazon

$299.99 at Target

The Shark TurboBlade Fan retails for $300 and is available at Shark and on Amazon, but I’ve frequently seen it on sale for $250. It’s also available at Target.

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FAQ

How do you clean a Shark fan?

To clean the exterior of your Shark TurboBlade, simply wipe it down with a cloth and warm, soapy water. Avoid saturating the fan with excess water and chemical cleaners to prevent damage. To clean the Dust Defense filter, remove the panel from the unit by gently pulling on the finger tab. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment or a cloth to remove debris from the Dust Defense panel and the mesh screen.

If debris is trapped between the mesh filter and the Dust Defense panel, you can remove and rinse the mesh filter. However, ensure that you dry both the screen and panel completely for 12 hours before reinstalling.

How do bladeless fans work?

Bladeless fans actually contain blades, but they are usually hidden in the fan’s base, which creates smoother airflow and enhances safety. According to Wayfair, a motor draws in air from the fan’s surroundings and directs it up into a loop amplifier. As the air flows through the loop, it’s expelled through a small slit, creating an area of low pressure that draws in more air, effectively multiplying the amount of air that’s blown out.

Bladeless fans are typically safer, cleaner and more efficient.

Why You Should Trust Us

When it comes to product testing, household appliances and cleaning supplies are right in my wheelhouse. I’ve spent years reviewing everything from vacuums to air purifiers, and fans are no exception. I’ve tested a wide variety of cooling products for Family Handyman, including several models from the Shark lineup. With each review, I focus on practical performance and design. I want to know how well the product works in real-life settings, especially for families and pet owners. When the opportunity came to test the new Shark TurboBlade, I was excited to see how it compared to other fans I’ve tried.

We also chatted with Ryan Camp, president and CEO of Harrington Air Conditioning, a large, family-owned HVAC company in Tampa, about what to look for when shopping for indoor fans.

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Do You Know What the 3 Little Dots on the Back of Your iPad Are For?

As technology continues to change and grow, our devices gain and lose different features. Newer iPhones don’t have a separate headphone jack because the new headphones use the exact same port as the charger. And more and more accessories connect with Bluetooth these days, allowing you to enjoy the convenience of a wireless connection when setting up your workspace. But unless you’re reading every single press release about the updates and new features, you may not recognize all of the new changes. Take, for example, the three dots on the back of an iPad. What do they do?

What Do the Three Dots on the Back of an iPad Do?

According to Apple Support, these three dots form your iPad’s “Smart Connector.” They’re not a traditional plug, nor do they facilitate a Bluetooth connection like with AirPods. Rather, these three magnetic contacts allow you to connect to a Smart Keyboard.

Apple proudly explains that, thanks to the Smart Connector, “you don’t need to pair or turn on your Smart Keyboard Folio or Smart Keyboard,” when you want to link it to your iPad. You can simply bring the magnetic connectors together, and the two devices will work in tandem.

Why Would I Want a Smart Connector?

If you’re used to older, wired keyboards or love Bluetooth keyboards, you might not find the Smart Connector appealing at first. But it offers the best of both worlds. There are no wires to contend with, which saves you space as well as the hassle of tracking down the correct cord and corralling it. You also don’t have to worry about connecting via Bluetooth, which saves you from the headache that comes with trying to pair a new device. Thanks to those three little dots on the back of your iPad, you can use your Smart Keyboard even if your Bluetooth isn’t working, and you won’t have to choose between charging your device and connecting it with accessories.

Additionally, having a smart connector helps you keep your iPad in a comfortable typing position while you’re using a Smart Keyboard. If you’ve connected it correctly, Apple says that your iPad should be sitting “in the groove above the number keys and folded in the type position.” The screen will be slightly angled back, much like a laptop screen would be when it’s opened.

Source

Connect and use your Smart Keyboard Folio or Smart Keyboard with your iPad, Apple Support.

Related

• If You See a Blue Stop Sign, Here’s What It Means 
• If You Spot This Yellow Device on Your Windshield, You’ve Been Barnacled 
• What Do Shoes on Power Lines Mean? 

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DIY Paint Roller and Other Nifty Painting Tips

A Push Broom Handle Is a DIY Paint Roller Extension Pole

You can spend $10 to $70 on an adjustable extension for rolling paint in high places. But if adjustability isn’t important or you just want to save a few bucks, try using a push broom handle as a DIY paint roller pole. Most fit perfectly on a paint roller. — Dave Moran.

Dry and Store Your Brushes

Keeping your brushes in good shape will help to ensure that you get smooth brush strokes, especially if your painting project takes several days. Several of our readers submitted their favorite ways to extend the lifespan of their paintbrushes.

Quick Drying Hanger

Here’s a handy way to dry and store paint brushes. Using a hand-saw, cut a slanted slice out of the handle from the hole toward the bristles. After cleaning, hook the brush over a coat hanger and hang it from a ceiling joist. — Paul E. Therrien.

Instant DIY Paint Roller Savers

When the painting job is half done but the day is all done, slide your paint roller off the roller frame and store it in a Lay’s Stax potato chip container. It’s just the right size for a standard nine-inch roller. Once you’ve slipped the roller cover inside, pop on the lid and the wet roller is sealed and ready for service in the morning. — Kevin Kurucz

Tomato Cage Drying Rack

An inverted tomato cage makes a great drying rack for rollers, brushes, pads, rags, and whatever is wet after painting cleanup. The stuff dries quickly outdoors, and there’s room for everything! — Tom Anderson.

Self-Cleaning Brushes

Just hang your brush in a jar of solvent: water for latex paint, and mineral spirits or paint thinner for oil-based. Using a clamp, suspend the brush in the jar with the bristles fully submerged almost to the ferrule, but not touching the bottom of the jar. The finish will slide off the bristles and settle on the bottom of the jar. If you’re using paint thinner or mineral spirits, set the jar outside to keep fumes out of your house. Be sure it’s away from children and pets. After a day or two, remove the brush and give it a thorough rinse in clean solvent. — Pat Gustafson.

Preserve a Brush With a Glove

I like to wear disposable nitrile gloves when I’m painting. They not only keep my hands clean but also keep my brush from drying out whenever I take a break. I simply grab the bristles with my gloved hand and then pull the glove over the wet bristles. A twist tie around the handle keeps the air out. — Ned Webb.

That’s a Wrap…For Now

This handy hint will keep your paint brushes in good shape after each painting project. After thoroughly washing and air-drying my brushes, I wrap them with a piece of the pre-taped plastic that I use to mask off my baseboards and protect my floors. When kept folded right off of the roll, the plastic is the perfect length to cover and shape the paintbrush bristles while the tape sticks to the metal ferrule. — Joe Martin.

Brush Bristle Saver

Without something to hold them in place, paintbrush bristles will curl or splay as they dry. The best way to store them is in the cardboard wrappers that they came in. They’re not just packaging; they maintain the shape of the bristles as the brush dries after cleaning. If you’ve already thrown your brush wrappers away, use paper and a rubber band instead. — Andy Benke.

DIY Your Stir Sticks

Stir sticks are important, but if you don’t have any on hand, fear not! You’ve still got options.

Make Paint Stir Sticks

Forgot to grab stir sticks at the store when you picked up the paint? If you have a band saw and a hunk of 2×4, you can make your own! Take a two-foot-long 2×4 and draw a perpendicular line in the middle. Next, rip several 3/16-in.-thick strips on the bandsaw up to the pencil line. Then, to release the stir sticks, chop the 2×4 at the pencil line. This method keeps your fingers a safe distance from the saw blade. — Les Eastep.

Use Takeout Chopsticks to Stir Finishes

If you don’t want to make sticks, there’s another way to DIY them. Save unused chopsticks you get with your takeout because they make great stirrers for small cans of paint, stain, varnish, etc. You can also buy disposable chopsticks to have a stash ready to go in your workshop.

Quick Touch-Up Pads

If you have touch-up work that’s not worth dirtying a paintbrush, try makeup rounds. These smooth pieces of cotton are about the size of a silver dollar and they won’t shed. You can use them to apply dabs of stain, oil or paint. We’ve even used them to touch up nail hole patches. — Jan Olsen.

DIY Small Paint Roller Trays

Small projects don’t require the large trays that bigger ones do, so why not DIY your paint roller pans? Two of our readers suggested easy options to make your small projects run smoothly.

Empty Jug Paint Carrier

For small paint jobs, I find a four-inch paint roller works great with an old gallon-size iced tea jug serving as a disposable roller tray. I just cut out part of the plastic to create a place to dip the roller. It even has a built-in carrying handle. When I’m done, I just throw the jug away. — Fred Thies.

Shoe Box Painting Kit

For a small paint job that calls for a small roller, I just use a shoe box top as my paint tray! It’s lightweight and I can hold it in one hand as I roll. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to hold the paint! When I’m done I just toss it out. There’s no messy tray to clean up. — Steve Ference.

Paint Can Opener on Hand

Always have a paint can opener on hand when you’re ready to start a painting project. Use pliers or a multitool to slightly bend open the loop of the opener. Then hook it onto the handle of the paint can you just purchased.

Keep Your Paint Rollers Tidy

Nothing ruins a fresh paint job like unintentional paint tracks. Fortunately there are a couple of ways to mitigate the mess. Whether you’re working with a DIY paint roller or a brand new store bought one, there are a couple of ways to keep them in tip top shape.

Remove the Fuzz

Some tools need cleaning even when they’re new. Some new roller covers (usually the cheaper ones) have a layer of fuzz that detaches from the cover. The first time you load up a fuzzy roller, the paint mixes with the fuzz and creates small bumps on the wall. One way to remove the fuzz is to wrap masking tape all the way around the roller cover. When you pull the tape off, the excess fuzz will be pulled off along with it.

Trim Off Ragged Roller Edges

Those ragged edges and tiny beads of dried paint on your paint roller may seem harmless, but they’ll leave ugly tracks in your paint job. Trim them off, leaving a slightly tapered edge, and your roller will be as good as new.

Thinner Extender

Extend the life of your paint thinner with this brush-cleaning system. Drill 3/16-in. holes in the bottom of an empty tuna can. Place the can in the jar with the bottom facing up, and fill the jar with paint thinner. Clean your brush by rubbing the bristles across the holes in the tuna can. The debris will settle to the bottom of the jar, leaving fresh cleaning solution for the next time. — Daniel Cappiello.

Easy-Clean Finishing

Forget brushes when it comes to varnishing a ton of trim or big, flat areas like tabletops and cabinets. Use a four-inch disposable roller and a nonstick, lipped baking sheet. Pour some varnish into the tray and use it just like a paint rolling tray. Keep adding varnish as you need it, but try to plan so you end up with an empty tray. When you’re through, toss the roller sleeve and let the wet varnish dry in the pan. When it dries, just peel the varnish film right out of the pan. — Aaron McKeever

C-Clamp Paint Can Handle

Use a C-clamp as a temporary handle on a quart-size paint can. “Yes, it may get some paint on the clamp,” says reader Mike Watt. “But does that really matter? Not to me!”

Less-Mess Paint Can Lids

It’s no secret that painting projects are messy, especially when pouring paint from the can into a smaller container or roller tray and then re-sealing the lid. Here’s one way to prevent paint from spattering all over the place when you close the lid of the paint can: Cover it with a rag or paper towel. The rag will collect the paint splatters, not your clothes!

To avoid denting the rim and lid of the paint can when you pound it closed with a hammer or mallet, lay a wood block sized just larger than the diameter of the paint can across the rag and hammer the center of the block. Rotate the block a few times, hammering in the center each time to seal the lid.

Touch-Up Bottle

When there’s only a little bit of latex paint left in the can and I want to save it for touch-ups, I put a half-dozen marbles in an empty water bottle and pour in the leftover paint. When I’m ready to do a touch-up, I shake the bottle and the marbles mix the paint. A roll of tape with a rag draped over it helps hold the bottle steady while I pour the paint into it. Just be sure to use a funnel or you’ll have a mess on your hands. — Ron Hazelton.

Egg Carton Painting Props

Keep a few empty egg cartons with the rest of your painting supplies. They’re great for lifting a small project off a work surface, making it easier to paint nooks and crannies and along the base of the project.

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How Early Is Too Early For Loud Yard Work?

We’ve all been there where we have a neighbor who is using a lawnmower at the crack of dawn or in the middle of the night while you’re trying to sleep. Not only is it annoying, but it can be disruptive, especially if it’s a repeated offense. That said, you might be wondering, well, how early is too early for yard work?

To get to the bottom of this, we spoke with an expert and did some research about when yard work is allowed. Hint: The answer is not straightforward and is a bit more complex than you may think.

Are There Laws Against Loud Yard Work in the Morning?

According to Corey Buescher, a handyperson expert at Frontdoor, there are usually local noise ordinances that regulate when loud activities like yard work (mowing, leaf blowing, using chainsaws, etc.) can start, especially in the morning. “While sunrise and sunset can influence local rules, most noise ordinances are based on fixed clock times, not natural light,” he tells Family Handyman. “These laws vary by city, county, or municipality.”

How early is too early for yard work?

When thinking about how early is too early for yard work, in most places, that’ll be any time earlier than 7 AM or 8 AM. Think about it this way — if a majority of people are probably still sleeping, then it’s probably too early. If you’re eager to get out into the yard, then you could quietly pull some weeds or perhaps do some gardening without loud equipment until it’s a bit later.

How Loud Is Yard Work?

It’s not just that loud yard sounds are loud early in the morning, but it actually is loud all the time. According to Southwestern Vermont Medical Center, leaf blowers and weed wackers can reach between 85 to 100 decibels (dB). “Sounds above 85 dB -can be heard easily at distances of several hundred feet, depending on background noise, wind, and obstacles,” says Buescher.

With that in mind, prolonged exposure to loud noises such as those from a lawnmower or leaf blower could, over time, lead to noise-induced hearing loss for both yourself and potential nearby neighbors, so it’s important to proceed with caution.

How to Find Out How Early You Can Do Loud Yard Work

It’s fairly easy to find out how early you can do loud yard work. All it requires is a simple Google search with your location. For example, if you search “Brooklyn New York noise ordinance .gov,” you’ll find a government-sponsored webpage with information about noise from lawn care equipment and the time frame in which using it is permitted. In New York City, it’s permitted on weekdays between 8 AM and 7 PM and on weekends between 9 AM and 6 PM.

Aside from searching online, Buescher suggests calling your non-emergency local police line to see if they have information on the hours and to file a complaint if someone is consistently breaking the code.

If you live in an HOA community or apartment complex, Buescher recommends contacting them about this topic because they often have stricter guidelines than the city.

Yard Work Etiquette

When it comes to yard work etiquette, the most important thing is to be considerate of your neighbors and surroundings.

Leaf blowers, lawnmowers, and weed wackers can be noisy, and that’s okay — the job needs to get done somehow, but just use your best judgment in terms of timing so you’re not being disrespectful of other people’s time and peace. “A quick heads-up to nearby neighbors goes a long way. It shows consideration and helps prevent misunderstandings,” says Buescher.

Additionally, you’ll want to keep property lines in mind. Be mindful of where your property ends and someone else begins and make sure you don’t leave clippings or debris behind when you’re done.

About The Experts

• Corey Buescher, a virtual handyperson expert at Frontdoor.

Sources

• NYC 311: Noise from Lawn Equipment

• Dartmouth Health: Don’t Let Yard Work Cost You Your Hearing

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Stop Using These ACs: 1.7 Million Units Recalled Over Mold Risk

Summer is just around the corner, and that generally means it’s time to use your air conditioner regularly. But this year, millions of window ACs pose a mold risk. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (USCPSC) recently issued a recall brief warning consumers about the danger.

Why Aren’t These AC Units Working Correctly?

Most window AC units produce condensation while they work to keep your space at a reasonable temperature. But if this condensation doesn’t drain right, it can cause issues. The USCPSC warns that in the affected AC units, “pooled water…can fail to drain quickly enough, which can lead to mold growth.” This is a major problem; mold exposure can cause respiratory issues and infections.

The firm is aware of at least 152 reports of mold in the air conditioners, including 17 reports of consumers experiencing symptoms such as respiratory infections, allergic reactions, coughing, sneezing and/or sore throats from mold exposure.

Which Window ACs Pose a Mold Risk?

The recall includes nearly 1.7 million Midea U and U+ Window Air Conditioners sold in the USA and an additional 45,900 units that were sold in Canada. The associated brand names include:

• Midea
• Comfort Aire
• Danby
• Frigidaire
• Insignia
• Keystone
• LBG Product
• Mr. Cool
• Perfect Aire
• Sea Breeze

These are all window units that came in three sizes: 8,000, 10,000 and 12,000 BTU. Regardless of brand or size, they’re white, about 22 inches by 14 inches in dimension and have both a remote control and an associated app. These units were sold at stores and online, including:

• Costco
• Menards
• Home Depot
• Best Buy
• Midea.com
• Amazon.com
• Costco.com
• Menards.com
• HomeDepot.com
• Lowes.com
• Walmart.com
• BJs.com
• BestBuy.com

Is There a Fix?

If you own one of the affected AC units, the USCPSC recommends contacting Midea “for a free repair or a full or prorated refund, which will be based on the purchase date or date of manufacture.”

If you want a refund, you will have to send the unit back or submit a photograph showing proof that you’ve destroyed the unit’s power cord of the unit.  However, if you’d rather have the unit repaired, the USCPSCP says you need to “contact Midea to arrange for a technician to install a new drain plug or send consumers a repair kit that includes a new drain plug and bubble level, depending on the model.”

Source

• Midea Recalls About 1.7 Million U and U+ Window Air Conditioners Due to Risk of Mold Exposure, United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, 2025.

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