What Does Right To Repair Mean for You?

As DIYers, we want to fix our own stuff, but many devices today are difficult to diagnose and repair. Using my auto technician skills, I take pride in fixing whatever I can. I like to say I can fix anything that operates hydraulically, pneumatically, mechanically or electrically. Plus, I enjoy saving money.

Without Right to Repair (R2R), all of us may lose the ability to fix our devices ourselves. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Right to Repair?

Right to Repair refers to the option to repair your devices yourself everything from appliances to electronics or choose a repair shop that meets your needs.

The R2R movement started at the dawn of the digital age, but grew significantly in the 1980s. That’s when the automotive aftermarket began urging original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to share diagnostic and repair information, specialized tools, real-time data and specifications needed to produce replacement parts.

This sounds great for DIYers, but it’s not that simple. There are possible unintended consequences, including exposure of sensitive personal data or low-quality aftermarket replacement parts or repairs.

Now, R2R involves everything from video games to life-saving medical equipment. R2R has gained worldwide support, including the interest of U.S. lawmakers.

Current Right to Repair Legislation

H.R. 906 REPAIR, aka the Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair Act, is bipartisan legislation currently under consideration in the U.S. House of Representatives. Massachusetts leads the R2R fight with its voter-approved Data Access Law.

On July 9, 2021, President Biden signed an executive order supporting R2R. He directed the Federal Trade Commission to issue policies barring OEMs from placing limitations on independent repair shops and DIY repairs.

Subsequently, on June 13, 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) notified 22 OEMs not to comply with the Massachusetts law. Two months later, the NHTSA changed its position. But it will continue investigating protocols that promote consumers’ ability to choose an independent repair shop or make do-it-yourself repairs without compromising safety.

How Does Right to Repair Affect You?

Generally, OEMs share most diagnostic tools and equipment, service manuals and training materials with the aftermarket. But they’re reluctant to release software or firmware updates. They maintain these are intellectual proprietary technology and property, costing millions of dollars in research.

OEMs also site cybersecurity concerns of R2R that require vehicle manufacturers to provide third-party access to all vehicle-generated data “without restrictions or limitations.”

Conversely, Bill Hanvey, president and CEO of the Auto Care Association, stated sensitive data for repairs can be securely transmitted to and from your vehicle, while safeguarding personal information with proven real-time encryption.

Hanvey says in 2022, 37% of vehicles in the U.S. required at least one repair by an OEM because independent repair shops lacked the necessary resources to diagnose or make the repair. This makes it less likely that you or your favorite shop (especially in rural areas), can make certain repairs.

Even with all my auto repair skills, without specific technical information, specialty tools or dependable replacement parts, it’s impossible for me, an independent repair shop or any DIYer to repair our devices.

Should You Care?

Yes, if you’re a DIYer or want to choose who repairs your devices.

The Magnuson Moss Warranty Act, enacted in 2015, allows us to repair whatever we buy, despite those pesky and illegal “warranty-void if removed” stickers manufacturers place on products. However, it’s your decision whether R2R is important to you or not.

Do We Need Right to Repair?

That depends on who you ask.

Consumer Reports endorsed federal R2R legislation “which can give consumers convenient options, save them money, prevent waste and help protect the environment.” Other consumer advocacy groups see the fight against R2R as a purely money-driven play, meant to hurt the aftermarket repair industry.

Yet the Automotive Service Association, Society of Collision Repair Specialists and Alliance for Automotive Innovation do not see a need for R2R. In a letter to Congress, they reaffirmed a 2014 memorandum of understanding (MOU) with OEMs, stating OEMs will make accessible “the same diagnostic and repair information that auto manufacturers make available to authorized (OEM) dealer networks.”

However, the Auto Care Alliance and Auto Care Association (ACA)did not sign the 2014 MOU, nor do they support current R2R legislation. They maintain the MOU is too narrow in scope; the information and data made available is limited and confusing; and it’s essentially a “handshake” agreement and thus not legally enforceable.

Major OEMs, including Tesla, Johnson & Johnson, AT&T, T-Mobile, Caterpillar, John Deere, General Electric, Philips and the National Automobile Dealers Association are currently lobbying against R2R.

To build brand loyalty, OEMs like Apple, Dell, HP, Microsoft, Samsung and others have introduced “self-repair” programs. These make repair information, OEM parts and repair tools available to consumers.

Viewed as a win for R2R advocates, self-repair programs helped create a lucrative secondary repair, refurbish and resale market. Now consumers can have devices once destined for a landfill repaired, or buy a refurbished one rather than purchasing new. This reduces environment waste.

With considerable loopholes and conflicting points of view, R2R remains perplexing. However, stricter FTC enforcement of the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act has shown a willingness by OEMs to deal with R2R issues through cooperation rather than legislation. R2R remains a hot topic that’s far from being settled.

Article source here: What Does Right To Repair Mean for You?

How To Prepare Your Home For a Real Christmas Tree

Renewable, recyclable real Christmas trees are much better for the environment than plastic and steel artificial trees that end up in landfills. And as Tom O’Connor, executive director of the National Christmas Tree Association, says, nothing beats the annual family tradition of visiting a tree farm to make your selection.

The following expert-approved tips will help you select, set up and care for your Christmas tree so it stays fresh throughout the holidays.

Real Christmas Tree Prep Tips

O’Connor says the right location for your Christmas tree is crucial. “Keep your tree away from heat vents or a fireplace, which can dry out the tree excessively,” he says. Lucas Dull, co-owner of Dull’s Tree Farm, recommends avoiding a spot in front of a south-facing window for the same reason.

Some other planning pointers include:

• Measure the space: Check the width and height to avoid broken branches. “Don’t forget to account for your Christmas tree topper (star, angel, etc.),” Dull says.

• Purchase a stand: Get your tree in water as soon as you bring it home. “We recommend a minimum of one gallon to 1.5 gallons of capacity,” Dull says. But the larger the tree, the more it will drink.

• Do some species research: If you’ve got a lot of heavy decorations, pick a strong species, like a white spruce or noble fir, instead of a weaker white pine. For the real Christmas tree aroma, a popular Douglas or Fraser fir is ideal.

• Pick a healthy tree: Avoid specimens with lots of dropping brown needles or brittle branches. “The tree should be green and pliable rather than dry,” O’Connor says.

• Purchase a tree removal bag: “They really help keep the needles contained when it comes time to remove the tree,” Dull says. “Even if you don’t have a tree removal bag, an old sheet or tarp can be wrapped around the tree to help reduce the mess.”

When Do Tree Farms and Tree Lots Open?

“Most tree farms and lots open sometime around Thanksgiving,” Dull says. Don’t buy a tree before then. If you do, it won’t be as fresh when the holidays arrive, and you might have to take it downearlier than you would like.

But shopping too late comes with risks. “Most trees are sold in those first two weekends after Thanksgiving,” O’Connor says. “The longer you wait, the more picked over the inventory becomes.”

The closer it gets to Christmas, the greater the chances of local farms and lots selling out. You might have to travel further afield, pay a premium, or make do with a scrubby-looking specimen.

How to Transport a Real Christmas Tree

“While pickup trucks are the most user-friendly vehicles for collecting your tree, any vehicle with a roof will do,” Dull says. These transport tips will minimize busted branches, dropped needles and sore backs:

• Ask about netting: Most farms where you can cut your own Christmas tree will net it afterward to make it easier to handle and transport.

• Tying tactics: “If tying your tree to the top of your vehicle, put the bottom of the trunk facing the front of your vehicle,” Dull says. This reduces wind damage while driving.

• Bring a blanket or tarp: If you can fit the tree in your car, this prevents needles from getting everywhere.

How To Prep a Real Tree Before Bringing It Inside

“Often, the place you buy your tree has a tree shaker, where you put it on the device, and it shakes it to get loose needles off,” O’Connor says. If not, simply shake the tree yourself before heading indoors; wear gloves so any sap gets on them and not your skin. While bothersome bugs are rare on Christmas trees, this also helps remove clinging critters.

It’s OK if your tree has been sitting in a frozen lot, but Dull says it’s helpful to let a snow or ice-covered tree thaw in the garage. “Any ice or snow chunks that melt off the tree make a puddle in the garage instead of the house,” he says.

Ensuring your tree can absorb water effectively is vital. “If it has been more than a couple of hours since your tree received a fresh cut on the base, go ahead and give it another,” Dull says. This opens up the trunk veins, which can quickly callus over. “One-half inch off the bottom is sufficient,” he says.

Cut it with a handsawand be sure to remove any sap from the blade right away. “We use ammonia water to remove sap from tools, such as saws or clippers,” Dull says. “For hands, use hand sanitizer or some other alcohol-based hand cleaner.”

Keep your tree hydrated if you aren’t bringing it in immediately. O’Connor recommends putting it in a bucket of water in your garage in the interim. “You can also just store it without water, as long as it is given a fresh cut again before it is put into water,” Dull says.

How To Set Up Your Real Tree

O’Connor says to treat your tree like a vase of fresh-cut flowers. “If you let the vase run dry, the flowers are going to dry out very quickly, and a tree is going to be the same,” he says.

Never let the water level in the Christmas tree stand drop below the bottom of the trunk. If the base seals over and needs a new cut, do it before you’ve decorated your Christmas tree.

How much and when your Christmas tree needs watering depends on its size, species and the environment. However, Dull recommends filling your stand all the way up to start, then checking your tree twice a day, morning and evening, for the first few days or week. After that, a daily water check should be fine because the tree won’t be as thirsty.

If you’re concerned you might spill water while filling the stand, put a waterproof cover under it to deal with any wayward drips. “There are watering sticks that can help with making filling the tree stand easier and reduce the risk of spilling or overfilling,” Dull says.

Dull suggests waiting a day or two before decorating your tree. “This allows the branches to open up and fall into place, which helps make decorating easier,” he says.

How Long Do Real Trees Last?

“A well-cared-for fresh tree should last five to six weeks without a problem,” Dull says. Your watering schedule, the type of tree and the warmth of your home all affect how long a Christmas tree lasts.

About the Experts

• Lucas Dull co-owns Dull’s Tree Farm in Thorntown, Indiana, which has been been selling real Christmas trees since 1993.

• Tim O’Connor is executive director of the National Christmas Tree Association.

Article source here: How To Prepare Your Home For a Real Christmas Tree

We Tried the Twinkly Smart Christmas Lights, and Now We Create Custom Light Shows

As an interior designer and former professional holiday decorator, I know lighting can make or break a space. Ive been a fan of multi-colored lighting used in set design and commercial settings since the early days of light-emitting diode (LED) innovation. Back then, smart apps didn’t exist to control the diodes, and set-up was too expensive for the average homeowner. Luckily, this isn’t the case anymore.

The next generation of Christmas cheer is here with Twinkly smart lights. These smart Christmas lights offer millions of color and pattern options for endless customization. Twinkly is a game changer, not just for holidays, but for adding atmosphere to home theaters, gaming rooms, outdoor parties or any place you have a strong Wi-Fi signal. Do these lights take indoor and outdoor holiday decorating to the next level? Find out if they live up to the hype in our review.

What are the Twinkly smart Christmas lights?

These certainly aren’t your grandmas Christmas lights. The Twinkly Generation II string lights set the scene for a fully customizable light show controlled by a robust app (with the help of a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection).

Multiple strings can be controlled by the app, but they cant be daisy-chained like traditional lights. These lights work in indoor or outdoor settings, so they can be strung on just about anything and plugged into a standard two-prong electric outlet. The connecting wires are thin and pliable, with a bulb placed every 3 inches on the dark green cord. Shockingly, these tiny lights are surprisingly bright! And the app has a brightness control to tone it down for indoor use.

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Twinkly Smart Christmas Lights

Create customized holiday magic with the app-controlled Twinkly Strings smart lights. These Indoor/outdoor LED lights make Christmas that much more festive.

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Twinkly Smart Christmas Lights Features

For starters, Twinkly smart Christmas lights power on and off with or without the app. However, the free app provides dozens of patterns and millions of color options with slide bars to control the speed and brightness of the effect. You can even control the angle of motion for some of the patterns. It’s easy to dim the lights for a gaming session or movie night. Plus, the Twinkly app has a built-in timer.

Its a modern-day wonder how these little LED lights got to be so smart. Once youre connected and your lights are hung on your Christmas tree, deck or gazebo, the app asks you to map them so it knows how to apply the patterns to your lighting display. To map the lights, youll need to allow access to the camera on your device. The app even allows you to draw a design or upload a gif. How cool is that?

Twinkly smart Christmas lights are compatible with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa and Apple Home Kit for convenient voice control. And if thats not smart enough for you, grab the Twinkly Music device to sync your lights to your favorite tunes for the ultimate dance party or ambient vibe.

How We Brightened Up the Holidays with Twinkly Lights

When the lights first arrived, I plugged them in just to make sure they worked. Next, I downloaded the app and connected it via Wi-Fi using the 2.4 GHz network. I played with the effects, but wasnt ready to place or map the string yet. I took them to our office for our artificial Christmas tree testing days and had to connect them to a new Wi-Fi for them to work. This was a bit of a hassle, because they wouldnt connect for me without creating a new account.

Back home, I reconnected to the original network and ended up resetting my password to connect. I expected some frustration with it, but it quickly performed. I tested a 100-light strand on my 7.5-foot slim-profiled Christmas tree, which wasn’t enough to adorn the entire tree, just the front half. For this slim tree, I would use a minimum 250-light string while a 400-light or 600-light strand would be best for a full tree with a wider profile. For context, Balsam Hill recommends the 400-light string for a 6-foot tree. The 100-foot string I tested would be ideal for decorating a window, archway, mantle or tabletop tree.

Mapping Twinkly Lights

Once connected, I started the mapping process in the 2D mode. I watched the app magically detect every bulb, and actually sat on the floor and pointed the camera to get a wide shot of the entire tree. Since the lights were only in the front, I didnt need to move around the tree in 3D mode to capture different angles in order to map all of the lights.

Customizing the Light Show

Now, I was ready to try out the effects, patterns, colors, brightness and speed. I saved some effects to my favorites. It is worth noting that the app limits your saved effects to 15 and gives you an error message if you try to save more than that. However, it lets you single out a particular bulb to customize your look even further.

I was mainly interested in a warm-white effect and tried the snow effect, which was cold and blue. I adjusted the color to achieve a warm palette. I named it yellow snow (LOL). However, as the pattern changes, the lights emit red, green and blue rather than a consistent yellow light.

With so many fun effects and options to customize the animations, I had a blast playing with the looks. The lights are overall very bright and cool. Some effects allowed me to turn down the brightness and control the speed of the moving patterns. I downloaded a few other effects in search of the perfect peaceful holiday vibe and discovered another library of options.

Pros

• Multi-colored LED lights
• Lots of fun customizable effects and patterns
• Easy mapping process
• Convenient timer
• Works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa and Apple Home Kit
• One app controls multiple strings
• Easy pairing and connectivity
• Indoor and outdoor use
• Uses less energy than incandescent lights

Cons

• No daisy chain connectivity
• White is cold and bright

FAQ

Are smart Christmas lights worth it?

If you love customizing your lighting, syncing the lights to music and dazzling your friends and neighbors, smart LED Christmas lights are a must-have. Although smart string lights are more expensive than standard string lights, the features of these app-controlled lights are unsurpassed. When compared to incandescent lighting, LED lights run cooler, last longer and save money on energy consumption. Your investment in smart lights extend well beyond one holiday season, because smart lights are versatile and customizable for every occasion.

How do smart Christmas lights work?

Twinkly smart lights work with your Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connection, and are controlled by the app on your smart device. Twinkly has pre-programmed effects and many of them are customizable if you’re feeling creative.

How can I make my Christmas lights smarter?

Consider using a smart plug or timer to automate your holiday lighting. Using a a home network, like Alexa, will work to turn lights on or off with voice control, but standard lights wont be able to create a spectacular light show like Twinkly can.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Over 4,600 people have given the Twinkly smart Christmas lights five stars (on Amazon alone!). Here’s what they’re saying about these magical string lights.

Jana von Hehn, a five-star reviewer, writes, I had some angst about buying these lights because they seemed so expensive, but Im over it. The light shows they do are just jaw dropping. Its gorgeous and everyone who sees it even over the phone is so impressed. We are hesitant to decorate the tree because the lights by themselves are so amazing!

I have purchased a bunch of Twinkly lights throughout the years and loved every one of them. I have the first gen lights from when they first started and they are still going. The app that controls these lights is pretty easy to use and you can control all your lights with the single app. I currently have three trees that I control with the app, says verified purchaser, Garrett. I love these lights and get compliments on them all the time. I do not think I could ever go back to the traditional lights. These lights may be on the pricier end, but they are the future. They are very durable, long-lasting and absolutely gorgeous.

Another verified buyer, Robert D., adds, You can program in your own light patterns, use ones that are built in, or download patterns that other Twinkly users have uploaded to the Twinkly servers. The app will let you program a playlist, so you can automatically go through your favorite patterns in the course of the eveningand you can set the lights to turn on and off at specific times.”

Final Verdict

Clark Griswold would have died for these smart Christmas lights. Twinkly Strings smart Christmas lights bring energy and fun to any occasion. I love that I have the ability to control multiple products from the same app, allowing me to decorate the front yard, backyard and indoors from the same app. The timer is a nice feature in the app, although some users report this function is finicky when using multiple strings. But it’s so easy to create the mood I want with the variable features, and decorating for Christmas just became that much more fun!

Where to Buy the Twinkly Smart Christmas Lights

Amazon offers a huge selection of Twinkly lights for indoor and outdoor use. A string of 100 lights costs under $60. You can also grab these brilliant lights at Walmart, The Home Depot, Target, Best Buy and Ace Hardware. You don’t need to be an electrician or lighting pro to create a spectacular light show this holiday season. Twinkly makes it effortlessly merry and bright.

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Dazzle your neighbors with a custom holiday light show you can use year round. These multi-colored LED lights are safe, cool and save energy.

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We Tried the New Shark Cordless Pro, the Vacuum That Empties and Charges Itself

Its amazing how much crummier your floor gets once you have a baby who crawls around eating teething wafers. That, of course, means breaking out my vacuum on the dailysometimes multiple times a dayto clean up messes. With my old vacuum, I didnt have a docking system, so it was clunky getting it in and out of the closet.

But thats all changed now that Ive personally tested the new Shark Cordless Pro, aka the Shark Cordless Detect Pro Auto-Empty System with QuadClean Multi-Surface Brushroll. And let me tell you, this stick vacuum has seriously won me over during the past 30 days.

What is the Shark Cordless Pro?

The Shark Cordless Pro has just about everything youd want in a vacuum. It comes with the cordless stick vacuum, a 2-liter auto-empty charging dock, an odor-neutralizer puck, a lithium-ion battery, an 8-inch crevice tool and a pet multi-tool.

With odor-neutralizing technology, this best vacuum cleaner works to guard against bad odors and detects and reacts to dirt for up to 50% better pickup, as the brand details. My favorite feature, however, is that once its placed back on its base, it empties and charges itself. No more struggling over the garbage can trying to avoid spilling recently sucked-up debris on clean floors!

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Shark Cordless Pro Vacuum

With a docking station that automatically empties and charges, the Shark cordless pro is a convenient vacuum cleaner.

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Shark Cordless Pro Features

With a docking dust bin that holds up to 30 days worth of debris, the Shark Cordless Pro truly makes vacuuming a mindless task again. Not only does the machine accommodate hard floors and carpets and everything in between, but the vacuum detects what its working with and adjusts its power accordinglythat means a stronger suction on carpets and rugs. And since its cordless (a full charge takes five hours), you dont have to worry about a cord getting in the way of a deep clean. It also has a 60-minute runtime (but thats in the best-case scenariomore on that later).

The Shark Cordless Pro has three modes: Eco, Auto and Boost. Eco is best for saving battery power if youre doing just a quick clean-up; Auto, the setting I use most, is for everyday cleaning power that adjusts brush roll speed based on how clean or dirty an area is; and Boost comes in handy when you need to take care of heavy debris. You can go between the modes using the suction power mode button located next to the on/off button. Easy!

How We Tested It

The docking station (with the vacuum in place) has a footprint of about 13.5 inches by 10.5 inches, ideal for storing out of the way in a corner or a closet that has an outlet. Right out of the box, I placed my Shark in the corner of my mudroom. After it was fully charged, I couldnt wait to test it out. It was apparent right away that this system was so much easier to access, thanks to the sleek design hidden in the corner as opposed to in the closet that was already low on real estate.

Although I have a robot vacuum stationed in my kitchen, when I need to quickly suck up food that my one-year-old decided to drop from her high chair, I reach for the Shark Cordless Pro. To access the vacuum, I simply lift it out of its docking station, press the on/off button, give it a couple seconds to start, and off I go. When its time to put the machine away, I slightly hover it over the docking station and bring it down to house it in place. Its a one-handed operation, which comes in handy when my daughter refuses to leave my hip.

Trying the Shark Cordless Pro on Different Flooring Types

Ive been testing the Shark Cordless Pro for the past month, so its seen a range of floor types, including hardwood, carpet, area rug and tile. The first time I used it in my daughters carpeted playroom, which we play in every day, I was shocked (and slightly horrified) over how much the Shark picked up.

To the eye, the carpet didnt look dirty. Plus, its less than two years old. But the machine pulled up hair, crumbs and dust I didnt know was there. That was motivation enough to do the rest of the downstairs of my home, and the result was that over half of the dustbin was filled. Wow! But also, eww!

Docking

Then, in one simple motion, I got the vacuum back in its dock, and the system automatically started emptying the dust bin (which I will admit is pretty loud but lasted for no more than 10 seconds). It was satisfying to watch and nice to know that it was recharging the Shark without further tasks from me. Although the docking station holds 30 days worth of cleanup, I havent had to empty mine yet, so it holds an impressive amount.

Changing Modes

Another convenient feature is that I never have to swap nozzles when switching between carpet and hard floors. The smart machine detects whats under it and does its thing, illuminating its 10.4-inch path with light-emitting diode (LED) lights. As I go from the hardwood floors in my kitchen to the carpet in the playroom, theres a noticeable boost of power to ensure the vacuum is picking up stuck-in debris in the fabric. And to make sure a spot is clean, I just have to look at the light indicator above the on/off button, which notifies me when Im good to move on to the next area. Basically, red means very dirty, yellow means OK and blue means clean.

This stick vacuum turns into a handheld version with a quick removal of the stick and switch to the crevice tool or pet multi-tool. (This is the only part of the system that will require two hands.) But it allows you to get into those nooks and crannies in between the couch cushions that would otherwise remain messy. Goodbye, Cheerios!

Noise

I also have to give a shoutout to how sleeping-baby-friendly this vacuum is. I decided to kickstart the holiday season early by putting up the artificial Christmas tree I got on sale in my bedroom. When the tree lost a handful of needles during setup, I couldve waited until morning to clean but thought it would be a good test to see if my one-year-old was fazed by the noise. I know this was basically playing with fire. But I took my chances, and my sleeping baby down the hall didnt move or make a noise during the 60 seconds it took to get rid of the needles (and maybe a couple of dust bunnies in the corner).

Runtime

My biggest, and maybe only, gripe with the Shark Cordless Pro is its runtime. If you were to use it as a handheld vacuum in Eco mode, you could get up to 60 minutes of usage. But I use it in its stick form in Auto mode 99% of the time, and the runtime only lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. Sure, thats still a nice amount of time to tackle multiple rooms, but one charge isnt enough if Im trying to hit every floor in my house.

The positive side is that its a quick, one-handed motion to get the unit back on its base to empty and charge, so its certainly not a deal breaker. Plus, thats the thing with even the best cordless vacuumsthe runtime isnt going to compare to a corded model.

Pros

• Automatically empties and charges when docked
• Automatically adjusts suction based on floor type
• Features a self-cleaning brushroll
• Comes with an 8-inch crevice tool and pet multi-tool
• Weighs just 14.8 pounds
• Has 240 watts of suction power
• Lighted battery percentage
• Colored light indicates when a spot is clean
• Sleek, compact in docking station
• Traps dust and allergens with True HEPA filtration
• Free shipping on Shark website

Cons

• On the pricier side
• Runtime is less than claimed 60 minutes if used as a stick vacuum

FAQ

Is the Shark Cordless Pro good for hardwood floors?

Yes, this machine was designed to go from hard floors to carpets and back again without the need to swap the nozzle or change the setting on the vacuum.

Is the Shark Cordless Pro good on carpet?

Yes, and in fact, youll notice the vacuum makes a more powerful sound as it detects its on a carpet so that it can effectively suck up fine dust and pet hair from the rug.

Is a Shark or Dyson cordless better?

Both Shark and Dyson are quality brands, but the main difference youll find is in technology and price. Dyson tends to have the latest features and all the bells and whistles, but itll come with an added cost. Shark still offers useful features, just maybe not the absolute best, but youll save when its time to check out. Personally, Ive owned a Dyson and don’t feel I’m missing anything in particular now that Im using a Shark.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Although the Shark Cordless Detect Pro Auto-Empty System with QuadClean Multi-Surface Brushroll is new, real-life users are rolling in with some reviews.

This is the most impressive vacuum I have ever owned, writes one five-star reviewer on Sharks website. From the versatility to the power to ease of use, this Shark has it all. The best feature, in my opinion, are the three different power settings. The Eco will save the battery for longer jobs while the Boost mode will do the heavy-duty cleaning. For me, however, the Automatic is the most amazing. Our home has hardwood, carpet and area rugs. Vacuuming between the three used to be tedious, but now with the Shark, it is seamless.

Alex, a verified Amazon purchaser, says, We only have carpet on the stairs in our home and wanted something that was lightweight and could handle the high traffic of our familythis did the trick. It picks up all of the dirt and hair from our dog easy, and the clean visual is a nice touch.

I know its not important, but this is the prettiest vacuum Ive ever seen, and it works beautifully!! Great suction, especially around baseboards, etc., and its cool not having to empty it all the time, shares a verified Target buyer.

Shark Cordless Vacuum Models

The Shark Cordless Pro isnt the brands most expensive cordless model, but, in my opinion, its the best bang for your buck. Its the only one with a docking station that doubles as an auto-empty system, which is now a must-have feature in my life. The most expensive model by $50, the Shark Stratos Cordless Vacuum, wins the award for strongest suction of any Shark cordless stick. So, if your goal is the best suction power, go for the Stratos. But if youre looking for convenience and easethat still has quality suctionjoin me in vacuuming with the Shark cordless pro.

Final Verdict

Something that annoys me with a vacuum cleaner is when it struggles to pick up little bits, and I must go over a spot more than once to suck up the mess. To my delight, I havent had that issue with the Shark Cordless Pro. Its powerful enough to require just one swipe across a dirty area. Then, its simple to put it back in its docking station where it empties and charges without additional work from me. Although Id love the runtime to be longer, thats just the reality of a cordless model, and it doesnt deter me from highly recommending this product to those who want a sleek, quality unit.

I dont have any pets, but I could see how this machine would be a solid pick for dog or cat owners. It has a self-cleaning brush roll with a no-hair-wrap feature to make sure you dont have a pet hair mess on your floor or in your vacuum.

Where to Buy the Shark Cordless Pro

The Shark Cordless Pro is available on the brands website for around $450. You can also snag it on Amazon, Target, Lowes and Wayfair. If youre going to invest in something for your home, it might as well be something that keeps the surface looking its best (even if you have a one-year-old contributing to the opposite).

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Shark Cordless Pro Vacuum

The Shark cordless pro makes vacuuming a one-hand operation, thanks to its easy docking system.

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How to Make a Fall Wreath

With Thanksgiving approaching, many homeowners and renters are starting to decorate their homes. One of our favorite festive decorations is a seasonal wreath, which you can make yourself for a fun craft project.

To help you create your own wreath, we spoke to Amy Barene, a florist and founder of Capital Blooms. Here, she walks us through how to make a fall wreath, from sourcing the materials to keeping the wreath looking fresh for weeks.

How to Make a Fall Wreath

Before you can start your fall crafting, you’ll need to gather all the right materials. Barene says nearly all can be found at the dollar store, Amazon, Joann Fabrics or Michael’s.

Materials

• Dried material like pampas grass, bunny tail, or dried ferns;
• Metal wreath frame;
• Floral wire or floral tape;
• Fabric or wooden craft flowers;
• Ribbon;
• Hairspray.

If you can’t find floral wire or tape, Barene says you can substitute zip ties, which are sturdy and super-easy to attach. Simply tie them to the frame as described in the instructions, squeeze them tight, then cut off the excess tails.

Instructions

Here’s how to create a full fall wreath:

• “Essentially, if you’re doing a full wreath, you create a series of small bouquets about the size of your band,” Barene says. Start by making one small bundle of dried material. The diameter of its stem bunch should approximately match the width of the metal wreath frame.
• Secure the first bundle to the wreath frame with your floral tape or wire. “If you’re using a wreath frame that has a curve to it, the bundle sits inside the curve like a cup,” Barene says.
• Repeat the first two steps to cover the entire wreath frame in bundles of dried material. Layer the bundles so the fluffy end of one bundle covers the attached stems of the previous bundle. “The closer together the bundles, the fuller the wreath will be,” Barene says.
• When you reach the last bundle, lift the head of the first bundle you attached, then secure the final bundle underneath it so its seam is covered.
• Add some fun texture to the wreath by weaving in fabric or wooden craft flowers. Attach them using the tape, wire or zip ties, ensuring the dried grasses hide the connection points. Finish it off with a ribbon bow if desired.
• Dried ornamental grasses can shed a lot, so secure your wreath with a generous douse of hairspray before handing it on a door, window or wall.

Enjoy your festive fall decor!

Article source here: How to Make a Fall Wreath

Can You Paint Granite Countertops?

Painting granite countertops is a DIY-friendly way to quickly transform your kitchen for a fraction of the cost of replacement.

While it may seem intimidating, Tim Haas from Giani, a prominent brand in the countertop refinishing industry, says homeowners can rest assured it’s a simple DIY process. “Our goal is to make this product easy to use, even for the beginner,” he says.

If you’re considering painting your granite countertops, read on to learn if this is the right project for you. You’ll also find step-by-step instructions and the alternatives to painting.

Is Painting Granite Countertops a Good Idea?

It depends. Your unique circumstances and preferences will determine if this is a good fit. These include your budget parameters, personal style and how long you plan to stay in your home.

Some pros and cons to consider include:

Pros

• Cost-effective: DIY kits cost around $200 compared to granite countertop replacement, which can cost thousands.
• DIY-friendly: Kits are widely available and don’t require advanced skills or tools.
• Fast: This project can be completed in a weekend. “You start on Friday night, you’re done by Sunday,” Haas says.
• Convenient: Unlike replacement, painting keeps your current countertops in place and only out of service for a few days.
• Environmentally-friendly: Painting granite countertops extends their use and keeps them out of the landfill.
• Customizable: Paint kits come in lots of colors and finishes to achieve your desired look.

Cons

• Lower resale value: Potential buyers may balk at buying a home with painted countertops.
• Durability issues: High-use painted countertops can chip and scratch so they may require touch-ups.
• Low heat-resistance: You can’t set hot pans directly on painted countertops.
• Shiny finish: DIY kits use a final clear coat with a glossy finish. If you don’t like this look, factor it into your decision.
• Textured finish: Using a roller to apply the paint and epoxy can leave a textured finish.

What Kind of Paint Do You Use on Granite?

For best results, use a paint kit manufactured for use on granite countertops.

Most kits available to homeowners provide a specially formulated water-based acrylic paint and topcoat system to create a marble, granite or quartz look. The durability, performance and final appearance of these products would be difficult to duplicate with typical acrylic paints.

Several manufacturers make kits marketed to homeowners. Popular brands include Giani‘s line of countertop kits, Rust-Oleum’s Marble Countertop Coating, and Daich Coatings’ SpreadStone and LuxRock lines.

How To Paint Granite

Which kit you use will determine the exact steps, but each follows a similar progression.

Plan

Draw a diagram of your countertops and plan out where you want to place any veining or texture details. Haas recommends doing some online research. “Find examples of counters you like online and mimic the veining or texture for your own kitchen,” he says.

Clean

Haas recommends using xylene or lacquer thinner as a first step to removing the stain-repelling sealer found on granite countertops. “You need an aggressive solvent to take out any remaining sealant resin that might be on the surface,” he says. “Use a rag, and wipe it down one time.”

Wear gloves and eye protection when using these solvents, and provide adequate ventilation.

Next, wipe down the countertops with rubbing alcohol, then again with an abrasive scouring pad, like Brillo makes. “It’s vital to do all this,” Haas says, “You need to make double sure the surface is clean.” Wipe down a final time with a lint-free cloth to remove any remaining dust or debris.

Prime

Use painter’s tape to mask off sinks, faucets, appliances, backsplashes and walls. Apply the provided primer or base coat with a brush and roller. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended dry time before proceeding.

Detail paint

This step can vary widely depending on the product used and the desired look.

To achieve a marble look with Giani or Rust-Oleum kits, applying a mineral paint over a white base coating mimics the gray veining found in real marble. “We provide veining materials made of crushed stone and resin in different proportions,” Haas says.

The paint is applied with an artist brush, then sprayed with water to diffuse the pigment. A clean brush is then used to spread the paint a bit for a wavy, natural look.

If creating a speckled granite appearance, often two colors of paint are applied with a textured sponge over a base coat to emulate the color depth of real stone.

If using a Daich kit, this step involves applying two coats of a rock paint that contains pieces of small stones. This is rolled and brushed onto the surface and allowed to dry before sanding to a smooth finish.

Seal

The topcoat sealer is the key to a successful granite painting project, because it protects the surface and provides long-term durability.

Rust-Oleum has a one-coat acrylic sealer. Giani uses a two-part self-leveling epoxy that, according to Haas, “has a more robust chemistry than the acrylic-based sealers.”

The Daich kits requires two coats of topcoat sealer. Topcoats are applied with a brush and a roller. Giani is self-leveling, but Daich and Rust-Oleum can leave a lightly pebbled texture.

Alternatives To Painting Granite

If painting granite is not for you, consider honing it instead to change the appearance.

Honing involves sanding your countertops to remove a high shine finish for a toned-down matte look. Use an orbital sander with increasing-grit sandpaper to polish off the shiny finish. Begin with 100-grit and work up to 1,000-grit.

For a less permanent change, try contact papers made for countertops. They’re durable and come in various colors and textures, like marble or black slate. These are easily applied and provide a fast and inexpensive way to update your granite countertops.

If you change your mind, removal is also simple. Use a hair dryer over the surface to warm the adhesive, then slowly peel back to remove. Any residual adhesive can be removed with Goof Off or Goo Gone.

About the Expert

Tim Haas has been with Giani paint products since its inception in 2009. The head of the original product development team, he’s now the head of business development for the company and proud to bring a quality product to homeowners.

Article source here: Can You Paint Granite Countertops?