Fall back! Daylight-saving time ends November 2

Throughout most of the United States, daylight-saving time (DST) will end at 2 a.m. (your local time) on Sunday, November. 2. If you're suffering from post-Halloween overindulgence, you might welcome the extra hour of sleep you'll get after turning back the clock on Saturday night/Sunday morning. (Find out when DST will start and end in 2009 and beyond.)

In this previous entry on daylight-saving time, you'll find a list of smart moves that can enhance safety around your house and save you some money. "Is Daylight-Saving Time Costing Us Money?" provides more details on this seasonal time shift.

Essential information: If you're having trouble getting a good night's sleep, read "How Did You Sleep Last Night?" This feature offers expert advice, details on sound machines designed to enhance sleep, an interactive quiz, and much more.

Comments

[Cleve Hillman]

The last three things I have tried to lookup were not found. The last being information on water softners (our old one died).

[Jerry Borsh]

I just discovered that [like Mr.Hillman's] our water softner has died. As,when looking to make an informed choice on a new oil furnace,Consumer Reports was consulted,no success.

[Jamison James]

3rd one to the list. For a site I've paid for that deals with reviews, there certainly is a lot of hit or miss.

[Paul Collins]

no information on water softners..Culligan, Rainsoft, Ionics, Kenmore, Home Depot or Lowes brands. I, as many others have, consulted consumer reports with no success in this matter.

please advise.

[Amy]

Nothing on this site regarding water softeners...very disappointing.

[Richard Fogg San Diego]

I agree looking into water softners and can not find any information on them or othe whole house filtrations systems. Culligan claims theirs is a Consumer Digest Best Buy....but no coverage here....??

[James Deike]

I too have on several occasions looked tp Consumer Reports for help in purchasing a new water softner but without success. When dong a general inquiry on the internet, one finds products that are saltless and make use of electricity or magnets to very expensive models that may or may not provide better service than the reqular models. Without an independent evaluator, how does one decide?

[Dave Gulick]

I also turned to consumer reports today looking for information on water softners. The fact that consumer reports does not make available any information on a major appliance that, I bet, is in a majority of homes or should be for savings on store purchased softner items such as soap, and such is not a good sign. And as I read through the blog I wondered where CR replies to blog questions? I guess the blog is just a place to vent our frustrations, makes you wonder if CR even looks at it.

[Jeff]

Water Softners are a common item available from many manufacturers -- Consumer Reports should conduct a study and publish results. Very disappointing that they have not done so.

[Jim]

Another vote for water softner information. I'm surprised not to any articles on the subject here.

[Dan]

Add me to the list.....this is not some obscure item. Water softners are everywhere. CR, what's the deal?

[David Schmidt]

Looking to buy or rent water softner. Just joined this morning. Great for looking for cars. Not so hot looking for water softners. Didn't know that water softners were not on your list. To bad. Hope I did't join for nothing.

[Rachel]

Disappointed that there is no rating for water softners.
Would like some help selecting one.

[Kris McNair]

This is very disappointing that CR has no Info on Water Softners. I recently moved in to a new home and need to purchase one. We invested $5,000.00 over 8 years ago in one for our old home, And I feel as if we were ripped off. So this time I wanted to do some research before we purchase one. So where can I go to get the info I need?

[Ben]

Yet another item I have searched for after paying for the subscription that Consumer Reports doesn't have any reviews on. When do you think this could happen? There appears to be an intrest and as previously stated they are a fairly common household appliance.

[Trisha Caetano]

Add my name to those who are seeking information on water softners and finding none. Frustrating that there is no way to research since, as with others, our water softner has just broken again and we are now looking for another brand.

[Thomas]

Add another one to the list. There is such a wide range of water softeners out there, it would be great to know the difference.

[E.T.]

Just wanted to pile on here. I am looking for reliabe independent researh on water softeners. Don't want to buy any snake oil ointments!

[Ivan]

I to would like info on water softners

[steven]

Paid for info that you do not offer because I wasn't able to check for the item before hand. NO info. on complete home filtration systems larger than a paper cartrige filter. Wouldn't need your service if I only
going to pay $30. too $80. for cartrige filter. How about the larger units, Culligan an the other large units you pay $2000. for?

[Karen Oakley]

Stacking one more on the pile. For months I have also tried to do research on water hardness and have found very little reliable resources since every site that you find guides you to a specific alternative. However, I have found that some research suggest that there are more eco friendly alternatives and I would like to know where those stand in relation to softners and conditioners using chemicals. This is a very large investment and in the past I have been able to count on the reliable research by CR to guide my decisions however, this is very disappointing to know that it does not yet exist after several request from loyal subscribers in need.

[Bruce]

I too have just bought a new home and needing relaible information on the best whole home water filtration system. I do not want to get ripped off, as these systems are expensive. Please advise as to where i can get reliable information or when CR will be conducting this study?

[Ted]

I've been considering a water softner for the past few years. I normally consult Consumer Reports for unbiased advice, but it appears you haven't done a study on water softners. Please do some research into water softners and traditional water softner alternatives; I think it would be helpful to many of your subscribers.

[ED ROSEBOROUGH]

Add another unsatisfied customer to the list who need information on in-home water softeners. It is hard to believe that CR has no information on this subject. Water softener reports are a must for your readers as they are in a majority of homes.

[Catherina O'Neil]

I, too, need info on water softeners. Not only was I directed to this page, but I just renewed my annual subscription. I may have to reverse my transaction. Can someone from Consumer Reports contact me?

[doug marshall]

I too looking at water treatment what a let down

[John Rosa]

I am also disappointed that you have seen fit to avoid researching and comparing water softening systems. There are several different types and more brands. What is your reason for avoiding this topic?

[Marcia]

Add me to the list of members wondering why CR has no information on water softeners. These are pricey appliances worthy of thorough analysis of their cost, effectiveness and reliability.

[Faber Grable]

It is hard to believe that a product as widely used as a water softner has not had any independent tests which compare the different types. I could not find one

[Denise Jurgens]

I cannot believe that Consumer Reports does not review water softeners. While it will be too late for us to use, this is an extrememly important piece of equipment that exists in many homes. Can you please schedule a review in the immediate future?

[EDWIN GOLDBERG]

I too want to purchase a water softener, as well as a reverse osmosis system. We do not use a great deal of drinking water, but I would like some purified water for cooking. We live in Nevada, and I know that our water is not good enough to drink. As far as a water softener goes, I need someplace to start. Is there a difference in how they work, or the cost for operating one? PLEASE give us some ratings on these items.

[Mel]

CR, it would be great indeed if you can conduct a review on these water softener systems especially the ones they are touting as electronic no salt water softener such as the HardnessMaster. I would very much appreciate it.

Many thanks
Mel

[Keith]

Add one more person looking for objective information on whole-house water treatment and water softeners. For such a common household item, you'd expect it to be covered by Consumer Reports.

[Mike Simpson]

Add me to the list of people who are ticket off about no reviews on water softners. Now I wished I had only signed up for a month.

[Karen]

Like many others, I logged on to research water softeners and, hopefully, other whole house and undersink water filtration systems. Unfortunately, I was also disappointed. There are a lot of fantastic claims out there, leading to confusion, frustration, and almost certainly, wasted money. Many households have water softeners and we need more unbiased information. Help! CR, please test and produce a review of water softening equipment.

[David]

I need to install a water softner system and find it disheartning that CR is silent on the products. Guess if you don't want to buy a car, computer or camera that they aren't much help! Very disappointing. I can see that I am not alone here as there are any number of other posts. CR - you are missing the boat here.

[Ralph Freeman]

I also came to consumerreports.org expecting info on common appliances like water softeners. No luck. I will see how the rest of the year goes but CR is starting in a hole. Wonder if the looked at the cost of getting a new customer compared to retaining an old one. Last time I checked it was about 3 to 1.

[Bob Phelps]

I too am looking to buy a water softner. My present one is giving out-I've owned house for 14 years and unit was not new them.

Disappointed on lack of info on such a major appilance. Cost seem to run from $500 up to $2000. All brands claim to be best, but no real evaluations. Cant even tell which of three or four methods are better. Need help here. Have been subscriber for a long time.

[Monica]

It appears the last time CR rated water softeners was in 1990, so those ratings do not appear on the website. I sent an email to CR today asking if/when they intend to rate watersofteners again. Let's see if I get a response!

[David Stickler]

I will add my name to the list of those looking for information regarding water softeners. I am in need of a new unit and would like an expert opinion.

[Roman Dominguez]

I am a former subsciber to consumer Reports.I was hoping I could find information on a water softner. Judging from the comments it looks like CR does't consider water softners important enough
for testing.

[P.D. Peterson]

I would also like info on water softners??? Can't believe consumer report has not researched this. Get going!

[Dee Helmrick]

I also am looking for comparisons and ratings on water softeners in order to make a purchasing decision. Please help.

[Jeff]

I too am looking to research water softeners, very disappointing.

[Chris P.]

I was hoping Consumer Reports would have some information on waters softeners because I don't know the first thing about them...unfortunately no information was available. For such a common household device, it's sad there's not even one article giving any advice or guidance on them.

[Craig Baron]

I too have been waiting for CR to do research on water softeners. What's taking you so long? These things have been around for many years. What I want to know is which ones do the best job by using the least amount of salt and water because this is something that could be easily defined by CR.

[Ron]

I also subscribed for the soul purpose of researching water softeners.Since this is the only item I have searched with no results my payment should be returned.

[lisa]

Water softeners. Have been waiting for several years for Consumer Reports to do a study. How many need to show an interest before this subject is taken on?? Would like to know about reliability/earth friendliness and health impact. A pretty large investment..Please HELP!

[Joe Friedl]

I'll throw my hat into the "Concsumer Reports needs to evaluate water softeners & water purifier" ring. I am interested in the General Ionics whole house unit. It would be nice to have an independent evaluation.

[Fran Putvin]

I was disappointed along with many others that someting as basic and important as water systems-ie water softeners, whole house filters, iron filters etc. are not nor ever have been covered by Consumer Reports. Please cut back on the auto reports and give more home health reports

[ROD]

PLEASE!!!!!!!

[Wayne]

Is CR reading all this? any words from CR?

[David Stites]

I have been trying to find info and research on whole house water softners. I realize many are out there , quite expensive. Help us to not waste our money on junk.

[James Shaver]

Looks like quite a few individuals like myself have looked for information on water softeners to no avail. Count yet another vote towards that need here. I bought a GE product, Model Number GNSH45E 03, from Costco for just under $600 so hopefully I won't regret it.

[teresa nogle]

I was very disappointed to find our that you do not have any information on Water softners. It appears that there have been numerous requests for this info. Any plans in the works to research this subject? Your subscribers are asking. Are you responding?

[vickie smith]

I need information on water softners, I can't believe so many people have requested information and have not gotten a response.

[Richard Bruyn]

Yet another complaint/request from the throngs! More and more it seems that my yearly subscription is for naught. CR if you ever do get to that water softner report, please include info regarding Chloramine and whether it has adverse affects on the water softner internal plastic parts and resin, which is what the water softner salesman told me. Guess I'll just keep searching elsewhere.

[Chris Prytko]

I am also looking for reviews of whole house water softners.

[David]

Looking for water softener reviews as well, thanks for listening CR.

[Frank Reid]

I was also hoping to find information and ratings on household water softeners. These appliances are a necessity for homes in many parts of the country. I am disappointed that consumer reports has not tested and rated any of these systems, in order to provide consumers with the information to make informed decisions.

[Barbie Girard]

I just subscribed today. Specifically to get information on salt water softeners, washers and dryers. Ditto ditto ditto on all comments made on the lack of info on salt water softeners. I also wasn't able to get information on gas dryers. I'm 1 for 3 with my first 30 minutes. I do hope it gets better. Thank you.

p.s. Thanks for letting me know about Costco. I had forgotten about them.

[Ken]

I will probably discontinue subscription to Consumer Reports since I was hoping for info on a water softner and was disappointed.

[LaWanda]

I logged on today to search for water softner information or whole house water filter system.

[Linda Predmore]

Add me to the list of customer's who would like info on water softners. Some are combination water softners/water filters & I'd love some unbiased info on whether that is a good option to consider. Thanks for all the information you provide year after year.

[Sheldon Parker]

All that I can do is echo previous comments about being amazed that CR has no rating on water softeners.
I want to add a humidifier to my forced air heating system and it is critical to remove minerals for a humidifier. This is a health issue that CR should address.

[Julia Belle]

CR..CR..What's goin' on? I thought I had a new idea for a product report but it looks like you've been given the same idea over and over and over and...well you SHOULD have gotten it by NOW. Hope that you're in the back room finishing up the report on water softeners. You've got a long line going here!!

[Vince]

I am feeling I wasted my money subscribing to CR. Why is there no information on home water filtration and softening. Obviously there is plenty of interest and need.

[Ann]

I would never cancel my subscription just because CR doesn't cover water softners--but I do think they should heed the number of comments here (and add me too) and consider doing a review as softners are becoming more and more necessary in many homes.

[Irwin Miller (Miller Assoc.)]

Amazed that there is no listing in 2009 Buyers Guide for WATER FILTERS!!! Cannot find my Oct. '08 issue but is there any report on filters is past few years?

[steve sterman]

adding one more voice to the need for this subject to be explored, we are considering a 3000.00 rainsoft sytem but are hesitant without some cr import

[Dennis]

Add me to the growing list. What is even more disappointing is the lack of response. I have seen prices on water softeners from $600 to over $3,800. Everybody is claiming to be the best. This is why I suguys. To get information on major purchases. Guess if I want to buy a coffee pot you can help!

[Marcy]

Yes, please, please provide information on water softners. There are municipalities that are not allowing the "traditional" salt based water softeners, and they point to extensive lists of alternatives that vary widely in price, using many different technologies, with conflicting information about impacts on health.
Please help.

[Greg Lehrkamp]

Why is there no information on water softners? At least information in regard to what makes one softner better then another. Looking at the list of previous comments, I think this should be added.

[Murray]

Well I guess my question is answered here. I was looking for your ratings on water softeners but it seems you don't have any. There does however, seem to be a demand for your ratings of them.

[Sue Nolan]

I joined CR to get educated on water softeners before I buy and am disappointed that you have no info. Can you refund my subscription?

[Teresa Svedman]

Yip, looking for water softener info and very disappointed to see that CR has not tackled this issue. The one we looked at was 5300.00. Holy Cow! We were shocked.

[Sherry]

Add me to the list of joining to find info on water softners to no avail. I thought surely this was the place to go since most reviews you read on them are on web sites selling the product and I don't think they will put any that are not satisfied since that would not sell their product. Thinking highly of cancelling subscription as are others posting before me.

[Donna]

I just had my water heater flushed to have it confirmed that my "whole house water softner" has failed and is damaging the one year old water heater..... CR help on finding a new softner or filtration system (what is the difference any ways?) would be great

[Caryn Sager]

WOW...I guess I'm not the only one who was greeted with amazement that there is no info on water softener systems...
What a disappointment CR...lets get on the ball. I was reading some of your other reviews for hot water heaters, dishwashers, etc. and they all suggest water softeners for hard water, but no reviews...thanks for the help. NOT!

[G]

Wow!....And I thought I was the only one who wanted water softener info from CR.

[Mel]

Add me to the list of one looking to CR for help on water softners.

[phillip long]

like many others i need rating and info on water softeners/filters help

[lmccormick]

Add me to the list! Very disappointed to see NO reviews on water softeners. What gives?

[Lisa Hopper]

Have checked back to CR several times hoping to find reviews on various types of water softeners. I had been thinking that perhaps I was somehow unable to access the information, but in looking at the list of postings apparently there are no reviews! I am specifically interested in whether these salt-less water softeners actually work and what type of damage the brine backwash from regular water softeners do to septic systems.

Please do a review...We are getting tired of running CLR through the hot water heater once a month!

Thanks so much...and keep up the good work! My husband and I value your reviews.

[Richard]

Ditto on needing help on water softener info! It would be nice if you would inform your subscribers whether you are ever going to look into the water softener question. It would help your subscriber relations and perhaps save a lot of folk's time looking to CR for answers

[Kellie Peters]

I want a review on water softener too!!!!! Come on CR get on this! I'd join again to view that. HUGE $ purchase...you need to get these reviewed. I have Technetic that is NOT working after 9 years. Installer says they are no longer made (and no replacements for crappy plastic parts that break) (Kinetic is replacing Technetic now I think). Can't believe how much these things cost and you can only hope to get 10 years out of them. I've scoured the internet for types, costs, comparisons, etc.. HELP!

[Rich Weber]

Guess what? Add me to this ever growing list as well. Also providing average installation fees/total cost info would help prevent us from getting ripped off. Let's do this!

[Carol]

I to am disappointed in not finding information on water softners in CR. It would make it a lot easier if we have that kind of information. I have found CR very informative in other stuff but it failed in this one.

[Matt]

Ditto. If anyone from Consumer Reports actually reads these comments, it would be nice to post some sort of response one way or the other.

[Warren White]

As an in-home salesman for the Rainsoft system, let me share my thoughts with you here. We test tap water every day. Without exception, people are shocked about their tap water. After we're done, 100% of the time people are rightfully concerned about water quality. They should be. No tricks, no sleight-of-hand. There is truly a major problem with water. I won't say more.

This job has turned me into a person very, very concerned about our environment - and I used to be very cold on that issue to say the least. I was simply ignorant.

My point is this. Consumer Reports has genuine authority - deservedly so. I believe they have not issued a water report for 18 years because its instantly front page news. It's too politically sensitive even for them.

Let me say this another way - the local tester for our city drinks bottled water - "distilled" or "purified" - not "spring" or "drinking". We've installed many systems for these water professionals in their homes. Do your homework and you will see what's going on.

There are many issues with tap water - drinking, cooking, bathing, washing etc., but if you're still drinking tap water get the EPA, other fed standards, acceptable chlorine levels etc. Then get your local reports from the water company. That's at least a start. If you happen to have "good water" - rare - don't rest there. Keep in mind their are 6,000 hazardous chemicals that can get into the supply. There are standards for.........6 of them. Truth is - only people at the very top have the national picture and they aren't saying much. We need Consumer Reports to do it in spite of the consequences.

[stacey ellis]

Nothing on Water Softners....seriously? What a waste of time.

[Michael Abele]

I subscribed today to get CR information on whole house water filters. The little information for whole house filters on this site is virtually worthless. Since when is a sediment filter an adequate filter for a whole house? With more and more municipalities changing from chlorine to chloramines to disinfect their water supply, consumers need to know what, if anything, they can do to get rid of this dangerous chemical in their water. And since taking a shower exposes us to more chlorine/chloramines than actually drinking the water, this is an important health issue.

[chris watts]

our water softener is not working and it will cost over $100 to have someone just come out to look at it. we decided to research water softeners and see if it would be better to buy a new one instead of fixing the old. first place i thought to look was cr. i was shocked they water softeners have not been tested. why?

[Kevin Minor]

Add me to the list. I just paid $5.95 to find out about water softeners. I would like a refund.

I scheduled appointments to see Aqua Pure and Culligan. Any others worth looking at?

[dennis]

looking for help here, found NONE

[Rob]

I'm disappointed not to find a review of water conditioners. This seems to be an item CR would jump all over to test.

[Terry Moser]

Okay, Consumer Reports. How about a response to all of the requests for an evaluation of Whole House Water Softeners? At the very least, I expect you to acknowledge that you've heard all of the requests and will be responding to your members. Here's another member requesting a test report.

[c.kendall]

I to was looking for information on water softners. Cant find anything here on consumerreports.org?
Disappointing to say the least,especially since i pay for this.

[Phil]

I hope they see the number of posts here and get a test started soon.

[Phul]

I am also disappointed in the absense of information on water softener systems. I was particularly interested in a comparison of system methodologies: chemical vs magnetic. How about it CR? Give us the info!