By Scott Nyerges on August 28, 2010 in
It's time to dip into the ConsumerSearch mailbag again and answer some reader email. Whether it's a question, a comment (or even a complaint), we love to hear from users, and we love helping them find solutions to their problems. Read on for a sampling of the latest notes from our readers.
Dear ConsumerSearch: I recently became aware of the fact that certain companies (that I pay bills to) use the information on my paper check to initiate an electronic withdrawal rather than depositing the check. I find this practice objectionable for the following reasons: 1. It is done without my knowledge or approval, 2. It does not provide me with a canceled check (image on-line), 3. It removes money from my checking account faster than I expected (because I was not aware of the practice) and could possibly cause other checks to bounce due to insufficient funds... Can you advise who I could complain to (other than each individual company)? — Harold
Dear Harold: Each company has different policies for how they handle bill payments, either by paper check or automatic withdrawal. For more information, I would suggest contacting Justin Pritchard, About.com's guide to banking. He explains how automatic bill payment works in this article. His site also has a banking forum, where users such as yourself can post questions to other readers. Justin himself can be reached at: banking.guide@about.com (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)
Dear ConsumerSearch: Can you kindly give me an idea of what type of router I should purchase (N vs...)? My primary computer is the HP w19B with a Vista OS. I purchased an ASUS Eee PC with the Intel Atom OS. — Dave
Dear Dave: As it happens, ConsumerSearch offers a buyer's guide to wireless routers that will probably answer your questions. Our report also recommends several wireless router models and offers links to additional information.
Dear ConsumerSearch: I recently bought a Mr. Coffee 12-cup maker and the carafe is defective. Every time we pour coffee it does not seem to have a correct drip spout as it has coffee all over the counter. Every time I pour I must have a paper towel to wipe up... I would just like a new carafe pot that pours okay. — Marilyn
Dear Marilyn: It's always frustrating when a product that you purchase fails to live up to your expectations. Like other manufacturers, Mr. Coffee sells replacement carafes that are widely available. You can find them at Amazon.com, among other retailers. Since you indicated that this is a recent purchase, however, you might first want to speak to someone from Mr. Coffee's customer service division to see how they can help.
Dear ConsumerSearch: Either stop stop shilling for Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams or just devote a site to their companies. I do not disagree that both of those companies make good products. However, I would put Behr's paints (especially the Premium Plus w/ primer) up against either of those brands anyway of the week... Behr's/Valspar are both conveniently available and comparably priced for what most consumers want: durability and longevity. — Gerald
Dear Gerald: Our reviews are based on a consensus of professional reviews and owner opinion, and as such Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore paints are recommended most often as best interior paint and best exterior paint. However, you'll be pleased to know that Behr Premium Plus exterior paint is named the best budget pick in our Best Reviewed section.
Dear ConsumerSearch: You've reviewed shavers, but some of us need a review of trimmers. Thanks. — Amarpal
Dear Amarpal: Your query is well timed. We published a blog post on beard trimmers just a few weeks ago.