Large Kitchen Appliances

Convection and other added features help make over-the-range microwave ovens an enticing choice over space-stealing countertop models. But if you care about venting smoke and fumes, you're better off with a range hood, especially if you cook on a higher-powered stove.

Garbage disposers link the often-disparate demands of convenience and conservation by grinding up kitchen scraps and sending them down the drain to a sewage-treatment plant or septic system for decomposition. But our tests show that some grind more quickly and finely, and are better at resisting jams.

Phosphates in dishwasher detergents make them more effective but also boost algae growth in fresh water, threatening fish and other plant life. Many major manufacturers are rolling out reformulated low-phosphate dishwasher detergents as more states limit the amount of phosphates in dishwasher detergent.

Manufacturers are piling on more features, more claims, and even more doors as they compete in a tougher appliance market. But our tests show that some of the refrigerators that are best at keeping your milk cold and your frozen food frozen still cost well under $1,000.

Looking to freeze your household grocery budget? Investing in a top performing freezer can help, especially if you like to buy in bulk. Freezing seasonal fruits and vegetables is another way to save. Today's freezers use less energy than those made a decade ago and ones that carry an Energy Star label have to be even stingier.