Ask our experts

Can you use compact fluorescent lightbulbs in three-way table and floor lamps?

Barbara Topping
Santa Paula, CA

Yes. You can use a regular CFL in a three-way switch, though it will offer only one brightness level. (Most switches turn the light on in the second position.) To get more out of the fixture, buy a CFL designed for three-way use. It will provide three lighting levels, and the switch will work in all positions. Three-way CFLs tend to cost more, and they're larger, so make sure the bulb will fit in your lamp.

I have seen fire warnings about the buildup of a coating on the lint-filter screen from dryer sheets. How do you get rid of this waxy buildup?

H.C. Pierce
Dana Point, CA

If the user's manual doesn't otherwise tell you, periodically wipe down the lint filter with a cloth moistened with rubbing alcohol. Allow the filter to dry thoroughly before turning the dryer on; alcohol is flammable.

Why do most of your tested TVs get bad ratings for audio? If I plan to pipe cable audio from the TV to a stereo system, would the brand of TV make a difference?

Donald Cameron
Sanford, NC

Today's thin TVs allow less space for speakers, and audio suffers. With your proposed setup, you can save money by picking a TV with an excellent picture-quality Rating without worrying about its audio score because it won't matter anyway.

Is it true that it's important to save your records of expenses to improve, maintain, or repair your property because they offset federal capital gains taxes when you sell?

John E. Hendrickson
Oak Hill, VA

When you sell your primary residence, you can exclude up to $250,000 of capital gains from taxes ($500,000 for married couples filing jointly), as long as you owned the house and lived in it for at least two of the five years prior to the sale. The gain is determined by taking the selling price and subtracting your adjusted-cost basis—the amount you paid for it plus what you paid for improvements that add to the value of your home, prolong its useful life, or adapt it to new uses. You'll need documentation to support the adjusted-cost basis. Repairs and maintenance expenses should not be included. See Internal Revenue Service Publication 523 for more information.

What kind of gas do you use in your auto tests?

Peter Schreiner
Atlanta

We use E10 (10 percent ethanol); it's what many drivers use and is the only type readily available near our Auto Test center in Connecticut. When we've tested E85 (85 percent ethanol), we've seen about a 30 percent drop in fuel economy compared with E10.

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