Your questions answered
QMy washing machine jiggles about a lot when it spins, is there any way I can stop the noise without having to buy a new one? G Jennings, Dover Yours says Steady Spin stabiliser pads slip easily between your machine and counter top (check for nails or screws first) to help cut out noise and vibration.
■ £14.95 from www. steadyspin.co.uk or send to a cheque payable to Steady Spin Ltd, 12 Marina View, Buckden, St Neots PE19 5QS
QThe front garden of my new house seems to attract leaves from all the trees on the estate. Can you recommend a leaf blower that will make the job of clearing them a bit easier? F Mackenzie, Lancs
Yours says The cordless G-Tech leaf blower is lightweight and relatively quiet with a 20-mins run time on full power. We tested this thoroughly and found it cleared even sludgy leaves. Rrp £285.99, if you already have a G-Tech lawnmower then you have the battery and charger and can buy just the body for £129.99.
■ Call 01905 345891, visit www.gtech.co.uk
QMy mother is struggling to pull herself out of the bath but doesn’t want the expense of installing a sit-bath. Is there an alternative? H Middleton, Wilts
Yours says The AquaJoy Value Bath Lift is easy to install, with a maximum user weight of 22st. It gently lowers down to a height of 6cm from the floor of the bath and features a reclining back rest. Prices start from £159.95 (with VAT relief). ■ Visit www.coopmobility.co.uk or call 0800 622 6001
QHow do I check I’m getting the broadband I pay for and what do I need to ask potential providers?
Y Davey, by email Yours says With Ofcom’s new regulations you can compare average and minimum internet connection speeds experienced by other households in similar areas yourself, before choosing a provider.
■ Gigaclear.com recommends you take the online speed test from Which? – www.broadbandtest.which.co.uk – and to ask the following questions:
What type of fibre connection do I have/ can I get? Part or full-fibre determines level of connectivity available. If part-fibre is not up to the job, check to see if full-fibre is available in your area.
What kind of speeds are best? Tell your provider what you use the internet for. Smart devices, streaming, gaming and video calls will define what broadband you need. Check speeds you can expect at peak times and compare the difference between minimum and advertised speed.
QI now live in an area with very clear night skies. How can I learn more about constellations?
Melvin J, Scotland Yours says Available in both Android and Apple devices, the SkyView Free app find stars and constellations. Using your phone’s camera, you can scan across the sky, locate planets in
our solar system, discover distant galaxies and more!