I’m calling to order this meeting of the readers with various dishwasher issues, to let you know of a recent Consumer Reports study of detergents.

In the latest testing, the results of which appear in the July 2012 issue, the brands Finish Powerball Tabs (at 21 cents per load) and Cascade Complete All-in-1 ActionPacs (at 29 cents per load) earned the highest marks in CR’s ratings. (Laws in several states removed phosphates from dishwasher detergents a few years ago, which resulted in some cleaning challenges.)

In its latest tests, Consumer Reports added hard-water performance.

The magazine began this test last year in response to readers’ comments about a white film or cloudy buildup on dishware.

Consumer Reports found several products that allowed glassware to be covered in varying degrees with a frosty-white film.

Whatever the detergent, consumers can get cleaner dishes by adding a rinse agent, making sure the water is a hot 120 degrees, and facing dirty dishes toward water jets.

QUESTION: I am getting water in my basement, and I have no idea why. We started removing the carpeting and the paneling to try to determine where it is coming from. My gutters and down spouts seem to be doing their job correctly.Is there any advice you can give me, or send me a link to a previous article?ANSWER: I’ve rummaged around in the files to see what Joe Ponessa, the emeritus professor at Rutgers, advised a few years back. I provided the link then, and I’ll do it again: http://tinyurl.com/7atgbpc.Good luck.—It’s moving season. Atlas Van Lines offers a few tips to protect yourself from the baddies, or from yourself:• Summer months are the most popular time to relocate. The earlier you can schedule your move, the better. If you’re flexible, try to move outside the period of May through August.• Research ratings and history. A company’s history often affects its credibility, so be sure to dig deep into its past to validate it as a top choice.• Familiarize yourself with consumer rights. ProtectYourMove.gov is a helpful resource to review.• Track inventory. Before you move, complete the statement of customer responsibilities and inventory forms provided by your hired moving company.• Review and approve estimates. Online, phone, and in-home estimates are available. Review them closely for any red flags, small print or extra charges before signing off.• Make sure you discuss with your moving company how your shipment will arrive. If your mover doesn’t hold high enough standards for handling your property, find a company that does.• Be sure to know how to identify the movers when they arrive at your home to eliminate the chance of fraud.

E-mail Alan J. Heavens at aheavensphillynews.com or write him at The Inquirer, Box 8263, Philadelphia, PA 19101. Volume prohibits individual replies.