Dear Mary: I'm looking at new computers. When is the best time of year to buy one? — Stella

Dear Stella: There is something to be said for seasonal pricing of some consumer goods. For example, you will probably get the best deals on outdoor grills and lawn mowers in July and August, as retailers are gearing up for Christmas and need to clear space. Our friends at Consumer Reports tell us that April is the best month to buy computers, but I'm not completely on board with that theory because it is way too general.

The best time to buy a new computer is when you really need one. If your current machine is broken, if you need one that performs better, if you're buying one for a gift, etc., there's really no reason to delay the purchase. Research your options, make a decision, and then shop around.

If you're planning to buy an Apple product, by all means wait for the next big product announcement if you can hold out. At that time, you might be able to get a deal on an older model.

If you're looking at a PC, you might see some discounts late summer and into fall, but I wouldn't expect any major improvements in PC technology that would warrant a big price drop anytime soon. I hope this helps.

Dear Mary: Thank you so much for your column. I really enjoy it, and I learn a lot. In response to a recent column about TracFone, I wanted to let you know that I have used TracFone for many years, and it has been a good product for me. The best deal I can find for one-year cards is on the HSN website. There you can usually find the TracFone phone you want bundled with a one-year card with minutes, a phone cover and a car charger, all for the price of a one-year card. You basically get a free phone and accessories for the price of a one-year card. I have done this three times, and it has worked out great. Thank you. — Mike

Dear Mike: That's great information. You taught me something new. I wasn't aware that HSN (formerly the Home Shopping Network) offered TracFone products and services. Lots of your fellow EC readers are going to be grateful once they check out the bundled pricing.

Dear Mary: I hope you can help me. I burned bacon in my microwave. Oh, my gosh, does it smell awful! I have a bottle of Nok-Out, but I'm not sure how to use it. I hope you can give me some advice. — Carol

Dear Carol: I sure can. Smoke is a tough problem whether you're dealing with a microwave, car or other enclosed space. Thankfully, in most cases, smoke is not too tough for Nok-Out.

You have to consider that once something starts smoking in a microwave, the smoke is circulated through the entire appliance. When you apply the Nok-Out (at full strength), you must do the same — get the Nok-Out in every nook and cranny.

Start by unplugging the appliance. Next, spray it inside and out, top to bottom, including any carousel, rack, filter, etc. Make sure Nok-Out comes in contact with every part of that appliance. Nok-Out is not at all toxic or harmful, so you can confidently spray the fan blades, provided you can reach them without taking the oven apart. Do not attempt that!

Once you're certain every square millimeter has been sprayed with Nok-Out, let it dry completely. Leave the door open, and don't use the appliance for at least 24 hours. That should do it. If you still notice the odor, give it another full treatment. Good luck!

Don't forget: When ordering Nok-Out use coupon code "DPL" for 10 percent off your order. If you have any questions, you can call Ted from Nok-Out toll free at 1-866-551-1927.

Mary invites questions, comments and tips at [email protected], or c/o Everyday Cheapskate, 12340 Seal Beach Blvd., Suite B-416, Seal Beach, CA 90740. This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of www.DebtProofLiving.com, a personal finance member website and the author of "Debt-Proof Living," released in 2014. To find out more about Mary and read her past columns, please visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.