With regard to the QF award buckets in EF, I've had mixed success & consistency using the regular and award searches, but found if I search using the specific fare buckets "X,Z,U,A" then I tend to capture all that is actually there. Only downside is that you need to run a separate open search to assess the rough chances of releasing a seat (e.g. decent availability in 'I', for J)
Cheers,
Matt.