Are Expensive Hair Straighteners Worth The Money?

The increase in usage of hair straighteners (flat irons, hair irons) has meant that we now have an ever growing selection of straighteners to choose from. However, it seems that more and more of them are becoming increasingly expensive and this article goes some way in exploring what you are getting for your money and more importantly are they worth the high price tag?

Firstly, the price range of flat irons varies quiet considerably with the cheapest one around $10 and the most expensive ones close to $200. Given such a price range it is clear that there is likely to be a significant difference in both quality and performance of these irons. The best way to establish the difference is to first look at the features of the cheapest, most expensive and one from the mid-price range to see if there are any clues to what extra features, if any, you are paying for,

The following are some typical features found on hair straighteners in varying price ranges:

Cheapest ($10-$40) - Two heat settings: Low for fine, easy-to-style hair and High for hard-to-style hair. - Goldtone plates. - Power indicator light - Ideal for smoothing and straightening curly hair. - 3/4 inch plates

Mid-range ($40-$80) - Sapphire ceramic plates are unmatched for equal heat distribution. - New Infra Red Heat technology seals in hair's moisture and luster. - Faster heat-up time than conventional coil straightening irons - Variable temperature settings (140ºF - 410ºF, 60°C - 200°C) for all hair types - 3/4 - 1.5 inch plates.

Most expensive ($80-$200+) - Scratch-resistant, durable ceramic or Tourmaline plates. - 1 - 2 inch plates - Far-infrared heat and negative ion by tourmaline renew the vitality of your hair: seals the cuticle and eliminates frizz. - Variable temperature settings

Based on my research there are a number of conclusions to draw about each of the price ranges.

The cheaper flat irons tend to have a smaller plate width, do not have ceramic or Tourmaline plates (which give much better results) and they don't have fine temperature controls i.e. they typically a number of preset temperatures for different hair types. These flat irons tended to be geared towards occasional use and for finer hair rather than for thick or curly hair. They have a shorter life, especially if used every day.

Mid-range flat irons tend to use Ceramic or Tourmaline plates, which were on average at least 1.25 inches in width. Obviously the wider the plates the quicker and easier it will be to straighten your hair. Models in this range can handle all hair types and are made by some of the better-known makers. They also have much better temperature controls which go up to as high as 200°C which is needed for really difficult curly, coarse hair.

The most expensive straighteners were also made using Ceramic plates and more of them did use Tourmaline, which gives even smoother results than ceramic. The plate width on average tends to be wider and the overall constructional quality just that little bit better. The most expensive model, $195, researched is made by one of the top makers and comes highly recommended by the hair industry. It is exceptionally well made, having seen one at my local stylists, but I also suspect just the name alone will add $10-$20 dollars on the price tag.

Overall it all comes down to how much you can afford to spend but I would strongly recommend that you save up the dollars and go for something in the $80-$130 price range. Within this range you will get all the key features you should have in a good flat iron: fine temperature control for different hair types, heats up quickly, fits well in your hand, and has a plate width of at least 1 inch. You will also get a well-made straightener, which will still work for in years to come.

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Far Infrared Energy and Far Infrared Saunas - 40 Fascinating Facts

Although more and more people are learning firsthand about the fabulous benefits of owning a far infrared sauna or heat therapy room, many others still possess very little knowledge of this important subject. The following information has been compiled to help spread the good news with the hope of placing more people on the path to greater health, relaxation and happiness.

1. Infrared light lies between the visible and microwave portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Infrared light has a range of wavelengths, just like visible light has wavelengths that range from red light to violet. Near infrared light is closest in wavelength to visible light, and far infrared light is closer to the microwave region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Far infrared waves are thermal, meaning they are felt as heat.

2. In the electromagnetic spectrum, far infrared wavelengths measure between 5.6 and 1,000 microns. One micron equals one micrometer or one millionth of a meter. Wavelengths of between 6 and 14 microns are believed to be the most beneficial to humans and other living things on Earth. The human palm emits far infrared wavelengths of between 8 and 12 microns. The energy output from far infrared saunas so closely match the human body’s radiant energy that nearly 93 percent of the sauna’s far infrared waves reach the skin.

3. Certain alternative healing practices such as palm healing, a practice with some 3,000 years of tradition behind it in China, rely on the human body’s ability to emit far infrared radiant energy.

4. Far infrared radiant heat is a form of naturally occurring energy that heats objects by direct light conversion. Direct light conversion warms only the object and does not raise the temperature of the surrounding free air.

5. A good example of far infrared heat is the light produced by the sun. This is the heat you feel penetrate your skin when you stand in the sun and miss when you walk into the shade. It has nothing to do with ultraviolet light, which can damage your skin. When people do not receive adequate amounts of far infrared heat, they often can become ill or depressed.

6. Far infrared radiant heat provides all the healthy benefits of natural sunlight without any of the dangerous effects of solar radiation.

7. The radiant heat of a far infrared sauna is efficient because it warms the sauna bather directly. The body absorbs as much as 93 percent of the heat, causing perspiration and producing a vast array of health benefits.

8. A far infrared sauna will deliver hyperthermic benefits in a much shorter time period (i.e.10 minutes) than a conventional sauna (30 to 45 minutes).

9. Unlike in traditional saunas where temperatures range from 140 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit (60 to 105 degrees Celsius), the temperatures of far infrared saunas typically range from 100 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (38 to 65 degrees Celsius).

10. The temperature inside a far infrared sauna is adjustable and comfortable. This allows a person to perspire faster and to tolerate a longer period of time inside the sauna. Typical sessions in a far infrared sauna last 30 to 45 minutes and can be repeated to maximize the benefits.

11. A far infrared sauna is usually warm within 10 or 20 minutes, whereas a conventional sauna can take more than an hour to reach optimal temperatures.

12. The lower heat range of far infrared saunas is safer for people with cardiovascular risk factors or fragile health because lower temperatures don’t dramatically elevate heart rate and blood pressure.

13. Far infrared saunas benefit all your organs of elimination, from your lungs to your liver to your kidneys to your skin.

14. Far infrared rays improve blood circulation, stimulate endorphins, lower lactic acid, kill certain bacteria and parasites, and burn calories. Proponents of hyperthermia, also known as fever therapy, maintain that using far infrared energy to therapeutically induce higher body temperatures helps fight infections and even cancer. Their argument is supported by the human body itself, which radiates infrared energy for the benefits of warmth and tissue repair.

15. Studies indicate that benefits of far infrared sauna use include: muscle relaxation; stress, tension and headache relief; reduction and removal of body toxins; increased cardiovascular strength; increased blood circulation; strengthened immune system; improved lung function, and refreshed, moisturized skin.

16. Far infrared sauna therapy has helped people with cardiovascular conditions such as congestive heart failure and angina. It enhances endothelial nitric oxide, lowering blood pressure and improving cardiovascular function.

17. Using a far infrared sauna can help strengthen the body’s immune system by stimulating increased production of white blood cells by the bone marrow and killer T-cells by the thymus.

18. Bathing in a far infrared sauna in the early stages of a cold or flu has been known to stop the disease before symptoms occur.

19. Far infrared sauna use can help promote rebuilding of injured tissue by having a positive effect on the fibroblasts, the connective tissue cells necessary for the repair of injury. It also can help increase growth of cells, DNA syntheses, and protein synthesis, all of which is necessary during tissue repair and regeneration.

20. The radiant heat of far infrared saunas has been shown to be especially beneficial to people with sports injuries, fibromyalgia, arthritis, and other chronic pain conditions.

21. Far infrared saunas have been used to treat sprains, bursitis, rheumatism, muscle spasms, neuralgia and hemorrhoids. They have also been shown to relieve acne, eczema, psoriasis and burns.

22. Far infrared saunas are now used in health facilities for a range of health problems such as menopause, ulcers, insomnia, asthma, bronchitis, ear infections, and allergies.

23. Far infrared radiation is believed to be the only antidote to excessive ultraviolet radiation.

24. When far infrared heat penetrates a bather’s body, he or she can experience a refreshed mind, relaxed mood, reduction of aches and pains, improved metabolism, and systemic regularity leading to an overall feeling of wellness.

25. Far infrared saunas are recognized by health practitioners worldwide as perhaps the most effective method of removing both chemical and heavy metal toxins from the body. Far infrared saunas are thought to be 7 times more effective at detoxifying heavy metals such as mercury, aluminum, and other environmental toxins than conventional heat or steam saunas. For many chronically ill patients as well as people who are well and wish to stay that way by reducing their toxic burden, the far infrared sauna is the detox method of choice.

26. The effects of toxin, chemical and pesticide poisoning can be greatly reduced by the far infrared sauna’s detoxification action. People who work with chemicals, as well as home gardeners who frequently use fertilizers and pesticides, are advised to use far infrared saunas on a regular basis.

27. Far infrared heat can penetrate into the skin about an inch and a half to two inches deep and can have therapeutic benefits, such as helping to dissolve fat deposits under the skin. Since toxins may be stored in the fat, the deep penetrating heat of a far infrared sauna can help eliminate them, especially toxins such as heavy metals and acidic compounds.

28. Far infrared saunas can help clear cellulite, the gel-like lumps of fat, water and debris trapped in pockets beneath the skin. European beauty specialists routinely incorporate daily far infrared sauna baths in programs to reduce cellulite.

29. Far infrared sauna use can be of significant benefit to people trying to lose weight. A 20 to 30-minute session in a far infrared sauna has been touted to burn as many calories as a six-mile run.

30. Far infrared saunas offer the same benefits as traditional dry saunas, if not more. Plus, far infrared saunas don’t rely on any type of water. You don’t have to worry about setting the sauna up on a waterproof floor or near plumbing, and you don’t have to worry about mildew.

31. Far infrared saunas are more cleansing than conventional saunas because they are designed to generate more than two to three times the amount of perspiration. A higher volume of sweat means a more thorough flushing of toxins from the body.

32. In a study performed by U.S. researchers, the sweat of people using a conventional sauna was found to be 95 to 97 percent water, while the sweat of those using a far infrared sauna was 80 to 85 percent water with the non-water portion principally cholesterol, fat-soluble toxins, toxic heavy metals, sulfuric acid, sodium, ammonia, and uric acid.

33. Unlike a traditional sauna, which requires a closed atmosphere to maintain heat levels required for therapeutic results, a far infrared sauna can be used with its door or window completely open if far infrared penetration is the only objective.

34. There are some definite advantages to using far infrared sauna thermal heaters, such as no high heat claustrophobic reaction and better air circulation. Far infrared heaters heat the body, not the air, so a bather is more comfortable and cooler. Far infrared saunas require 90 percent less electrical energy than conventional saunas, and no plumbing is required for a far infrared sauna.

35. Generally speaking, far infrared saunas are less expensive, easier to install, and require less maintenance than traditional saunas. They come in many sizes and are often quite portable, making them a great choice when limited space is available.

36. Most far infrared saunas use ceramic elements to generate gentle heat. Another option, although quite costly, is to use far infrared bulbs, which can provide warming and stimulating color therapy.

37. NASA has utilized far infrared therapy to help maintain fitness levels of astronauts in weightless environments.

38. Hemlock is a softwood ideally suited for use in far infrared saunas. Hemlock is a very strong wood that is quite able to withstand the heat of a far infrared sauna. It is also abundantly available, which means the end cost to the consumer is less than it might be for another wood type.

39. In addition to hemlock, wood choices for far infrared sauna construction include basswood, birch, oak, poplar, spruce and western red cedar. When a wood type is stated to be hypoallergenic, it means that the wood contains minimal allergens and is therefore less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Typical wood allergies, however, are caused by sawdust.

40. Respected retailers of far infrared saunas or heat therapy rooms include Amerec Sauna & Steam, EZe Products, Finnleo Sauna and Steam, Great Saunas, Helo Sauna and Steam, SaunaGen, and Seamax Enterprises Inc

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Home Kitchen Appliance

Home kitchen appliances make your domiciles technical and convenient. With cooking gas, electric chimney, dishwashers, electric kettle, fridge, food processors, toasters and coffee makers in your kitchens, are you still wondering who the real homemakers are. Remember the good old days when your mother-in-law screamed ‘if you can’t stand the heat, get out.’ Reducing your stress and domestic working hours, they, no doubt are working wonders!

Cooking three to four meals a day with special requests for cocktails and cakes can leave you in excruciating pain. Even the kitchens with modest means are boasting about these flip of a switch gadgets. So such promising brands in the market, we are all set to rock the evening for our guests. Make philter instead of soda fountain drinks for the party or that perfect cake for your daughter, put your favorite shade of lipstick on and break free of the kitchen constraints. Falling under the domotics (information technology in the domicile) umbrella, home kitchen appliances can now be networked together to even out the electricity consumption and energy distribution. A kitchen without them does not only look primitive but also a one with fundamental flaws.

Gone are the days when you would catch on fire (figuratively) whenever organizing a barbeque and people from miles would come to watch you burn. Imagine if even a single day is celebrated as kitchen appliances turn-off week, no marks for guessing that the world’s economy would be the price to be paid. Like the different speeds of the blender you can choose the pace of your life. Successful in shaping your destiny, kitchen appliances have brought with them a revolution in the world of cooking. So now you decide if you want to work hard or play smart. All right future birds, so what’s cooking tonight?

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Home Kitchen Appliance

Home kitchen appliances make your domiciles technical and convenient. With cooking gas, electric chimney, dishwashers, electric kettle, fridge, food processors, toasters and coffee makers in your kitchens, are you still wondering who the real homemakers are. Remember the good old days when your mother-in-law screamed ‘if you can’t stand the heat, get out.’ Reducing your stress and domestic working hours, they, no doubt are working wonders!

Cooking three to four meals a day with special requests for cocktails and cakes can leave you in excruciating pain. Even the kitchens with modest means are boasting about these flip of a switch gadgets. So such promising brands in the market, we are all set to rock the evening for our guests. Make philter instead of soda fountain drinks for the party or that perfect cake for your daughter, put your favorite shade of lipstick on and break free of the kitchen constraints. Falling under the domotics (information technology in the domicile) umbrella, home kitchen appliances can now be networked together to even out the electricity consumption and energy distribution. A kitchen without them does not only look primitive but also a one with fundamental flaws.

Gone are the days when you would catch on fire (figuratively) whenever organizing a barbeque and people from miles would come to watch you burn. Imagine if even a single day is celebrated as kitchen appliances turn-off week, no marks for guessing that the world’s economy would be the price to be paid. Like the different speeds of the blender you can choose the pace of your life. Successful in shaping your destiny, kitchen appliances have brought with them a revolution in the world of cooking. So now you decide if you want to work hard or play smart. All right future birds, so what’s cooking tonight?

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Small Appliance Parts

If you really think about it, it’s the small appliance parts that make your everyday life so much easier. You wake up in the morning and you use an oven toaster – those are small appliance parts working right there. In the late afternoon in the office, you pour yourself some coffee from the coffeemaker – those are small appliance parts working again.

Indeed, most of our day is spent depending on small appliance wonders, and it’s only right that we learn to use them safely and that we prolong their useful lives by taking care of them. Below are some useful tips.

Follow safety instructions. Never forget to read the manufacturer’s handbook, because it contains pertinent information about the care and use of your small appliance and its parts. Be extra careful with small kitchen appliances – not all of them can get wet. Never plunge small kitchen appliances in dishwasher water, for example, unless the handbook tells you that it’s safe. Negligence or simple actions like this can hurt you.

Be careful where you plug appliances. Make it a habit to plug your small appliances directly into wall outlets whenever you can. If you have to use extension cords, read the cord’s electrical rating first; it should be able to handle wattage that is either at least equal to or more than your small appliance’s wattage. Overloading can cause your small appliance parts to ignite and possibly cause a fire. Also, remember to turn your small appliance off before you unplug it. Never attempt to pull out the plug by pulling the cord; instead, firmly hold the plug and then disconnect.

Clean small appliances with proper chemicals. You can possibly damage small appliance parts if you clean them incorrectly or use the wrong chemical, so again, refer to your manufacturer’s manual. Some nonstick surfaces can be cleaned with off-the-rack cleaners, but be careful not to do this too often, as it may cause surface chipping or fading.

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Why Can't We Invent a Toilet That Flushes ... Forever?!

All I wanted for my birthday was for my toilets to work. Well, that’s not really the only thing; it’s just high on an extensive list. You see, I’ve lived in the same townhome for seventeen years this month and things are beginning to decay, along with its owner, but I’ll get to that later.

I only have a few dislikes in life; two of them that I really detest are: stoplights and malfunctioning and obstinate toilet mechanisms.

Stoplights are easy to hate…they turn red when you’re in a hurry and don’t want to stop, plus, we so much waste gas sitting at them. I probably waste more gas by driving around the block to avoid them. Why haven’t more American cities utilized the roundabout that much of the world utilizes?

Toilets are another story altogether.

They often continue to fill wasting precious water because the design of the internal mechanism is archaic. Ostensibly, there’s a black ball that is supposed to float to the surface of the contained water and shut off the valve when the tank is full. Well, it never floats high enough and constantly requires time and attention.

Having reached that frustrating station in life where the toilet is becoming a close personal friend, because of too much coffee, tea, wine, water, or whatever, I now visit my confidante during the night more than I used to.

Finishing my business, I sleepily get back into bed while the toilet is filling. I wait, thinking the contraption will shut off eventually. I pull a pillow over my head, so I won’t hear what I’m thinking about. But it’s still there, running monotonously.

Peeved, I get up, take the tank lid off, pull up the rod, slam the lid back on and storm off to bed. But now, I’m too upset to get back to sleep. Brother, I gotta get a life or more patience.

In my usual pragmatic manner, I really tried to solve the problem: I’ve bent the rod attached to the ball to make it lower, given the intellectual understanding that the pressure of being further under water would add more force on the ball to surface; I’ve lubricated the valve with so much WD-40 that an oily film now coats the inside of the tank; I’ve extended the ball to the absolute end of the rod, thinking that if it was further from the valve and lower in the water it had to pop up and shut the system off.

Right.

In a world with of such fancy gadgetry like: cell phones that take pictures and connect to the Internet, satellite guided navigation systems mounted in the dash of your car; wireless hand-held computers; watches that do everything but make coffee; his and hers individualized inflatable mattresses complete with a sleep numbering system; implanted chips in our pets to identify them if they get lost…why can’t we invent a toilet that flushes, forever!?!

I know I know, I should just be happy and grateful that there aren’t any telemarketers bugging me at 5:15 pm each night anymore. Did you ever notice that they never sell new and improved toilet flushers? I should just eat mass quantities of chocolate, it's supposed to help men cope.

Anyway you look at it, toilets are a pain in the butt (sorry, I couldn’t resist myself).

Long years ago, my Dad remodeled his bathroom. The color of the era was pink. This past year, the toilet went kaput and a new one was needed, but do you think a pink one could be found? No one sells pink anymore, we were told. Not even to Mary Kay with her pink Cadillac’s?

And what’s up with padded toilet seats? I hope I don’t get any of those for my birthday. I hate it when I go to someone’s home and there’s a padded toilet seat. They just don’t seem natural. How do you clean it? They’re just weird to me.

And where did the blue water things go? None of my friend’s use them anymore, did blue go out of favor just like pink? I digress.

Well, to be forthright, I’ve already solved the problem. Or I should say my Dad did. He couldn’t stand the toilets running on either (it’s a family thing), so I bought the replacements and he changed all three of them for me as a birthday gift...how ‘bout that?

Thanks, Dad. I love being a kid, even if, an inept, 58 year-old one.

These new flushers are revolutionary though, no ball, no rod...no foolin’. It’s a self-contained plastic mechanism that’s a complete mystery, just like Santa Claus.

The only obvious drawback is when it stops working, I can’t bend, submerge, oil or extend anything. I’ll have to buy a new one. Therein lies the rub: planned obsolescence. The manufactures are always a step ahead of us, huh?

Well, at least it’s one item that I can check off my “All I want for birthday” list. I wonder if I’ll get the Ronco onion chopper or the Chia pet I’ve ask for? Hmmm.

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A Quick Guide to Air Purifiers For Your Home

Every year the air pollution levels in the United States of America are rising dramatically and there doesn’t seem to be a lot we can do as individuals to stop these levels from rising.

In our houses the air quality is said to be up to 100 times worse than the quality of the air outside!! With the air pollution levels in city areas being up amongst the highest in the world imagine how bad the air we breathe every day in our own homes in. This “poor air quality” in our homes can be caused by the build up of dust, mould spores, pet hair, smoke, bacteria and more. No wonder more and more Americans are suffering from respiratory problems such as asthma and allergy cases are increasing exponentially.

Many people think that the only people who need to invest in an air purifier are those with extremely serious cases of asthma or allergies but this is not true. If we don’t have something to help keep the levels of pollutants in our homes at a reasonable level guess what will do most of the “cleaning” for you. Your lungs. Imagine all those particles floating around that you breathe in every day being trapped in your lungs. Yuck!!

Air Purifiers, especially for those in inner city areas are becoming a necessity.

But, there are so many different types, which one is best?? Let’s run through the main types and their differences.

HEPA Filter Air Purifier – uses a fan and a cloth filter that traps pollutants that are 0.3microns or larger which means that pollutants are taken out of the air altogether however smaller particles like those in chemicals, gases or smoke are not trapped. This air purifier can also make more noise than most.

Ozone Air Purifier – This machine releases ozone, which is an oxidant that destroys certain bacteria, gases and chemicals. Unfortunately while ozone is very effective on these pollutants, once it reacts with them it can leave other pollutants behind as a result of this reaction and it does not destroy many other major allergens and chemicals.

Carbon Air Purifiers – the carbon filter in these machines is highly effective in trapping odors, gases and chemicals in tiny pores throughout the carbon. Unfortunately the carbon won’t trap most allergens however some carbon air purifiers combine with a HEPA filter increasing the effectiveness in the household.

Ionic Air Purifier – these filters release ions into the air, which causes particles to gain either a positive or negative charge. The machine also has collection plates with either a positive or negative charge to attract the charged particles (with the opposite charge) to them, trapping them. Charged particles will also be attracted to other particles with the opposite charge causing them to be too heavy to float in the air; therefore they drop to the floor. These machines are quiet and effective on tiny particles but don’t remove odors or kill germs.

UV Light Air Purifiers – UV light can sterilize germs, bacteria and mold if passed under it for sufficient time. This will stop them from growing and reproducing. Some people say that in UV air purifiers the time these pollutants are under the light is not long enough. If combined with a HEPA filter it can increase the effectiveness on disease causing microorganisms but it is still not effective on allergens, odors, gases or chemicals.

Purifying Hydroxyl Radicals – Hydroxyl radicals are created naturally on Earth when oxygen atoms combine with a hydrogen atom pulled from water vapor. They destroy mold, bacteria and virus pollutants faster and more effectively that ozone but still don’t work on other allergens. There is a machine that combines hydroxyl radicals, UV light and negative ions to create the most efficient air purifying system available. Unfortunately, at the moment it may only available from one manufacturer.

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Why Should I Cover My Air Conditioner During The Off Season?Air conditioning manufacturers make rugged, high quality products that are designed to wit

Air conditioning manufacturers make rugged, high quality products that are designed to withstand the elements i.e. snow, wind, rain, sun, and extreme heat/ cold. However, an air conditioner's filters, coils and fins require regular maintenance for the unit to operate effectively and efficiently throughout its years of service. Unlike the evaporator coil, the condenser coil is exposed to unfiltered outdoor air. Air borne dirt will become lodged in the condenser when the outdoor environment is dusty, or if there is foliage near by. Depending on where you live dirt can build up very quickly. Just about everything that contacts the coil surface can have an insulating effect. Dirt, dust, seeds, bugs, foliage, grease, corrosion, pollution, and even bacteria and other microorganisms can act as an insulating barrier. Anything that touches the coil reduces the heat transfer of unwanted heat from the refrigerant to the outside air.

Air conditioning manufacturers design equipment to achieve the highest SEER level of efficiency using the least amount of refrigerant. The systems are perfectly balanced and anything that affects the heat transfer creates an imbalance which drastically affects performance. A dirty coil reduces heat transfer which causes temperature and pressure of the refrigerant entering the compressor to increases above normal levels. The compressor will than work harder and draw more amps to keep up. The cooling capacity of the system will be greatly reduced and the mechanical components will be significantly stressed. A dirty coil means a higher operating cost, more wear and tear on the compressor and fans, and inadequate cooling.

Coils that have little maintenance performed often become clogged with seeds and dirt over time. If the condenser airflow is restricted on a hot day the compressor head and cylinders will become extremely "hot". The oil will than begin to break down and lose its ability to lubricate causing accelerated wear and allowing contaminants to enter the system. This can cause rings, pistons and cylinders to wear resulting in lower compression, leaking valves, and metal debris in the oil. Once this occurs compressor failure will soon follow. Air conditioners are a closed loop system and changing the oil is not a normal or easy procedure. The oil used in air conditioning systems is extremely resilient but will prematurely break down if the system is not looked after. Imagine trying to drive your car for 10 years without ever changing the oil. When a hermetic compressor fails the only way to fix the system is to replace the compressor. This involves opening the system, having the refrigerant and oil removed, and filter dryers installed to clean up the system of moisture and acid that will be introduced from opening the system and left from the failure. This is a very costly procedure and many systems at this point are not worth fixing.

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Need A Vacuum Cleaner? Best Rated Vacuums Can Be Found

So which cleaning system gets the vote of vacuum cleaner best rated? Though it isn’t difficult to locate, especially with the help of the Internet, a vacuum cleaners rating, it seems that very few of the ratings and reviews agree. As is the wont of we fickle humans, it seems that vacuum cleaner best rated depends largely on personal preference.

It is very difficult to identify one vacuum cleaner best rated, though the job becomes easier when categories of vacuum cleaner are introduced. While opinions in any vacuum cleaner consumer rating differ on whether a bagged or bagless vacuum is best, there are trends within each category that help narrow down the contenders for vacuum cleaner best rated. In the bagless category, the high profile Dyson vacuums are often thought to be the vacuum cleaner best rated, but many expert reviews and vacuum cleaner consumer rating do not bear this out. It is the perhaps lesser-known Bissell brand of vacuum that frequently receives a high vacuum cleaners rating.

In the bagged category, other perhaps less well-known manufacturers are voted vacuum cleaner best rated, with makers Kenmore and Eureka rating ahead of other names. Across both bagged and bagless vacuum categories a number of other cleaning requirements must be addressed, such as the size of the area that will need to be cleaned, and how much use will be required. Vacuum price must also be a consideration when assigning a vacuum cleaners rating, as you really do get what you pay for. Once again, it is Bissell that does well as vacuum cleaner best rated in terms of price, but if you have more money to spend on a cleaner, brands like Oreck and Kirby receive a high vacuum cleaner consumer rating.

Unfortunately for consumers, it is difficult to cite one cleaner as vacuum cleaner best rated, but with the help of a reliable vacuum cleaner consumer rating, it is possible to narrow down the list of vacuum contenders. Be sure to review the vacuum cleaners rating of any cleaner before you purchase, and be sure to make a list of your own cleaning requirements to help you determine your own personal vacuum cleaner best rated.

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Purchasing a Wood and Coal Furnace

The majority of individuals in America heat their homes with gas or electricity. Many of those individuals mistakenly believe that gas and electricity are their only home heating options. The fact is that there are a number of home heating alternatives. One of those methods is the use of a wood and coal furnace.

The decision to purchase a wood and coal furnace is a large one. The biggest cost of owning a wood and coal furnace is the initial purchase; however, that purchase can quickly pay for itself in the money that you will be saving. The best way to decide if a wood and coal furnace would be beneficial to your home is by weighing the pros and cons of all heating methods. Once this is done it is likely that you will see the benefits of owning a wood and coal furnace.

Once the decision has been made to purchase a wood and coal furnace you will need to find out where they are sold. There are a number of home heating stores or home improvement stores that sell these furnaces. Making a purchase from a department store is easy to do; however, you may be missing out on other furnaces. The size of a retail store often prevents a wide variety of items from being sold. There are currently hundreds of different wood and coal furnaces. Purchasing one from a retail store may limit your selection to only two or three furnaces. For this reason, there are many individuals who make the decision to purchase a wood and coal furnace online.

The greatest benefit of online shopping is that you can compare products and their prices all in a matter of minutes. While using the internet to purchase a wood and coal furnace has a number of benefits it also has one fairly large disadvantage. The internet makes it possible for anyone to sell just about any item that they want. The purchase of a wood and coal furnace is not a cheap one; therefore, you will want to make sure that you are dealing with a reputable company.

The best way to determine if you are dealing with an experienced heating company is by visiting their company website. All reputable online wood and coal furnace dealers should have a company website that offers valuable information on themselves and the products that they sell. It is also important to make sure that a company’s contact information is displayed on their website. If you agree to purchase a wood or coal furnace you may need to contact the seller; therefore, this information is essential.

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Installation Options for a Coal and Wood Burning Furnace

Each year many individuals make the switch from traditional home heating methods to money saving home heating methods. The use of gas and electricity are the two most common home heating methods; however, they can both be fairly expensive. There are a number of alternative money saving home heating methods. One of the most common alternatives is the use of a coal and wood burning furnace.

The use of natural resources makes it cheaper to heat your home with a coal and wood burning furnace. In addition to heating your home, it is possible that you can have your swimming pool, barn, garage, business, and hot tub heated with the use of a coal and wood burning furnace. If you are one of millions of Americans who are interested in finding a cheaper way to heat your home or workspace then you may be looking into purchasing a coal and wood burning furnace.

One of the most commonly asked questions surrounding the purchase of a coal and wood burning furnace is the installation process. It is not uncommon for a new coal and wood burning furnace owner to be inexperienced in home maintenance and home heating. For this reason they may be afraid or unable to install their own coal and wood burning furnace. The installation process will all depend on the type of furnace purchased and where it was purchased from.

When a furnace is purchased the furnace will come with an instruction manual and an installation guide. An installation guide should provide detailed step-by-step directions on how to properly install a coal and wood burning furnace. It is also likely that the installation guide will have detailed pictures to show you exactly how the installation process should go. With a detailed installation guide there are many individuals who may be able to install their own furnace.

There are wide number of individuals and companies who specialize in selling coal and wood burning furnaces; however, not all specialize in installation. If you are looking to purchase a furnace and you do not think that you could install it on your own you will want to keep this in mind when selecting an individual or company to purchase your furnace from. If you purchase a coal and wood burning furnace online the location of the seller may be taken into consideration when offering installation. If you are purchasing a furnace from a company that does not have representatives in your area you could always hire an experienced local installer to complete the installation process.

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What Can a Coal Furnace Heat?

It almost seems as if each day the price of just about everything in the world increases.

One those price increases includes the cost of home heating. There are many families who continue to live with the cost of high heating; however, others refuse to. Refusing to pay a large amount of money to heat your home does not mean that you have to go without heat, but it does mean that you will have to find alternative heating methods.

The use of a coal furnace is a popular heating alternative that is used by a large number of homeowners. A coal furnace is a low-cost and safe way to provide heat to a home. What many individuals do not realize is that a home is not the only thing that can be heated by a coal furnace.

Owning and operating a business can be costly even for the most profitable businesses.

This is why many business owners try to cut costs wherever and whenever they can. The latest increases in heating costs have left many business owners looking for alternative heating methods for their business. A coal furnace can heat a business in the same way that it will heat a home. Since the unit is placed outside, a retail store or an office with a coal furnace will not experience any smells or fumes.

Garages are either attached or not attached to a home. Many times when a home is heated so is the attached garage. Home owners with a separate garage may be looking for a cheap way to heat it. A garage or a shed are one of the many buildings that can use a coal furnace for heating.

It is also possible for a coal furnace to heat a farm. Due to the steady decrease in revenues and the increase in heating prices there are many farmers who are loosing valuable money. Purchasing a coal furnace is a great way to help relieve the costs of heating a barn, no matter what the size of it.

In addition to just heating a building, a coal furnace will provide hot water. This means that a business owner, garage owner, or a farmer can still complete their daily activities with hot water. It is also important to note that a coal furnace can provide heat for swimming pools and hot tubs. There are many coal furnace models that are designed to provide heat and hot water to multiple buildings and sources.

Once a coal furnace has been purchased and installed, the coal furnace will soon begin to pay for itself. Thanks to this low-cost heating method many families are able to afford more necessities and many business owners and farmers will still be able to operate their business without having to pay outrageous operating costs. Whether you are a homeowner, a business owner, or a farmer you should least consider further examining the benefits of a coal furnace.

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What is an Outdoor Wood Furnace and Why You Should Own One

Throughout the world wood is used to heat a large number of homes and businesses.

Wood furnaces are used because they can save a home or business owner valuable money in heating costs. Wood furnaces can be a great heating method if they are used in a safe way. Unfortunately, many homeowners and business owners are not using their wood heating in the proper way.

Wood stoves are a popular source of home and business heating. They are a great way to heat a home or business and save money, but they can also be extremely dangerous. The reason why so many wood stoves are dangerous is because they are actually used inside.

There are many risks and dangerous associated with using an in-home wood heater.

Individuals using an inside wood stove to heat their home or business puts themselves at risk for having a fire. What many individuals fail to realize is that that same heating method can still be used, but in a safer way.

The use of an outdoor wood furnace is a great way to save money and keep your home or business safe. In addition to be safer to use, it has been noted that an outdoor wood furnace is likely to burn more efficiently than indoor wood stoves. There are many individuals who are more than happy with the money they are saving using an indoor wood stove; however, with more efficient burning an outdoor wood furnace could save even more money. Efficient burning also means that you will not have to feed wood into the fire multiple times a day. Many outdoor wood furnace models only require wood once a day; however, the exact amount will all depend on the model in question.

Anyone who has ever owned an indoor wood stove knows how difficult it can be to maintain the operation of the stove. The use of an outdoor wood furnace is so much easier. You will not have to worry about brining wood into your home or business. This means that you can cut wood outside and always keep it outside. This will not only save you valuable time, but it will prevent a number of bugs and other insects from entering your home or business via the wood you bring inside. In addition to keeping wood and bugs outside, you will also keep all smoke and dust outside. This means that your home or business could look and smell better with the use of an outdoor wood furnace.

Many outdoor wood furnaces come in the shape of a small building. This means that you can have an outdoor wood furnace without ruining the beauty of your property. In fact, many outdoor furnaces can be customized to match the color of your home or business

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Quiet Air Purifier - What You Should Know Before Purchase

Most people buying their first air purifier are surprised at the noise it makes in the home. Only a few are really quiet.

Despite the universal, and often false, "quiet" claim by air purifier manufacturers, “Noisy on the high speed” is by far the most frequent consumer complaint.

The real issue is not how loud a purifier is on high, but how much sound it makes while cleaning meaningful amounts of air. Several premium air purifiers are loud on high, but offer as many as six speeds for useful quiet air purification.

The Decibel (dB) scale measures noise in objective terms.

On the Decibel scale, each 10 points [dB(A)] added represents 10 times as much sound. For example; 70 dB(A), is not 17% louder, but ten times as loud as 60 dB(A). With many purifiers topping out in the low 70’s, louder than normal conversation, sound levels are a major consumer concern.

A few Decibel ratings;

Threshold of human hearing: 0 dB(A)

Quietest air purifier: 15 dB(A)

Soft whisper: 20 dB(A)

Good air purifier on low: 32 dB(A)

Ordinary air purifier on low: 36 dB(A)

Refrigerator: 50 dB(A)

Normal conversation: 60 dB(A)

Dishwasher running: 55-70 dB(A)

Typical air purifier on high: 66 dB(A)

Busy street traffic, loud air purifier: 70 dB(A )

Car interior: 75 dB(A)

Vacuum cleaner: 80 dB(A)

Common home stereo: 80 dB(A)

Lawn mower: 90 dB(A)

Rock concert: 110 dB(A)

The air purifier industry has no standards for noise levels. Only a few vendors voluntarily reveal actual decibel sound emissions.

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Why Should I Cover My Air Conditioner During The Off Season?

Air conditioning manufacturers make rugged, high quality products that are designed to withstand the elements i.e. snow, wind, rain, sun, and extreme heat/ cold. However, an air conditioner's filters, coils and fins require regular maintenance for the unit to operate effectively and efficiently throughout its years of service. Unlike the evaporator coil, the condenser coil is exposed to unfiltered outdoor air. Air borne dirt will become lodged in the condenser when the outdoor environment is dusty, or if there is foliage near by. Depending on where you live dirt can build up very quickly. Just about everything that contacts the coil surface can have an insulating effect. Dirt, dust, seeds, bugs, foliage, grease, corrosion, pollution, and even bacteria and other microorganisms can act as an insulating barrier. Anything that touches the coil reduces the heat transfer of unwanted heat from the refrigerant to the outside air.

Air conditioning manufacturers design equipment to achieve the highest SEER level of efficiency using the least amount of refrigerant. The systems are perfectly balanced and anything that affects the heat transfer creates an imbalance which drastically affects performance. A dirty coil reduces heat transfer which causes temperature and pressure of the refrigerant entering the compressor to increases above normal levels. The compressor will than work harder and draw more amps to keep up. The cooling capacity of the system will be greatly reduced and the mechanical components will be significantly stressed. A dirty coil means a higher operating cost, more wear and tear on the compressor and fans, and inadequate cooling.

Coils that have little maintenance performed often become clogged with seeds and dirt over time. If the condenser airflow is restricted on a hot day the compressor head and cylinders will become extremely "hot". The oil will than begin to break down and lose its ability to lubricate causing accelerated wear and allowing contaminants to enter the system. This can cause rings, pistons and cylinders to wear resulting in lower compression, leaking valves, and metal debris in the oil. Once this occurs compressor failure will soon follow. Air conditioners are a closed loop system and changing the oil is not a normal or easy procedure. The oil used in air conditioning systems is extremely resilient but will prematurely break down if the system is not looked after. Imagine trying to drive your car for 10 years without ever changing the oil. When a hermetic compressor fails the only way to fix the system is to replace the compressor. This involves opening the system, having the refrigerant and oil removed, and filter dryers installed to clean up the system of moisture and acid that will be introduced from opening the system and left from the failure. This is a very costly procedure and many systems at this point are not worth fixing.

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Need A Vacuum Cleaner? Best Rated Vacuums Can Be Found

So which cleaning system gets the vote of vacuum cleaner best rated? Though it isn’t difficult to locate, especially with the help of the Internet, a vacuum cleaners rating, it seems that very few of the ratings and reviews agree. As is the wont of we fickle humans, it seems that vacuum cleaner best rated depends largely on personal preference.

It is very difficult to identify one vacuum cleaner best rated, though the job becomes easier when categories of vacuum cleaner are introduced. While opinions in any vacuum cleaner consumer rating differ on whether a bagged or bagless vacuum is best, there are trends within each category that help narrow down the contenders for vacuum cleaner best rated. In the bagless category, the high profile Dyson vacuums are often thought to be the vacuum cleaner best rated, but many expert reviews and vacuum cleaner consumer rating do not bear this out. It is the perhaps lesser-known Bissell brand of vacuum that frequently receives a high vacuum cleaners rating.

In the bagged category, other perhaps less well-known manufacturers are voted vacuum cleaner best rated, with makers Kenmore and Eureka rating ahead of other names. Across both bagged and bagless vacuum categories a number of other cleaning requirements must be addressed, such as the size of the area that will need to be cleaned, and how much use will be required. Vacuum price must also be a consideration when assigning a vacuum cleaners rating, as you really do get what you pay for. Once again, it is Bissell that does well as vacuum cleaner best rated in terms of price, but if you have more money to spend on a cleaner, brands like Oreck and Kirby receive a high vacuum cleaner consumer rating.

Unfortunately for consumers, it is difficult to cite one cleaner as vacuum cleaner best rated, but with the help of a reliable vacuum cleaner consumer rating, it is possible to narrow down the list of vacuum contenders. Be sure to review the vacuum cleaners rating of any cleaner before you purchase, and be sure to make a list of your own cleaning requirements to help you determine your own personal vacuum cleaner best rated.

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Purchasing a Wood and Coal Furnace

The majority of individuals in America heat their homes with gas or electricity. Many of those individuals mistakenly believe that gas and electricity are their only home heating options. The fact is that there are a number of home heating alternatives. One of those methods is the use of a wood and coal furnace.

The decision to purchase a wood and coal furnace is a large one. The biggest cost of owning a wood and coal furnace is the initial purchase; however, that purchase can quickly pay for itself in the money that you will be saving. The best way to decide if a wood and coal furnace would be beneficial to your home is by weighing the pros and cons of all heating methods. Once this is done it is likely that you will see the benefits of owning a wood and coal furnace.

Once the decision has been made to purchase a wood and coal furnace you will need to find out where they are sold. There are a number of home heating stores or home improvement stores that sell these furnaces. Making a purchase from a department store is easy to do; however, you may be missing out on other furnaces. The size of a retail store often prevents a wide variety of items from being sold. There are currently hundreds of different wood and coal furnaces. Purchasing one from a retail store may limit your selection to only two or three furnaces. For this reason, there are many individuals who make the decision to purchase a wood and coal furnace online.

The greatest benefit of online shopping is that you can compare products and their prices all in a matter of minutes. While using the internet to purchase a wood and coal furnace has a number of benefits it also has one fairly large disadvantage. The internet makes it possible for anyone to sell just about any item that they want. The purchase of a wood and coal furnace is not a cheap one; therefore, you will want to make sure that you are dealing with a reputable company.

The best way to determine if you are dealing with an experienced heating company is by visiting their company website. All reputable online wood and coal furnace dealers should have a company website that offers valuable information on themselves and the products that they sell. It is also important to make sure that a company’s contact information is displayed on their website. If you agree to purchase a wood or coal furnace you may need to contact the seller; therefore, this information is essential.

As previously mentioned, the purchase of a wood and coal furnace is a big one, but it is one that could save you hundreds of dollars a year in home heating costs. Why should you and your family settle with high come heating costs when they can be so much lower with the purchase of a wood and coal furnace?

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Why Can't We Invent a Toilet That Flushes ... Forever?!

All I wanted for my birthday was for my toilets to work. Well, that’s not really the only thing; it’s just high on an extensive list. You see, I’ve lived in the same townhome for seventeen years this month and things are beginning to decay, along with its owner, but I’ll get to that later.

I only have a few dislikes in life; two of them that I really detest are: stoplights and malfunctioning and obstinate toilet mechanisms.

Stoplights are easy to hate…they turn red when you’re in a hurry and don’t want to stop, plus, we so much waste gas sitting at them. I probably waste more gas by driving around the block to avoid them. Why haven’t more American cities utilized the roundabout that much of the world utilizes?

Toilets are another story altogether.

They often continue to fill wasting precious water because the design of the internal mechanism is archaic. Ostensibly, there’s a black ball that is supposed to float to the surface of the contained water and shut off the valve when the tank is full. Well, it never floats high enough and constantly requires time and attention.

Having reached that frustrating station in life where the toilet is becoming a close personal friend, because of too much coffee, tea, wine, water, or whatever, I now visit my confidante during the night more than I used to.

Finishing my business, I sleepily get back into bed while the toilet is filling. I wait, thinking the contraption will shut off eventually. I pull a pillow over my head, so I won’t hear what I’m thinking about. But it’s still there, running monotonously.

Peeved, I get up, take the tank lid off, pull up the rod, slam the lid back on and storm off to bed. But now, I’m too upset to get back to sleep. Brother, I gotta get a life or more patience.

In my usual pragmatic manner, I really tried to solve the problem: I’ve bent the rod attached to the ball to make it lower, given the intellectual understanding that the pressure of being further under water would add more force on the ball to surface; I’ve lubricated the valve with so much WD-40 that an oily film now coats the inside of the tank; I’ve extended the ball to the absolute end of the rod, thinking that if it was further from the valve and lower in the water it had to pop up and shut the system off.

Right.

In a world with of such fancy gadgetry like: cell phones that take pictures and connect to the Internet, satellite guided navigation systems mounted in the dash of your car; wireless hand-held computers; watches that do everything but make coffee; his and hers individualized inflatable mattresses complete with a sleep numbering system; implanted chips in our pets to identify them if they get lost…why can’t we invent a toilet that flushes, forever!?!

I know I know, I should just be happy and grateful that there aren’t any telemarketers bugging me at 5:15 pm each night anymore. Did you ever notice that they never sell new and improved toilet flushers? I should just eat mass quantities of chocolate, it's supposed to help men cope.

Anyway you look at it, toilets are a pain in the butt (sorry, I couldn’t resist myself).

Long years ago, my Dad remodeled his bathroom. The color of the era was pink. This past year, the toilet went kaput and a new one was needed, but do you think a pink one could be found? No one sells pink anymore, we were told. Not even to Mary Kay with her pink Cadillac’s?

And what’s up with padded toilet seats? I hope I don’t get any of those for my birthday. I hate it when I go to someone’s home and there’s a padded toilet seat. They just don’t seem natural. How do you clean it? They’re just weird to me.

And where did the blue water things go? None of my friend’s use them anymore, did blue go out of favor just like pink? I digress.

Well, to be forthright, I’ve already solved the problem. Or I should say my Dad did. He couldn’t stand the toilets running on either (it’s a family thing), so I bought the replacements and he changed all three of them for me as a birthday gift...how ‘bout that?

Thanks, Dad. I love being a kid, even if, an inept, 58 year-old one.

These new flushers are revolutionary though, no ball, no rod...no foolin’. It’s a self-contained plastic mechanism that’s a complete mystery, just like Santa Claus.

The only obvious drawback is when it stops working, I can’t bend, submerge, oil or extend anything. I’ll have to buy a new one. Therein lies the rub: planned obsolescence. The manufactures are always a step ahead of us, huh?

Well, at least it’s one item that I can check off my “All I want for birthday” list. I wonder if I’ll get the Ronco onion chopper or the Chia pet I’ve ask for? Hmmm.

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A Quick Guide to Air Purifiers For Your Home

Every year the air pollution levels in the United States of America are rising dramatically and there doesn’t seem to be a lot we can do as individuals to stop these levels from rising.

In our houses the air quality is said to be up to 100 times worse than the quality of the air outside!! With the air pollution levels in city areas being up amongst the highest in the world imagine how bad the air we breathe every day in our own homes in. This “poor air quality” in our homes can be caused by the build up of dust, mould spores, pet hair, smoke, bacteria and more. No wonder more and more Americans are suffering from respiratory problems such as asthma and allergy cases are increasing exponentially.

Many people think that the only people who need to invest in an air purifier are those with extremely serious cases of asthma or allergies but this is not true. If we don’t have something to help keep the levels of pollutants in our homes at a reasonable level guess what will do most of the “cleaning” for you. Your lungs. Imagine all those particles floating around that you breathe in every day being trapped in your lungs. Yuck!!

Air Purifiers, especially for those in inner city areas are becoming a necessity.

But, there are so many different types, which one is best?? Let’s run through the main types and their differences.

HEPA Filter Air Purifier – uses a fan and a cloth filter that traps pollutants that are 0.3microns or larger which means that pollutants are taken out of the air altogether however smaller particles like those in chemicals, gases or smoke are not trapped. This air purifier can also make more noise than most.

Ozone Air Purifier – This machine releases ozone, which is an oxidant that destroys certain bacteria, gases and chemicals. Unfortunately while ozone is very effective on these pollutants, once it reacts with them it can leave other pollutants behind as a result of this reaction and it does not destroy many other major allergens and chemicals.

Carbon Air Purifiers – the carbon filter in these machines is highly effective in trapping odors, gases and chemicals in tiny pores throughout the carbon. Unfortunately the carbon won’t trap most allergens however some carbon air purifiers combine with a HEPA filter increasing the effectiveness in the household.

Ionic Air Purifier – these filters release ions into the air, which causes particles to gain either a positive or negative charge. The machine also has collection plates with either a positive or negative charge to attract the charged particles (with the opposite charge) to them, trapping them. Charged particles will also be attracted to other particles with the opposite charge causing them to be too heavy to float in the air; therefore they drop to the floor. These machines are quiet and effective on tiny particles but don’t remove odors or kill germs.

UV Light Air Purifiers – UV light can sterilize germs, bacteria and mold if passed under it for sufficient time. This will stop them from growing and reproducing. Some people say that in UV air purifiers the time these pollutants are under the light is not long enough. If combined with a HEPA filter it can increase the effectiveness on disease causing microorganisms but it is still not effective on allergens, odors, gases or chemicals.

Purifying Hydroxyl Radicals – Hydroxyl radicals are created naturally on Earth when oxygen atoms combine with a hydrogen atom pulled from water vapor. They destroy mold, bacteria and virus pollutants faster and more effectively that ozone but still don’t work on other allergens. There is a machine that combines hydroxyl radicals, UV light and negative ions to create the most efficient air purifying system available. Unfortunately, at the moment it may only available from one manufacturer.

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Residential Boilers

In the United States most households are equipped with residential boilers. They transmit the heat required to operate water heaters and heating systems, providing relief from chilly winter conditions. Residential boilers are used for heating purposes in buildings and are immensely of great use to the people. Residential boilers include Category I type of boilers. Non-positive vent pressure and non-condensing and incorporate natural draft appliances mark them.

In residential boilers the heat exchanger integrates the heat transfer competence of copper-finned tubes with the mass of two cast-iron wet walls encasing the combustion chamber. The units are readily obtainable in a variety of sizes to fit almost every residential heating load. Residential boiler systems are known for their high degree of operational efficiencies that can reach up to 84.5% AFUE. Most of the residential boilers have certain exclusive features including boiler-mounted induced draft fans to aid in sidewall-vented installations.

Residential boilers are characterized by clean combustion. They have an immensely high level of efficiency. Since they are meant for residential purposes they are known for their economical operation and longevity.

Residential boilers are flawless central heating sources for single- or multiple-family homes. They ensure consistent heating for a long time. Most modern residential boilers are compact in design and use the most sophisticated combustion and manufacturing technologies.

The efficiency of certain residential boilers can be as impressive as 98%. Most residential boilers are self-adaptive in structure and compatible with varying conditions. Ideal residential boilers integrate the immense effectiveness of modern copper boilers with the long-life consistency of cast-iron boilers.

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Vacuum Cleaner Belts – Essential Shopping

Vacuum cleaner belts are, like the disposable bags we use in our home cleaner, one of those extra vacuum accessories that we sometimes need to buy. While there are probably a hundred other things we would rather spend our money on, vacuum cleaner belts are simply one of those things in life that we can’t do without, and while purchasing them, and other vacuum cleaner parts, might not be half as much fun as shopping for great clothing bargains, we can’t doubt that vacuum cleaner belts help our home cleaner to do an important job.

Because vacuum cleaner belts are the most likely vacuum part to need replacement, it is a good idea to know where you can get a good deal on them. Pivotal in allowing the brushes at the base of your cleaner to operate properly, vacuum cleaner belts are vulnerable to any items you might encounter on the floor as you vacuum. If you get caught up with TV cables or your child’s small toys as you clean, then you’ll be glad your research is already done, because it’s likely that the loser in such a tangle will be your vacuum cleaner belt!

Like the disposable bags that are an essential part of using a bagged cleaning system, vacuum cleaner belts are available in both brand name and generic types. While the manufacturer of a particular vacuum is likely to recommend you use the brand name vacuum cleaner belt with your cleaner, the generic type of belt can perform the job just as well, and usually for a fraction of the price. The vacuum cleaner belt pack should indicate what vacuum types a particular belt can be used with, so be sure to read it carefully before you buy.

The generic types of vacuum cleaner belts can usually be found at your local hardware store, but for brand name belts you will need to track down your local vacuum dealer. A great way to locate vacuum cleaner belts is the Internet, and you should be able to find both brand name and generic vacuum cleaner belts without too much trouble.

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A Complete Review About Gas Barbecue Grill

People has a known preference for gas barbecue grills, there are several reason for this, like they can be cleaned easier than charcoal grills, also they are not as many accidents as with the others and only ten minutes are necessary to barbecue. Still, if you are considering to buy a gas grill you have to keep in mind some important things.

For starters, there are three kinds of gas barbecue grills. The first one is the entry-level grill, which is the most basic one and costs less than $ 300, they don't require wood as barbecue grill charcoal do,and they create their own heat. The second one is the mid-range grill, which are not as cheap as the previous ones since they can cost up to $ 1000 but have more features than the basic gas grill, anyway if you prefer these ones you should select manufacturers with good reputation so you can get a quality product. The last kind is the deluxe model gas grill, these are the most expensive ones since they can cost up to $ 5000, in this case it is even more important to check the brand name and the materials of this gas grill before buying it.

As for the basic elements of a propane gas barbecue grill or natural gas barbecue grills, the burners generate heat that is dispersed with a heat dispersal system above them. Then there are the cooking grates which are where you place the food. A gas grill has more than two burners that let you have more control over the heat, resulting in more delicious food. Besides you won't have to worry for drippings that may cause flare-ups since some gas grills include a flare-ups control system that transform it into flavorful smoke that makes the flavor of the food even better.

Also you have to choose a gas grill that has a stable and solid construction, otherwise it can wiggle and fall apart when they are set in place. Try not to buy a gas grill that is not shown on the sales floor, this way you can check how stable it is before you buy it. Look for gas grills that are crafted of high-grade U.S. steel and those that have porcelain enamel finish. The grates must be made from cast iron or stainless steel.

Finally, it is very important to keep in mind how often maintenance will be necessary to keep the gas grill running for a long time. Choose a brand of gas grill that offers product information and a tool-free customer service line, also they must provide easy access to barbecue grill parts and services. So now you know, give these tips a thought and it will be easier and faster for you to search for the barbecue best gas grill and you will be glad you bought it.

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Household Appliances For A Comfortable Home

No house is complete without its quota of appliances. Household appliances are an inseparable and intrinsic part of any home. They are not just show pieces needed for decoration but are an absolute necessity to experience a smooth and hassle free life.

UK market has reached a saturation point as far as household electrical appliances are concerned. We have loads of merchants, wide variety of products and even bigger number of potential customers. Along with the high street retailers, e-shops too have joined the fray. They are offering not just every household appliance online but at rates that are hard to be found anywhere else!

From washers and dryers, to toasters and juicers, and from freezers to shaver to air purifiers and tea makers, almost every kind of household appliance that you need to buy is available through e-shops and cash back portals. These cash back portals not just brings together all the major manufacturers of the world on a single platform, but offers amazing household appliances deals, discounts and cash backs as well!

Buying household appliances in UK could not have been more hassle free than it is today. Browse through the internet, compare merchants and their products, select the ones of your choice, place an order and receive them at your doorstep without paying any delivery charges!

To make your abode even more comfortable, household appliances are a must. For a more comfortable and smarter shopping experience, buy household appliances online. Your home needs it, so does you!

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Review of Juicers Available in the UK

Many people are aware of the benefits of juicing and take it up with the intention of changing their lifestyle to incorporate this highly beneficial source of fruit and vegetables. However the truth is that few people continue for more than a few weeks. This is mainly due to the fact that prepping can be tiresome, and washing a bore.

Here is a review of some of the best Juicers available in the UK which may help you decide on the best juicer for you and also help you continue to Juice for a healthy life. Most domestic juicers work on two principles: centrifugal and masticating. Centrifugal juicers feed chopped-up fruit and veg through a chute onto a spinning, perforated basket, which grates the fruit. Masticating juicers `chew'. This produces a higher nutritional content. The process incorporates less oxygen resulting in a longer shelf life, although all juices should be drunk soon after they're made.

Magimix Le Duo Plus

This is both a juicer and a citrus press. It is sturdy and, considering it has a 250W commercial-grade motor, surprisingly quiet. The large basket means you can make lots of juice and is extremely easy to clean. Just clean around the basket with the special spatula, a quick rinse and it's done. It comes with an attachment for small and large citrus fruit as well as a coulis maker for soft fruit. There is also a great little recipe book with lots of ideas for drinks and desserts. It is available in satin steel and currently retails for £149.99.

Champion 2000+

If you are a serious juicer and looking for a machine to cope with your demands this is a great masticating machine with a heavy duty motor. Its generous feed tube takes larger pieces which cuts down on the amount of preparation required. Also produces fruit sauces, smoothies, purees and nut butters. It is available in white, grey, cream and black and retails for around £249.

L'Equip 110.5 Mini Pulp Ejector

This award-winning centrifugal juicer produces loads of juice very quickly and quietly. The pulp goes into a separate container making it easy to dispose of, and all the juicing parts go in the dishwasher. It is available in white, grey and black and retails for around £99.

Braun Citromatic MPZ9

If you like fresh orange juice in the morning, this citrus press is very simple to use and the pulp control lets you have your juice exactly how you like it. It is quick and easy to assemble and clean - all the removable parts go in the dishwasher. It is available in white and retails at £19.99.

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Sauna Building Tips

There are many things to consider when choosing to build your own sauna. Firstly let’s look at your choices. You can build from a sauna kit or you can assemble a pre-cut sauna. This is the easiest, even If you only have a few tools and don’t think of yourself as a particularly gifted carpenter you should have no problem building your sauna using a pre-cut sauna kit.

There are pre-built saunas which are also known as modular saunas. The pre-cut saunas are easy to put together. Just make sure when purchasing this type of kit that the individual pieces can get through your doorway. In the event you choose to build a sauna from the ground up then you need more do it yourself skills.

The nest thing you need to consider is how you are going to heat your sauna. You have a choice of electric, wood-burning, gas, or oil heaters. Most people in cities opt for the electric heater. Having the right sauna heater is essential for your sauna experience. The infrared sauna heater does not heat the air, as the other heaters do; instead, it directly heats the body. This causes deeper muscle penetration, less energy use and, many regular sauna users say, greater comfort than the traditional sauna heaters.

The key to building any sauna is location, another thing to consider when building your sauna are the little touches. If you are building a sauna room from scratch, remember not to leave any screws exposed as they become extremely hot during a sauna session which can cause burns. The nice thing like anything else when doing it yourself is that your sauna room can be customized to reproduce your unique personality and preferences.

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Why You Should Invest In An Air Purifier

Do you know the air in your home has ten times more pollutants and allergens than the air outside? The reason is because the air in your home is not circulating. As a result, people with sensitive noses and those with respiratory problems may feel uncomfortable.

A good air purifier can solve the problem. It helps to circulate the air in your home and filter the pollutants, dust and allergens leaving the air clean and healthy to breathe. A good air purifier can also get rid of bad odors in the house.

However, there are many brands of air purifiers available on the market. The prices can also vary from less than $100 to more than $3000. So how do you pick an air purifier that is suitable for your needs?

There are a few points to take note when buying an air purifier.

You might want to check the MERV rating of the air purifier. The MERV rating is a standard that is used to measure the efficiency of an air purifier. A rating of 6 to 12 is considered good. This rating should be stated on the box of the air purifier.

Another indicator of a good air purifier is the CADR rating. It is a rating that can tell you the rate at which clean air is delivered. Generally, the higher the number, the better. It is also more expensive. On most air purifier boxes, it is usually measured against three contaminants namely, smoke, pollen and dust.

Another important factor is the air filter. You may need to factor in the cost of replacing the air filter since it is a consumable item. Some air filters for certain brands can be expensive too.

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Things to Consider When Purchasing a Vacuum Cleaner

Your vacuum cleaner is an important cleaning utility, used for many diverse cleaning chores. Like any other investment, you want it to be dependable, so that we can use it with very little maintenance for many years to come. There are many types of vacuum cleaners available, and you need to match the right vacuum to your cleaning needs. It is more than likely that the most expensive vacuum cleaner available is not right for you. Don’t be influenced by the color and look of a vacuum cleaner, instead check the list of features that best suits your lifestyle and cleaning habits.

Surfaces You Clean with Vacuum Cleaners

Think about the various surfaces in your home which need to be cleaned: carpet, wood floors, tile floors, furniture, stairs, door and window frames, Venetian blinds, curtains and drapes, picture frames, ceiling fans and dusty corners. Keeping all these surfaces clean lets you breathe easier, literally. Now think about the frequency you clean these surfaces and how dirty they actually become between cleanings.

As diverse as your vacuum needs are, the vacuum cleaner industry has probably developed a vacuum cleaner to meet these needs.

Where can you find the best vacuum cleaners?

There are over 200 vacuum cleaners available and just about all of them claim prominence in quality and performance, so which is right for you? It is very difficult to compare vacuum cleaners when you are talking to a sales person with a fine tuned sales pitch.

Vacuum cleaner ratings

The best vacuum cleaner would do a great job of cleaning without taking a lot of time or effort. So a vacuum with the highest amperage rating should do the trick. Right? It’s not quite so easy. Over the years, amperage ratings have climbed from 3.5 amps to 12.0 amps, the maximum permitted by law for an appliance which plugs into a standard electrical outlet. However, increased amperage does not equal increased efficiency!

Vacuum cleaners are the most roughly used appliances at home. You need to buy a vacuum cleaner that can take the beating and can also give continued dependable performance.

Vacuum cleaner ratings depend on the following:

• Brand dependability
• Efficiency
• Effectiveness
• Durability
• After sales service
• Availability of parts and accessories

Best way to access the above is to talk to your friends, neighbors, associates and most importantly, to have a little chat with the store sales person.

Factors leading to effective vacuum cleaner rating:

• Cleaning area or surface area
• Items to be cleaned
• Frequency of cleaning
• Ease of approach to the cleaning area

Vacuum cleaner reviews

Finally you can help yourself in making a good buying decision. Read vacuum cleaner reviews. Various consumer goods magazines and electronic goods magazine contain reviews on wide variety of house hold and consumer electronic items including vacuum cleaner reviews.

These vacuum cleaners reviews help you to find out more about the efficiency, rating and durability of vacuum cleaners available.

Internet has made it easy for the potential buyers to read reviews through numerous website on all brands of vacuum cleaners, thus extending a great deal of help in buyer’s decision making.

How do these reviews help?

Online reviews and vacuum cleaner reviews that appear in the magazines, websites and forums help in the following ways:

• Create understanding of Vacuum Cleaner brands available
• Inform us about the effectiveness of a particular product
• Tell us about the efficiency of the product
• Update us about the durability of the vacuum cleaner
• Provide price comparison of all brands
• Provide comparison on features of brands of vacuum cleaners
• Any new marketing promotion plan being offered by the vacuum cleaner manufacturers
• Pictorial display of the product leads us to know the out look and shape of the product

Often these reviews lead us to the store or supplier selling various brands of consumer electronic goods. You can achieve better understanding about the practices of the sellers as well.

In these vacuum cleaner reviews you may also find:

• Which vacuum cleaners stores are dependable
• Which seller might properly guide you to make a good purchase decision
• Hold inventory of spare parts and accessories
• Provide efficient after sales services
• Delivers your vacuum cleaner at your door steps

Do read reviews on vacuum cleaners when your start thinking about purchasing a vacuum cleaner.

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Home Building - Kitchen Appliances: How to Decide

You don’t want to begin your journey looking for kitchen appliances unprepared. Because an appliance showroom is packed with products, it can be an overwhelming experience if you don’t know exactly what you want. Knowing your needs, style preferences and budget before you start shopping can help you maneuver through rows and rows of appliances. Here’s some helpful information to start you on your journey to discover the best and most important appliances - ovens, cooktops, ranges, refrigerators, ventilation systems and dishwashers - for your kitchen.

The Look

Appliances should blend in with other design elements in your kitchen. You can achieve this by having them built into the cabinets or paneled to look like them. Or if you prefer, you can make a statement with a stand-alone, like those made with a decorative vent hood and carved wood ornamentation or a stainless steel refrigerator. Keep in mind where you place your appliances will affect the other design elements in your kitchen. For example, a range or a separate cooktop and oven could change your countertop and cabinet space plans.

Your options for appliance designs include: built-in, paneled, freestanding professional-style, freestanding restored or reproduction antiques or standard freestanding models. A new neutral is stainless steel appliances which work well in all styles of kitchens, from Old World to contemporary to Mediterranean to traditional.

Keep in mind that in order to get the commercial feel of a professional-style appliance you’ll need to splurge. Increased cooking and storage capacity and an oversized look come at a price that almost doubles standard appliances. True commercial units aren’t rated for residential use because of their special ventilation needs, massive size and safety issues, but most pro-style appliances come close to giving the advantages of a restaurant-grade appliance, including greater durability, more precise temperature control and a stainless steel finish. If you love to cook or have a big family pro-style is worth a look.

When it comes to your stove, you can make a big statement by buying one that has bright colored knobs or a 1930s-style range complete with porcelain enamel surfaces accented with nickel-plated trim. Knowing the look you want will narrow your search rather quickly and set you on course for the more important task - what you need from your appliances to effectively and efficiently run your kitchen.

The Scoop on Appliances

Know your cooking needs When it comes to deciding on your cooking gear, you should look for features that will improve your cooking speed and precision. Things you should consider are whether you need pro-style or standard, gas or electric and how you want to place them (built-in or freestanding).

Pro-style vs. standard One of your first decisions should be whether you need the increased cooking capacity of a professional-style range or cooktop or if you’d be happier with a less expensive model that has more standard features.

Here’s how the pro-style features measure up against a more standard model:

A pro-style has four or more burners at 15,000 BTU while a standard model offers an assortment of burners ranging from 5,000 to 14,000 BTU. Pro-style has large control knobs, while standard has small knobs or a digital control panel. Pro-style has continuous cast-iron grates while standard have separate steel burners. Pro-style also has more oven racks and is 36 to 60 inches wide as opposed to the standard 30 inches.

Gas vs. Electric For the most precise temperature control you’ll want to go with gas. The biggest advantage to going electric is that it’s cheaper and gives you the option of having a sleek glass ceramic surface, which is far easier to clean than a burner.

Cooktop Placement You’ve got some flexibility when it comes to the placement of your oven. You can pair together a separate oven and cooktop; or you can make it part of a range; or mount it on the wall.

A popular and space saving option is stacking two wall ovens either on top of each other or side by side with countertop space in between them so you can have more cooks in the kitchen.

If you don’t plan on using both ovens regularly you may want to consider a combination oven which allows you to use it as a microwave and convection oven when you need it.

Warranties

Warranties vary by manufacturer and appliance model, but most appliances come with a one to five year warranty.

Energy Efficiency

Thanks to the Federal Trade Commission all new major household appliances are required to have a bright yellow-and-black EnergyGuide label placed on them so that you will know the annual energy consumption and operating cost for each appliance.

Trendy Tips

It’s worth taking the time to explore ways to make your appliances more accessible, like raising your dishwasher so you don’t have to bend down to load and unload it. Check out all the wonderful options available for your drawers like warming ovens, refrigerators and dishwashers. If you're a pizza lover you might enjoy creating a crusty pizza pie in a pro-type brick oven or if wine is your passion you might want a beverage chiller or storage unit - some even come with a cigar holder. If you’re considering a trash compactor, consider moving it to the garage to free up space in the kitchen.

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Judging Your Requirement For A Swamp Air Cooler

One of the basic questions that can lurk at the back of your mind before buying evaporative coolers is the reason why you want to install it. It is always best to judge your requirement before you go shopping. The same applies in the case of air coolers. Analyzing your requirement will not only make it easier for you to judge the importance of air coolers in your house. but will also make it easier for to you to purchase one from a wide variety of products in the market.

Find Out If You Need An Air Cooler

Are you living in a hot and dry place? Seeking for some relief from this dry heat? An evaporative air cooler. also know as a swamp cooler is the answer to your need. They cool room temperature through the natural process of water evaporation. filling the room with fresh and moist air. The temperature drops depending on the amount of water the air absorbs. Thus. one of the primary requirements for installing evaporative coolers is to have a dry and hot temperature. The air cooler will not serve its purpose if installed in humid areas due to the high concentration of water molecules already present in air.

Reasons For Installing Evaporative Coolers

If you are constantly worried with the rising electricity bills. you have a good reason to replace your air conditioner with an evaporative cooler. The swamp coolers use electricity 75% less than the traditional air conditioners. Moreover. the very cost of evaporative coolers is almost half the price of other modern cooling mediums. Another reason for installing evaporative coolers is the ease of installing it. They require an electricity of just 120-volt to operate and can be easily plugged into any outlet.

If you are still wondering as why to install evaporative coolers. there are a few characteristic features that can answer your question. Moisture is added to the air by the swamp coolers that prevents wooden fabric and furniture from becoming dry. Moreover. the wet pads in the coolers prevent pollutants and pollens from entering the room. keeping it pollution and germ free. The small air coolers require very little duct system as they can be easily placed in windows and other places.

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