Category: Appliances

Portable Air Conditioner in Home

How A Portable Air Conditioner Will Benefit Homeowners

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All around the United States, homeowners rely on their central air conditioner to keep their home cool during the hot summer months. While a central AC is one of the best options to keep you and your family cool, more and more homeowners are turning to a more versatile and convenient cooling appliance — the portable air conditioner.

These convenient, yet underrated, cooling appliances can do much more than simply provide cold air throughout your home. This type of “room” air conditioner is designed with many benefits in mind. Below, are five reasons why every homeowner would benefit from using a portable air conditioner in their home.

Portable Air Conditioner

1. Enhanced Temperature Control

If you are the type of person that always feels warmer than everyone else in your home or office, then you may benefit from the use of your a portable air conditioning unit.

Portable air conditioners provide you the freedom to cool a area or room without bothering your coworkers or roommates. As long as the interior space is enclosed, you could benefit from a portable air conditioner by simply cooling that one room. This will keep you in a comfortable temperature, without bothering anyone else nearby.




2. Saves You Money (And Energy Use)

For homeowners that live in warmer climates, using a room air conditioner to help cool their home may be a wise decision when it comes to lowering their utility bills.

Regardless of whether you go with a portable or window air conditioner, these smaller AC units can help homeowners bring the temperature down to a comfortable level in a small area or room that they spend the most time within. Running your central air conditioner at full power all the time tends to result in high energy bills, but a portable air conditioner can give your central AC unit a bit of a break. This not only extends the life of your central air conditioner, but a portable air conditioner can save you money.

This is also particularly useful if you happen to have non-standard windows that won’t fit a general window unit. Most portable A/C units can be installed in all sorts of odd-shaped windows, or even within a ceiling vent. Portable AC units also help save you money by only cooling the area of your home or office that you want to be cooled, which means less wasted energy in unoccupied spaces.

3. Improves Indoor Air Quality

Portable air conditioners do much more than just cool the air in a room. Some units have the ability to generate heat, making them a helpful appliance for year-round necessity use. Other AC units can utilize their built-in air filters to help improve your indoor air quality.

Popular Features & Functionality

  • Heater
  • Air purifier
  • Humidifier
  • Dehumidifier

You have lots of features available. Be sure to research all of the options provided with your preferred model in order to assure that is meets all of your unique needs.



4. Portability on the Road & Sea

For homeowners that enjoy hitting the road and traveling — whether by road or sea — a portable air conditioner is perfect for on-the-go. If you’re traveling in an RV, a portable air conditioner can help keep you cool during long road-trips. These also work great in cabins, vacation homes, and boats.

Simply remove your portable air conditioner from your home (or storage) and take it with you. Portability provides convenience when you need it most.

5. Keep Your Office & Tech Cool

The emergence of the internet and the ability to house processing power into smaller units has made it easier to run advanced businesses right from your own home. This frequently includes the ability to store servers and provide hosting services without leasing office or warehouse space.

If you have servers in your closet, garage, or anywhere else inside your home, then you may need a way to keep these servers cool.

Portable air conditioners can be used as a main cooling option or even as a supplement to your central air conditioning system to keep your equipment at a suitable temperature. These A/C units helps to prevent overheating and hot spots, which can lead to premature equipment failure as well as many other unexpected costs.

What’s the Best Air Conditioner for Your Home?

One way to get the most benefits from your portable air conditioning unit is to make sure you have a strong understanding of the amount of power your space requires to cool. To accomplish this, you just need to know the square footage of the room, as well as the BTU or ASHRAE that your AC unit produces.

For example, if you want to add a portable air conditioner into a typical, average-sized bedroom, then you won’t need a unit with industrial capabilities. However, if you plan on putting an air conditioner into a larger living room or game room, then you may need a larger unit to ensure that it’s capable of cooling the space.

How to Calculate BTU & Room Size

In order to ensure that you are utilizing the correct size, it is necessary that you calculate the BTUs required to achieve the cooling level you prefer.

To do this, you will need to calculate the size of the room you are planning to cool by multiplying the length by the width of the room. This will give you the square footage of the room. Once you have the size of the room, you should have a pretty good idea on what size unit you will need.

Cooling Capacity Chart by Room Size

The below chart is a rough estimation on how much cooling capacity you need for your room size.

  • < 225 sq/ft — 8,000 to 10,000 BTU’s
  • 225-300 sq/ft — 10,000 to 12,000 BTU’s
  • 300-425 sq/ft — 12,000 to 14,000 BTU’s
  • > 425 sq/ft — 14,000 BTU’s (or larger)

Enjoy Your Air Conditioner in a Variety of Ways

Although they have many different uses, portable air conditioners often get overlooked. Investing in a portable AC unit might just be the smartest financial move you can make as we move into these warmer months, and as heaters for your home when the weather beings to cools down.

Stick Vacuum Cleaner

7 Benefits of Stick Vacuums

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Vacuum cleaners are a convenience of modern times and as all technologies, these cleaning devices have improved quite a bit over time. Today, vacuums come with more attachments then you’ll probably ever need.

A stick vacuum cleaner may not be the most powerful type of vacuum cleaner, but they do offer some pretty compelling features, such as swivel steering, a multitude of attachments, cordless and rechargeable, a motorized brush, ability to easily transition between a floor and light handheld, and even HEPA filtration.

This portfolio of features has taken stick vacuums well beyond the old carpet sweepers, and transformed them into a serious consideration in the cleaning arsenal for homeowners. Below are some of the reasons why homeowners should consider buying a stick vacuum cleaner.

What is a Stick Vacuum?

A stick vacuum is a lightweight version of an upright vacuum cleaner. It’s likely not as powerful as its larger counterpart, or come with as many attachments or accessories. They are simple to use and easy to store, which are two of the main reasons why people love their stick vacuums.



What to Expect From a Stick Vacuum Cleaner

While this type of vacuum cleaner is a popular choice for homeowners, that doesn’t mean it’s the best cleaning device for you and your home. To help you figure out whether this is the right choice for you, let’s take a closer look at seven common benefits that come with a stick vacuum.

1. Smaller Size & Weight

By definition, stick vacuums are smaller, lighter, and easier to move around. Who wants to haul around a heavy vacuum cleaner, especially if you only need to spot-clean a single spill. This is where a stick or handheld vacuum cleaner really excels. When it comes to the size and weight, other types of vacuums can’t even begin to compete.

Most stick vacuums come in under ten pounds, with some models weighing about half that. This is a huge benefit for any homeowner that may have difficulty carrying or pushing around heavier machines, including the disabled or elderly consumers. Their lightweight designs not only increases its maneuverability and ease of use, but it also makes it easier to store when its not in use.

2. Lower Cost

Stick vacuums typically cost far less than their bigger counterparts. There are many reasons for this, but it really comes down to three things:

  1. They use less powerful motors.
  2. They have a compact build that makes them easy to store.
  3. They usually don’t come with a bunch of attachments or accessories.

If any of these seem like cons to you, then perhaps a stick vacuum isn’t the right device for you. Otherwise, you will soon discover that finding one within your budget is extremely easy to do.

3. Great for Quick Cleanups

Had a surprise call from a friend wanting to get together and you feel like maybe you should clean the high traffic areas before they arrive? Did your dog knock over a house plant again? Another great benefit of a stick vacuum is that they are perfect for those quick cleanings between your regular full-on household cleaning days.



4. Easy to Store

One of the most noticeable benefits of a stick vacuum is how easy they are to store. This is especially important to those who live in small apartments or tiny houses.

Much like a robot vacuum cleaner, these take far less room then the more popular canister vacuums, with some models even coming with a wall mount to help you preserve floor space. Because of their compact size and weight they can even be stored high on a closet shelf or inside your pantry where they are less noticeable and out of the way, yet still within quick reach when you need them.

5. Very Easy to Use

For many homeowners out there, this is one of the most important benefits of not only vacuum cleaners in general, but all appliances. And for the record, stick vacuums are incredibly easy to use. This ease is mainly due to the upright and lightweight design, as well as the added technologies that makes cleaning less of a chore and more of a quickly done afterthought. That’s what a stick vacuum can do for you.

Many of these devices have motorized brushes which increase its overall cleaning potential and maneuverability. Some models offer attached containers that make emptying the dust and debris a breeze. Just be sure to empty these containers outside to avoid contaminating your indoor air quality, which is an issue that hits right into the heart of the “bag vs bagless vacuum cleaner debate.”

While the attachments may be limited, most stick vacuums do come with wands that give you easier access to clean places in your home that are hard to reach. Another huge benefit of stick vacuums is their upright build. Often they feature a height adjustable design, which increases proper body positioning during cleaning, as well as protecting your back against unnecessary fatigue and strain.

6. Make Less Noise

Depending on the type of vacuum cleaner you buy, you’ll have to deal with the noise that comes with it. There’s just no way around it… they all make noise. Too much noise, despite the brand or model or type.

Unfortunately, some of those big vacuums not only have the power of a cyclone but they also sound like one too. And nobody wants that in their home.

Whether you have a pet that perceives the vacuum cleaner as their mortal enemy, or maybe you’re just timid of vacuuming at certain times because of disturbing the neighbors or sleeping family members; one of the main benefits of a stick vacuum is that it allows you to get those messes cleaned up and forgotten about with less chance of disturbing anyone in your home.

Most stick vacuum cleaners have a pretty low decibel level. Whether or not the product page that you buy it from states the Db level, for the most part, they are much quieter than than their larger counterparts.



7. Versatility

Another great feature of stick vacuums is their versatility. Most can easily be converted to very light handhelds and some models, such as the popular Dyson V11 Vacuum Cleaner, are completely cordless, running instead on a rechargeable battery.

This not only makes cleaning easier, but gives you the option of cleaning away from an outlet without stringing two or three extension cords. Some models even use HEPA filtration to help keep your air clean and free of the tiny particles that may get kicked up while vacuuming.

Stick Vacuum Cleaners: The Best Choice For You?

Though these vacuums may not be as deep cleaning or as powerful as many other types of vacuum cleaners, there are many benefits to owning one. They are a great addition for quick cleanups and if you live in a tiny house, smaller apartment, or don’t have carpeted floors it is very likely that they could completely take the place of their bigger brothers, making the costly, noisy, and cumbersome vacuum obsolete.

Portable Air Conditioner

How to Clean & Maintain Your Portable Air Conditioner

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During those hot summer months, your portable air conditioner can be the reprieve you need to stay cool. There’s nothing quite like the feel of cool freon on your skin, especially as the mercury starts to soar.

It not only helps cool your living areas, but a portable air conditioner can help save you money on your monthly energy bills. But, like most appliances in your home, a portable AC unit can only do this if you take proper care of the device. If you fall behind on performing basic maintenance, fail to install it properly, or simply get lazy about cleaning the device, your portable air conditioner will struggle to run at its full capacity.

Below, we’ll take a closer look at some of the basic maintenance tips you can follow to keep your portable air conditioner in its best shape (and helping you stay cool for years to come).

Know Where to Install (And Not to Install)

One of the biggest advantages of using a portable air conditioner in your home is that it’s easy to move from room to room. However, where you install it within the room will play a significant factor in how well the air conditioner operates and cools the space.




Tips to Installing Your Portable Air Conditioner:

Whether you’re moving it from room to room, or just installing the AC unit for the first time. Here’s a few things you should consider as you install your portable air conditioner in your home.

1. Avoid Installing in Dusty Areas:

You should never install your portable AC unit in an area that is dirty or dusty. Small particles may start to clog either of the two motors in the appliance, which will eventually lead to further electrical or mechanical problems.

2. Avoid Placing Near Pet Bed:

Much like the dirt and dust, the fur your pet sheds may start to accumulate in the device. Furthermore, if you don’t have a good filter in your portable air conditioner, pet dander may get sucked into the device and possibly compromise your indoor air quality.

3. Do Not Install Directly Against the Wall:

This is very important to keep in mind. In order for your portable air conditioner to work both efficiently and properly, it needs to be at least 12-16 inches away from the wall. This distance may vary from unit to unit, so make sure you read the owner’s manual that comes with the device.

4. Make Sure It Can Drain Properly:

If you’re using your portable air conditioner in a humid room, then the device will pull more condensation from the air, and need to be drained regularly. Most AC units will come with a drain tube that can help remove any liquid, but it would be wise to make sure this is working properly to avoid any mishaps.

5. Use the Right Power Source:

If your power source is not operating on a circuit that can accommodate your portable air conditioner, you run the risk of a shortage or busted fuse. Make sure the circuit can supply 120 VAC. This gives your A/C unit enough power to start up the compressor and fan motors.

You may also consider spending a very small amount of money on an electrical surge protector. This will help you in the long run should you experience a sudden and unexpected power surge.

Keep the Exhaust Hose Short & Straight

A small tip involving the exhaust can go a long way. When you install the hose, make sure it is as short and straight as it can be. This will help prevent excess moisture from collecting inside the hose, as well as mitigate the possibility of moisture rolling back into the air conditioning unit. Water inside your AC unit can cause damage.



Change & Clean the Filters Frequently

As with any room air conditioner or HVAC system, your portable air conditioning unit has at least one filter that should be either regularly cleaned or replaced.

Portable Air Conditioner
Portable Air Conditioner
(Source)

Portable Air Conditioner Unit

Depending on what type of AC unit you have, you may find a pre-filter located on the back of the unit. You should clean this at least once a month with a soft cloth. Do not use soap or any detergents, as those can leave a film and actually increase the risk of a clog.

The reason you need to keep the filters fresh is because as dirt or dust accumulates, it can mix with the moisture inside the unit to form a layer on the coils. This layer will keep the coil from transferring heat from the room to the great outdoors. In essence, it means your unit will overheat and eventually start to malfunction.

There may also be a second filter on your portable air conditioner known as a carbon filter, which serves to neutralize odors. This filter should be changed at least twice a year — if not more frequently — depending on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

How to Store Your Portable Air Conditioner

Unless you plan on running your AC unit year-round, you will need to properly put it to bed during the months you will not be using it. Before you store it away until next season, it is recommended that for homeowners to do the following:

  • Drain the AC unit of any moisture that has collected inside.
  • Put the unit in “fan only” mode on high speed for a few hours to ensure everything inside is completely dry.
  • Use plastic sheeting to cover the unit, which will protect it from dust and other debris.
  • Store your portable air conditioner in a cool, dry place.

Where you choose to store your portable air conditioner is important. If possible, choose an area in your home that is temperature controlled. The last thing you want is for the device to be sitting in extreme temperatures for an extended period of time. If exposed to the elements for too long, you may find that your portable AC unit won’t work properly when you pull it out of storage.

Final Thoughts

By following just a few maintenance tips, you can ensure your portable air conditioner will serve you well for years to come. It’s simple, really. Just make sure you keep it in a place free of dust and debris that could clog up working parts. Clean or change the filters regularly. And, if you’re done using it for the season, be sure to store it correctly so it will be ready to go when the mercury rises again.

Bagless Vacuum Cleaner

5 Benefits of Bagless Vacuum Cleaners

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How a Bagless Vacuum Cleaner Will Benefit You

The idea of centrifugal separation vacuuming has been around since at least the 20’s, but the most recent trend toward this technology, and the bagless vacuum, was the making of James Dyson who introduced his first unit in 1979. They gained in popularity especially in the 1990’s and soon other big name vacuum manufacturers, such as Hoover and Shark, adopted examples of the technology.

What makes a bagless vacuum a good decision?

Most bagless vacuums have much the same options their bagged counterparts including; motorized brushes, all the extensions and add-ons and running lights, but they have some standout characteristics. Below, we have taken a closer look at five benefits that bagless vacuum cleaners have over their bagged counterparts.

1. Less Loss of Suction

You know those times your vacuuming along, really putting a dent in the house cleaning, and you feel that slow dread rising as you realize dirt particles aren’t staying in the vacuum. A kernel of popcorn is sucked away as you pass over it only to be spat back out a moment later. You pull the hose, placing your hand against the end and sure enough, the satisfying slurp and high whine of good suction is not to be found.

Vacuum Cleaner Bag

Does the bag need to be changed? You expose the vacuums guts and tentatively poke at its stomach. It seems only half full. But something has stolen suction, so you pull the bag off the fitting, see nothing, replace it on the post, close it up and start the vacuum again. And suction is back, but still not quite what it is with a brand new bag.

Okay, it doesn’t always happen like this, but I’m sure this has happened to you at least once. Overall bagged vacuum cleaners preform admirably, but we all know that they have a tendency to slowly lose suction as the bag fills.

Bagless vacuums lose far less suction as the dust collection cup fills and often even continue to have good suction when the cup is almost completely full. But there is also less chance of the dust cup becoming completely full; it’s transparent and you know exactly when it needs emptying.



2. Bagless Vacuums Are Environmentally-Friendly

Bagless vacuums are better for the environment. Every bag takes resources to make, takes resources to transport to the store where you will purchase it. Every bag you use and throw away goes into a landfill. It may seem a small thing but when you’re trying to live greener the small things add up.

With a bagless vacuum you are not taking part in the using of those resources and the only thing you are throwing away is the dust and other debris sucked up off the floor. You are not adding to it by throwing away the container too.

3. Satisfaction of Seeing Your Work

There is something very satisfying about being able to look through the transparent plastic canister and see all the dirt and grime you’ve gotten off the floor. Like a salesman working hard to sell the vacuum, you may find yourself running to someone else in the house just to show how much you’ve picked up, how messy the house really was, and pointing out, yes it actually really did need to be cleaned.

Bagless vacuums also make it tons easier to find that jack of Jimmy’s or little Mary’s doll barrette, sucked away in a moment of poor floor scrutiny. There’s no having to cut into a bag to get at lost items, just dump the canister carefully in a trashcan lid and easily fish out the once missing treasures.

4. Easy To Empty

Bagless canisters are also very easy to empty. Usually only requiring a release from the vacuum body and a snap of the bottom or top canister lid. You want to do this over an outside trashcan and as close to the bottom as possible, because all the dust can easily turn into a big cloud if some care is not taken.

This also brings up the point of allergies. Bad allergies may be a good reason to stick with bagged vacuums. But many bagless vacuums now have HEPA filtration built right in and if done carefully and with a little thought these canisters can be emptied with minimal allergic reactions; and, going back to the green point, a single reusable allergy face mask worn when emptying the canister is greener then throwing bag after bag away.

After emptying the canister, you also have a unique opportunity to clean the inside of the bin and perhaps wash/replace the filters. Taking the extra couple of minutes to clean your machine will go along way in keeping it in top working condition.



5. No Fussing with Bags

I know I’ve found myself in the situation where I’m in a cleaning mood. I start vacuuming and realize the bag needs to be changed, so I start searching… where did I put those, in closets and drawers until finally I conclude that I have no more bags, so, an extra trip to the store to get bags. It’s a hassle, at least for those lacking in their organization. With a bagless vacuum cleaner this is just not a worry. When you’re ready to clean, the vacuum is ready to clean.

There is some maintenance with bagless vacuums. The filters need to be cleaned periodically to maintain best performance. Most are easily washable. They will also need to be replaced once-in-awhile, but far less often than you would be buying bags (again the greener part).

There’s also a reason most handheld, stick, and robot vacuum cleaners are bagless, this type of technology is more easily molded into these less conventional vacuum configurations. Not to mention more favorable by consumers.

Conclusion

Regardless of whether purchasing a bagged or bagless vacuum cleaner remember to do some research on the pros and cons of each type. It is important to purchase a well-designed and easy-to-use vacuum. After all, if you don’t like to use the vacuum it makes cleaning that much more of a chore. Bagless vacuums are not inherently better than vacuums that require bags, but they do offer a greener, more hassle-free cleaning experience for those that would like the option.

How to Hire an HVAC Technician

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8 Tips Every Homeowner Should Know About Hiring an HVAC Technician

When your HVAC unit starts to show signs of needing maintenance, service, or complete replacement, it’s critical that every homeowner knows what to do and who to call (or not call).

During the peak of the summer months or in the thick of the winter months, your ability to find the right HVAC technician can make a huge difference on the timeline that is needed in order to fix whatever indoor air problems you may be experiencing in your home.

If you hire the right contractor to service your HVAC system, you will likely get things fixed or replaced without much of a hassle, and be back to feeling comfortable inside of your home in no time. On the other hand, if you hire the wrong contractor, it may make things much more difficult, causing you to have to wait a long time in the extreme heat or the freezing cold for service, pay too much for repairs, or be left without a working HVAC system.

Below, we will lay out eight tips that every homeowner should know to help you find and hire the best HVAC technician to service your unit.

1. Review Licensing Information

Any time you are considering hiring someone to do work within your home, you need to do a bit of research to ensure everything is on the up and up.

The first important thing to check is your HVAC technician’s license number. Your contractor should have no problem sharing his or her license number with you. If not, move on and find someone else.

Once you get the number, it is possible to look up the license and get an overview of past performance. If your contractor won’t provide a home improvement license to you, this is a red flag that you may need to choose someone else.




2. Ask for and Contact Customer References

What you should do next is to ask your contractor for customer references. A reputable company should be more than happy to provide a list of previous clients who can share their experiences with you.

When you start talking to your technician’s customers, make sure you ask about various things such as the contractor’s timeliness, work habits, ability to finish the job and whether or not the price was within the budget. Learning about another homeowner’s experience may help you make a decision about whether or not this contractor can help you in your situation. If your contractor dodges your questions about references, this is another red flag that they may not be the best technician for you.

3. Look at Experience Within the Industry

Ideally, the HVAC service person that you choose should have a lengthy list of experience. Whether or not you choose a team of contractors or a single proprietor, it’s important to go with someone who has a proven record of success with various types of HVAC systems and room air conditioners.

When you’re paying for time and labor, you want to have someone in your home that can quickly diagnose the problem and efficiently make adjustments or repairs. It may not be necessary to have someone who has been around for decades, but at the very least you want to choose a technician that has been in the industry for a few years.

4. Read Online Reviews

You can check the reputation of your HVAC technician by perusing popular websites dealing with businesses or home improvement. What you can do is conduct an Internet search using the company’s name as your search term.

While you should be on the look out for fallacious or untruthful reviews, most of the time online reviews can help guide you to finding and hiring the best HVAC technician. Just make sure that your read over each review in order to make a decision about choosing a contractor to service your HVAC problems.




5. Evaluate the Pricing

One of the most important things to homeowners when they schedule service to their major appliances is the price. What will come out of your pocket is always an important factor to keep in mind.

Either on the company website or through customer references, look at some of the pricing of the various services the business may offer. Companies that are on the lowest end of the region’s pricing may not be the best bet. The highest priced contractors may offer additional services, so be sure to ask.

Keep in mind, while going with the cheapest company isn’t always smart, you certainly don’t want to pay more than you have to. You get what you pay for.

6. Ask About Rebates & Energy Efficiency

When you’re having work done to your HVAC unit, or if you’re going with a brand new system, a reputable company should offer you additional tips and recommendations that can help you make sure your home is more energy efficient.

Part of any routine service for HVAC systems is a complete run through of the little improvements you can make around the house to support the proper maintenance and efficiency of your air conditioning or heating system. Contractors who take the time to show you how to make your home more energy efficient are typically ones you can trust.




7. Make Sure You Get an Estimate

Every reputable HVAC technician should provide a detailed and itemized price estimate of the work that needs to be done. If you don’t get a line-item or detailed information about how much the project or repairs may cost, then you should consider hiring a different HVAC technician.

It is strongly recommended that every homeowner get several estimates from different HVAC companies, as this will allow you to compare costs and make a data-driven decision. Ask about discounts your contractor may offer to help you keep things within your budget. Perhaps there are rebates available for you to take advantage of.

Some technicians may even offer financing opportunities that can help you purchase an entirely new system for your home. This can break down the cost into manageable monthly payments, making it much more affordable.

8. Get Everything in Writing

Once you have made a choice about which company you want to hire, it’s important to get a solid contract written out. Your contract should detail the entire scope of the project along with the detailed pricing.

Go line-by-line and read over everything that your technician presents to you. Make sure you ask any and all questions if you don’t understand something. An HVAC technician understands that most homeowners will have questions, and they expect you to ask. So, ask away before you sign anything.

Putting everything in writing can help you know exactly what to expect, and how much you’re going to pay before the job is completed. When everything has been finished, make sure you get additional information about your HVAC’s warranty and service requirements if you installed a new system.

Keep in mind that the warranty may vary between the manufacturer and the company that installed the devices. Get this in writing.

The Importance of Researching HVAC Technicians

Finding the right home improvement company or HVAC technician is something that can take some time, research, and effort.

If you skip this important step, you’re setting yourself up to getting a lower standard of service, paying much more than you need to or even becoming victim to an unscrupulous company. Being an informed and smart consumer can help you and your HVAC technician know exactly what to expect and provide a more positive working experience for all.

Infrared Heaters: How to Keep Your Home & Save Money

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For many homeowners, winter is a frigid time of year, full of extreme weather and very low temperatures. Unfortunately, the cost of heating your home using your central air can be rather expensive, especially when you think about all the empty rooms that you’re paying to keep warm, yet aren’t using. These extra energy costs can be worrisome for families on a budget or trying to lower their utility costs.

Thankfully, we may have a solution for you. By following a supplemental heating strategy in your home, you will be able to save on your overall energy costs, without sacrificing your overall comfort levels.

Infrared heaters are a great option to help you accomplish this. They are a comparatively inexpensive yet effective way to keep your home or office warm.

How Do Infrared Heaters Work?

In a nutshell, an infrared heater, or “heat lamp,” uses a process called electromagnetic radiation, in which an entity with a higher temperature transfers heat energy to an entity with a lower temperature. While the term electromagnetic radiation might sound scary or dangerous, it is perfectly safe for use when it comes to infrared heaters.

This type of heater actually projects out infrared light, which we humans lack the ability to see. Though it is invisible, things like our skin, clothes, and furniture absorb the light, and heat up.

In general, objects in the direct line of an infrared heater (infrared light projection) heat up very quickly, while surrounding objects will take slightly longer to warm up and raise the overall temperature of the area.

Remembering that infrared heat is actually light, some larger and more industrial versions of these heaters use a type of gold coating on the tube that reflects the radiation. The element Gold has exceptional oxidation resistance, and reflects approximately 95% of infrared light. This effectively doubles the amount of radiation projected outward.




Types of Infrared Heaters

Infrared heaters vary on the type of fuel or energy needed to power them. Most personal infrared heaters are electric, but propane and natural gas-powered are fairly common as well. All of these heaters are extremely efficient, and project nearly 100% of the heat they generate.

Material

This type of heater also varies when it comes to the material used in their construction. Larger infrared heaters are usually metal or ceramic, and are used mostly for commercial or industrial purposes.

Personal-sized infrared heaters can be metal, ceramic, or made of different types of composite plastics that have the ability to withstand high temperatures. Many personal heaters are made with a combination of these materials, with metal being the most common as the reflectivity of the material may help intensify the heat.

Aesthetics & Decor

As far as aesthetics are concerned, rest assured that infrared heaters have made great strides to fit into various styles of interior décor. Recently, many personal versions have been made to look very stylish and complement their surroundings.

Filament

Still, another way to classify different types of infrared heaters is the material used for the filament. The most effective and most common filament material used for the electric-style heaters is tungsten.

Tungsten has the highest melting point of any metal, which means it can stay strong and withstand extremely hot temperatures.

Alternative filament materials used for lower-temperatures include various alloys of iron, carbon aluminum and chromium. Carbon filament in particular is becoming more popular among personal infrared heaters due to its ability to heat up very quickly.

What Are the Benefits of Infrared Heaters?

Making the decision to use an infrared heater comes with several advantages over central heating, as well as other types of space heaters.

  1. Fast, safe, directed heating.
  2. Silent: They just radiate light.
  3. No reduction in oxygen or humidity levels, which can dry out skin and sinuses.
  4. Infrared heat promotes healthy blood circulation.
  5. No UV radiation.
  6. No pollutants or toxic by-products.
  7. No long fuel lines, open flames or carbon-type combustion.
  8. Extremely efficient and inexpensive to operate: Almost 100% of the heat created is transferred.
  9. Very little maintenance – No moving parts, no motor to wear down, no air filters or lubrication required.



Are Infrared Heaters Safe?

Although infrared heating is considered to be safe among consumers and professionals alike, they still emit heat and can be extremely hot at very close ranges. This means caution should always be exercised if the heater is operating around children or pets.

Much like any other type of heater, proper safety precautions should always be followed when operating. This would include avoid leaving your heater on when you go to bed or leave the room for an extended period of time.

It’s also worth noting that this type of heat can be started and stopped very quickly, as it is literally switching a light on and off. This may be considered to be a safety feature for some homeowners.

Lastly, remember that infrared heating is largely directional and focused. A rise in ambient temperature within a living area may take some time to occur, due to surrounding objects absorbing the light and heating up.

Why You Should Consider Using One

When it comes to using a personal heater to keep you and your family warm, you have many choices to choose from. And for the most part, they will all work great at achieving its purpose. Infrared heaters are a great choice because they require very little maintenance and are extremely quiet.

The heat they produce is gentle, cost-effective and very energy-efficient. You are guaranteed to stay warm and save money with this type of heater.

Steam Mops vs. Steam Vacuums: The Pros & Cons

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What is a Steam Cleaner?
What Are the Benefits of Using Steam to Clean?
The Pros & Cons of Steam Mops
The Pros & Cons of Steam Vacuums
Which One is Best for You?

A decade ago, having a steam cleaning vacuum or a mop that was fancier than a stick with dreadlocks was pretty much a dream for your average homeowner. Over the last few years, however, an influx of technological advances and new features have created a wide variety of steam cleaning devices that have completely revolutionized the way we clean our homes.

We now not only have budget-friendly steam cleaners available to the average consumer, but we have choices between different types. For the purpose of this article, I’d like to focus on the differences between steam mops and steam vacuums. Weighing the pro’s and con’s of these two popular types of steam cleaners will give you the opportunity to make the best purchase for you and your family.

So, before you rush out and buy the first unit you come across, let’s take a closer look at the benefits, disadvantages and the differences between steam mops and steam vacuums. But first, let’s take a step back and review what exactly a steam cleaner is, and why every homeowner should own one.

What is a Steam Cleaner?

As the name suggests, a steam cleaner uses steam to clean your floors and carpets, mainly, but can also be used to clean your clothes, curtains, and a whole host of other areas and objects in your home.

On a personal note, as a father of an infant, my handheld steam cleaner is the easiest way to sanitize the toys my teething son loves to chew on. So, you may very well be surprised at what all you could clean with a steam cleaner.



What are the benefits of using steam to clean?

Let’s go over five of the most obvious benefits of using a steam cleaner to clean and sanitize your home.

  1. Hygienic Cleaning:

    Steam and the heat it produces can kill around 99% of the germs, bacteria and parasites that may be lurking around your home. That means that whatever surface you steam clean is completely disinfected and sanitized. More so than could ever be achieved by a vacuum or swiffer alone.

  2. Kills Almost Everything:

    Not only does steam kill germs and bacteria, but it can also kill pests and insects. This would include the microscopic pests you probably don’t even realize are there, such as dust mites. The steam is hot enough to kills ants, ticks, fleas and other common household pests. If you’re using a steam vacuum, it kills the pests with the steam, and then sucks up their remains.

  3. Chemical-Free Cleaning:

    The steam cleaners only use steam to clean and sanitize your homes. While some models may allow you to add chemical cleaners, they are not necessary to kill off the germs and bacteria that may be contributing to your dirty home. Maybe it’s just me, but the less chemicals used in my home, especially on the floors where my kids play, is nothing but a good thing. Not only does this help you clean your home, it helps establish a safer environment for your children and pets.

  4. Works Quickly / Saves You Time:

    Not only does the steam soften up the hard-to-clean stains, it also allows you to clean those trouble areas quicker and more efficiently. If you were to use a swiffer or traditional mop, you’d have to wait for it to dry, and possibly, re-clean areas that you may have used chemicals on.

  5. Air Purification:

    While this seems like a stretch, because of the filters that they use, some steam cleaners actually help clean the air as you clean the floors. While this is a benefit, it should be noted that an air purifier is still the most effective method at cleansing the air in your home. But, a steam cleaner can help supplement the air purification process, as can certain houseplants.

Bottom-Line:

The bottom-line here, is that a steam cleaner is a great way to safely and efficiently clean your home, especially the floors. But, you still have to figure out which type of steam cleaner is best for your situation. So, let’s now take a look at the differences between two of the most popular versions — steam vacuums and steam mops.

Steam Mop: The Pros & Cons

A steam mop is a common household appliance that helps you clean your carpets and floors without the use of harsh chemicals. Unlike a traditional mop that requires soap and detergents to clean the floors, steam mops utilize the heat of steam to sanitize, clean and disinfect the floors. Because the device uses steam, it is able to kill approximately 99% of the germs, bacteria and dust mites that may be on your floors, as well as clean up the dirt and grime that may be noticeable.

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of steam mops to give you a better idea of what you can expect to get out of it.

The Pros:

  • No Bucket Required:

    Cleaning with a steam mop eliminates the need to have a container filled with water. The old-fashioned method of mopping would require a bucket of soapy water and a dirty mop that you would need to wring frequently. This is not the case with a steam mop. Simply fill up the canister with water and you cleaning your floors has never been easier.

  • Save Time & Energy:

    Piggybacking on the previous pro listed above, working with a steam mop will save you time, energy and, ultimately, help cut down on the fatigue you may experience while doing these necessary chores. Not only is a steam mop easier to use, it’s more sanitary and efficient than a conventional mop.

  • Environmentally Friendly & Healthier Home:

    Because a steam mop uses intense heat in the form of steam, you don’t need to use any chemicals to achieve a hygienic cleansing on your floors. Whereas, with a traditional mop or swiffer, you will need to mix detergents, bleach and other potentially dangerous chemicals to achieve the same level of cleanliness. And then follow-up with clean water, if you don’t want those chemicals lingering around.

  • Lightweight:

    A steam mop is a compact, small and lightweight appliance. While the sizes and shapes will vary from model to model, they are typically smaller than steam vacuums and/or a traditional (non-steam) vacuum cleaner.

  • Easier to Store:

    Because of its smaller size, a steam mop is very easy to store when not in use. It’s compact, lightweight dimensions allow you to store it in many areas of your home. Even those with little storage space available. The same cannot always be said about vacuum cleaners, whether they use steam or not.




The Cons:

  • Not Multi-Surface Friendly:

    Steam mops are typically designed to clean hardwood and tiled floors only. There is a myth out there that you cannot clean carpets with a steam mop, but that’s merely a myth. You may need to purchase an extra attachment or accessory, but there are many steam mops out there that can clean both carpets and hard floors. However, you cannot clean as many areas in your home as you can with a steam vacuum cleaner, including furniture, curtains and other upholstered items. At least, it’s not an easy task to accomplish.

  • Extra Prep Time:

    In order for you to get the most effective clean with your steam mop, it is strongly recommended that you sweep the floors before you start to mop. Unfortunately, this will increase the amount of work you have to do to achieve clean and sanitized floors.

  • Doesn’t Get As Hot:

    A steam mop gets the water/steam hot, however, the water does not heat-up as hot as other types of steam cleaners. Again, this will vary from model to model, but if you can’t achieve that necessary heat, you will have a slightly harder time achieving the same level of cleanliness that you could get with other types of steam cleaners.

Bottom-Line on Steam Mops:

The steam mop is a fantastic choice for anybody that is addicted to “swiffering” their floors. While they are designed for hardwood, tiled and laminate floors, there are plenty of models out there that can help you clean your carpet as well. Not only does its smaller size make it easier to store, it’s also easier to maneuver than its steam vacuum counterpart. And, on average, steam mops come with a lower price tag. It’s certainly better than a traditional mop, but depending on what all you want to clean, it may or may not be the best steam cleaner for your situation.

Steam Vacuums: The Pros & Cons

A steam vacuum, sometimes referred too as a steam vac, is basically a vacuum cleaner that has an extra feature that utilizes steam to help it clean and sanitize your floors more effectively than just vacuuming alone. Depending on the model that you get, it’s possible that you can clean more than just your floors, instead using it to clean your furniture, drapes and other upholstered furnishings in your home.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of steam vacuum cleaners.

The Pros:

  • Multi-Surface:

    Steam vacuums can be used on a multitude of surfaces, including carpet, wood floors, tiles, furniture, curtains and other upholstered furnishings in your home.

  • Multi-Dimensions:

    Just as it can be used to clean all sorts of surfaces, steam vacuums can also be used to clean both horizontally and vertically, which makes it useful when cleaning walls, windows and cars.

  • No Prep:

    Unlike other types of steam cleaners, it is not necessary for you to sweep the floors before you use it. The vacuum will suck up the dirt and debris, allowing the steam to clean and sanitize the floor. This not only saves you time, but also provides a deeper clean.

  • Environmentally Friendly:

    You don’t need to use any chemicals or other potentially dangerous substances on your floor. The steam will kill off 99% of germs, bacteria, insects and microscopic parasites that may be living on your floors.

  • Self-Contained:

    You don’t have to hook this appliance to your kitchen sink in order for it to drain. It has its own water tank contained on the device. The size of the tank will vary from unit to unit, and is something that should be taken into consideration when shopping.




The Cons:

  • Bulky:

    Even though steam vacuums get smaller and sleeker as the years go on, they still tend to be a bit bulky. Depending on the model you get, and the surface you are trying to clean, this bulkiness may make it a little more difficult to maneuver.

  • Expensive:

    When compared to a regular vacuum cleaner or a steam mop, a steam vacuum will likely be more expensive. This “con” is a bit anecdotal, as the prices will range based on the brand, model and features of the unit. But typically, they tend to have a higher price tag.

  • Noisy:

    Just like your average vacuum cleaner, a steam vacuum can be a bit noisy. At this point, the louder noise is expected with this type of cleaning appliance.

  • Hard to Store:

    Because of its large and bulky size, a steam vacuum may be hard to store. Again, this “con” is dependent on the size of the model you own and the amount of space available in your home. It may not be an issue for you, but is something that should be taken into consideration.

Bottom-line:

A steam vacuum is great for people with a variety of flooring, including a large amount of carpeted area, in their homes. It can thoroughly clean any flooring type, and do so without any previous prep work from you. It’s also a great device to help you clean other areas in your home, such as furniture and curtains.

Unfortunately, the bulky size may make it difficult for some to use and store. All in all, steam vacuums are extremely handy to have around, but may not be the best fit for everyone.

Steam Mop or Vacuum: What’s Right for You?

As you consider which steam cleaner is best for you and your situation, you have to think about what you plan on using it for. Do you have a lot of carpets to clean? Maybe that means a steam vacuum would be better for your household. Do you only have one room with carpets and the rest are laminates? Perhaps the mop would be better suited for such a household.

The fact of the matter is that both the steam vacuum and the steam mop come with their own set of pros, cons and uses. You have to consider your budget, what you need to clean, how often you would use it and how much time you would be able to focus on cleaning. These factors will all affect which type of steam cleaner is right for you. In the end, it is up to you, so you have to get what you think you will be happiest with.

Keep in mind, steam cleaning is a great way to really kill germs, pests and bacteria on your floors, not to mention help remove stuck on stains and other residue. If you’re consider getting a steam cleaner, make sure you weigh the pros and cons of the vacuum or the mop, and get whichever is right for you. Don’t rent another steam cleaner.

6 Ways An Extra Freezer Can Save You Time & Money

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How an Extra Freezer Can Save You Money

Economic inflation is causing the price of food to skyrocket and families are looking for ways to reduce their monthly expenses in order to maintain the quality of life they have become accustomed to. One way that consumers can combat the ever-rising cost of food prices is to invest in an extra freezer.

Whether you have a chest freezer in your garage or an upright freezer down in the basement, the extra space you’ll gain to store your frozen goods will bring many benefits to you and your family.

Here are six reasons why having another freezer in your home is a practical investment that will not only save you time and money, but also promote a healthy lifestyle for you and your family.

1. Save Money on Grocery Bills

The average person goes grocery shopping one to two times a week. While there is nothing wrong with this, those frequent trips to the grocery store can quickly add up.

Having an extra freezer in the home will encourage you to take an in-depth look at your shopping habits and tweak them. By tweaking your shopping habits, you can save hundreds of dollars every month on groceries, without having to use coupons. You can also save more money on gas since you will not have to drive to the grocery store as often.

Extra Freezer Can Save You Money

2. Purchase Food in Bulk

Purchasing food in bulk quantities means that you can purchase better quality food for a cheaper price, or just save more money on the food you would’ve normally bought. Most importantly, meats and cheese have a lower price per unit when they are purchased in larger quantities.

By dividing your bulk food purchases and preparing them in advance, you will not have to go to the grocery store as often. Purchasing food in large quantities also gives you the flexibility to purchase food only when it is on sale to save additional money. Purchasing food in bulk sizes makes it easier to store and prepare meals in advance.




3. More Storage Room

The average person has a limited amount of storage space for their food. Less space means frequent trips to the grocery store. Frequent trips can actually put a significant dent in your budget, because there is always the risk of waste due to purchasing more food than you can immediately use.

With an extra freezer inside of your home, you will have enough freezer space to store your groceries. You can purchase large quantities of meats, fruits, and vegetables and freeze them for future use.

Common ways to store freezer foods include:

  • Place pre-measured portions of cut up vegetables and meats into a storage bags and containers for future oven and crock-pot meals.
  • Label all foods with the date they are placed into the freezer for storage.
  • Use small containers to prevent freezer burn and preserve quality.
  • Always cool hot foods prior to freezing them.

4. Better Time Management

One reason why so many people avoid cooking is that they simply do not have the time or energy to do so. With an additional freezer in the home, one can prepare meals in advance and freeze them. If you happen to have a free day such as Sunday, use that day to prepare your meals for the rest of the week.

Once the meals are frozen, you can pull a meal out each day and heat it up in the oven while you handle other tasks. It is not necessary for one to be in the kitchen the whole time their meal is cooking. Preparing your meals in advance will give you time to deal with other things and give you more personal freedom.

This will also help put an end to any impulse grocery shopping and restaurant trips.




5. Reduce Food Waste

How much food do you throw away each month? Have you ever noticed that some of the food you are tossing in the trash has not been touched since it came from the supermarket?

Have you noticed that wasted leftovers are a frequent occurrence in your home? Your lack of time and frequent trips to the grocery store cost you money that you don’t have to spend.

Instead of resolving to be a savvier shopper, start using an extra freezer in your home. That freezer will keep you from throwing away so much food each month, and keep you from having to repurchase items anytime soon. Leftovers can be frozen for future consumption. By freezing your meats, fruits, vegetables, and leftovers, you gain more time to use them.

Standard Times for Frozen Foods Include:

  • Ground meats can last up to three to four months in the freezer.
  • Cooked meats can be frozen up to four months.
  • Different cuts of meat can last up to a year in the freezer.
  • Fruits and vegetables can last as long as eight to twelve months in the freezer.
  • Soups and stews can be frozen anywhere from two to three months.
  • Cooked leftovers can be stored in the freezer for as long as two months.

6. Incorporate More Healthy Foods Into Meals

Prepackaged and processed foods may seem like they are convenient items to add to your grocery bill, however they cost more money and often have unhealthy ingredients. This can cause you to become dependent and addicted to certain foods, although they hold no nutritional value for you and your family.

Encourage healthy eating habits by purchasing healthier foods. Purchase fresh fruits and vegetables in bulk when they are in season, and freeze them for use throughout the rest of the year.

Save Time & Money with an Extra Freezer

It doesn’t matter what type of freezer you use, having this extra appliance can be a real life-saver for you and your family. From reducing waste to helping you prepare meals in advance to saving you time and money, there’s no doubt that having an extra freezer is guaranteed to improve the quality of your life.

Swamp Cooler

Swamp Cooler FAQs

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Affordable and energy efficient, swamp coolers are a great way to drop the temperature in your home, without spending the money on a new air conditioner. They don’t use any chemicals or refrigerants, all it needs is water to help you feel cooler.

While this all may sound great, evaporative air coolers are not the right fit for everyone or every home. Only some homeowners will benefit from using a swamp cooler inside their home, and even then, it is hardly ever a suitable alternative to other types of air conditioners.

Frequently Asked Questions

To help you determine whether this is the right fit for you, we’ve compiled the most common questions that homeowners have when it comes to this type of air cooler.

  1. What Is A Swamp Cooler?
  2. How Does A Swamp Cooler Work?
  3. Does It Lower the Ambient Temperature?
  4. What’s the Difference Between a Swamp Cooler & Air Conditioner?
  5. What’s the Difference Between an Evaporative Cooler & Air Fan?
  6. What is the Best Environment to Use a Swamp Cooler?
  7. Can I Use One If I Live In A Humid Climate?
  8. Will a Swamp Cooler Help Cool a Garage or Workshop?
  9. What Size Swamp Cooler Do I Need?
  10. How Do You Clean A Swamp Cooler?
  11. How Often Do You Refill the Tank?
  12. How Often Do You Replace the Cooling Pads?

What Is A Swamp Cooler?

A swamp cooler is an appliance that uses the evaporation of water to help cool the air stream and add humidity back into the air. They are particularly useful for anyone living in arid climates.

Other names for these devices include:

  • Evaporative coolers
  • Wet air coolers
  • Desert coolers
Back to all FAQs

How Does A Swamp Cooler Work?

This type of air cooler utilizes the principles of evaporative cooling.

A swamp cooler is really just a simple contraption that uses a fan to suck in hot air, typically from the outdoors, then pushing the air over a number of wet “cooling” pads.

As the hot air passes over these pads, the liquid water turns into vapor, which is then pushed out of the unit, and into the air inside your home. Once the vapor starts to circulate into the air, the added moisture will extract the heat from the air, helping the ambient temperature feel cooler.

How An Evaporative Cooler Works

Photo Credit:   Kool-Down Evaporative Air Cooler

The dry air temperature cools during the evaporation process. This is the same method that the human body uses to cool itself down. When we get hot we sweat and the sweat evaporates which lowers our body’s temperature.

Because of this it’s important to use only in hot, dry climates. For optimal performance, only homeowners that have humidity levels below 50% should use a swamp cooler inside their home.

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Does It Lower the Ambient Temperature?

A swamp cooler will help make the temperature feel approximately 5°-15° lower in the area within close proximity to where it is located. However, they will not lower the overall ambient temperature in the room.

This is a common misconception and important for homeowners to understand prior to purchasing an evaporative cooler. Unlike an AC unit, you will not feel a significant drop in temperature, nor will you be able to control the temperature with any sort of precision.

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What’s the Difference Between a Swamp Cooler & Air Conditioner?

The most notable difference is the method in which they each cool the air that is being circulated within the room.

An air cooler uses water, cooling pads and an internal fan to increase the humidity within the room, whereas an air conditioner uses a compressor and refrigerants that can rapidly cool the air.

While they may have similarities and are both intended to cool a room, it’s very important to understand that they each utilize a distinct cooling method and are not a one-for-one replacement.

Portable Cooling Confusion

The similarities are noticeably obvious when it comes to portable air conditioners. Because of how similar they are in shape, size and design, not to mention they each have “portable” in their name, it’s very common for homeowners to confuse these units with portable evaporative coolers.

Unfortunately, they operate very differently, and this has left plenty of homeowners both confused and disappointed with their purchase.

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What’s the Difference Between an Evaporative Cooler & Air Fan?

A fan uses rotating blades to create a current of air but has no real effect on the temperature or humidity within the room. All it does is circulate the air around you. It may feel cooler when you first feel the air circulating around you, but this is due to the “wind chill effect” that it creates and will be temporary, at best.

Whereas, an evaporative cooler utilizes an internal fan to help circulate air, but also goes one step further by using a set of wet cooling pads to help recreate the evaporation process by adding a bit of moisture to the air.

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What is the Best Environment to Use a Swamp Cooler?

Due to the evaporative nature of how they operate, swamp coolers are best used in hot, dry climates where the temperature is high, and the humidity levels are low.

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Can I Use One If I Live In A Humid Climate?

This is not recommended. If your home is located in an area with a humid climate, then it would be unwise to use a swamp cooler inside your home.

Not only will they be ineffective at cooling, but they will just add unnecessary amounts of moisture to the air. As a result, the excessive humidity levels inside your home will cause more issues and lead to poor indoor air quality.

If you live a humid climate, the better choice would be to use an air conditioner for cooling the interior of your home. However, depending on your location and the fluctuating temperature, there may be certain times in the day that you could use a swamp cooler to help supplement your air conditioner.

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Will a Swamp Cooler Help Cool a Garage or Workshop?

Yes. An evaporative air cooler can be a great choice for cooling your garage or workshop. Due to the large doors and poor insulation, you are less-likely to experience the negative effects of too much humidity.

Ironically, it’s because of these same reasons that garages often don’t have an air conditioner. As a result, a swamp cooler could be the ideal choice to provide cooler airflow, especially on those hot summer days.

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What Size Swamp Cooler Do I Need?

Once you’ve made the decision to purchase an air cooler, you need to determine the right size unit. Air coolers are measured by cubic feet per minute (CFM). This is the measurement used to determine the amount of air that will be circulated each minute.

How to Calculate CFM:

Figuring out the CFM is pretty easy and shouldn’t take more than a couple of minutes. Here’s the steps you will take.

  1. Determine the square footage of the room.
  2. Multiply the room’s square footage by the height of the ceilings.
  3. Then divide that number by 2.
  4. This is your suggested CFM for that room.

For Example:

To illustrate how this works, we’ll be calculating the amount of CFM needed to cool a room with 150 square feet and 9ft. tall ceilings.

  • Room Sq. Ft — 150 square feet
  • Ceiling Height — 9 ft
  • 150 x 9 = 1350 / 2 = 675 CFM

In the example above, I would need to find a unit that has a minimum of 675 CFM.

If the CFM falls in between units or you have an odd-shaped room with lots of corners, you would want to purchase an air cooler that is slightly larger. If it is too small will have to worker harder to keep the area cool and waste energy doing so.

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How Do You Clean A Swamp Cooler?

A swamp cooler will follow a similar cleaning process as a humidifier. Any part of the device that gets wet, needs to be cleaned and sanitized on a regular basis.

To ensure proper cooling and the prevention of mold or mildew, the tank and cooling pads should be cleaned with soap and water at least once every 7-10 days. Allow all parts to dry thoroughly.

This will prevent dust, dirt, and mildew from building up. Cleaning the unit regularly is especially important if you are using the air cooler for long periods of time.

External – Cleaning the outside of the air cooler can be done periodically by simply wiping it down with a damp cloth.

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How Often Do You Refill the Tank?

This depends on many factors, ranging from how you are using the device to the brand/model itself. Generally speaking, you should not have to refill the tank for at least 4-6 hours.

Refilling Swamp Cooler Tank

Below, are a few considerations that will play a role in how long your tank will last before it needs to be refilled.

  • How big is the device?
  • How / where often are you using it?
  • What is the temperature of the room / surrounding area?
  • What is the relative humidity of the room / surrounding area?
  • What is the insulation like in the room it is being used in?

Depending on how you answered the above questions, you to help you determine whether or not you can use your swamp cooler in a more efficient manner.

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How Often Do You Replace the Cooling Pads?

This depends on how you are using and caring for the device. If you clean your swamp cooler on a regular basis, then your cooling pads will last for quite a while.

As the summer season sets in and you prepare to use the evaporative cooler for the first time, inspect the pads to make sure that they have no damage. If you notice any cracks, then they will need to be replaced.

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Do you have a question about evaporative air coolers that you didn’t see listed here? If so, leave it down in the comments below.


Robot Vacuum

Robot Vacuums: Are They Really Worth It?

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Robot vacuum cleaners have really taken off in the last few years and it’s fairly easy to understand why. With their ease of use and practical, hands-free action, homeowners are discovering the many advantages of purchasing this type of vacuum cleaner. But, are they really worth the higher cost? Let’s take a look at some of the benefits you can expect from using one.

What Are Robot Vacuum Cleaners?

Robot vacuums are an autonomous device that is designed to clean carpet, tiles and hardwood floors of all dirt and debris, much like other types of vacuum cleaners. The main difference of robotic versions is their ability to minimize the amount of work hat homeowners need to do.

Upon their release in the late ’90s, robotic vacuums initially struggled with homeowners. However, after two decades of innovation and the continual rise in Smart Home devices, robot vacuums have never been more popular.

In recent years, there is no denying their spike of interest from homeowners, partly because they’ve become more affordable, but mostly because they’ve become more efficient at accomplishing their intended purpose — cleaning your floors without requiring you to put in much work.

Roomba Vacuum Cleaner

Pictured: iRobot Roomba 980 Vacuum (with Wi-Fi Connectivity)

The Benefits of Owning a Robot Vacuum

If you’re currently looking to buy a vacuum cleaner, you would be doing yourself a disservice by not considering a robotic vacuum. To help you determine if this is the right device for you, let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits you can expect to receive from a robot vacuum.

1. Easy To Use

Perhaps the number one benefit of owning a robot vacuum cleaner is that they are extremely easy to use. Once the machine is programmed for a given space and the timer is set for a predetermined start time, the product virtually runs itself. Simply place the device on the floor in an appropriate starting spot and you’re good to go.

In addition, many models have been refined over the years to be self-regulating and nearly foolproof, meaning mishaps are becoming more and more unlikely as the technology evolves. That means you don’t have to worry about your vacuum malfunctioning or becoming stuck on a surface.

2. Incredibly Efficient

Today’s robot vacuum cleaners provide multiple tasks. They not only clean, they remember the layout of your space, are able to dump the dirt they collect, and then find their way back to the charging station.

Some higher-end models have advanced sensors and are also able to transition between bare floors and carpeted areas without manually switching settings. Other allow you to control them through a smartphone app.

The methodical, back-and-forth or circular motion of the machines also ensures that every inch of a floor or space is covered, which translates to a more thorough cleaning overall.

ECOVACS Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

Photo Credit: ECOVACS Robotics

3. Saves You Time

It is a universal experience that everyone’s lives have become increasingly busier in the 21st century. Indeed, multi-tasking has become paramount to, and part of, modern-day existence. One of the most desirable benefits of robot vacuum cleaners is that you don’t have to be present when the vacuum is operating.

Simply turn it on before you leave the house and it will do all the work for you while you’re out of the house. Therefore, time not spent manually vacuuming can be spent working, relaxing, playing with your kids, or doing whatever your heart desires. Indeed, the old adage that time is money certainly applies to this product as well.

4. Works on Different Surfaces

Another benefit of the robot vacuum cleaner is that it works on multiple types of surfaces, from carpets to wood floors to linoleum to concrete.

As mentioned, higher-end models are able to transition between different types of surfaces during the same cleaning cycle. With other models, you simply change the setting, place the product at a designated starting point, and set the programmer and timer as usual.

5. Detects All Levels of Dirt

Along with working on all types of surfaces, autonomous vacuum cleaners are able to tackle all types of dirt as well. From dust that has barely settled to deeply-embedded debris in your carpet, the vast majority of these vacuums are designed with increasingly powerful suction capabilities, despite their compact size.

Using built-in sensors, the machines also can detect the amount of cleaning required in different situations and will repeatedly go over an area until it is clean. This level of detail when it comes to cleaning is unmatched in other similar products.

6. Sets Boundaries

Another advantage of robot vacuum cleaners is their inherent ability to perform in — and only in — a given space that they are programmed for.

For instance, if you have children playing in another room while the product is operating, you can set virtual walls in the programming function to prevent the machine from going across doorways and other openings. Likewise, if you have pets alone at home while the machine is operating, you can easily limit the scope of the machine so it won’t frighten them.



7. Small, Compact & Easy to Store

A robot vacuum is much smaller than an upright or canister vacuum cleaner and, as such, can easily be stored in just about any space — in a closet, under a bed, or wherever you have room. This makes the product ideal for any homeowner that has limited storage space or is trying to downsize their belongings.

These smaller vacuums can also be easily transported from one location to another because of its size. You don’t need to clear out your trunk or borrow somebodies truck to move it from one place to another. As an added benefit, the small, low-slung nature of the product means it can get under furniture and reach areas that a regular vacuum cleaner cannot.

8. Makes Housecleaning Go Faster

Because a robot vacuum cleaner is self-sufficient and self-operating, it is an ideal product to help you maximize the amount of time spent on housecleaning.

Indeed, while your robotic vacuum is doing its thing on your floors, it frees up your time to work on cleaning other areas of the house. Working in tandem, you’ll be able to significantly cut down on the time it takes to clean your house. And, the result of more efficient cleaning is that you’ll be more likely to clean your house more thoroughly more often.

9. Ideal Solution for the Handicapped & Elderly

People with mobility issues, such as the elderly and handicapped, can truly benefit from owning a robot vacuum cleaner.

With its ease of use and hands-free operation, a robot vacuum cleaner can be a liberating product for this demographic, who would otherwise be forced to hire house-cleaners at a much greater expense. In addition, the money saved that would otherwise be spent on doing so makes this a product worth investing in.

Another alternative to consider that offers similar benefits would be a stick vacuum cleaner.

10. Economical and Cost-Efficient

Because robotic vacuum cleaners have been on the market for a number of years, both the price and features have improved significantly, and continue to improve as the years roll by.

The good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a decent product that does the job right for your particular needs. Starting at approximately $150, with high-end models running upwards of $1,000 to $1,500, there is something for everyone’s budget when it comes to this type of product.

Takeaways

When considering the reasons why you should buy a robot vacuum cleaner, the previous ten benefits should be at the top of your list. If you can see your life improving with 8, 5, or even 1 of the benefits outlined, then purchasing a robot vacuum cleaner is worth it and then some. For efficient and effective cleaning power, a robot vacuum cleaner is becoming the hands-down choice among many homeowners, businesses, and commercial establishments alike.