Home Remoding - Cleaning and Repair

Best Commercial Pressure Washer: 2018 Reviews and Buying Guide

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When it comes to cleaning efficiently, doing it manually is certainly not a smart option.

Even a hosepipe is not the best route to gleaming surfaces. They waste water and don’t really get the job done to a high standard.

The market today is filled with pressure washers in all shapes and sizes. These cleaners simply pump water then shoot it through a nozzle onto a dirty surface. While the premise is simple, the results are first-class.

Today, we’re going to report our findings on some more heavy-duty cleaning appliances.

So…

If you’re on the hunt for the best commercial pressure washer, read on to discover the market-leading units most suitable for larger jobs. If you want to do more than give the decking a quick once-over, these commercial and professional washers are just what the doctor ordered.

We started off our testing with 10 products but whittled them down to the top 5.

Our object here is to make your life easier and nobody wants to go through too many very similar products.

Head directly to the reviews if you have an idea what you are looking for. If not, we’ll first walk you through some basics about pressure washers and what to look for when buying one.

Pressure Washers: Terminology

Before we get started with a glance at these nifty cleaning powerhouses, there are 3 simple terms that you need to be familiar with:

  • GPM: Gallons Per Minute
  • PSI: Pounds Per Square Inch
  • CP: Cleaning Power

GPM

Flow rate is most commonly quoted in GPM.

The greater the flow rate, the larger an area you can clean in a given time.

If you are looking for a commercial pressure washer and you want to complete as many jobs a day as possible, opt for a high-GPM machine.

PSI

The pressure of the unit is measured in pounds per square inch or PSI.

Most pressure washers fall in the range of 1000-3500 PSI. Commercial pressure washers are at the higher end of the normal range and often exceed 4000 PSI.

The figure relates to the pushing force. In reality, the true force on the surface is also influenced by the nozzle you’re using and the distance of the nozzle from the surface.

CP

Cleaning power (CP) is sometimes referred to as cleaning units.

This figure is arrived at by multiplying GPM and PSI.

The CP of your unit gives you an indication of the volume of work you’ll be able to carry out.

Why Use a Pressure Washer?

Before we show you what to look out for when you’re buying the best commercial pressure washer, why use one in the first place?

You Save Time

This is perhaps the key selling point for commercial pressure washers.

Whether you need to clean up on a construction site, in a concrete business or in any other commercial setting, time very firmly translates to money. You cannot afford to take all day on a small cleaning job.

In addition to speed, you’ll also eliminate much of the bending and stooping needed if you’re cleaning with a hosepipe.

In terms of efficiency, a garden hose normally gives just 8 GPM at a modest 60 PSI. This gives 480 cleaning units. Most commercial jet washers will use far less water while delivering way more cleaning power.

If time is of the essence and you need a large volume of cleaning done briskly and efficiently, it’s time to upgrade to a commercial pressure washer.

You Can Save Money

The first saving is in the amount of water you use. With a pressure washer, you’ll actually use far less water than if you were trying to clean up with a standard hose pipe. So, not only will you get the job done quicker, it will cost you less into the bargain.

Depending on the scope of jobs you have in mind, frequently cleaning surfaces can extend their lifespan significantly. Not only will you make short-term savings, you can also keep those savings rolling in.

Get The Job Done More Thoroughly

As well as time and money, there’s one other element that counts: results. It’s futile getting a job done rapidly and cheaply if the quality is lacking.

The bottom line is that a pressure washer will ensure that whatever you clean ends up absolutely sparkling.

So…

The choice is yours…

Use hot, soapy water and the best commercial pressure washer or spend hours on end scrubbing away by hand.

  1. Now we’ve looked at why you should invest in one of these ingenious devices, what should you look for when you’re buying one?

We’ll break down now some of the most important considerations to help you on your way.

What To Look For in a Commercial Pressure Washer

Engine

For the purposes of this article, we’ve disregarded electric powered pressure washers. They are perfectly fit for most residential jobs but for commercial purposes, there’s no substitute for a gas-powered jet washer.

Engine size is given in cubic centimeters (cc) and the power is labeled in HP or horsepower.

The larger the engine, the more power you’ll have at your disposal.

190cc engines, often Honda, are fairly standard for a commercial unit.

Think about the reliability of an engine rather than focusing purely on the raw power available. There’s no sense in buying something with more performance than you need but it’s equally pointless to sell yourself short.

Pumps

Entry-level machines use a wobble pump which is the least effective type of pump. These are not repairable and impossible to replace. They are only of much use for light and irregular cleaning.

Regular commercial pressure washers use an axial cam pump. This is an acceptable mid-range pump but certainly not the best option. They will last 2 or 3 times longer than a wobble pump, though.

Triplex plunger pumps are superior and most of the more expensive commercial washers come with this variety. Lasting up to 10 times longer than an axial pump, these are essential if you’ll be using your jet washer all day every day.

Hot or Cold Water?

There’s no argument that hot water cleans better than cold. You don’t do the dishes with cold water or use cold water in the dishwasher do you?

With hot water pressure washers, room temperature water is heated to more than 60 degrees thanks to an onboard heating coil or burner.

The downside of these hot water cleaners is that they will cost much more than their cold counterparts.

Think carefully about exactly what you will be demanding from your washer and buy accordingly.

Variable Pressure

You will get at least some degree of pressure regulation with a commercial washer.

For maximum versatility, look for models with a pressure dial allowing you to control the PSI output in line with the jobs you have in mind.

Nozzles/Spray Tips

Nozzles or spray tips allow you the flexibility to adjust the pressure and area covered.

Here are the main options you’ll have to choose from:

  • O° – Red and used to deliver a very fine jet of water
  • 15° – Yellow, a high performance nozzle
  • 25° – A multipurpose green nozzle
  • 40° – Perfect for sensitive surfaces, use this white nozzle for delicate cleaning
  • 65° – Black for low pressure applications with detergent

Whether you want to use a wider spray to get rid of mold and mildew or a sharp and concentrated jet tip for no-nonsense blasting, a decent range of spray tips give you all the flexibility you need.

Hoses

Hoses come in many lengths and widths. The materials used for connectors also varies along with the way in which they connect.

¼-inch diameter hose is good enough for normal residential cleaning while most commercial washers have 3/8-inch hose. This uprated hosing is designed to cope with the increased flow rate on professional cleaners.

Plastic hose, often reinforced, is perhaps the most common. You pay considerably more for a polyurethane hose but it is far better.

Look also for hoses that are built to be resistant to kinking and bending. A good hose is worth its weight in gold.

Detergent Tank

Many larger commercial pressure washers can accommodate a detergent tank on board.

This is a superb time-saver. You will not need to smear the detergent over the surfaces you want to clean.

Think about how you will be using your jet washer and how important this feature is to you. If it’s something you can’t live without, be prepared to dig a little deeper.

Attachments

Various attachments make your life even easier.

If you regularly need to clean large areas in a hurry, shoot for an attachment with a pair of rotating nozzles set inside a round unit.

A brush attachment is great for agitating any solid dirt without worrying about using too much pressure.

As with all attachments, don’t get hung up on numbers. Think instead about those which will be of genuine use and hunt for a washer that delivers these for you.

Budget

Price should always be a factor in any purchasing decision but it should not be the only or even the deciding factor.

Think about overall value for money and how this will benefit your business in the long-term.

There’s no point in overspending or putting yourself in financial jeopardy but don’t underspend either.

Fix a budget and buy in line with this. Getting this in place before you start your research will narrow your search and help you to focus on the most appropriate models for your needs.

Commercial Pressure Washers: Our Top 5 Reviews

1. SIMPSON MSH3125-S Gas Pressure Washer: 3100 PSI at 2.5 GPM

Topping our list of the best commercial pressure washers is the Simpson MSH3125-S, also known as the MegaShot.

The capable Honda GC190 engine is powerful enough for commercial duties. Honda engines have a reputation for seldom letting you down. Performance alone is not enough. You need something reliable. This is especially important if you are using your washer in a commercial setting where time is money.

You’ll get an impressive flow rate of 2.5 GPM with water pressure of 3100 PSI. That’s enough water at adequate force to take care of the messiest jobs in no time.

The MegaShot is a really user-friendly unit. We found the instructions clear and easy to follow.

It does kick off some noise which is understandable. The relatively compact nature of the MegaShot means that sound is muted to some extent and it’s not intrusive.

The lightweight hose is built to resist kinking and can withstand pretty rugged conditions.

There are 5 different nozzle tips:

  • O°
  • 15°
  • 25°
  • 40°
  • Soap

Build quality is first-rate. With a welded steel frame built to last and pneumatic wheels fit for even rough terrain, the MegaShot is both portable and dependable. The weak point to watch out for over time is the axial pump. Expect to replace this every couple of years.

If you choose to use the MegaShot at home, be extremely careful. The water pressure is such that you’re best to keep it well clear of your car. If you choose to clean your vehicles, be careful and use the 20° or 40° attachment which will dial back the pressure slightly and increase the spray area.

The MegaShot works well on a range of floors from wooden through to marble or tiles. Windows, fences, garden furniture, roofs… Imagination is your only limitation with this pressure washer. It’s a highly versatile piece of kit.

One snag with Simpson is that parts tend to go missing. Check carefully when you receive your package. They’ll make good but you need to chase it up.

You’ll get a 2-year limited warranty which lets you buy with peace of mind. The pump is covered for 1-year while the frame has a 5-year guarantee. This package shows the faith Simpson place in their products. Let’s face it, the manufacturer doesn’t expect to lose out with these guarantees. They know their products generally perform admirably.

Overall, if you’re looking for a combination of performance, reliability and affordability, the MegaShot takes some beating.

It’s our pick for the best commercial pressure washer 2018

2. SIMPSON PS4240H Gas Pressure Washer: 4200 PSI at 4 GPM

A much more expensive option is up next, the Simpson PowerShot. While this is by no means cheap, think of a pressure washer like this as an investment.
Like the MegaShot, this Simpson is also powered by a highly efficient Honda GX390 commercial series engine. PowerBoost technology means you fire it up by simply pushing a button. As with all Honda engines, you’ll be rewarded with the utmost reliability. Since it’s commercially rated, you’ll also have ample power for your cleaning needs.
An excellent engine feature is the oil alert system. If there is insufficient oil, the engine will shut itself down preventing any damage from occurring.
Flow rate is a generous 4.5 GPM. The PowerShot delivers 4200 PSI which is more than enough pressure for even the grimiest commercial cleaning project.
One of the drawbacks of many commercial jet washers is that the power comes at the expense of maneuverability. Although it packs a considerable punch, the PowerShot is not too unwieldy and works well on a variety of surfaces.
With 13-inch pneumatic tires, you can move this washer around the job site even if the ground is uneven.
A negative across the board with gas-powered pressure washers is the noise they make. The PowerShot is certainly not quiet. It’s difficult to make yourself heard when the engine is on. Think about how and where you’ll use your washer and decide how important the noise factor is to you.
You’ll get the same 5 nozzle tips as with the MegaShot:

  • O°
  • 15°
  • 25°
  • 40°
  • Soap

The soap nozzle is very useful for cleaning stubborn areas. The other options cover all main bases. A siphon tube makes applying detergent a breeze.
All commercial washers need to be rugged and built to go the distance. With a heavy-duty welded steel frame, steel axle and engine plate and bulky pneumatic tires, the PowerShot will run all day long without letting you down.
The hose has quick connectors for your convenience. This is also steel braided for maximum durability.
You won’t lose your accessories thanks to the handy onboard storage. Keep the spray gun, nozzles and hose tucked safely away.
The AAA triplex plunger pump has pistons coated with ceramic. Much of the success of a pressure washer rests on the pump and the Simpson will not disappoint.
In the event of any problems, you’ll need to pursue engine-related problems with Honda. With everything else, Simpson will handle things for you efficiently if anything goes wrong. There’s a limited 1-year warranty but this doesn’t cover the engine. The warranty can be extended at extra cost.
If you need a solid and effective commercial pressure washer from a brand you can trust, the Simpson PowerShot is well worth popping on your shortlist.
We ran into no problems at all testing it and found it to clean to an extremely high standard. From wood and decking through to tiles and marble, the PowerShot hits the spot. If you want to churn through your cleaning duties double-quick, think seriously about this Simpson.

3. Karcher G3000OH Gas Power Pressure Washer: 3000 PSI at 2.5 GPM

Karcher have a well-deserved reputation for producing top-notch appliances at an affordable price-point. Although it could hardly be labeled cheap, it’s certainly not expensive for a commercial pressure washer.
Karcher have a very simple strapline for their cleaning equipment: “Cleaner. Quicker.” That says it all, really. When we put this pressure washer through its paces, it impressed us with the speed and effectiveness.
You’ll get the same GC190 Honda engine as you find on the Simpson MegaShot. This develops 187cc which is more than enough juice for even ambitious cleaning jobs.
Water flow rate is 2.5 GPM with a pressure of 3000 PSI. The overall cleaning power comes out at 7500units which is more than enough for most normal projects. To put these figures into perspective, it’s more than 50 times as powerful as a regular garden hose.
The axial cam pump comes with a brass head. This offers a superb combination of performance and consistency.
The hose gives you more than enough room for maneuver at 25 feet. This should allow you to clean everything you need without needing to unplug and find another power outlet.
There’s no variation on the standard 5 nozzle tips bundled with most pressure washers:

  • O°
  • 15°
  • 25°
  • 40°
  • Soap

Onboard storage keeps everything you need close at hand.
Setting this pressure washer up is a pain. Once you have struggled through attaching the hoses, things get easier. Start-up is a breeze and operating it is equally as simple.
No pressure washers are silent but, for a commercially-rated machine, the Karcher is fairly restrained in the noise department.
Maintenance is something you need to take into account. You’ll need to winterize it for best results. This is particularly important since Karcher do not supply spare parts and if you do not winterize it, they will not accept responsibility for any faults. Check out this guide to winterizing your pressure washer.
10-inch pneumatic tires could be bigger but are still adequate for moving this pressure washer around the job site. At 75 pounds, it’s not light so make sure you are confident working with this kind of weight.
You’re covered by a 2-year limited warranty for both pump and engine. This means you can buy with confidence knowing Karcher has your back.
If you are in the market for a jet washer that gets the job done fast and fuss-free without costing you a fortune, you can’t go far wrong with this Karcher. Check it out today and get all those cleaning jobs out of the way.

4. Generac 6565 Gas Pressure Washer: 4200 PSI at 4.0 GPM

Generac has a great track record and they’ve been in the game since the 50s. They consistently offer first-class products without charging the earth.
This manufacturer puts out a broad range of pressure washers and the 6565 is at the lower end of the range in terms of power. This is also reflected in a competitive price tag.
Just like the Simpson PowerShot, you’ll be rewarded with an ample flow rate of 4.0 GPM. Pressure is a highly notable 4200 PSI. These figures give you more than enough power for even awkward cleaning projects.
You can tweak the water pressure by turning a dial. Massive power is all well and good but not all jobs are equal. If you need to exercise a lighter touch, this feature is welcome.
The shutdown feature brings things to a halt if you are running out of oil. This is a nice touch that can save a costly breakdown.
The triplex pump is the best option and it is built to last. These last much longer than axial pumps and are better suited to commercial units.
The same 5 nozzle tips give you a wide choice of spray angles:

  • O°
  • 15°
  • 25°
  • 40°
  • Soap

These type of pressure washers are regularly used on construction sites. The jumbo pneumatic tires dampen down vibration and allow you to move the bulky unit around with relative ease.
With a welded steel frame and integrated holster, the Generac is strong enough to go the distance.
Often, manufacturers needlessly cut the hoses too short. Nothing could be further from the truth with the Generac 6565. You’ll get an exceptional 50 feet of steel reinforced 3/8-inch hose that won’t bend or kink and will keep going for years.
Since this kind of commercial cleaner is designed for prolonged use, it needs to be comfy. With a soft grip on the adjustable handle, you can work for extended periods without blistering your hands. We found it extremely comfortable to use.
Although it’s not a small piece of equipment, the handle folds down to at least minimize the amount of storage space required.
There’s a full 3-year limited warranty from Generac which means you don’t need to stress about things going wrong.
Whether you’re looking for a pressure washer to handle all your household cleaning tasks or you need something for business purposes, the Generac 6565 is a keenly-priced option that delivers comparable performance to much more expensive alternatives.
Instructions are concise, it’s easy and comfortable to use and it’s equipped with all the power you need for even the filthiest cleaning jobs. What more could you ask for?

5. SIMPSON 95000 Mobile Gas Pressure Washing System with 7 Foot Trailer: 3200 PSI at 2.8 GPM

We’ll round out our commercial pressure washer reviews with a real beast, once again from the industry giant Simpson.
The 95000 is a mobile unit coming on a 7-foot trailer. This is absolutely not a cleaner for everyone.
It’s not for light home use. If, on the other hand, you have the budget to stretch to it and want a true sledgehammer of a jet washer, the 95000 is worth looking into…
Don’t be fooled by the fairly pedestrian flow rate of 2.8 GPM and the restrained 3200 PSI. This machine is no lightweight and is ideal for contractors and resort work.
If you are looking for something with a little more grunt, there are several other models available at considerably more cost. Think carefully about your needs and buy the most appropriate washer for the jobs you have in mind.
With a 5.5 HP commercial engine from Honda, the GX200, you’ll get more than enough power to keep you cleaning all day long. Oil alert prevents you from running on when the level is too low for comfort.
The 50-foot 3/8-inch hose allows you to roam around and clean even large areas without needing to hunt down a new power supply. This is crucial if you are working outside in larger spaces.
The water tank holds an incredible 100 gallons and it’s got steel straps for security. This tank will add almost 900 pounds in weight to the trailer when it’s filled to the brim.
The trailer comes with LED lights and a metal license plate holder so you’ll be good to take to the road without putting yourself in danger.
You’ll get 6 nozzle tips rather than the usual 5.

  • O°
  • 15°
  • 25°
  • 40°
  • 65°
  • Soap

Regular pressure washers are designed to perform a range of applications. This commercial unit, on the other hand, has one core purpose: to get the job done as swiftly and efficiently as possible.
Although it looks like an unwieldy set-up, getting up and running couldn’t be easier. Pull away within 100 feet of your working area. The spray gun and steel wand connect to the pressure hose in an instant. Press the button to fire up the engine and let the highly pressurized cold water do the work for you.
If you have a concrete business or a similar large-scale operation that demands regular and rapid cleaning, opting for this comprehensive commercial pressure washer from Simpson could be the best investment you make all year.

Conclusion

We very much hope this guide has simplified your hunt for the best commercial pressure washer.
Whether you need to clean up on a large scale at home or at work, sometimes a regular cleaner is just not man enough for the job.
Invest in one of these heavyweight commercial cleaners and you’ll get the job done in no time without straining yourself.
Get in touch with any feedback or questions you might have. We love to hear from our readers and we’re here to help any way we can.
If there are any products you’d like us to look into testing, just contact us here.

How to Remove a Coffee Stain From Carpet

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Nothing wakes you up in the morning like a hot cup of your favorite coffee! But sometimes the morning rush can lead to accidents, and your morning coffee just might end up all over the carpet! Don’t worry, this guide will give you some useful tips on cleaning up a coffee stain from carpet.

As with any other spill, you want to act fast. Getting as much of the spill soaked up is your number one priority, so grab a rag or some paper towels and start blotting. Resist the urge to scrub, this can make it worse. You want to gently blot, so as to avoid damaging the carpet fibers or spread the spill.

Next you want to flush the area with cold water. Then using a clean towel or wash cloth, continue blotting. The goal is to dilute and absorb as much of the coffee as possible before it has a chance to set in.

Next we want to mix up a carpet cleaning solution. Add 1/4 cup of lemon juice to two cups of warm water. You can also add a little liquid dish-washing detergent or powdered laundry detergent as well, just make sure it is a non-bleach detergent. Another option is to use 1/3 cup of white vinegar to 2/3 cups water.

Next you want to apply your carpet cleaning detergent directly to the affected area using a spray bottle. Using a damp towel, begin to blot the area. Make sure you start from the outside and work your way in. Keep repeating, making sure to move on to a clean unused area of the towel. After you have removed the coffee stain, rinse the area with clean water. Apply cold water using a spray bottle to mist the area where the coffee spill was, then using a clean damp towel to blot.

After the coffee stain has been removed, use a clean dry cloth or towel to blot up as much moisture as possible. Then place a dry towel over the damp area and place something heavy like a large phone book over the top, keeping it there until the next day. This will ensure that any wicking that occurs during drying will transfer to the towel. If after these steps you still have a remaining stain on the carpet, call a professional carpet cleaning company like  SteamPro Carpet Cleaning in Jefferson City MO. A professional carpet cleaning company SteamPro Carpet Cleaning will be able to use the best methods of carpet cleaning and stain removal. Continue reading our blog for more carpet cleaning tips.

Selecting From Above Ground Pool Covers

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Owning a pool is a substantial investment that must be protected and cared for. Surprisingly, this process is relatively simple by purchasing numerous inexpensive products and services as well as regular scheduled routine maintenance.

Pools are exposed to numerous elements including weather, debris, and miscellaneous other factors that deter from the aesthetics of the pool as well as the water quality. While your pool is not in use, it is imperative to keep it covered to retain the integrity of the safe swimming water while ensuring your pool remains protected from falling debris and other severe elements that expose the pool to damage.

Above ground pool covers have become extremely advanced in technology, design, color, and shape. While this generally lowers the overall cost of pool covers, it can create a confusing consumer experience which could result in needing help with the purchase. This article will provide that help while uncovering the unique characteristics of pool covers and why each is beneficial for your above ground pool.

When should I use a pool cover?

There are many reasons why one would want to use an above ground pool cover. One of the most important reasons is for those that have small children.

A child near a pool unattended or without your knowledge is extremely dangerous. Even if the child can swim, falling in the pool unintentionally could cause severe harm and even death to your child. Keeping your pool covered at all times when not in use is crucial to the safety of your children. Also, one should use a pool cover every time it is not in use when they do not use the pool terribly often.

When used regularly, the water temperature is much more regulated and consistent for a more enjoyable and consistent experience. If not used terribly often, the water temperature could become extremely cold or hot which creates a horrible swimming experience.

Benefits of an above ground pool cover

One of the most advantageous aspects of an above ground swimming pool is during the winter months.

The winter months often leave your pool extremely unused which leaves the water exposed to the cold weather.

Winter pool covers are very thick and durable which are usually comprised of vinyl or rubber and keeps you pool free from mud, dirt, leaves, cold (freezing water), and snow. The winter months often wreak havoc on water quality which creates unnecessary costs associated with having to have it retreated prior to use during the warmer months.

Above ground pool covers are also beneficial in keeping out rodents and insect. Surprisingly, many people overlook this benefit as they feel rodents and pests will not go into the water.

Indeed, most rodents and insects will not survive in your pool; however, this does not mean they will not enter you pool without your knowledge or wanting. Cleaning the water from such pests could be an extremely unsavory event which could drastically deter from your enjoyment of your above ground pool.

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Installing a Duct Fan Instead of Adding a Second Air Conditioning Unit

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Why did we add a duct fan to our house? The has a second floor that includes an office, a bathroom and what we call the craft room. During the summer months, it was always too hot and during the winter months it was always too cold.

We had a new HVAC system installed in our house last year and had the unit sized to provide enough air flow to heat and cool the entire house. The problem turned out that when the house was built, the initial contractor made some glaring mistakes.

We had ducts that did not go anywhere and/or were not sized correctly for the air flow required. When the new air conditioner was put in, that was all fixed except for the duct going to the second floor.

The twelve inch supply duct was not large enough. The twelve inch return duct was okay.

We figured out that there simply was not sufficient air flow in the twelve inch duct to keep the rooms upstairs as cool as the rooms downstairs. We had to take into consideration we were only trying to heat or cool 450 additional square feet of floor space or 3600 cubic feet.

To the right is a picture of a duct fan.

There were three solutions:

  • First, install a second system to supply the second floor only. This solution cost several thousand dollars and we would have a higher electric bill.
  • Second, install a new circuit controller board in the unit and add zone controls. Add a zone damper switch to switch the air supply from the first floor to the second floor. Think of this as a big valve to switch the air flow between the two floors. This would cost several thousand dollars.
  • Third, put a duct fan in the riser duct to pull more air upstairs. The cost of a duct fan at most would be several hundred dollars.

We decided on the third choice of using a duct fan.

The Choice Has Been Made

After careful shopping around and getting all kinds of advice, some of it good and some of it bad, I found the configuration I wanted.

One of the suggestions was to install some adapters in the 12 inch duct to expand the duct size to 14 inches. “This will give you more air flow”. It would have given 1600 cubic feet of air per minute (“cfm”). I did want some air to stay downstairs so I did not take that advice.

I finally found a 12 inch duct fan on the internet that would pull 975 cfm with the electric current draw of 65 watts or .80 amps which is the range of a light bulb. Therefore, it is energy efficient. Other fans I looked at moved less air and had higher current usage.

The final deciding factor was the amount of heat the unit could withstand before breaking down. After all, I will be installing this in the attic.

Some units could only be used at temperatures below 130 degrees. The unit I chose was the only one that stated “this unit is certified to work at temperatures up to 257 degrees F and is rated for continuous duty”.

That was the clincher. Most of the time when the air is on, the house stays around 78 degrees. However, there are times when the unit is off and no one is home. I know the attic gets hot and I did not want any problems.

How I Installed the Duct Fan

Here is all that was required to install the duct fan.

  • Slice open the supply duct before it went into a supply distribution box. The distribution box supplied the four registers feeding the upstairs area. This was a 12 inch duct, so inserting a 12 inch fan was not a big deal.
  • I cut into the flex duct and pulled the Mylar and fiberglass material back.
  • I checked for the air flow direction arrow on the side of the fan to make sure I did not have the fan facing the wrong direction. Then in it went.
  • The duct fan itself is just a hard galvanized metal tube with the fan mounted in it and two wires hanging out through a plastic grommet. I mounted a standard metal electrical box to the side of the fan housing that will allow me to connect all wiring in a protected enclosure.

NOTE: I really hate to see wires loose and just connected together. Also, the National Electrical Code requires it.

    • The next step is to reattach the supply duct to the fan. Once again slide the Mylar liner over the outside of the fan housing and tape it using Foil Sealant tape, mastic tape or butyl tape. All these tapes are a metal faced tape with a soft foam lining to seal the tape to the duct. It is really sticky stuff and it works great!

Make sure you seal everything as you do not want any air leaks.

    • Then cover the entire assembly with more duct insulation to keep all air passing through the ducts and not leaking out. If any air leaks out, you can have condensation on the outside of the fan housing. This water can drip down and ruin your ceiling.NOTE: I use foil tape with a fiberglass reinforced lining. I also use a foil tape for sealing joints and seams against moisture and vapor on foil jacket insulation.NEVER use the gray cloth tape as it is not rated for this type of usage.
    • After the electrical work is completed, the last remaining piece of insulation will be sealed around the fan.

Notice the two blue plastic conduit pipes. This blue plastic conduit is called Smurf tubing by the electricians. Wonder where they got that name?

As a temporary measure to see if everything worked, I wired the fan motor to an extension cord and plugged it in. Immediately, there was cool air in the office area. Within the hour, the temperature was the same on both floors.

Success!

Now, let us make this permanent. I installed a 4×4 electrical box on the craft room wall. It was equipped with an auto/manual override switch and a variable speed motor control.

An air pressure switch was installed in the riser duct to automatically turn the fan on or off when the air conditioning unit turns on and off downstairs. The objective is to have fully automatic action with minimal electrical usage.

Most of this Project

The total cost to install the duct fan and the controls was less than $200.

The window air conditioner unit on the second floor will be removed this weekend. We will have to wait and see how much our electric bill will go down?

Galvanized Pipe – Watch Out for the Rust!

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old water galvanized pipe was used in older homes. The original thought was that it did not rust like traditional black iron pipe. What later was discovered was that it will and did rust from the inside out.

You have seen the pictures of the plaque/cholesterol that builds up in our arteries. Look at these pictures and I’m sure you will agree the pipe looks a lot like the artery pictures.

The oxygen in the water reacts with the iron in the pipe and then POOF, there is a build up. An easy way to identify this problem is turn on a faucet where the water has not run for a while. IF a blast of red water runs out with some loose pieces of rust, there is rust in the pipe.

How bad is this problem? It really depends on how old are the pipes. The older the house, the more deposits will be inside the pipe.
We all depend on good safe clean water for our survival. The rust (iron oxide) is a common problem and not anything to be overly concerned about. The biggest difference is the amount of time it will take you to take a shower, fill up a glass of water or fill your washing machine.

The inside diameter of the galvanized pipe will reduce the flow of water proportional to the size of the blockage. Sounds like an ad for cholesterol medicine doesn’t it?
The only method I ever heard of to fix this problem was to replace the galvanized pipe. A chemical cleaner may remove the rust. It may also eat the metal away and then you will have leaks to fix. Or, it may clean out the pipes for a short time just to start rusting again.

Replace the pipes if this is a problem.

A good plumber can manage this without destroying the inside of your house. Expect the cost to be more than your average plumbing job.

Now the choice becomes copper pipe or plastic pipe.

    • Discuss the options carefully and do not focus on just the cost.
    • Compare the prices of at least three reputable plumbers and see what their guarantee is.
    • Then lock one into a time table with time/performance guarantees. I really hate it when a contractor starts a job, then leaves to start another job and treats my job as if it was a part time project. I also have deadlines to have a project finished and if they are not met they cost me money.

Remember, once you find a good plumber, keep his name and tell all your friends about him.

Cool, Useful Tools and Gadgets for Today’s Handyperson

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I personally have had experience working with all of the tools below. Some, in my opinion, were really bad and some exceeded my expectations. Check them out by clicking on the links below.

Tools

Air Flow Gauge or Thermo-Anemometer

This is to measure air flow through the home HVAC ducts.

The air flow gauge or Thermo-Anemometer is a neat tool. It measures the amount of air flow coming out of a HVAC duct to see if the unit is functioning properly.

The display unit is digital and can be programmed for metric or English measurements such as cubic feet per minute (CFM), kilometers per hour (KPH), knots, miles per hour and temperature displays. The other piece is a vane sensor that looks like a propeller in a cage. A cable connects the two units together.

To use the air flow gauge, you simply program the size of a register in the house. You enter in square feet into the unit, set a location and measure to air flow using that parameter.

For instance a 4 inch X 8 inch register or 32 square inches will be entered as .22 square feet. Here’s how I came up with the .22 square feet. 12 inches x 12 inches is 144 square inches and that equals one square foot.

Then I divided the 32 square inches, which is the register size, by the 144 inches. This calculates as .22 square feet.

By using this method, it samples the air flow and calculates what the air flow would be through the entire register opening.

Electronic Measuring Devices

Here are some electronic measuring devices I have used and I tell what I think of each of them.

Bosch Compact Laser Distance Measure, 120-Feet GLM 35

Stanley STHT77425 TLM30 Pocket Laser Distance Measurer, 30′

A Measuring Tape

A measuring tape. There is more than just one kind. There are mini tapes that will measure up to 3 feet. Then there are large tapes that can measure up to 330 feet or 100 meters with a wide variety of choices in between.

Also, there are two different base units you can choose. There is the standard and most common method where you pull the tape out and push the retaining button to keep the tape extended. Then there is a measuring tape made by the manufacturer, Komelon USA, that stays out until the button is depressed then it retracts.

Do you have more than one measuring tape? Here we examine the variety of measuring devices there are on the market.

For anything beyond 330 feet, there is a Rolatape measuring wheel. This device is great for measuring longer distances up to 99,999 feet (almost 19 miles). The wheel is 15 1/4 inches in diameter or 4 feet in circumference. A pin hits the counter mechanism with each foot it rolls clicking off the distance covered. It is really good when you want to measure larger distances. As for usage around the home, it is not practical unless you have acreage and you want to measure what you have. This is also not a substitute for a survey.

We move on to the ultimate measuring device called a NuMetrics NITESTAR. This electronic device connects to the electronics and mechanics in your vehicle. I had this device in a Ford Bronco when I was doing outside plant engineering years ago. It made the work go much faster in any weather. This device was replaced by a GPS based system that took most of the experienced labor out of the field

One great invention I have found as an add-on for the measuring tape is the Tape-Dolly. See the pictures below. It was given to me by one of my roofing contractors. This is really useful if I am trying to get an accurate measurement of a roof or any sloped surface. The tape will cooperate and slide straight up to the ridge, rolling over obstacles along the way.

So the next time you are in your big box or browsing the web, check out some of the different measuring devices there are on the market.

The Moisture Meter

Moisture meter. This device determines how much moisture is in a piece of wood. Here is a SONIN Moisture Test Meter model 50211. I have used this device to determine whether I want to buy a piece of wood or not while in the store.

For framing work, the maximum desired moisture is 14% or less. Above 14%, the wood will warp when the relative humidity drops. This usually is not desirable. If you are building furniture, the maximum amount should be 7% to 9%. The main usage is to determine if a surface can be painted, sanded, stained and sealed or will it warp.

It also helps you determine the depth of the moisture. For instance, is the test area simple surface mold or does the problem go much deeper. If the probe penetrates the wood easily, expect to spend more time and money to fix the problem.

This moisture meter is also a very useful tool if you are not sure if that dark stain on the drywall is a shadow or a water leak from behind the wall. Also, it is useful to determine if the dark place on a brick wall is a stain or the brick is just wet.

I once found a water leak using my meter in a chimney cap that showed water was leaking down behind the bricks. I then used DryLoc to seal the crack which prevented future repairs.

Electrical Meters

Here are my ideas about electrical meters. A simple volt-ohm meter is without a doubt, the most frequently used item in my electrical testing equipment inventory. The volt-ohm meter I most frequently use is a P3 P4400 Kill A Watt Electricity Usage Monitor. This particular meter is almost twenty five years old and still reliable. It is the extra heavy duty model that is designed to withstand severe usage. It should be carried in the manufacturers plastic case to protect the meter and the test cables.

There are many uses for electrical test equipment like the meters above to help resolve problems fast and save you some money. Of course if you do not have an understanding of electricity, do not do this yourself. Call a professional!

Drywall Tools

Here are good drywall tools for when you are doing any kind of drywall work. Without a doubt, a good mud pan and 6’ knife are the best buys followed by 10” knife. Do not get the cheap stuff. One of my 6” knives pictured here is over 30 years old.

How about a plastic tool for opening those 5 gallon mud or paint buckets? Cut the tabs on the lid then insert this tool and the lid simply pops off with much less effort. This tool really saves your fingertips.

If I am putting up outside metal corner beading, this is one of my drywall tools I cannot do without. It is fast, efficient and really makes the job a snap.

For dry-walling an inside corner, try this tool as it does both sides at the same time. It is so much faster and easier than trying to get the job completed with a regular drywall knife.

When applying drywall tape, everyone has their own preferences. I prefer to use the tape dispenser as I can get the correct length I need. I then drag it through the mud pan and apply to the wall. This one works great.

Mixers, what a selection! Here are just some of the one’s I have. These will mix anything from drywall compound to paint. Just hang on to the bucket when you insert the mixer as sometimes the bucket will start spinning and throwing the contents everywhere. Sorry I do not have any pictures of this.

These are only some of the specialty drywall tools I have. If there are any particular tools you are interested in, drop me a line. Contact Us link

Gadgets

Garage Door Opener Remote – The Fingerprint Keyless Entry Pad

I found this really cool garage door opener remote that uses biometrics technology while I was in Sears the other day. It was in the hardware department of course! They had it on display.

It doesn’t have any buttons or codes to enter. Instead, it uses your fingerprint to open the garage door. Now in all honesty, these have been around for a while. So what was different? It was the price. It was only $39.95. Normally, these are around $120.00. That was $80.00 off the regular price. I could’t pass up that big a discount. I bought it. The name of it is the Craftsman EntryEase Fingerprint Keyless Entry Pad.

This device uses a biometric sensor to read your fingerprint and then it takes the appropriate action to either open or close the door. It can support up to four users. Two screws mount the device to a wall on the outside of the garage and a slide cover protects the mechanism from the elements.

Installation of this garage door opener remote is really simple. Get the package open and take the unit out. This is the hardness part! Mount the unit to the frame of your door or any convenient location. Mount one screw to the wall, slide the unit down and mount the other screw to the top of the unit.

Here is what you do to program the unit. Slide the door up. Run a finger across the unit three times as directed in the instructions. Open the side light cover to the garage door opener and push the purple button. A green LED should come on.

Go to the new garage door opener remote and run your finger across the sensor. The green LED should go out and the door should close. You cannot get much easier than that.

NOTE: If you do not have a purple button on your garage door opener, it will not work.

The unit only works with Sears or Chamberlain openers with the purple wire hanging down and uses 315 Mhz frequency. The old frequency of 390 Mhz that everyone used in the past was taken over by the military after 9-11. Keep in mind that if you live near a military installation, your garage door opener may not work correctly.

The garage door opener remote that uses our fingerprint to open. No more codes to remember.What will they think of next.

HVAC Duct Problems

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I recently had a HVAC duct problem at one of my rental properties. My tenant called and said the AC did not work. Over the years, I have developed a plan of action where I first make contact with the occupant before sending out a service repair person. Most of the time, I find the electricity is off or the thermostat is set too high. Usually, it is something very minor and certainly not worth a service call.

This time, when I arrived, the AC unit was running, but the house was still hot. So, I called the service repair person. He went out to the house and found the unit to be working correctly and, of course, sent me a bill for the service call.

A couple of days later, the tenant called again and said “it is too hot”!

So, I went back to the house and it was the same thing. The unit was running, but the house was hot. Here is a picture of the unit that set outside.

NOTE: This house has vinyl double glazed windows, all brick construction, 12 inches of insulation in the attic and 8 inches of insulation under the house. The outside temperature was in the 90’s. This house should have been cool.

I called the AC service person again. This time, he disconnected the heat strips just to make sure they were not energized. Then, he looked under the house thinking a HVAC duct may be open. Instead of the duct being open, he found the drain from the washing machine had split and he would not go under the house until the problem was fixed and the water was removed. So we had to take a break from the AC problem so the plumber could take care of the drainage problem.
When the AC serviceman came back, he crawled under the house and again found no open ducts. He found no problems at all.

The house was still hot! The AC serviceman made the suggestion that the only area he could not check was where the ducts go from the unit to the crawl space. At this point I was starting to see red! I needed resolution to the problem.

I noticed the air flow out of the registers from the HVAC duct was not very good. The temperature was cold, but not much air flow.

I have a commercial building construction background and every time we would build a call center, an equipment room or an office space, I remembered the HVAC people would measure the air flow coming out of individual registers from the HVAC duct. They would cover the register with a blue canvas cloth that had a metal frame. It had a meter on the side that would indicate the exact amount of air flow.

So I went hunting on the web to find something that could do the same job measuring air flow. I found an air flow meter on e-bay.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

In the meantime, I went back to the house and removed the metal cover that protects the ducts from the house to the unit. As you can see in the picture, this space is really packed with HVAC duct work.

Close examination revealed that both the intake and the return ducts were pulled away from the metal adapters going through the foundation. It was unusual as this area is not easily accessible. It was almost as if the unit had been picked up and pulled away enough to separate the ducts then shoved back in to place. I never saw that before.

I then removed the old ducts and repaired any openings in the collars and attached and sealed the flex ducts back together without any openings. I put everything back in place, fired the unit up, and hallelujah, we had cold air.

Several days after I fixed the leaks in the HVAC ducts, the air flow gauge I ordered on e-bay showed up. I went back to the house and measured the air flow. It was much better.

The air flow gauge is one slick tool. It is a two piece unit called a Thermo-Anemometer.

For those of you who want more information, here is a floor plan showing the values at every register.
The intake registers 910 cubic feet per minute of air flow in. The outlets total 827 cubic feet per minute output. The difference is how the ducts are designed and how much resistance there is in the ducts. My local HVAC tech thinks the unit was working at 90.7% air flow efficiency, this is considered good.

Greenboard and Cement Board

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Greenboard is a material used on bathroom walls and is known by several names, including several trademark names.

They are:

  • drywall,
  • sheetrock,
  • gypsum board, and
  • plaster board.

There are several generic names used by local contractors based upon the area of the country. In this discussion we will just call the material “drywall”.

The picture to the right is of a bathroom being updated from the 1950s by putting greenboard on the walls.

Drywall was developed as a replacement for lath and plaster construction.

This was a method wherein:

  • the studs were covered by wood lath strips nailed to the 2x4s and spaced a half inch or so apart;
  • covered with wire mesh;
  • covered with a brown coat of plaster – this is the foundation for the wall; and
  • then a smooth thin white final coat of plaster was applied.

The finished product looked good, but took several days to cure.

This was a time waster as the worker had to wait for the material to dry. Sometimes there were multiple coats of plaster to get the desired degree of finish. Some of these coats could make the wall several inches thick.

Then along comes drywall to solve that wasted time problem. I have literally seen a wall go from studs to finished product in the same day with fast drying mud compounds.

And if the work is completed correctly, the outward appearance will be very similar.

There are four basic types of drywall.

  • the basic paper wrapped for the vast majority of wall coverings;
  • greenboard or MR for moisture resistant drywall. (NOTE: moisture resistant NOT water proof);
  • Type X or fire rated or resistant, typically 5/8” thick and the newest, paperless drywall; and
  • Georgia Pacific brand name is DensArmor Plus. This is a glass mat surface front and back and is the ideal replacement for greenboard.

Drywall is available in ¼”, 3/8”, ½” and 5/8” thickness.

  • ½ inch is the most common size and usually the least expensive;
  • Type X is typically 5/8” and is always used in commercial buildings and should be used between floors in multi-story houses to slow the spread of the fire between floors. Depending on which part of the country your home is in, you may or may not have this material installed.

Greenboard is for use in damp environments, but not wet environments. The greenboard surface is coated with an oily waxy material that gives it the “moisture resistant” rating. This is NOT the material you want to attach ceramic tiles to.

If the tile grout is porous, the water will seep through and damage the wall behind the tiles. This will cause the eventual failure of the wall system and damage to the interior of the wall.

It may also cause damage to the structure of the home and possibly the growth of mold.

Never use greenboard for ceilings as the material is heavy and will not support its own weight if 16” on center supports are used. If you want to use greenboard on the ceilings, use 12” spacing.

Cement Board: If you have a wet area use cement board. It is sometimes called ceramic tile backer, Wonderboard, Durock or Hardibacker and several other variations.

This is a cement based product with glass mesh underlayment. This material is very durable and waterproof. It is the ideal material for backing tile or stone in showers or even on the floor.

Below are two pictures. The picture on the left is of a sheet of Wonderboard. The picture on the right is of a sheet of Hardibacker.

Because of the dense structure and lack of paper facing of cement board, there is no food source for mold growth and no gypsum like drywall that can sustain moisture retention.

This material comes in ¼” and ½” widths. It is commonly available in 3’X 5’ boards and sometimes, depending upon the distributor, in 4’X 8’ sheets.

It can be installed behind shower walls up to the height of the tile where greenboard matches the edges and continues to the ceiling and surrounding walls.

Tape the cement board and seal the seams with cement based joint tape, an alkali resistant Portland cement mortar or thin set mortar. This is to ensure that water does not get through to the wall behind the cement board.

I almost forgot. Cover the wall behind the cement board with 15 pound felt or plastic vapor barrier. This will make sure that no moisture gets inside the wall.

The joints past the cement board are joined with joint compound and sanded smooth for final finishing.

Hanging drywall is fairly easy and can be completed by the average handyman if they take their time and plan ahead. The biggest item is, no unsupported end seams and always split seams on support studs. The fewer the seams, the less work hiding them.

I like to place mud in the seam and then press the paper tape into the mud with at least a 6” knife and let it dry. Come back and add more mud on top of the tape press it flat. Let it dry. Come back again and add more mud. This time use a 10” or 12” knife to smooth the seam out.

TIP: If you are patching the wall and there are some bulges around screws, take a carriage bolt with a rounded head and tap the area smooth or slightly below the current surface to dimple the material. This will allow the drywall compound to flow evenly around the surface and make everything smooth. If done correctly, there is very little finishing required.

If you need information about patching greenboard, go to our Drywall Repair Made Simple page.

I always like to prime the walls to keep the final coat of paint from being sucked into the porous drywall causing blotches and shadows on the finished wall.

Drywall Repair Made Simple

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If you are interested in knowing how to make a simple drywall repair to a damaged wall, this article is worth reading. We will discuss how to cover nail and screw holes using a way that makes them easy to patch and totally disappear.

We will also show you how to repair a larger hole that will require more patching, and a really damaged wall area that will require a good size patch. Here are simple instructions on repairing all three types.

The simplest repairs require little more than:

  • a carriage bolt;
  • a small hammer;
  • a 4 inch putty knife; and
  • some drywall mud.

Whenever a screw or nail is placed in drywall, the drywall paper protrudes out and simply placing the drywall mud over the hole leaves the drywall repair really obvious. Taking the carriage bolt, placing the round head over the hole and tapping gently with the hammer will force the drywall to curve inward leaving a slight dimple. The drywall mud simply fills this dimple without leaving any protrusion.

After the mud has dried:

  • sand the area smooth;
  • place a coat of paint primer/sealer paint over the repair;
  • let dry; and
  • apply the final color of paint.

IF you elect to not place the paint primer over the drywall repair, the paint will dry quicker over the repair and make the repair really stand out.

Larger holes that need drywall repair are typically the ones found behind doorknobs. These are a little more difficult to fix and if the source of the problem is not resolved, the hole will reappear again in a short time.
My preferred drywall repair method is:

  • Cut out a square around the hole;
  • Cut the edges of the square hole at a 45 degree angle, like you would cut the top of a jack-o-lantern, with the edges angled out. This makes the hole larger on the outside than the inside.
  • Cut the replacement plug at the same angle in such a way that the plug does not fit through the hole and fall inside the wall.
  • Now that the patch is ready, let’s reinforce the drywall repair. Take a piece of scrap lumber, say a piece of 1” X 3”. It doesn’t have to be that exact size. It should, however, be approximately three times or more the size of the opening of the hole. Use something that will fit through the hole and is several inches longer than the hole.
  • Place a screw in the board and slip the board into the hole.
  • Center the board by using the screw you have already placed.
  • Place a drywall screw above and below the hole You are screwing through the drywall into the board. This will hold it in place.
  • Remove the screw you have been holding onto.
  • Place the patch in the hole and screw the patch to the board with drywall screws.
  • Trim the edges of the patch so that there are no edges above the repair area.
  • Put drywall mud over the repaired area in thin coats and allow to dry between coats.
  • Sand to get the repaired area smooth.
  • When the area is smooth with no obvious flaws, apply primer and then the final coat of paint. The drywall repair should not be visible.
  • Now for the final step, put a door stop behind the door, on the door or on the baseboard. Whatever is used in the rest of your house. This will stop the door from banging into the wall again and causing a new hole in the wall.

Drywall repair of big patches is very similar to larger holes, but with more material being required.

Let’s use the following as an example: Your home is an older one and has electric wall heaters. You have now installed a central heating and cooling system. You want to remove the old wall heaters. These are typically 16 inches wide and 20 inches or so tall. The heater and the associated wiring have been previously removed. All that is left is a big hole.

Here’s what you do for this drywall repair:

  • With a razor knife, cut the opening so that you can see half the 2x4s on each side.
  • Cut two pieces of scrap wood to span the width of the opening top and bottom.
  • Screw these pieces behind the existing drywall to support all the edges of the patch.
  • Cut a patch to fit this opening.
  • Screw it in place.
  • Trim the edges so that there are no protruding edges.
  • Place drywall mud over the seams. Remember, several thin coats work much better than one thick coat. As long as the seams are less than 1/8 inch wide, you will not need to use paper tape to cover the joint. Using paper tape makes the seams more work as you must taper the mud to blend the patch into the wall.
  • Between each coat of drywall mud remember to sand to get the area smooth.
  • As in our last example, apply primer and then the final coat of paint. The drywall repair should not be visible.

NOTE: For the replacement plug and the big patches we talk about above, at your local big box store you can buy a 2′ x 2′ piece of drywall called a drywall repair patch. Also, you can ask if they have some damaged drywall for sale. Usually they put the damaged drywall out in front of the store.

After reading this, you should have a basic understanding of how simple drywall repair is accomplished. Just remember to take your time and work carefully. When sanding, always remember to wear a mask.

How to Pick a Best Kerosene Heater: Reviews and Buying Guide for 2018

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There are many reasons why you may want to purchase a kerosene heater. If you have a garage for example that has no electricity supply, it may be more economical to purchase a kerosene heater to heat it with instead of having an electricity supply installed in the garage. This is especially useful for remote buildings that may be difficult to hook up to an electricity supply. Kerosene heaters are also useful backup options to have for winter power outages caused by bad weather.

Kerosene hearers are safe as long as you follow the correct safety guidelines and you can store kerosene for long periods of time without worrying about the supply losing quality whilst it is being stored. You can enjoy these and many other benefits of kerosene heaters.

There are many different models to choose from so read these best kerosene heater reviews to find out just which one would be the best for your home.

Top 6 Kerosene Heaters for the money

1. Dura Heat DH2304 Kerosene Heater

The Dura Heat DH2304 is a great kerosene heater that can provide you with many great advantages.

This heater can offer a full 360 degrees of heat so you wont have to worry about it directing the heat to only one place in the room.

If you’re looking for a good solution to those annoying winter power outages you’ve found it. This heater can provide both heat and light to a room so that you don’t need to worry about coming up with a solution for lighting.

If this heater is tilted, it has an automatic shut off, so you can be sure that this heater is safe to be used with your family in the room. You should of course still make sure that children act responsibly whilst in the same space as this heater.

This heater is capable of heating larger areas. You can heat an area of up to 1000 square feet with this heater thanks to the strong 23000 BTU power output that if provides. It has a drip tray integrated into the heater body.

It is recommended that you carry out regular annual maintenance on this heater to ensure that it continues to operate without problems.

Dyna-Glo KFA125DGD Kerosene Heater

The Dyna-Glo KFA125DGD heater comes with patented dual heat technology. This allows you to use multiple fuels in your heater, which is great if there is ever a shortage of kerosene. The other fuel that can be used in this heater is diesel. It produces between 100,000 and 125,000 BTU power output and is a useful air heater for heating up to 3000 square feet of area.

This heater has thermostatic controls that are built into the heater itself. You can easily control the temperature of your room by using the digital room temperature readout. This best rated kerosene heater also features digital diagnostics.

If you want to move this heater around, you can do this easily. This is a highly portable heater that you can take with you from one job to the next, or move it around the home, office or garage when you want to heat different areas of the building.

This heater is cheap to run and has a 10-gallon fuel tank capacity. When it has a full tank, it can heat for up to 11 hours.

You can easily start this heater with the simple press of the ignition button. There is a diagnostic LED light beside the power switch to help troubleshoot any problems that may arise with this heater.

Sengoku CTN-110 KeroHeat

If you want a heater that is packed with safety features, the Sengoku CTN-110 KeroHeat is probably a good choice for you. When this heater has been on for a while, it turns itself off with the use of an automatic shut off switch. This is great, as you don’t need to worry if you forget about the heater and walk away, leaving it on. To protect the heater from causing damage if it is knocked over, it also has a tilt shut off. If it is tipped, it will sense the motion and turn itself off. It also has a safety guard, which means that you can use this heater in many settings without worrying about it causing injury.

This heater comes with batteries included and a siphon pump so that you can safely get the fuel from its container and into the tank.

This heater can heat for up to 14 hours when it has a full tank of fuel thanks to the 1.2 gallon fuel capacity.

You can easily adjust the flame, thanks to the EZ adjuster dial and it has a simple ignition switch for easy operation.

You can save your electricity bills and switch to a kerosene heater this winter to save money thanks to this best indoor kerosene heater.

Dyna-Glo RMC-95C6B Kerosene Heater

Whether you’re looking for a high quality backup heater for emergencies, or if you want an every day heater that you can use in a garage or a workshop, the Dyna-Glo RMC-95C6B is a good choice. This heater is capable of heating areas of up to 1000 square feet and it is reliable enough to be used when you need it, and as often as required.

This is a great heater if you want an economical solution to heating. Many heating systems these days are centrally operated and require that the whole heating system is turned on, even if you are only heating one room. This heater allows you to effectively heat just one room without having to waste energy by heating the entire building.

An automatic ignition allows you to operate this heater with ease, and the one touch shut off means that you can quickly turn it off when you’ve finished using it.

This heater is UL certified, which gives you peace of mind, knowing that it has passed rigorous safety checks so that you can use it without incident. Manual and automatic shut off means total safety and it has an anti tip sensor too which will cause this heater to switch off if it is knocked over.

Pro-Temp Sun Stream Kerosene Heater

A strong 70,000 BTU energy output allows the Pro-Temp Sun Stream kerosene heater to heat an area of up to 1750 square feet. It has a 4-gallon tank, and if you fill this tank with kerosene fuel to its full level, you can enjoy 7 hours’ of power.

This heater uses a fan-forced system that effectively produces radiant heat for the area that it is being used in.

A simple on/off switch makes for easy usage, which enables all users to operate this heater without difficulty. It is suitable for both the commercial and the residential user. Thanks to its high-energy output, this heater is even able to heat small areas outdoors, which is perfect for those evening garden parties and barbeques. The wind will not affect the heater’s performance as the fan-forced heating system can counteract the effects of any winds or draughts.

Even though this kerosene heater uses a fan, it is not at all noisy so you will not need to worry about loud noise outputs from this heater.

This is a safe kerosene heater that is fully CSA certified. It has safety features to prevent the heater from causing any damage although you should still follow proper safety guidelines when using this heater.

Compared to typical forced air heaters where heat can be blown around. All Pro-Temp heaters are CSA Certified!

Heat Mate HMN-110 Kerosene Heater

The Heat Mate HMN-110 kerosene heater is a convenient choice that is not only easy to use, but it is also safe to be used in most settings.

To prevent this kerosene heater from causing any damage if it is knocked over, it has a tip over switch. When it senses that it has been knocked over, it will turn itself off immediately. It also has an automatic shut off switch in case it is left on and unattended. To prevent injury, the heating element itself is protected with a safety guard.

The 1.2-gallon fuel tank can heat an area for around 14 hours. It requires the use of C batteries, which are included with the heater. It also comes with a siphon pump so that you can fill the heater with fuel when you need to.

This heater requires no electrical power, so it can be used in a building with no electricity supply or it can be used as an emergency heater in case the power goes out over the cold winter months. It can also act as a light source if necessary.

This heater is also portable, so if you need to move it from room to room, this may be the best portable kerosene heater.

How Does a Kerosene Heater Work?

A kerosene heater is powered by kerosene. It is important that you remember that kerosene fuel is completely different from gasoline so you should purchase kerosene fluid rather than gasoline to power the heater. You should always read the instructions carefully and make sure that you understand how to use it safely before you start.

You will need to purchase kerosene for your heater. No other fuel will work in it, and you should be careful to avoid mixing fuels, as this could be very dangerous. Using the wrong fuel will result in the heater breaking.

You can store kerosene in a special kerosene storage container. Of course, you should keep this away from any light or heat sources. You can purchase kerosene from many gas stations or hardware stores. You should also make sure that you have a siphon pump to help you get the kerosene safely from the storage container to the heater.

When you come to use the tank, you need to make sure that the heater is switched off and cool. You should never refill a kerosene heater that has only just powered off due to low fuel. Always leave the heater to cool for at least 20 minutes before attempting to refuel it. It is a good idea to fill the heater outdoors, in a well-ventilated area in case you do spill any fuel.

A kerosene heater should be placed on a flat level surface before you switch it on.

When you turn on the heater, it will ignite some of the kerosene. The kerosene burns off slowly and the heater distributes the heat from the flame around the heater. You can heat different sized spaces depending on how powerful the heater is. Of course, more powerful heaters will use fuel more quickly as more fuel will be needed to create the extra heat.

Are Kerosene Heaters Safe?

As long as you know the risks and how to use one safely, a kerosene heater can be perfectly safe to use indoors. You should always make sure that you follow kerosene heater safety guidelines.

  • Kerosene heaters produce carbon monoxide, but so do gas oven hobs, burning candles, log fires and lamps. Depending on their efficiency and their output, some produce more carbon monoxide than others but as long as you keep your heater clean and regularly serviced, you can rest assured that the carbon monoxide levels will be safe. Whichever room the kerosene heater is being used in should be adequately air conditioned and vented so that fresh air can be let into the room and any carbon monoxide can escape out. Keep doors open if you can, and don’t use a kerosene heater in a completely closed room with the windows closed too. To further lower the carbon monoxide that is emitted, you can use a filter, and some heaters come with one.
  • Of course, a kerosene heater could be a fire risk in certain situations. With a little common sense however, you can avoid fires when using the heater. Keep it well away from any furniture that could catch fire. Drapes, sofas, beds, linen can all catch fire so you should make sure that the heater is kept away from these items. Be careful not to place anything on top of the heater either, as this can cause the items to catch fire, especially if left unattended. You should also ensure that the kerosene itself is stored somewhere that is unlikely to crate enough heat to ignite the fuel. If the heater has been on, but stops because it has run out of fuel, you should allow it to cool sufficiently before you think about tending to it.
  • You should remember that the kerosene fuel is safe to use on it’s own, but you should never mix different fuel types. Be careful that the tank or container that you use for the kerosene has not been used for any other fuel. Even if it does not cause fire related problems, even the hint of another fuel could damage your heater.
  • Of course, you should make sure that children are not allowed to play near the heater. Heaters can still be knocked over or bumped into, even with the best possible safety mechanisms. You should always supervise any children around a kerosene heater and make sure that they know the dangers of it.

Kerosene Heater Advantages

So what is the point in owning a kerosene heater anyway? Well there are actually a few great advantages to be enjoyed from owning a kerosene heater.

  • Firstly, they don’t need to use any electricity. This independence makes them the perfect backup heater to own in case of power outages in your home. Some areas often have power outages during the winter months due to adverse weather, and kerosene heaters can be very useful for these situations.
  • You can store the kerosene fuel for a long amount of time too. So you don’t need to worry about stocking up and then not needing to use the heater for a while. If you’ve got plenty of kerosene in stock, you’ll always be prepared for any emergencies that may arise. Just one gallon of kerosene will take around the same amount of time to use up as 1 entire wheelbarrow of wood in a log burner so you can store the quantities that you need in less space.
  • Unlike wood and coal burning heaters, no smoke is produced. This can be preferable for some who would rather not pollute the environment with plumes of smoke. If your neighbours often complain about smoke, you may find that a kerosene heater would be a better option than a smoke-producing heater.
  • As long as you follow the safety guidelines, a kerosene heater can be perfectly safe to use, even indoors. Of course, they can produce carbon monoxide, just as many other appliances can, but as long as you keep your rooms sufficiently ventilated, this shouldn’t be a problem.
  • Kerosene heaters are robust and can last you many years as long as you keep up with servicing and cleaning. This will keep the motor and all the moving parts working properly as well as ensuring that the heater always burns fuel efficiently.

Conclusion

These kerosene heater reviews have hopefully helped you to find the best kerosene heater for your needs. Whether you want to have a backup heater for power outages in your home or business for those extra cold months, or if you want to heat an area that has no electricity supply, you will be able to find the kerosene heater that meets your budget and requirements.

As kerosene is so readily available, you can stock up on fuel safely so that you will have it to hand when you need to use the heater. You can also rest assured that when you purchase a kerosene heater, that you will be purchasing a product that is safe to use.

It is also possible to purchase dual fuel heaters so that you can use an alternative fuel if kerosene is not available. If you live in a remote area where fuel deliveries are often delayed, a dual fuel heater may be a preferable option for you.

Best Patio Heater Reviews 2018 – Ultimate Guide

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A patio is a great place for entertaining and unwinding. But the cold evening air can kill the good atmosphere. A good solution is a patio heater that will allow you to make the most of your time outdoors both in summer and cold winter. They have become quite popular the recent years and now there is a big choice of models available. There are also many variations in style and the power source. You can find heaters that use firewood or artificial logs, as well propane and natural gas powered heaters.

To get the best quality and most efficiency, look for the best patio heater. Below we have provided patio heater reviews of the top picks in 2014. Choosing a patio heater, consider a power sources that would be more suitable for you as well as the design, with the look of which you will be happy all year long. But keep in mind that patio heaters are designed to affect only the area that’s in close proximity. So don’t expect your whole patio to be flooded with heat.

Top Patio Heaters on the Market

1. AZ Patio Heaters HLDSO-WGTHG Quartz Glass Tube Patio Heater

The HLDSO-WGTHG by AZ Patio Heaters is a pyramid shaped unit with a bronze finish. It features a 40,000 BTUs output produced by 2 quartz tubes. The tubes create a 2 feet flame that adds an ambiance with a beautiful light and fills the patio with heat. The heating radius of the unit is around 5 feet.

The heater is powered by propane, the tank of which is located in the bottom of the tower. This also makes the part of the unit near ground cool to the touch, so you don’t need to worry if you have children around. The propane tank is sold separately. 1 propane tank provides you with up to 8 hours of heat.

The HLDSO-WHTHG also provides easy mobility as it has a wheeled base. So you can easily move it around your patio to the place where you are entertaining.

The total height of this heating tower is 91 inches with the height of the heating tubes being 87 inches..

2. Fire Sense Hammer Bronze Commercial Patio Heater

The Fire Sense commercial patio heater is a 66 inches tall unit that also comes in an attractive bronze finish. It is made from high grade stainless steel and built with a strong construction. The heating grid has a double mantle and with the stainless steel burners this unit is designed for long lasting durability. This best propane patio heater is commonly used in restaurants and other commercial as well as home settings.

The unit also uses propane, the tank for which the buyer needs to purchase separately. One propane tank for this heater lasts about 10 hours of heating.

The Fire Sense radiates the heat with a radius of around 18 feet, providing a good coverage of a patio area during chilly evenings. At the top of the unit it features an aluminum reflector for pushing the heat down and preventing it from slipping upward.

The heat output for this patio heater is 46,000 BTUs. For easy lighting up it features a Piezo ignition, which makes it a simple single stage process. Same as the previous model, this heater also comes with the wheels. For safety, the Fire Sense is designed with an auto shut off tilt valve.

 

Lava Heat Italia EMBER-COP Outdoor Patio Heater

The Lava Heat Italia EMBER-COP is one of the top rated patio heaters. It’s got a beautiful design and a solid durable construction that is fully made of stainless steel with a copper finish. It’s one of the more priced best outdoor patio heaters on our list, but it definitely brings good value for the money.

Its features include an easy start electronic igniter and adjustable heat settings. The power source is also the propane, giving heating for up to 14 hours. It’s a compact unit measuring 72 inches in height, but it provides an impressive amount of heating. Its 51,000 BTUs can provide warmth for areas of up to 400 square feet.

The EMBER-COP features a Borosilicate glass tube that creates a unique spiral flame, adding elegance to the look of the unit and ambience to the natural flame.

For convenient storage during the warmer times, the unit is collapsible from 6 feet to 4. For safety in case the heater gets tilted over, it features an auto switch.

 

3. Fire Sense Stainless Steel Deluxe Patio Heater

One more Fire Sense patio heater review made to our list of top picks. It’s also a propane based heater that offers a heating radius of its 47,000 BTUs to about 18 feet. Like the previously mentioned Fire Sense heater, this unit also comes with dome shaped top that pushes the heat down instead of upward, providing better heating of the area.

The Fire Sense Deluxe heater is made with optimal durability with its stainless steel heating grid and burners. As most of the Fire Sense heaters, it has the safety feature for shut off in case of the unit tilting over.

The Piezo igniter makes the lighting up process easy and fast. It also offers easy mobility with the attached wheels.

 

4. Deckmate Corona Outdoor Chimenea Fireplace 30075

If you prefer vintage designs, then you can add a chic look to your patio or decking area with the Deckmate Corona chimenea fireplace. The durable construction of this unit features heavy-duty iron casting with designer embossing. It has a bulb shape and wire mesh screening that gives a 360-degree view of the fire.

This Deckmate fireplace is fueled by firewood and artificial logs, which you can add to the fire through the large sliding door. You can fit inside the firebox a standard 16-inch log.

It’s an inexpensive patio heater that has a solid but simple to put together construction. It’s compact but provides efficient heating.

 

5. Heininger 5995 Portable Outdoor Fire Pit

The Heininger 5995 is one of the best rated patio heaters. It’s not a traditional patio heater, but fire pits are also a great way to heat an outdoor area and they becoming more popular. It’s only 19 inches in diameter but works providing whopping 58,000 BTUs.

It looks like a real fire but works on propane, for which it has an attached 10-foot hose and a regulator for adjusting the heat. It doesn’t have an internal storage for the propane tank, so it might be difficult to hide it.

The lava rocks of the Heininger 5995 fire pit look great even when it’s off. When it’s working, you can enjoy the warmth without the annoying smoke and sparks. It’s perfect for patios, tailgating and camping.

 

6. UniFlame WAD820SP Slate & Marble Fire Pit

One more great fire pit is the UniFlame WAD820SP model. Unlike the previous unit, this model works of firewood.

This fire pit is a beautiful addition to any patio or decking with its design made from marble and slate. The firewood is loaded into the black porcelain firebowl. It measures 22 inches in diameter, so it’s enough to load about 3 standard firewood logs. The total diameter of the unit is 34 inches, so it’s also not too bulky.

It’s easy to put together and in no time you can have a cozy fire burning. If you have kids around however, you should be careful, as the bottom of the firebowl can get hot.

7. Endless Summer GWT801B Tabletop Patio Heater

Among the tabletop patio heaters the Endless Summer GWT801B heater stands out. It also works on propane and as with some of the previously mentioned tower patio heaters its drawback is that you need to purchase the propane tank separately.

It is well built with strong stainless steel construction. For lighting up it features the Piezo ignition and heats up a 10-foot circle around the unit.

The unit includes a fire protection feature, as it automatically turns off of gets tipped or knocked over.

8. Fire Sense Mocha Finish Square Flame Heater

One more from our Fire Sense patio heater reviews is of the Square Flame heater. This stylish unit adds a new dimension to outdoor heating. The artistic centerpiece provides a unique visual flame that sends the heat in every direction.

The durability of the heater is provided by the stainless steel base, burners and heating grid, and aluminum grill.

It uses a 20 lb LPG tank, which is not included with the heater. Approximate time of one tank is 10 hours. It features the same as for all the other Fire Sense patio heaters the Piezo igniter.

 

9. Fire Sense Hanging Halogen Patio Heater

The last but not least pick on our list is the Fire Sense hanging heater, which is a great option for those looking for the best electric patio heater. However, to use this unit you will need a ceiling, so you can hang it over the area where you would like to use it.

It is powered by the standard household electric current and comes with an 8-foot electrical cord.

It works really quietly and can provide not just heat but also light. However, this heater is recommended more for mildly cold weathers. In really cold conditions it won’t provide enough heat.

The Buying Guide

A great way to extend the season of the use of the outdoor patio, poolside or deck, is with the help of a patio heater. Above you can check the reviews of the best models available this year. However, if you are not sure where to start in choosing the right heater, this buying guide will help with the all the information on the features to look for in order to make sure you get the best quality for money.

Choose the Type of Fuel for the Patio Heater

All patio heaters use either propane or natural gas type of fuel. One more type of patio heaters uses electric power. Each of the tree types has its benefits and downsides. You can read on each one below to understand which one would be the best for you.

  • Propane. This type of patio heaters is one of the most commonly chosen due to some of the advantages it offers. One of the benefits you get with a propane fueled patio heater is the ease of use. There’s no complicated installation to be done that would require a professional plumber’s help or any difficult maintenance. The propane tank is usually placed inside the heater unit and stays out of the way and sight. Propane also provides unparalleled mobility of the heater since you can place it anywhere the tank will stand. Propane provides efficient operation of the heater and gives instant heat.There’s also a downside to using propane as fuel for the heater. Propane is more costly compared to other types of fuel and requires regular maintenance and refills of the tank. Also, if you are using the patio heater for commercial application, the unit can run out of fuel and stop providing heat at inopportune moments.
  • Natural gas. With a natural gas fueled patio heater there’s even less maintenance as there’re no regular refills of the tank to be done. To get it working you will need to attach to the natural gas line. After you hook it up, you will have constant supply of fuel and continuous heat. Natural gas heaters are also considered to be the more efficient type and the fuel is cheaper compared to propane.The downside of this type of fuel is that more care should be taken for the installation. So you will probably need the help of a plumber to help set up the lines. One more disadvantage is that after connecting the heater to a gas line, you will not be able to move it around.
  • Electric patio heaters. If you choose an electrically powered patio heater, the benefits you will get include ease of use and the ability to use them in partially enclosed areas. An electric patio heater can be placed at any place where there’s access to an outlet, so it can be used almost anywhere. They are also extremely low maintenance in comparison to heaters fueled by propane. As for the cost of operation, it’s in between propane and natural gas. Electric patio heaters are very efficient and they can quickly warm up your patio or deck.As with the above ones, there’re also some disadvantages. Though for some people these might not be an issue. There’re not always outlets available around the poolside and it’s not very convenient to run a long electrical cord through the area. Also, some of the people might prefer the other two types because of the flame effect that they give.

The Size of the Area You Need to Heat

Patio heaters are available with different heating capacity and different sizes. Knowing the heating capacity you need is one of the most important factors in choosing your patio heater. The heating power is usually measured in watts or BTUs (British Thermal Units). The higher number of BTUs the heater has, the greater its heating ability. An average freestanding patio heater will have a power output of about 40,000 BTUs. Other types of patio hears, such as table top models, ceiling or wall mount heaters, have a less power output and are designed to heat smaller areas.

Check the Safety Features

A portable outdoor heater should be equipped with some essential safety features to keep you safe from fire. Below are some of the basic safety features a patio should have.

  • Automatic shut-off. In order to prevent overheating that could potentially cause a fire hazard, the heater should have an automatic switch that turns the unit off if it gets too hot.
  • Tilt-over protection. This safety feature prevents fire by switching off the heating element in the case if the unit gets knocked over.
  • Cool to the touch housing. An important features especially if you have pets or kids around. Some of the heaters come with special glass on the furnace that keeps it cool to the touch.
  • Approved. Check the description of the heater if it is listed and approved by such safety organizations as UL or CSA. Having a safety approval means that it has been evaluated and it has met all the safety standards.

Maintenance

Most of the patio heaters don’t require much maintenance, which is one of their benefits. To clean the unit you can just wipe the surface with some water and mild soap. Just be careful with using the abrasive cleaner. For some of the heaters it can cause damage. Check the owner’s manual to see what are the cleaning requirements for your specific model.

Other than occasional wiping of the surface, the only other maintenance required is only if you have a propane heater. You will to regularly refill the fuel tank.

Additional Features

Check the assembly type of the patio heater. A lot of the heaters will come fully or at least partially assembled. So almost right out of the box you can set it up and at once put it to use. For other models, you will just need to attach the dome to the lower part. Some heaters come fully unassembled. So unless you want to spend a lot of time assembling the unit, check that it has at least partial assembly.

Ignition type. Most of the modern patio heaters will have ignition with just a push of a button. Most of the models use a piezo electric ignition. It works by producing sparks which interact with the fuel. More high-end heaters offer electronic ignition.

Controls. On some of the models you will find electronic controls for adjusting the heat level. You might even want to get a heater that comes with a remote control. Look for a heater that has simple setting controls.

The flame effect. If you are using a propane or natural gas patio heater, the unit will have some type of flame. On most of the models there will be settings for adjusting the ambiance and the desired heat level.

How Do Patio Heaters Work?

Most of the patio heaters use either propane or natural to warm the air. However, there’re also some electric options available as well. Patio heaters can have the power of up to 4000 watts. Some of the dual element heaters use up to 8000 watts.

Patio heaters feature propane cylinders located at the base of the heater and a gas line that runs into the burner assembly of the unit. A regulator is connected to the cylinders in order to control the flow of gas from the cylinder to the burner. The regulator is also connected to the gas burner via a high pressure hose. The gas line and the burner assembly are both attached to a post which is topped with a dome emitter that is located at the very top of the lamp. The propane travels up from the tank and goes through the hose, the gas line and regulator. Following through the burner to the top of the post, the propane is burned and is emitted through the dome emitter.

Patio Heater Safety

  • Patio heaters should not be used in confined spaces. If you want to use the heater on your patio under a roof, it’s recommended to choose an electric patio heater.
  • Make sure that there’s plenty of fresh air available.
  • Follow all safety precautions as advised by the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
  • Have the heater serviced on a regular basis.

The Bottom Line

There are many different options available, so you can choose according to your preference or needs. More fire safe options are the tower heaters like Fire Sense or AZ heaters. They usually have the base stay cool to the touch and the flame protected in a glass tube. Moreover, most of them have a safety feature included for shut off in cases if the heater gets knocked over.

Fire pits add a really nice touch to patios or decking, and some can also be used for camping. However, they are less child and pet safe, as they have parts that get hot.

The patio heaters we have mentioned in this article were chosen based on their performance, efficiency, design, features and ratings. We hope that with our best patio heater reviews you have been able to find the perfect model that will keep you warm in the outdoors.

Best Ceramic Heater Reviews 2018 – The Buying Guide

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One of the good options for keeping yourself warm during the cold months is a ceramic space heater. They are rather inexpensive but can provide you with prolonged heating. To choose the right ceramic heater, look for models with an oscillating fan that will distribute the warm air across the room. Read below our best ceramic heater reviews to find the best choice for your needs.

Ceramic heaters are the units using a ceramic heating element. They are usually compact and can be placed on the desktop, floor, or mounted on a wall. To keep the temperature at a certain level, they equip a thermostat. Most of the ceramic heaters are equipped with the necessary safety features. Two of the them are the tip over system and the overheating protection that automatically stop the heater in case of such incidents.

Top 6 Ceramic Heater Reviews

1. Lasko 754200 Ceramic Heater

One of the best ceramic and more compact heaters is the Lasko 754200. It is the top seller so it makes the top of our ceramic space heater reviews. Its convenient size makes easily portable, for which it also features a carrying handle and a low weight.

For optimal comfort, you select of the unit’s 3 settings. For more heat you can select the high setting and the unit will operate using 1500 watts. For less heat and to save energy, you can select the low setting. This setting uses 900 watts of power. A third option is the fan only setting. For more controlled temperature level, you can adjust the thermostat and choose the room temperature you want.

The Lasko 754200 runs quietly and is designed with the 2 important safety features, the tip over and protection in case of overheating.

2. Lasko 751320 Ceramic Tower Heater

The second top pick among ceramic heaters is another Lasko unit. The Lasko 751320 is a tower heater that also uses the self-regulating ceramic heating element. It also has a small footprint, though it’s higher than the previous heater. In height it measures 23 inches.

To keep the air in the room evenly warm, Lasko 751320 uses widespread oscillation. The thermostat can also be programmed to keep the unit working with maintaining your desired temperature. But if you prefer, you can just select the high or low setting. More convenience is provided by the timer, which you can set up to 7 hours in advance. It comes with a remote control. Lasko 751320 is ETL listed, so you can be sure that it’s made with safety in mind.

3. Lasko 100 MyHeat Personal Ceramic Heater

Among personal ceramic heaters, the Lasko 100 stands out. It’s very small, so it fits even the most compact spaces. Lasko 100 is the best ceramic space heater among the personal size heaters. However, its size also means that it’s heater that you need to place right next to you in order to get its heat. You can put it at your workplace, on top or under the desk.

With its Energy Smart feature, it uses very low wattage. Using 200 watts it will keep you warm, but it’s not a heater for an entire room.

The Lasko 100 also has the ETL listing and really safe for use. Its housing is safe to the touch and doesn’t heat up. In case of overheating, it’s prepared with a protection system.

4. Lasko 5307 Oscillating Ceramic Tower Heater

Lasko is a very popular brand of space heaters. Their products are known for good quality, and Lasko 5307 also provides that. Its quality and features makes it a long lasting unit for effective heating.

It’s also one of the compact heaters. With a small footprint and an average height of 16 inches you can keep it on the floor or place it on the table.

It equips the similar features to the other mentioned Lasko models. The 1500 watts motor can operate at either high or low setting. You can also choose to use the fan-only mode or adjust the thermostat. Similar safety features and ETL listing.

5. Lasko 6435 Designer Series Ceramic Heater

If an attractive design is an important feature for you, then consider the Lasko 6435. It comes in an elegant design with a metal scrollwork base. It also keeps the unit sturdy and is not that easy to tip over.

It uses widespread oscillation, so no matter where you are in the room, you will get even warmth. The settings are similar. You can select more or less heat or let the heater maintain a certain temperature with the thermostat. The wattage for highest setting is 1500. If you want the room air to warm up rapidly, it also offers the option of a fan forced system. ETL listing and provided safety features.

6. Lasko 6462 Full Circle Heater

The next ceramic heater is also made by the Lasko company. One of the best features of Lasko 6462 is the option to program the unit to sweep the heat a different range. You can either set it for a 90-, 170- or 360-degree range. The other specifications such as settings, power, and safety features are same to previously mentioned ceramic heaters.

What Is a Ceramic Heater and How Does it Work?

If you are not sure if this is the right type of heater for you it’s best to start by understanding how ceramic heaters work. Ceramic heaters are considered to be the most efficient form of heating among the fan based space heaters. They use a special conducting ceramic element that draws the air and as it gets heated directs it outward using the aluminum baffles and dispersing it throughout the room. Ceramic heaters consist of ceramic plates, as well as aluminum baffles or coils. Their features make them very good electrical insulators and gives them great thermal conductivity.

Ceramic heaters have no glowing parts, so even though it heats up really quickly, the plastic housing still stays cool to the touch. These heaters are easily portable as they usually have compact size and small footprint. Though small, they do give off a good deal of heat, enough to heat even larger rooms. On some of the ceramic heaters you will also find a timer, an oscillating feature and a thermostat.

Ceramic Heaters Advantages:

  • They quickly warm up the air with a powerful blower system
  • Oscillating system distributes the warm air.
  • Can combine two functions: heating and cooling.
  • Most of them include a remote control for easier adjustments to the temperature settings.
  • Its compact size saves space.
  • They help to save energy.

Ceramic Space Heater Safety

One of the top considerations when purchasing a heater for your home is of course safety. So are ceramic heaters safe for use at home, office or other location? Most of the ceramic heaters are equipped with special safety features, however you still should take certain precautions to keep your house safe when using the unit. Below you will find some tips.

  • Though the ceramic space heaters are equipped with the safety features, it’s still important to follow essential basic safety rules of using a heater:
  • Use the space heater in accordance with its manual.
  • Use certified space heaters and preferably ETL listed.
  • The heater should be placed on a nonflammable surface.
  • Make sure that the cord is out of the food traffic way.
  • Never leave the heater unattended. So if you are leaving the room or the house, turn it off.
  • Keep a distance of about 3 feet between the heater and any flammable objects.

Are Ceramic Heaters Energy Efficient?

Compared to radiant space heaters or oil filled ones, ceramic heaters are more energy efficient. Its benefit is that the ceramic heating element retains more heat, so even after turning it off it will still be producing warm air for some time. Using the thermostat that is set to a certain temperature level, the heater will cycle on and off maintaining the chosen settings. This saves energy on continuous operation of the unit. Overall, they’re considered one of the top choices when looking for the most energy efficient heaters as they provide some of the best value.

Ceramic space heaters are convenient to use. They are unobtrusive usually and don’t require much space. They are effective at heating a whole room with even distribution of the heat. The models we have picked for our best ceramic heater reviews were chosen by their high ratings and a lot of positive reviews of the customers, which make them stand out among the others. They are effective, affordable and built a lasting use.

GermGuardian AC4825 3-in-1 Air Purifier Review

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This is a solid choice for an air purifier under $100 that will effectively clean the air of a small bedroom or living space.

PROS

The GermGuardian AC4825, 3-in-1 Air Cleaning System with True HEPA, UV-C and Odor Reduction, 22-Inch captures 99.97% of allergens with TRUE-HEPA filtration including dust mites, pet dander, plant pollens. The American Academy of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology Doctors recommends TRUE-HEPA air filtration to reduce exposure to indoor asthma triggers. This air purifier is CADR 100+ rated for up to 155 square feet and has a good reputation for reducing odors and mold spores especially in smaller rooms when the doors and windows are closed. This unit is equipped with indicator lights that let you know when to replace the filter or UV-C bulb which is convenient for those who might not keep track of how long it has been since the last time they were replaced. The GermGuardian AC4825 is inexpensive to buy and inexpensive to run – it uses very little electricity even if run continuously.

CONS

When first used there is a “new plastic smell” which can be very strong but diminishes over time. When first purchased you might want to run it in a separate room until the smell dissipates. The unit will run louder when the filter needs changing which can be very distracting. The blue UV-C light may be too bright for some to sleep at night but it can be switched off. If you are looking to purify the air of a large space, then this model will not work for you. Instead you should check out large room air purifiers, since this one can only effectively reduce the pollution in a space that is less than 150 square feet, which is about the size of your average bedroom.

MY RECOMMENDATION

I recommend this product to anyone with allergies to pollens, dust, or who is asthmatic. It’s a solid choice for an air purifier, is easy to clean and maintain, and it is an affordable air purifier that runs very well. I also recommend it for parents who are concerned about the air quality that their children are breathing, who want to free their space of allergens and mold. It also works well for pet lovers who are sensitive to pets’ hair and dander, and will alleviate your allergy symptoms.

GermGuardian AC4825 3-in-1 Air Purifier Review

What makes the GermGuardian AC4825 a good air purifier?

The TRUE-HEPA filter captures 99.97% of dust and allergens as small as .3 microns in size. The GermGuardian AC4825 captures allergens, kills airborne germs and bacteria and reduces mold and odors. It is suited for use in small to medium-sized spaces. It is quiet, the filters are easy to change, and it reduces exposure to indoor asthma triggers. The unit is Energy star rated and it has been estimated to cost about $5 a month if it’s running continuously. This air purifier is simple to operate and affordable to own. The GermGuardian AC4825 has a sleek, trim look that fits in any room style and is small enough to be relatively unobtrusive. It is quiet, especially on the lower settings, and even on the highest setting it is not overly loud. Can be used in a bedroom on a low setting for sleep. This purifier noticeably “freshens” the air in any room eliminating strong cooking odors such as fish or garlic. This GermGuardian AC4825 is often used by smokers, or those that live with them, as it is exceptionally good at eliminating tobacco odors from the air, especially within the first 72 hours of operation.

How do you use the GermGuardian AC4825?

The GermGuardian AC4825 is simple to assemble and operate. Turn the air purifier ON by rotating POWER KNOB clockwise. The power indicator will be lit and the unit will be in LOW mode. Rotating the POWER KNOB clockwise further sets the air purifier to MEDIUM mode and HIGH mode. To activate the UV-C Bulb, press the UV button. Press the button again to turn OFF the UV-C Bulb. To turn the unit OFF, rotate the POWER KNOB counter-clockwise to OFF mode. When the green power light on the air cleaner turns red and flashes continuously, it is time to replace the filter. To replace the filter first turn off and unplug the unit. When the filter has been replaced, press the UV control button and hold for 3 seconds to restart the system. The light will turn back to green. This model can be used up to 155 square feet, weighs under 9 lbs and can be moved from room to room very easily.

What are the replacement parts for the GermGuardian AC4825?

The GermGuardian AC4825 has minimal replacement parts which are easily removed and replaced. The carbon activated pre-filter should be cleaned once per month or more often if needed. After a few months, cleaning it won’t remove any pollutants, so the GermGuardian FLT4825 replacement filter has to be switched out once every three months or less depending on your air quality, especially if you have pets, are a smoker, or your air is polluted with allergens. The GermGuardian LB4000 5-watt light bulb should be replaced every 10-12 months depending on how often you use your air purifier.

How easy is it to clean the GermGuardian AC4825?

The GermGuardian AC4825 air purifier should be cleaned at least once every month. Use a clean, dry, soft cloth to wipe the external surface. The TRUE-HEPA filter is a combination filter. The Pre-Filter and Charcoal Filter are combined into one layer that attaches to the HEPA Filter. The outer Pre-Filter / Charcoal Filter attached to the HEPA Filter should be cleaned every month. It can be vacuumed with the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner. More frequent cleaning may be required depending usage and environment. The Pre-Filter (thinner one) can be rinsed off about every two weeks (carefully, it can tear easily) if used heavily in dusty, pet hair environment. Rinsing the pre-filter out with cool water regularly will help prolong the life of the HEPA filter that works with it. The HEPA filter should not be washed but replaced when it changes from white to nearly black. This will vary by use. If it is still white it does not need replacing.

Honeywell 17000 Review

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The Honeywell 17000 is a wonderful small space air purifier that cleans your air with two separate filters. It’s easy to clean and maintain and a wonderful air purifier for your home.

PROS

The Honeywell 17000 greatly reduces the number of allergens, odors, and pathogens you breathe. TRUE-HEPA filter captures 99.97 percent of common household airborne pollutants. It has simple soft-touch electronic control panel with 3 speeds and indicator lights. Each speed level is higher than the next but each is comparatively quiet. The convenient handle and weight make the Honeywell 17000 ultra portable.

CONS

The Honeywell 17000 is a 120V item and cannot be used in regions with voltage system 220-240V. When ordering the unit be aware that Kaz/Honeywell no longer makes the TRUE-HEPA filter replacement for it and a similar filter may be hard to find. The noise level increases on higher speeds or when the filter needs replacement. It has been noted that it may smell of burning/melting plastic when new.

MY RECOMMENDATION

I recommend the Honeywell 17000 is recommended for families with asthmatics and allergy sufferers or who wants to remove odors or lessen mold spores. Perfect for pet lovers who are sensitive to pets’ hair and dander. Recommended for anyone who lives or works on or near busy roads, factories, power plants, or any other major source of pollutants.

What makes the Honeywell Long-Life Pure HEPA QuietCare Air Purifier a good air purifier?

The Honeywell 17000 air cleaner has three speeds all of which are quiet and very efficient. The Honeywell 17000 filters the air in a closed room as large as 168 square feet (12 by 14 feet). The Honeywell 17000 is perfect if you want to make sure that the air in your bedroom is fresh. It utilizes QuietCare sound reducing technology for quiet operation so that you can fall asleep easily with this air purifier in your bedroom.

The Honeywell 17000 uses two separate filters to remove smoke, pollen, dust, animal dander, dust mites, molds, bacteria, viruses, and odors, continuously circulating the room’s air six times per hour on average. It contains a TRUE-HEPA filter that is 99.97 percent effective at removing airborne particles from the air. That means you have less pollen, cat dander, household dust, tobacco, and mold spores circulating through your air. The pre-filter reduces odors and captures large particles helping to extend the life of the HEPA filter.

Honeywell’s IntelliCheck system allows you to monitor the life of each air filter replacement. Filter replacement is simple. The CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) rating is 130/130/130, which means it filters 130 cubic feet of air per minute containing dust, smoke and pollen respectively. It carries a five-year warranty against defects. The Honeywell 17000 needs very little power, only 80 watts when set on high which makes it very affordable to run. Good quality construction and good customer service.

How do you use it?

The Honeywell 17000 is easy to use with simple operating procedures with Soft-touch electronic controls with 3 speeds and indicator lights. The Honeywell 17000 has five basic components: the locking mechanism, the endcap, the HEPA filter, the activated carbon pre-filter, and the base assembly (with controls and motor). It is recommended to operate by turning the unit on high to circulate the air quickly then switching to a lower setting before bed for quieter operation.

This air cleaner is equipped with electronic controls and IntelliCheck™ Filter Monitors to serve as a reminder when to replace the pre-filter and HEPA filter. The air cleaner can be placed on the floor in almost any location. Care should be taken if the unit is placed on a light colored carpet or flooring to place a small mat or rug to prevent a possible dirt build up. The air outlet slot should not be blocked for at least 3 feet (1 meter) in all directions.

Because indoor air can quickly become contaminated by outside air or events within a space, it is recommended that the Honeywell 17000 air purifier be operated 24 hours a day. All the air in any given room is not completely processed by the air cleaner so the more air circulated through the filter, the more freshly filtered air will be introduced back into the room. The air purifier will work more efficiently in rooms where all doors and windows are closed.

What are the replacement parts for the Honeywell Long-Life Pure HEPA QuietCare Air Purifier?

The Honeywell 17000 has only two parts requiring service, the activated carbon pre-filter and the primary TRUE-HEPA filter. No tools are needed to replace the parts. The TRUE-HEPA filter lasts at least one whole year with heavy use, and up to three year with light use. The light bulb has to be replaced around the same time depending on your use. The pre-filter should be replaced every three months, for a low cost per month around $3. The pre-filter may need to be replaced more often if the unit is used in a smoking environment. Remember to reset the filter monitor on the Honeywell 17000 after replacing an old filter.

How easy is it to clean the Honeywell 17000?

Wipe exterior with a clean, dry cloth as needed. Make sure that you do not wash either the activated carbon pre-filter or the TRUE-HEPA filter. They are not washable and washing will damage the filters. Replace them as needed instead of washing.

GermGuardian AC5000E Air Purifier Review

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Lightweight and easy to maintain, this is perfect for those looking for an affordable HEPA filter air purifier to clean the air of medium sized spaces.

PROS

The GermGuardian AC5000E 3-in-1 TRUE-HEPA is an Air Purifier System with UV Sanitizer and Odor Reduction. The 28-Inch Tower captures 99.97% of allergens with the TRUE-HEPA filtration system including: dust mites, pet dander, and plant pollens. It has multiple levels of cleaning including the charcoal filter that reduces common odors from pets, smoking and cooking. The air purifiers UV-C light technology works with Titanium Dioxide to eliminate airborne bacteria, viruses, germs and mold spores. The UV-C Germicidal Lamp acts as the light source for the PCO filter and kills 99.9% of viruses, bacteria and mold spores. It has been proven to be especially good at removing, smoking, cooking and pet odors. The air purifier is equipped with indicator lights that automatically blink indicating it is time to replace the filter or UV-C bulb. The GermGuardian AC5000E is CADR rated 125+ and cleans 20 percent more compared to the GermGuardian model AC4825. It is Energy Star rated and comes with a 5-year limited warranty.

CONS

The blue UV light is too bright for most people to use while sleeping but it can be switched off for nighttime use. When the GermGuardian AC5000E is initially set up there is often a strong plastic smell. This normally dissipates after a short period of use. It covers only a single room of under 200 square feet, so if you’re looking to clean the air of a larger space then you should check out the large room air purifiers.

MY RECOMMENDATION / The GermGuardian AC5000E is simple and easy to set-up and use with a manual knob fan control and push button UV light option. It is best used in medium to large rooms, keeping door and windows closed for best performance. It is compact and lightweight making it easy to move from room to room and takes up very little space. The low initial purchase price of the GermGuardian AC5000E makes this unit affordable and it is Energy Star rated ensuring your usage costs will be low. This air purifier’s quiet operation allows it to be left running while you sleep. Testing has shown that the GermGuardian AC5000E significantly reduced the particles in the air giving allergy sufferers an air purifier that helps keep your air clean, healthy and free of airborne germs, viruses and bacteria. The American Academy of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology Doctors recommends TRUE-HEPA air filtration to reduce exposure to indoor asthma triggers.

What makes the GermGuardian AC5000E a good air purifier?

The GermGuardian AC5000E is great for people with chronic allergies or asthmatic conditions and those looking for a “fresh/clean” environment. It’s especially good for pet owners who are sensitive to pets’ hair and dander. If you’re looking to purify the air of a small space then this will filter out a lot of impurities in the air.

How do you use the GermGuardian AC5000E 3-in-1 True HEPA Air Purifier System?

The GermGuardian AC5000E is simple to use with a single, manual rotary dial that sets the fan speed to LOW, MED or HIGH. A separate switch to turn on the UV lamp which energizes the photocatalytic process. Filter replacement requires no tools. Turn the air purifier ON by rotating POWER KNOB clockwise. When the air purifier is ON, the power indicator will be lit (green) and the unit will be in LOW mode. To set the air purifier to MEDIUM or High mode rotate the POWER KNOB clockwise. To activate the UV-C Bulb, press the UV button. Press the button again to turn OFF the UV-C Bulb. To turn the unit OFF just turn the POWER KNOB counter-clockwise to OFF mode.

What are the replacement parts for this  Air Purifier?

The combination TRUE-HEPA filter needs to be replaced in the AC5000E, 3-in-1 Air Cleaning System every 6-8 months depending on the use of the product. When filter turns grey or black it should be replaced with a new one. Filters can be difficult to find after initial purchase so it is recommended to by additional filters at time of purchase. The replacement carbon pre-filter for the GermGuardian 5000 series should also be replaced every 6-8 months and comes in packs of 4. The GermGuardian UV-C bulb model LB5000 should be replaced every 10-12 months depending on use and requires a screwdriver to change.

How easy is it to clean ?

To clean the GermGuardian AC5000E use a clean, dry, soft cloth to wipe the external surface of the unit once a month. To clean just the Pre-filter, carefully remove it from combination filter and gently clean with the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner. This filter should be handled carefully or it will tear. The combination TRUE-HEPA Filter should not be cleaned but replaced every 6-8 months depending on use.
When the green power light on the air cleaner will turns red and flashes continuously, it is time to replace the filter. When the filter has been replaced, press the UV control button and hold for 3 seconds to restart the system. The light will turn back to green.

To replace the filter first turn off and unplug the unit. Press the Lock & Release Button and remove the rear cover from the unit. Remove the used Combination Filter. Insert new Combination Filter into the unit checking the arrow on the filter for correct installation direction. Reattach the rear cover of the unit making sure it is securely latched into place. Push and hold UV Control Button for 3 seconds to reset and the filter has been replaced! Interested in the GermGuardian AC5000E?

Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier with True HEPA and Eco Mode Review

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The Coway AP-1512HH is a smart air purifier that will keep the air in your medium sized space clean automatically!

PROS

The Coway AP-1512HH is simple to use and has easy to change filters. It has a 4- stage filtration system that includes Vital Ion™ to boost cleaning power and freshens the air by negative ions. It automatically controls airflow speed based on indoor air quality in real time. The fan automatically adjusts the airflow when pollutants are detected in the air and when they are reduced. This air purifier saves energy keeping the power consumption as low as possible cutting down on electric bills. The Coway AP-1512HH filtration system capabilities are better than many purifiers meant for larger rooms. It is relatively quiet, not much louder than a fan on its highest setting. It can be in any room without being a distraction to anyone.

CONS

Although this air purifier is good at removing dust and pollen it does not do a great job of removing odors. Lightweight construction does not seem to be of the best quality or durability. The Coway AP-1512HH is subject to plastic solvent and packing material break-in odors that can be relatively strong and hard to tolerate until they dissipate.

MY RECOMMENDATION

The Coway AP-1512HHi is recommended for treating allergies, asthma, pet allergies, and smoke sensitivity. Recommended for anyone who lives or works on or near busy roads, factories, power plants, or any other major source of pollutants or if your allergies are caused by outdoor airborne allergens like pollen. Also for anyone wanting to create a healthy living environment with “fresh” air and germ-free breathing. Click here for today’s sale price on the Coway AP-1512HHi.

What makes the Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier a good air purifier?

The Coway AP-1512HH Air Purifier has a compact design allowing it to fit in most spaces inconspicuously. The Coway AP-1512HH is smaller than a lot of other air purifiers and can easily sit on top of a bedroom dresser or in any room. It is black and rather stylish, so it doesn’t take over a room or distract from the rest of your decor. Equipped with a TRUE-HEPA efficiency rating of 99.97%, it uses a four-stage filtration system to effectively eliminate odors and pollutants.

The Coway AP-1512HH includes an air quality indicator with particle sensing technology that will automatically adjust the air purification speed when needed. The fan automatically adjusts the airflow when pollutants are detected in the air so you know that indoor air quality is always being monitored. When pollution is not detected for 30 minutes, the fan will automatically stop to save energy. The TRUE- HEPA captures dust, allergens, smoke, pet dander, and pollen in the room while vital Ion boosts cleaning power and freshens the air through negative ions.

The Coway Filter Change Indicator even lights up to indicate when it is time to change the filter, making it super easy to clean and maintain. It can cover approximately 326 square feet of space, which is perfect in a larger bedroom, living space, or basement. Coway has good customer service if you have any problems with your air purifier. One of the nicest features is the low filter replacement cost. You won’t spend a lot of money maintaining this air purifier every year, so if you’re looking for an air purifier that is inexpensive to operate, this is a great choice. It’s Energy Star-Qualified so it uses less energy and offers eco-friendly operation which is great for your health and your pocketbook. This product has earned the Seal of Approval from the British Allergy Foundation. The Coway AP-1512HH was rated best small room air purifier and earned the Top Ten Reviews Silver Award.

How do you use it?

There’s a simple ON/OFF button to turn on the air purifier and additional buttons to change settings. The automatic sensor buttons can be activated to start the air purifier whenever it senses that the air isn’t clean. Filter Replacement Indicator alerts display whenever the filter needs to be changed, and there’s also an air quality indicator. The washable pre-filter captures large particles like hair, fur, and dust by micro mesh. The Odor Filter eliminates smaller particles, bad odors and harmful gases by advanced activated carbon. The TRUE-HEPA Filter traps airborne allergens and contaminants down to 0.3 microns in size 99.97% of time. The Vital Ionizer Vital Ion™ boosts cleaning power and freshens the air by negative ions.

What are the replacement parts?

It is important to change the carbon filter every 6 months and the HEPA filter once a year. A clean filter not only maximizes the amount of dust and allergens captured but helps optimize the performance of the entire purifier. The Coway Mighty will light up indicating when it is time to change out the filter. This will keep you from having to keep track of the time yourself or worry that your filters aren’t doing their job. Coway Replacement Filter Pack for AP1512HH come with all the filters you’ll need for a year, at a low price. Expect to change the Carbon filter approximately every 6 months and the TRUE-HEPA filter annually. Both times can vary depending on usage.

How easy is it to clean?

It is recommended to clean this unit once per month or more as needed. Do not use water or cleaning products, cleaning with soft, dry cloth is best. The Pre-filter is washable, once per month or as needed, but use care when washing, handle gently. The other filters are not washable and would not perform if they are. Keep them away from water. Click here for today’s sale price on the Coway AP-1512HHi!

Honeywell HPA300 Review

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The Honeywell HPA300 is one of the top rated air purifiers available. Quiet, easy to move, and powerful, this is one medium sized room air purifier that you should consider for your home.

PROS

The Honeywell True HEPA Allergen Remover, 465 Sq Ft, HPA300 has a quiet fan that circulates and filters the air several times an hour. Its odor absorbing pre-filter helps to reduce unpleasant odors and capture large particles like dust, pet fur, or lint. What’s nice about this air purifier is that the TRUE-HEPA filters capture up to 99.97% of particles, 0.3 microns or larger, from the air that passes through the filters. This means that while using this product, your family receives clean breathing air.

The Honeywell HPA300 air purifier has multiple timer settings so that you can purify your air for 2, 4, or 8 hours at a time. It also includes a filter replacement display, so you always know when to replace your filter. Good news for people who are using this in the bedroom, the Honeywell HPA300 air purifier is so quiet that it allows you to get an undisturbed rest. There’s even a light dimmer feature allowing you to control brightness so that the LED display doesn’t bother you either. This unit is suitable for large rooms measuring 465 square feet or less. It is of very good quality construction and is easily moved from room to room, making it perfect for a medium sized room.

CONS

This air purifier lacks many features, such as an air-quality sensor and an auto-mode that runs the Honeywell HPA300 air purifier for longer than 8 hours. It has relatively high filter replacement costs and relatively high operating costs, so if you are looking for a more affordable option, you should consider one of the alternatives below. Many Honeywell HPA300 owners have reported that the front compartment on this humidifier is difficult to close properly. Depending on the size of your space, you may prefer a smaller air purifier, since this one measures at 24.02 inches x 22.05 inches x 12.99 inches making it difficult to fit in tight spaces.

MY RECOMMENDATION / This product is recommended for anyone with severe allergies to indoor pets, pollens, dust, and for anyone that has breathing problems or is asthmatic. It’s also a great option for parents who are concerned that the air their children are breathing is free of allergens and mold. If you want the air purified of a space under 500 square feet then I highly recommend the Honeywell True HEPA Allergen Remover, 465 Sq Ft, HPA300.

What makes the Honeywell HPA300 a good air purifier?

The Honeywell HPA300 has easy electronic controls with three cleaning levels plus a Turbo Clean setting. The Honeywell HPA300 uses a mechanical filtration process, meaning that a fan pulls the particle-filled air into the unit and forces that air through a TRUE-HEPA filter, cleaning and circulating the air in a room up to 5 times an hour. The Turbo Clean setting on the Honeywell HPA-300 lets you easily eliminate bacteria and toxins in the air.

The Honeywell HPA300 air purifier has three settings and a turbo clean option. The three main settings are germ, general clean, and allergen. This air purifier has 2, 4, & 8 hour timing setting as well as electronic filter replacement display. When it reaches the end of the cycle, the purifier will automatically shut off. This gives you a lot of control over how powerful you want the purifier to be and how long you want it to purify the air for. It also has a light dimmer feature allowing you to control brightness, which is another reason why this air purifier is great for your bedroom.

The Honeywell HPA300 is especially effective at removing dust, smoke, and pollen at its highest speed. It quickly cleans the air and is very good at removing smoke. It is one of the quietest air purifiers when on its highest speed. On the lowest setting it is quiet enough to leave it running while you sleep. It is Energy Star qualified, meaning it is energy-efficient. The Honeywell HPA300 meets industry guidelines and is certified by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) for Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) Performance – CADR 300. 7 out of 10 doctors that recommend a brand of air purifier recommend the Honeywell brand, so you know that it’s safe for your family.

How do you use the Honeywell HPA300?

The TRUE-HEPA Filters and Odor Reducing Pre-Filter are supplied within the air purifier and are wrapped and labeled to help identify the proper replacement filter. When the filters have been unwrapped and replaced in the unit, plug the power cord into a working electrical outlet. Select the desired cleaning level by simply TAPPING the power symbol to toggle through the setting options. A blue LED light will illuminate the selected setting: Germ, General Clean or Allergen.

TAP POWER for on/off & cleaning level selection. ALLERGEN optimizes allergen capturing performance during allergen season. GENERAL CLEAN for general, everyday air cleaning. GERM optimizes germ capturing performance. Use during cold & flu season. TAP TURBO for power cleaning or fast odor reduction. The Turbo setting operates the unit at the highest speed. This setting will maximize the unit’s ability to help reduce odors and will help clean the air quickly. To select the Turbo setting the unit must already be running at one of the 3 cleaning settings, TAP the Turbo icon. The Turbo LED will illuminate. TAPPING the Turbo icon again will return the air purifier to the previous cleaning setting. To shut OFF, tap the Power symbol until the air purifier shuts off.

What are the replacement parts for the Honeywell HPA300?

There are two filters to replace. The Honeywell Filter R True TRUE-HEPA Replacement Filter HRF-R3 needs to be replaced once a year for best performance. The Honeywell Universal Carbon Air Purifier Replacement Pre-Filter should be replaced every 3 months. Installing the filters and removing the door is very simple, so replacing parts every few months is easy to do.

How easy is it to clean the Honeywell HPA300?

It is recommended that you clean the air purifier at least once every 3 months and before extended storage. A clean filter maximizes the amount of dust and allergens captured and helps optimize the performance of the entire purifier. Use a dry cloth to wipe the external surfaces of the air purifier. Do not use water, wax polish, or any chemical solution. Do not wash the filters, washing them will ruin them.

Best Air Purifier Reviews – Our 5 Top Pick

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Did you know that the air inside your home is anywhere from two to five times more polluted than the air outdoors? Luckily there’s a way to protect yourself and your loved ones from low indoor air quality. Air purifiers get rid of all the pollutants within the air of your home and reduce the chance that respiratory disease is triggered while inhaling airborne particles that you unknowingly breathe every day. Here at AirPurifierFAQs.com, I review the most popular air purifiers to help you select the one that’s right for your home.

How I Review Each Air Purifier:

Cost – First I look at the initial cost, comparing it with other alternatives in the price range to determine if the features are worth paying for, or if you should go with a more efficient model.

Quietness – How loud is the air purifier at a low setting? What about when it’s on a high setting? The quieter the model is, the higher rating it receives.

Dust Removal – Is this air purifier efficient at getting dust and other toxins out of the air you breathe? The best ratings go to air purifiers that remove the most allergens and dust from your home.

Annual Cost – How expensive is it to maintain this air purifier? If the replacement parts are affordable, then the air purifier will receive top marks in this category.

Space Covered – Does this effectively purify the air for a large room, or does it only work for tiny spaces? The more space covered compared to air purifiers in the same price range, the better ratings that an air purifier receives in this category.

The Top 5 Best Air Purifiers Reviews

1. The Honeywell HPA300 Air Purifier Review – The highest rating and largest purifying ability in the group.
2. The Coway AP1512-HH Air Purifier Review – A powerful air purifier with automatic shut-off and shut-on, with a low monthly maintenance cost.
3. The GermGuardian AC5000E Air Purifier Review – A bestselling air purifier for bedrooms and medium sized spaces.
4. The Honeywell 17000 Air Purifier Review – The most portable air purifier with many different settings which thoroughly clean your air.
5. The GermGuardian AC4825 Air Purifier Review – An air purifier that is simple to use, clean, and maintain.

Why do I review air purifiers?

Air inside your home should be cleaner than the air your breathe outside. If you don’t have an air purifier, chances are that there are all types of pollutants and allergens circulating in your air. Respiratory diseases are triggered from airborne particles that you breathe in every time you inhale. This can lead to respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and pneumonia. If your family is currently suffering from any lung disease symptoms, your air is probably to blame!

The factors that lower the air quality in your home include tobacco smoke, contaminated outdoor air from pollen, dust, and vehicle exhaust, and everyday events like cooking, cleaning, and using cosmetics. Mold and spores can also accumulate in the air, which brings about many major health problems. The list of pollutants that are affecting the air quality of your home is extensive, so I’m here to help you clean out the air in your home with an air purifier.

Don’t allow your family to suffer from respiratory problems. Many of the air purifiers on the market will freshen and clean the air throughout your whole house. I’ll help you choose the right air purifier that matches your needs and budget, from the hundreds of air purifiers that are currently on the market. If you’re ready to provide clean and safe air for your whole family, then check out these reviews of the best air purifiers:

What is an air purifier and what does it do?

People are always looking for ways to clean and freshen the air inside of their homes and the most efficient way to do it is by using an air purifier. Air purifiers are devices that remove air contaminants in a room or throughout the whole home by filtering out second-hand tobacco smoke, dust, pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and other allergy triggering particles.

Allergies are significantly reduced when you use a good air purifier and it benefits your health by removing compounds that can cause disease. There are air purifiers available on the market with advanced technology that captures and eradicate nearly 99.97% of bacteria, viruses and harmful particles. Air purifiers also reduce the accumulation of airborne impurities that cause unpleasant odor, providing you with clean and fresh air.

If you own a pet and notice your allergies or asthma triggering, then you can find immediate relief by using an air purifier. Pet dander and dust are serious allergens that cause itchy eyes, sore or scratchy throats, sneezing, and other common symptoms. Your pet can also carry pollen inside the house during high pollen season, so it’s vital to learn about the best air purifiers on the market so that you can relieve yourself from any allergic reaction during allergy season.

Air purifiers are safe devices that must meet certain requirements before being sold on the market. The air purifiers that I review and suggest here are made of quality materials with long-lasting replacement parts, and don’t create harmful ozone. Everything I review is safe for home use, purifies the air safely, and will filter out the contaminants floating in the air of your home or office.

Why do people use air purifiers?

People use air purifiers because of the benefits provided by clean home air. Air purifiers are more efficient and convenient than air fresheners and air disinfectant sprays, plus it’s provides a cost-effective solution for cleaning up the air that circulates through your home. Installing an air purifier is the easiest way to clean the air in a room or a whole house for months.

There are many different diseases that can impair your respiratory system and if the air you breathe outside your home is polluted, then the inside air might be filled with airborne particles that are inhaled daily. If you want your home to be clean, then an air purifier will create safe and breathable air that helps you fight allergens and disease.

What different types of Air Purifiers are there, and how do they work?

There are many types of air purifiers that consumers can choose from and the one that’s right for you depends on your specific needs. Consumers should be vigilant and well aware of the types of air purifiers they place inside their homes, as they are not created equal. To get you started, here are the types of air purifiers and their functions and benefits so that you can select the type that matches your needs. Click on any type of air purifier to see my reviews in that category.

HEPA Filter Air Purifiers

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) purifiers filter and eradicate up to 99.97% of airborne particles. HEPA air purifiers are small, portable units that you can transfer from room to room. When choosing a HEPA air purifier you should select one based on the size of room you’re looking to purify. HEPA filter air purifiers can eliminate most airborne particles and relieve the symptoms of allergies and asthma for your family.

Home ULPA Air Purifiers

Another common type of air purifier is the Ultra-Low Penetration Air (ULPA) purifier. ULPA air purifiers are more efficient than HEPA air purifiers because of its unique ability to filter smaller air particles. Tiny particles that a HEPA cannot filter out are trapped in ULPA filters, leaving you with cleaner air. ULPA air purifiers control airborne particle levels and stop the spreading of harmful and infectious diseases.

Home Charcoal Air Purifier

Carbon is one of the most popular air filter types that purifies air and eliminates odor. Home charcoal air purifiers are commonly known as activated carbon air filters, and are designed to absorb odors and impurities. Charcoal air filters carbon treated with oxygen collect impurities by pushing air through millions of tiny cells. This effectively attracts and captures odors and pollutants, leaving you with clean air that circulates your home.

Activated carbon is often combined with other minerals in an air purifier to minimize odor and destroy toxin. This purifier is great for people who suffer from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). Home charcoal air purifiers are perfect for absorbing chemicals such as formaldehyde, a common compound found in carpet. Household perfumes and chemicals are also filtered through a home charcoal air purifier to produce cleaner and more breathable air.

Home Air Ionizer

A home air ionizer uses electricity to purify air. It creates charged molecules that when added to the air forms an electric field. Negative ions attach to positive ions and form an ionic bond, making the small particles floating in your air become larger and heavier. Once the pollutants are energized, they stick to different surfaces of your home or collect in electrostatic plates. Since these particles aren’t all trapped in an air filter, you’ll find dust on your home’s surfaces during use. It’s important to frequently dust and vacuum your surfaces while using a home air ionizer so that dust doesn’t recollect in the air.

An electric air ionizer can reduce the amount of particles floating in your air, while sterilizing bacteria, viruses, smoke, and other air contaminants. This leaves you with clean, fresh, and safe air in your room or home. Unlike other purifiers that buzz as air is pushed through a filter, this air purifier is soundless so you can rest easily without being disturbed by the noise it creates.

Most households and businesses choose home air ionizers because it’s a cost-effective way to purify the air. There are no costly filters that need changing every few months, so in the long run you’ll end up saving a lot more money with a home air ionizer than you would using a filtered air purifier.

Electrostatic Air Purifiers

Electrostatic air purifiers are also known as electrostatic precipitators, and provide very efficient air filtration. Electrostatic air purifiers use electrostatic attraction to clean and remove pollutants from the air, such as dust and cigarette smoke. It produces clean and pleasant air to breathe with a two-stage filtration method.

First the electrostatic air purifier electrically charges and collects dirt and pollutants using ionized wires to in order to make contaminants such as dust, pollen, and smoke heavier, similar to an electric air ionizer. These particles stick to the negatively charged electric field, where they are finally collected and trapped, allowing only fresh air to return back to the room. In order to keep your electrostatic air purifier from returning pollutants to the air, the plates need to be regularly removed and cleaned.

What is an air filter?

Air filters are replaceable devices that are inside an air purifier, which trap pollutants and stop toxins from returning to the air that you breathe. HEPA filters and ULPA filters are the most reliable because they remove the most pollutants from your air efficiently. Most of the air purifiers that I have reviewed here have a filter indicator that informs you when you need to replace or clean your air filter. Let’s go over what you can do to clean your filter if it doesn’t yet need to be replaced:

What types of air filters are there, and how are they cleaned?

Some are cleaned by water. If you have an air purifier with reusable filters, or one that uses plates, then you can simply use warm water and mild soap to make the filter brand new. You can check if your filter is reusable by searching this site. If your filter has cardboard, then it’s safe to say that your air filter is disposable.

Some are cleaned by hand or vacuum cleaner.

There are some air filters that you can gently shake out (in a well aired out location,) or use the suction cup of your vacuum cleaner to remove dust from. Generally these air filters are replaceable, but if you want to extend the life of your filter, then you can do a little cleaning every month to keep your air fresher before your next air filter replacement.

Some are thrown away and need to be replaced

Since HEPA and ULPA filters are so good at trapping dust and pollutants, you aren’t able to clean them thoroughly. Some air filters need to be thrown away and replaced in order to keep your air free of toxins. Although these are the most expensive air filters, since they require constant replacing, they are also the most efficient at removing particles from the air.

What are the ozone hazards of using an air filter?

Not every air purifier is appropriate to use in your home. Some models create ozone gas, which can cause health problems, including respiratory diseases and breathing difficulty. This website only reviews safe and effective air purifiers that produce little or no ozone.

Thank you for trusting us to provide you with the best air purifier reviews. Please bookmark the page to come back if you are deciding to purchase an air purifier at another time. We update this site constantly with the best air purifiers on the market.

Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier with Auto Shut Off Review

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Pros

The Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier is a small room humidifier that doesn’t require replaceable filters or cartridges. It’s easy to clean and maintain since many components are top shelf dishwasher safe, the warm mist kills a majority of the germs that grow in the tank, and the water tank is large enough that you only need to refill it once or twice a day. The humidifier also shuts off when the water is running low so that the heating element doesn’t overheat.

Cons

If you require lots of humidity for a large space, then the Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier won’t work for you. The Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier V745A can humidify a small room of around 300 square feet. This model also makes a bit of noise because a heating element boils the water, so if you need absolute quiet, you should view the ultrasonic humidifier reviews. If you are looking for a humidifier for a child’s room, you should find a cool moisture humidifier instead, because the steam in this model can cause burns.

Overall Recommendation / If you are looking for a device to humidify a room and want the machine to be low cost, reliable, and easy to maintain, then I would recommend the Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier. It is very low cost to run and maintain, comes with a three year warranty in case there are any defects, and efficiently adds humidity to a small bedroom.

Features

Type: Evaporative
Area: 300 square feet
Output: 2 gallons
Antimicrobial: Yes
Automatic Shut Off: Yes, when water is low
Water Level Indicator: No
Daily Maintenance Required? Yes
Weekly Maintenance Required? Yes
Replacement Filter or Wick Required: No
Replacement Cartridge Required: No
Dual Mist: No
Programmable: No
LED Light: Yes

Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier with Auto Shut Off Rating

Output Rating: 5/5
Ease of Use Rating: 5/5
Noise Rating: 4/5
Energy Rating: 5/5
Hard Water Rating: 5/5
Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier with Auto Shut Off Review Description

The Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier with Auto Shut Off has an adjustable humidity setting that allows you to control how much water vapor is being released into the air. Because this is a warm mist humidifier, you don’t have to worry about any white dust filling your air if you have hard water. It’s also easy to maintain because all of the components are accessible for cleaning, making upkeep of this humidifier very simple.

Use

This humidifier is simple to use. Remove the water tank, twist off the tank cap, and fill it with cool tap water. Replace the cap, place the water tank on the base and make sure that the water tray and tank cap are aligned. Make sure that the power is in the off position, and plug the power cord into the wall.

If you want to use Vicks VapoSteam or Kaz Inhalant to help you breath easier, you can place it in the medicine cup attachment. Then turn the switch to high or low and if everything is working properly, the night light will activate. The heater will start and in a few minutes, the mist will be activated. Turn the humidifier off once the desired humidity has been reached, or if condensation accumulates on the windows.

Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier with Auto Shut Off Cleaning

With almost all humidifiers, you have to clean them daily or at least weekly. This humidifier is no different, but luckily it’s very simple to clean. Every day that you use the humidifier, switch it to the off position once you’re done using it and unplug the humidifier. Allow it to cool down for 15 minutes before removing any parts.

Remove the water tank from the base, drain out any excess water, rinse the tank out with cool water and wipe it down with a soft, damp cloth. Remove the medicine cup, the cooling chamber, and the removable water tray from the base and wipe it down as well. After you’ve made sure that the heater is completely cool, go ahead and wipe that down as well.

When you store your humidifier, don’t keep water in the water tank or heating chamber. This causes bacteria to form. If you notice any type of build up or scale in the humidifier, remove all of the removable parts and soak them in a solution of white vinegar and water (with exception of the base.) Fill the heating chamber with the same mixture, allow it to sit for 20 minutes, then wipe it down and rinse everything really well. You can put the water tray, medicine cup, and cooling chamber in the top shelf of the dishwasher to clean if you’d like.

To disinfect the water tank, fill it up with 1 teaspoon of bleach and the rest water. Shake it every few minutes for 20 minutes, then drain and rinse with clean water. Once the bleach smell has gone, dry it with a clean cloth or paper towel.

My Recommendation

The Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier is a solid choice for a low price humidifier. If you want to increase the humidity in one of your rooms and want a humidifier that is easy to maintain and doesn’t require additional replacement parts every couple months, then this is a great option. With a three year warranty, it’s hard to beat the value that you receive from the Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier.

Cool Mist Humidifier Stick V2 By Deneve Review

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Pros

The cool mist humidifier stick is compact, easy to use, and very inexpensive. Because water doesn’t go into a humidifier tank and you can just use a cup or bottle of water, maintenance is low and you can take this device with you while traveling.

Cons

It only covers a small amount of space and is recommended for spaces up to 20 square feet. It won’t make a large difference in a bedroom unless the device is really close to you.

Overall Recommendation

If you want a low cost humidifier for a small space or to take with you while traveling, this is a wonderful option. It comes with a one year warranty, so unlike many other small humidifiers, you are protected for a long time if this ends up having any issues.

Features

Type: Evaporative
Area: 20 square feet
Output: .3 gallons (each 8 hour cycle)
Antimicrobial: No
Automatic Shut Off: Yes, after 8 hours
Water Level Indicator: No
Daily Maintenance Required? No
Weekly Maintenance Required? No
Replacement Filter or Wick Required: Yes, every 3 months
Replacement Cartridge Required: No
Dual Mist: No
Programmable: No
LED Light: Yes

Cool Mist Humidifier Stick V2 By Deneve Rating

Output Rating: 3/5
Ease of Use Rating: 5/5
Noise Rating: 5/5
Energy Rating: 5/5
Hard Water Rating: 4/5
Overall Rating: 4.4/5

Description

The Cool Mist Humidifier Stick V2 by Deneve is a very simple humidifier to use. The humidifier includes an instruction booklet, an additional filter, and an extra long USB to micro USB charging cable. The Cool Mist Humidifier Stick V2 is about 6 inches long, lightweight, and portable. You can plug it into any USB charger including the USB slot of your computer, a USB wall charger, or a portable USB charger.

Use

First you take the humidifier apart and remove the wick, to let it soak for 5 minutes. The humidifier just twists off, so it’s very easy to remove the wick inside and replace or soak it. Then you take the wick, place it back in the humidifier, and put it back together. It’s simple and takes less than a minute to attach.

Then you take a glass, place the humidifier stick inside, fill up the glass with water so that it doesn’t touch the top of the stick or the USB charging space, and turn the humidifier on. Within minutes, water vapor will appear and if there’s enough water available in the glass then the humidifier will stay on for a whole 8 hours before automatically shutting off.

Cleaning Your Cool Mist Humidifier Stick V2 By Deneve

Once a week, you should clean the humidifier by soaking the stalk in a solution of 10 parts water and 1 part bleach. Then rinse the humidifier off with a damp cloth and allow it to dry. It’s suggested that you replace the wick every three months. Currently, Deneve isn’t selling replacement wicks online, however they plan to make some available soon. The replacement packs will cost somewhere around $8.

My Recommendation

Overall if you need a portable humidifier because you travel, or want to use it in your car or at work, this is a great model to use. It’s easy to maintain, very inexpensive, and comes with a one year warranty against any defects. It’s one of the best humidifiers available under $25, and is often a bestselling item.

Crane Cube Cool Mist Humidifier Review

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Pros

The Crane Cube Cool Mist Humidifier is inexpensive, powerful, and very small. With no filters, you’ll save money with this model. Cleaning and maintenance is very easy, there’s an auto-off function, and the humidifier is very quiet. This is great for a small child’s room.

Cons

This Crane Cube Cool Mist Humidifier has a tiny tank, about 1/2 gallon which requires refilling possibly multiple times a day depending on how much output is required. For those that want total darkness, this model has an LED light that helps you monitor the water level that cannot be turned off, so you may want a humidifier without a light.

Overall Recommendation

If you want the most reliable and inexpensive humidifier to add some moisture to your air, the Crane Cube Cool Mist Humidifier is right for you. It is lightweight, compact, easy to use, and comes with features that are found in models that are much more expensive. This is a great starter humidifier for a small space, such as a child’s room.

Crane Cube Cool Mist Humidifier Features

Type: Ultrasonic
Area: Less than 300 square feet
Output: 1.5 gallon
Antimicrobial: Yes
Automatic Shut Off: Yes, 15 hours max run
Water Level Indicator: Yes
Daily Maintenance Required? Yes
Weekly Maintenance Required? Yes
Replacement Filter or Wick Required: No
Replacement Cartridge Required: Optional for hard water
Dual Mist: No
Programmable: No
LED Light: Yes

Crane Cube Cool Mist Humidifier Rating

Output Rating: 5/5
Ease of Use Rating: 5/5
Noise Rating: 5/5
Energy Rating: 5/5
Hard Water Rating: 3/5
Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Crane Cube Cool Mist Humidifier Review Description

The Crane Cube Cool Mist Humidifier is an ultrasonic humidifier that adds humidity to the air at a very low price. This is one of the few models under $25 that is reliable and powerful. It helps to relieve symptoms which occurs when the air is too dry such as colds, coughs, sinus irritation, and nose bleeds. The antimicrobial features reduce the amount of mold and bacteria growth in the air. The auto-off function after a maximum of 15 hours or once the water runs out as well as a variable mist setting makes this humidifier really simple to use.

Use

The Crane Cube Cool Mist Humidifier is easy to use. To start, unscrew the water tank cap from the bottom of the water tank and fill the tank up with cold water. It’s suggested that you use distilled water or tap water if your standard water isn’t hard water. If you have to use hard water, a demineralization filter is suggested to keep everything in working order and cleaned efficiently. Screw the cap back onto the tank and place the tank onto the humidifier base, making sure that everything fits perfectly.

Plug the power cord into a wall socket and turn on the humidifier by adjusting the control knob. If everything is working properly then the blue LED power indicator light will illuminate. This will shut off automatically once the humidifier runs out of water, or 15 hours have passed. Unplug the humidifier before removing or refilling the water tank.

Cleaning

Cleaning the Crane Cube Cool Mist Humidifier is also very simple. Just turn the humidifier off and unplug it before any cleaning. Empty water from the water tank and humidifier base. Wipe down the humidifier base daily. Then refill the water tank and place it back on the humidifier base.

Weekly you should fill the water tank with 2 tablespoons white vinegar and warm water. Shake it vigorously and allow it to sit for a half hour. Then shake again and empty the water and vinegar mixture. Rinse out the water tank well before refilling it. Do the same for the humidifier base, allowing it to soak in the vinegar and water mixture for a half-hour without immersing it in water. Rinse the humidifier base and dry it off with a cloth or paper towel.

My Recommendation

If you want a very inexpensive humidifier with a lot of great features and a compact size, this one will suit you well. The Crane Cube Cool Mist Humidifier is great for small spaces and requires little maintenance compared to other humidifiers. Since it is an ultrasonic humidifier, you won’t have to purchase replacement parts which in addition to the energy efficiency of this model will keep your costs low. It’s also a great humidifier for a child’s room because it sprays a cool mist, has an LED light, and doesn’t look like a toy like other Crane models do. It also comes with a one year warranty, protecting you from any defects.

PureGuardian H920BL Humidifier Review

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Pros

The PureGuardian Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is really compact and the size works well for small bedrooms or offices. The nightlight can be turned off and on, which is something that other humidifiers like the VIcks Warm Mist Humidifier cannot control, making it a good option for a bedroom humidifier. Because this humidifier is cool mist, it’s good for children’s rooms as there is no risk of getting burned by the water vapor. It also has a mold and mildew resistant tank that’s easy to clean and maintain.

Cons

There is a small water tank, which requires refilling multiple times a day if you put your humidifier on the highest setting. The PureGuardian Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is very close to being silent, it makes a slight noise that you may notice if you put it’s right next to your bed. It also makes a clicking noise when it switches into reset mode once the humidifier runs out of water, which depending on your settings, might happen before you wake up in the morning. Depending on whether you’re a light sleeper or not and where you’re using your humidifier, you might want to go with a quieter model.

Overall Recommendation

I recommend the PureGuardian H920BL Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier for those looking for an inexpensive way to humidify a small space. With no wicks or filters to replace, it’s an affordable option for humidifying small bedrooms or offices for 10 hours quietly. It also works for children’s rooms to provide relief from dry air in a safe manner.

 

PureGuardian H920BL Humidifier Features

Type: Ultrasonic
Area: 300 square feet
Output: .5 gallon
Antimicrobial: Yes
Automatic Shut Off: Yes, when the water runs low
Water Level Indicator: Yes
Daily Maintenance Required? No
Weekly Maintenance Required? Yes
Replacement Filter or Wick Required: No
Replacement Cartridge Required: No
Dual Mist: No
Programmable: No
LED Light: Yes

PureGuardian H920BL Humidifier Rating

Output Rating: 2/5
Ease of Use Rating: 5/5
Noise Rating: 5/5
Energy Rating: 5/5
Hard Water Rating: 4/5
Overall Rating: 4.2/5

PureGuardian H920BL Humidifier Review Description

The PureGuardian is a unltrasonic cool mist humidifier that uses metal rings to vibrate at ultrasonic frequencies to produce water vapor and humidify the air. Cleaning should be done every one to two weeks depending on how heavily you use it. There aren’t any parts to replace with makes this humidifier a very affordable option with a low upkeep cost. It also comes with a three year warranty that will protect you from any product defects, adding to the value.

Use

Separate the tank from the body of the humidifier, and open the tank lid. Only place cool, clean water in the tank. Tap water can be used but if you have hard water that’s filled with lots of minerals, then it’s best if you use distilled water instead. Close the lid and reattach the tank to the body of the humidifier. Plug in the power adaptor, and press the button to turn on the humidifier.

Pushing the power button once turns on the low setting, pressing it twice turns on the nightlight. Pressing it three times puts the power on high. Four times turns off the nightlight and keeps the humidifier on the high setting. You can adjust the direction of the mist at any time. When the water in the tank runs low, the refill LED light changes to red and the unit shuts off automatically.

PureGuardian H920BL Humidifier Cleaning

Cleaning this humidifier is easy to do and depending on the frequency of use you should clean the PureGuardian Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier every one to two weeks. To clean this humidifier, unplug the unit, being sure not to submerse it in water during cleaning.

Start cleaning the inside body of the humidifier by pouring any excess water out of the unit, and rinsing it out with fresh water and wiping it down with the cleaning brush or a soft cloth. Fill the water tank with fresh water and shake it to remove any scaling. Use the cleaning brush and a teaspoon of water and vinegar to remove and mineral buildups from the ultrasonic disk.

My Recommendation

I recommend the PureGuardian Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier for those who want a small, compact humidifier that’s easy to maintain and inexpensive. With the proper care, this humidifier should last for years and provide you with relief from dry weather. This is one of the best selling humidifiers in this price range because of its size, ease of use, and humidifying abilities.

Honeywell HWM705B Filter Free Warm Moisture Humidifier Review

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The Honeywell HWM705B might look familiar to people who are used to reading recommendations from this site. That’s because this humidifier is very similar to the Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier, with the major differences being the addition of a second handle on the bottom of the water tank to make it easier to grip, and a smaller water hole, meaning that you can’t reach into the water tank to clean it out.

Pros

This humidifier has a large tank and significant output so that you don’t have to refill the water tank as much. Upkeep is very easy with the Honeywell Warm Moisture Humidifier and it doesn’t require any filters or additional parts. The nightlight, so if you’re kept awake by light, you won’t have any problems sleeping near this model like you might with the Vicks Warm Humidifier.

Cons

If you need absolute quiet then you’ll want to go with an ultrasonic humidifier instead of an evaporative humidifier. The heating pad makes noise as does the water tank. It’s a slight bubbling noise that sounds like white noise, but not everyone will enjoy hearing their humidifier. If you have a large space to add humidity to, you should also go with a larger humidifier. I would not recommend this for a baby or child’s room, since the warm mist can potentially burn. If you are looking for a baby humidifier, I would recommend looking at the cool mist humidifier reviews.

Overall Recommendation / The Honeywell HWM705B Filter Free Warm Moisture Humidifier is a great one room humidifier. It’s nice for the bedroom because it raises humidity to the recommended 50% level. If you want to humidify a small space or bedroom, this humidifier works well and inexpensively. It’s a the perfect way to humidify a small space for an affordable price.

Features

Type: Evaporative
Area: 300 square feet
Output: 2 gallons
Antimicrobial: No
Automatic Shut Off: Yes
Water Level Indicator: Yes
Daily Maintenance Required? Yes
Weekly Maintenance Required? Yes
Replacement Filter or Wick Required: Yes, every 3 months
Replacement Cartridge Required: No
Dual Mist: No
Programmable: No
LED Light: Yes

Rating

Output Rating: 5/5
Ease of Use Rating: 5/5
Noise Rating: 5/5
Energy Rating: 5/5
Hard Water Rating: 4/5
Overall Rating: 4.8/5

The Honeywell Warm Mist Humidifier is a simple to use humidifier that’s easy to assemble, clean, and maintain properly. Many of the parts are dishwasher safe, the humidifier has an auto shut off which makes sure that your humidifier doesn’t overheat when it runs out of water, and the display light shows you exactly when the humidifier needs to be reset. It can also be used with Kaz Inhalant or Vicks VapoSteam to help clear sinuses and provide comfort when you have a cold, in addition to keeping the air humidified.

Use

Properly assemble the humidifier, choosing a location that is firm, water-resistant, level, and 12″ away from walls. Fill the water tank with cool, clean water, then place it on the base. Plug in the humidifier, choose the humidity output you want, and monitor your humidity level with a hygrometer. If you want to add liquid inhalant, you can add 1 tablespoon to the medicine cup.

Honeywell HWM705B Filter Free Warm Moisture Humidifier Cleaning

The removable tray, cooling chamber, and mist outlet are all top shelf dishwasher safe without detergent or other dishes in there. After every time that you use the humidifier, you should remove any excess water that ends up in the base or is left in the water tank to stop the growth of mold and bacteria.

Weekly you should descale the humidifier and disinfect it. To remove any scale, unplug the humidifier, remove the water tank, disassemble the cooling chamber, remove the removable tray, and fill the heating element with one cup of undiluted white vinegar. Place the removable tray back over the heating element, and allow them to soak for fifteen to twenty minutes. Pour out the vinegar after it soaks, then use a soft brush or cloth to clean the heating element.

To disinfect, add one teaspoon of bleach to one gallon of water and fill the water tank with this solution, as well as the heating element. After twenty minutes, pour out the bleach and rinse out both parts until the bleach smell has gone away.

My Recommendation

The Honeywell HWM705 Warm Mist Humidifier is a solid humidifier that will keep any small space nice and comfortable. In the event that any defects occur, you are protected by a three year warranty, and with proper care your humidifier should last even longer than that. It’s recommended for adult bedrooms with people who don’t mind a little white noise of water and can handle a little night light that isn’t extremely visible.

What is the Best Humidifier – The Ultimate Guide 2018

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After comparing models of humidifiers on the market, I found that the Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier is the best humidifier for most people. It’s easy to fill, clean, and maintain. It also doesn’t require additional filters or cartridges to keep the humidifier in working order, making it an affordable option for people that want to humidify a specific room in their home. Of course, there are pros and cons to every humidifier as well as a range of features that increase the costs of maintaining a humidifier.

Choosing the best humidifier for you really depends on your needs and the needs of your family so this site has been created to help you make an informed decision to purchase the best humidifier that suits you. Read the Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier with Auto Shut-Off Review, discover the best humidifier reviews listed on the sidebar, or read the humidifier buying guide below.

 

What Is A Humidifier?

Humidifiers increase the amount of water vapor in the air. Water vapor is gaseous and invisible and can relieve symptoms such as dry skin, allergies, some respiratory illnesses, and increase your level of comfort. As air is warmed in your home, it requires additional moisture added to it in order to maintain proper humidity levels. If you live in a dry climate or in an environment where you artificially heat your air, there’s a high chance that you can benefit from a humidifier to make your living situation more comfortable.

What Is A Humidifier Used For?

It’s suggested that the humidity in your home be anywhere from 30 to 50 percent. Anything less and you’ll face common problems associated with dry air. If you live in a dry climate, having a humidifier adds moisture to the air and creates a healthier living space for you and your family. It’s important to create a humid environment to help the body reduce the amount of evaporation of moisture for the skin. If you’ve ever gotten nose bleeds, dry sinuses, cracked lips, or static electricity shocks, then your air humidity might be to blame. Owning a good humidifier will help relieve you of those symptoms.

Should I Use A Humidifier?

If you’ve noticed that your environment is too dry and have any of the symptoms that occur when your air is too dry, then a humidifier is right for you. You can test the level of humidity in your home with a hygrometer. If you air is below the recommended 30% – 50% then a humidifier is right for you. If your moisture levels are too high, you notice condensation collecting on your windows, you clean mold from your home, or you notice that your home is humid already, then you won’t benefit from a humidifier. There are many alternatives to humidifiers depending on the environment that you live in.

Should I Use A Humidifier, Vaporizer, or Dehumidifier?

Let’s go over the differences between humidifiers and the many alternatives you have to adjust the level of moisture in your home. This way you can determine if a humidifier is the solution that you require, or if you’re looking for a different product altogether.

Humidifier vs Diffuser

Both humidifiers and mist diffusers increase the level of moisture in your environment. Many of the best-selling diffusers however are not used to maintain the proper humidity levels of a room, but rather to disperse essential oils. The main function of a diffuser to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy rather than functioning as a humidifier. Some humidifiers can also function as a diffuser and do a better job of maintaining the suggested amounts of moisture in your home.

Humidifier vs Dehumidifier

Whereas a humidifier adds moisture to the air, a dehumidifier takes away moisture from the air. When you live in an area with too much moisture that’s over the recommended 50% level then you promote the growth of mold, dust mites, and spores in the air. To reduce your allergies, clean the air, and increase your overall comfort in a home that’s too humid, you should purchase a dehumidifier instead of a humidifier.

Humidifier vs Vaporizer

Vaporizers are similar to humidifiers since both increase the amount of moisture in the air. Vaporizers create steam by boiling water and can potentially warm the area that it’s in. Vaporizers are also less expensive and don’t last as long as humidifiers. For congestion and allergies, I recommend using a humidifier that can last through the allergy season. It’s also recommended that humidifiers are used instead of vaporizers around children due to the risk of injury from hot water and steam.

Humidifier vs Boiling Water

Boiling water is one alternative to owning a humidifier, however in the long run it is expensive and not very effective at increasing the amount of moisture in a large home. Keeping a stove on throughout the night to act as a humidifier is risky, will probably only change the humidity levels in your kitchen, and wastes energy or gas. It’s recommended that you find an affordable humidifier instead of constantly boiling water to add moisture to the air.

Humidifier vs Air Purifier

Air purifiers reduce the amount of pollutants in the air, but don’t change the levels of humidity. Air purifiers are good for allergies and asthma, since it reduces the amounts of pet dander, pet hair, pollen, dust, and smoke from your home. There are different types of humidifiers, some which use a filter to remove pollutants, and others that use electrostatic methods to clean air and remove odors.

What Types Of Humidifiers Are There?

The two main types of humidifiers are a warm mist humidifiers and cool moisture humidifiers. There are also two types of cool moisture humidifiers which are ultrasonic humidifiers and evaporative humidifiers. Both main types of humidifiers can humidify a room, the difference between warm mist and cool moisture comes down to how the water vapor is created. Price, the level of noise, and how the humidifier controls mineral deposits are the main differences between evaporative and ultrasonic models.

Warm Mist Humidifiers

Warm mist humidifiers work similarly to vaporizers. A heating element warms water in the humidifier and releases steam into the air. There are mineral pads that filter the water, reducing the amount of white or grey dust that the humidifier releases during the process which is optional for many units. Depending on how hard your water is (the amount of minerals that is in your tap water) it may be a good idea to purchase mineral pads if you’re using a warm mist humidifier, or only fill your humidifier with distilled water. Warm mist humidifiers use more electricity because of the heating pads that turn the water into steam, but because there are no additional parts other than the optional filter, it’s still a cost-effective way to add moisture to your home.

Cool Moisture Humidifiers

Cool mist humidifiers are broken down into evaporative and ultrasonic models. Evaporative humidifiers are usually less expensive but have additional parts that need to be maintained or replaced, while ultrasonics are usually more expensive but don’t require any additional products to maintain the humidifier in working condition.

Evaporative Humidifiers

With evaporative humidifiers, air is pushed through a humidifier to a wick which evaporates the water in the humidifier and creates water vapor. Evaporative humidifiers don’t generate much electricity since there is no heating unit, however the wicks have to be replaced regularly to ensure proper functioning on the humidifier. This is a cost that has to be factored in when deciding to purchase a humidifier. The wick can also grow mold, bacteria, or fungi since it sits in the water. There are additives that you can add to the water or antibacterial cartridges that stop the wick from growing bacteria, but you’ll still need to replace the wick about once every two months depending on use. Evaporative humidifiers do create a noise since air moves through the wicks at high speeds, so it’s not recommended for the bedroom if you need total silence to fall asleep.

Ultrasonic Humidifiers

Ultrasonic humidifiers use small metal rings to move at ultrasonic frequency and turns the water into a water vapor. Unlike evaporative models, ultrasonic humidifiers don’t require any additional supplies to stay in proper working order. Depending on how hard your water is, ultrasonic humidifiers might release what’s called white dust into the air, which are the minerals that are present in the water. Although this dust is non-toxic, it can get over furniture. You can reduce the white dust through demineralization cartridges or by using distilled water. Some ultrasonic models are also warm mist, and reduce the amount of bacteria in the water by heating it first. Ultrasonic models, just like all humidifiers have to be maintained properly to stay in working order and safe for operation.

What Sizes and Capacities Of Humidifiers Are There?

There are three main sizes of humidifiers. The one that will work best for you depends on the amount of space that you are trying to cover. All humidifiers have a rating that suggest the room type or amount of square feet that the humidifier works best for. Output capacity from each machine is determined by the amount of gallons of moisture it can produce per day. Usually the humidifier can store a portion of the amount it can output per day so if you’re running your humidifier 24/7 then you have to refill it whenever the water runs low.

Tabletop Humidifiers

Tabletop humidifiers are single room humidifiers that portable and can fit on a small table or surface. Most have removable water containers that allow you to easily clean and refill the device. This size is great if you want to humidify a bedroom or small room. It’s also lightweight which makes it a good option for someone looking for a portable humidifier.

Console Humidifiers

Console humidifiers can supply humidity to a few rooms and even a whole house or floor. Console humidifiers are portable but because of the size of each humidifier, it’s not good for travel. Console humidifiers are very strong and come in a wide range of designs to go with your home decor. These humidifiers usually go in a central location instead of in a specific bedroom. You don’t have to refill console humidifiers everyday like you have to with tabletop humidifiers. When you are considering a humidifier, you should also think about the water capacity that it holds and whether you’ll be able to fill your humidifier easily.

In-duct Humidifiers

In-duct humidifiers are installed in your home’s HVAC unit and connects directly to your water line. You don’t have to refill water whatsoever with an in-duct humidifier, and your whole home will stay humid during the process of heating or cooling your home. Air passes through a humidifier pad and spreads it throughout your home to any room with the door open.

Required Humidifier Maintenance

It’s important that you maintain your humidifier if you want it to work properly. If you fail to clean your humidifier and replace the components when necessary then you can bring about serious health hazards. All humidifiers have to be properly cleaned and dried between cycles. Many have to also be cleaned daily or weekly, which is discussed in each individual review. If your humidifier isn’t cleaned properly then bacteria, fungi, and mold can be released into the air you breath and create any number of respiratory problems.

Replacing Water Often

You should replace the water whenever it gets low. Some models shut off automatically when the water levels are low, while others continue to run and can possibly be damaged if left on without enough water. It’s recommended that you dry out the humidifier between uses so that the water doesn’t grow any bacteria. Using distilled water for your humidifier is also ideal if your tap water is ‘hard water’ with lots of minerals in it to reduce the amount of white or grey smoke that can form. Using distilled water also stops the humidifier from getting clogged from mineral buildup.

Cleaning Out Your Humidifier

Follow the recommended cleaning instructions of your specific humidifier model. Make sure that you at clean out your humidifier weekly, if not daily. Rinse out your filter with cool water and allow excess water to dry before replacing it. Use vinegar in your water tank and allow a generous amount to sit in the tank for about 30 minutes. Then scrub it with a soft bristle brush as much as needed. Rinse out the water tank throughly and allow the tank to dry completely before reattaching it.

Disinfecting Your Humidifier

To disinfect your humidifier, add one teaspoon of bleach for every gallon of water in your water tank. Mix it around, coating evenly. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes and rinse out the water tank throughly before refilling it with water and using it with your humidifier.

Using The Right Supplies

When you look at the models of humidifiers that are available, make sure that you’re aware of the replacement parts that you need to have to properly maintain the unit. Consider purchasing additional filters, demineralization cartridges, or humidifier water treatment solutions as necessary. You’ll need to replace filters at least every two months, cartridges are changed every two to three months, and water should be treated every time that you use your humidifier.

Common Humidifier Design Features

There are many different desirable features to look for in a humidifier. The more features you want such as a built-in humidistat or self-cleaning capabilities, the more expensive the model usually is. The best features help save you time, money, and keep you and your family comfortable and healthy.

Aromatherapy Humidifiers

Many different humidifiers allow you to put essential oils in them to add a scent to your home as well as add moisture. Usually the aromatherapy “humidifiers” are more to diffuse oil than they are to humidify a space, but many humidifiers are able to deal with essential oils as well. Most of the products labeled as aromatherapy humidifiers are really diffusers, so if you want to properly humidify your space, make sure that the humidifier you purchase has a strong water output.

Built-In Humidistats

Humidistats monitor the amount of moisture in the air and automatically shut off the humidifier when the humidity reaches a certain level. This feature is nice because it stops your home from becoming too humid, saves energy, and saves water. If your model doesn’t have a humidistat then you should purchase a hygrometer to monitor the level of humidity in your home. That way you will not surpass the recommended 50% humidity limit which promotes the growth of bacteria and mold.

Antimicrobial Properties

Some humidifiers claim to be antimicrobial. This means that small particles line the humidifier and fights the growth of bacteria, mold, and viruses. While some antimicrobial are expensive, you gain the benefits of not having to clean the humidifier as often and the mist which fills your house is clean and hygienic.

Dual Mist

Dual mist humidifiers can humidify the air with either a warm or cool mist. It gives you versatility on how you’d like to add moisture to your home. Dual mist humidifiers usually come with an adjustable mist as well so you can set the rate at which water vapor is being added to the room.

How I Make The Best Humidifier Reviews

Humidifiers are reviewed on a 5 star scale based on ease of use, ease of cleaning and maintaining the humidifier, cost, quietness, special features, and how hard water is processed.

How easy is the humidifier to use?

The first thing I look at is the design details of each humidifier and review how easy the humidifier is to use. Placement of the water tank and how easy it is to refill are important features that can often be overlooked when picking out a humidifier. I also look at the features that are or are not present, and make recommendations on similar humidifiers, better humidifiers, and any other alternatives. The easier a humidifier is to use, the better of a rating it receives.

How easy is the humidifier to clean and properly maintain?

Maintaining your humidifier on a regular basis is so important and cannot be stressed enough. If you use a humidifier daily, you have to clean it regularly and replace any parts every couple of months. The easier a humidifier is to clean and maintain while having a low price, the better ratings that it receives.

How quiet is the humidifier?

Some people enjoy the white noise of humidifiers. Other people prefer that their humidifier is as quiet as possible or even silent. I discuss how much noise a humidifier makes in each review so that you know if you should put it near your bed in your bedroom, or if you should keep it in another room because of the amount of noise it makes.

How well does the humidifier process hard water?

Unfortunately, not everyone has the same quality of tap water which can clog a humidifier and stop it from working properly. No matter what area you’re in, I’ve tested humidifiers with mineral rich water to discover which models work for the type of water that you have in your home. Some humidifiers handle hard water very well, while other models require that you use distilled water to keep the humidifier functioning properly.

Does the humidifier have any special features?

Ideally, a humidifier will have all of the best features at a low price. I look at features that are missing in each humidifier I test and give you alternatives to any product. I also test out the features that are found on each model and determine how well everything works.

Best 5 Dehumidifier Reviews

  1. Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier with Auto Shut Off Review
  2. Cool Mist Humidifier Stick V2 By Deneve Review
  3. Crane Cube Cool Mist Humidifier Review
  4. PureGuardian H920BL Humidifier Review
  5. Honeywell HWM705B Filter Free Warm Moisture Humidifier Review

 

How To Choose The Best Space Heater for Your Home

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Its actually quite difficult to find out which is the best space heater as no-one has completed any extensive research to which is the best space heater and whilst even some those “trusted editorial sources” such as “Consumer Reports” don’t explain how they came up with their top 20 heaters which means they could easily have just chosen the top 20 heaters and wrote something about each one.

With this in mind we decided to do our own research starting off with preparing a long list of every single heater manufacture and model that we could find that is sold on the market today by combining those unit that we found online with those that were sold in department store such Home Depot or Walmart from brands such as Honeywell, Dyson and Delonghi. After we had prepared a long list of a few hundred models, we shortened this list by taking out units that did not have a consumer report rating of more than 75, had been replaced with a newer model, did not have safety features such as a tip-over switch or a overheating cut off and space heaters that had a poor user rating based on customer rating from review sites such as Amazon.

After we had assembled our line-up we then began to test each unit over a 24 hour period whilst I was sleeping and working to see which was the space heater. The main things we tested for were the time that the heater took to heat up the room, the maximum temperature that we could get the room to at night, the cost of running the unit for the 24 hour period and how comfortable we felt by using the space heater during the 24 hour period (was i seriously comfortable about leaving the heater running when I was not in the house or was it actually just too hot that it was about to burn up and destroy itself and anything around it).

Based on this information we then chose our Top Two space heaters for large rooms and small rooms as shown below.

Top Space Heaters for Smaller Areas

Dyson AM04 Hot & Cool Fan Heater

Dyson AM04 Hot & Cool Space HeaterThe Dyson Hot & Cold Fan Heater is a new design in space heater using technology that has never been used before and has won top recommendations from Consumer Reports all over the world. The heater is unique in that it does not use fan blades to blow hot air out of the heater and instead use Dyson’s very own Air Multiplier technology which draws in cold air at the bottom of the unit, heating the air using ceramic plates and then blowing out hot air from the unit to heat the room. Dyson says that the heater draws in upto six gallons of air per second and give the air multiplier technology which amplifies the amount of air that is being expelled from the unit, means that you both get a continuous flow of hot air as there are no blades to interrupt the airflow and your room heats up quickly.

The technology within the Dyson Heater extends passed airflow and into the heater where in heater mode, two PTC ceramic plates are used to heat the air before its blown out to you.

however unlike many cheaper space heaters the ceramic tiles in the Dyson heater only reach 392 degree fahrenheit which means that they do not burn dust and therefore you do not get that horrible smell when your heater has sucked in some dust and its now burning within the fumes being blown on to you. The unit is controlled both from a control panel on the shaft on the unit and can also be controlled from a remote control that will work from 10 meters away. Multiple settings can be used to either turn up the airflow or the temperature which can bet set from 33 degrees all the way up to 99 degree fahrenheit. In our tests the hottest we could get our 150 square foot room to be was 84 degree fahrenheit by turning the fan on flat out and the temperature to its max.

How much does this unit cost to run? well this does depend on how much your electricity costs, however for us, we worked out that it would cost us $3.50 per day if we left the unit on flat out for 24 hours, however given the Dyson heater comes with both a remote control which means that you can easily increase the temperature without moving from the sofa, and an automatic temperature control which will keep your room at a certain temperature by automatically adjusting the both the heat and the airflow, the actual cost will be much less.

Given the unit does not have any blades, its very safe to have around the house, and whilst it is quite heavy, depending on which model you buy the heater does come with a tip-over protector that means if the unit fall over it will automatically switch itself off. The Dyson Blade-less fan also doubles as an air conditioning unit in hot weather which extends its versatility, however like all things Dyson, its quite expensive. Given it looks fantastic and works very well, its probably worth the extra expense to go with brand that symbolism quality.

Lasko 754200 Ceramic Fan Heater

Lasko 754200 Ceramic Fan HeaterThe Lasko 754200 is a small, fantastic space heater that heats up quick, it very portable, produces serious and is cheap, really cheap. The Lasko heater measures a tiny 6″ x 7″ x 9.2″ weighs just over 3 pounds therefore you easily move your heater around the room. Just because it small does not mean it does not come with any heating power because it does and even for its size managed to heat our small 150 Square foot room up to 87 degrees Fahrenheit after an hour in full blast mode. The lasko is very easy to use and is simply operated by a on-off switch which also doubles as a power switch with three settings and a temperature control knob which has 10 settings from cold to hot.

How much does it cost to use, well this really depends on how much your electricity is, however for us we worked out that it would cost us $3 per day if we ran it flat out 24 hours each day. This does sound expensive, however remember that a ceramic fan space heater is designed so that you can switch it on and off as and when you will need it meaning that you will not be using it the whole time.

We did feel safe with this unit and would have no problem with kids running around it or even touching it given that even after 24 hours of continuous use, the outer shells temperature was only 81 degree Fahrenheit which meant that you could easily pick it up and move it around whilst its running. Whilst we did not test the over-heat switch (quite frankly other than getting a blow touch out and putting heat into the heater which would no be clever given we borrowed the lasko, we could not work out how to do this) we left the heater running even whilst sleep and never had a problem.

The major downside of this unit was that we felt it was a little noisy which is something you get used to when you’re trying to sleep, but did feel that other models were quieter. The other draw back is that this model does not come with a tip-over switch, however given that we tested the unit on its side and there was no problem, this does not concern us. Remember – this a fan heater, therefore the minute you turn off the heat, the heat stops and you can really feel the room getting colder.

Top Space Heaters For Larger Areas

Delonghi TRD 0715T Safeheat Oil-Filled Radiator

Delonghi TRD 0715T Safeheat Oil-Filled Space HeaterIf you’re looking at a space heater than you can leave on for long periods of time then, look no further than the Delonghi Radiator as it has proven itself to be one of the top radiant space heaters on the market right now by many consumer reports. The oil-filled radiator offers superb levels of heat whilst maintaining low surface temperatures thanks to its patented thermal chimney which help to funnel cold air through the heater where it can be heated ensuring that your room stay hot all the time. This means that its great for children who like to touch things or pets and often like to explore any heating units.

The Delonghi safe-heat is controlled by a simply knob with three power settings and slider which can set the temperature and control the about of heat that your heater will produce and as an added benefit the Delonghi TRD safeheat comes with a 24 hour programmable timer

This features maintains a set room temperature and can operate to a schedule meaning that you can go to sleep with a nice warm room and the heater will switch itself off over night before switching itself back on in the morning before you wake up meaning that you can get in a nice warm environment. As with most oil-filled heaters, the heat does not stop the minute you switch off the power and with the safeheat we found it took over an hour for the heater to really cool down and stop producing heat.

The heater requires little or no maintenance, and is easily portable given its wheels which allow you to easily move the heater to where you want it, although because its made of metal and full of oil, it is quite heavy and therefore lifting it up the stairs is possible for one person, but you do need to be careful. We also found the Delonghi safe heat to be one the cheaper units to run. Over a 24 hour period we worked that the unit would cost us almost $2 to run continuously flat out, however this figure could be halved if we had used either the programmable thermostat or the timer to control the amount of heat the heater released.

Unfortunately its not all good news with this heater and it does have some draw-backs. The unit is super slow to heat up and requires a good 20 minutes to get warm enough to give off any heat and annoyingly the heater does not have a battery in its control panel meaning that if you set up the heater to come on a specific time, pull the plug out of the socket to move the heater, you will need to reset the times you want the heater to switch on and off again. Nothing major, but something that really they should have thought of.

Optimus H-6010 Portable Oil Filled Radiator Heater

Optimus H-6010 Portable Oil Filled Radiator HeaterWe really like the Optimus Oil filled radiator space heater which came in a very close second from the Delonghi Safeheat above and there are just a few annoying, little problems with this heater than gave the edge to the Delonghi which we will come to later, however the optimus is a fantastic unit that is great value for money and works well. The Optimus heater is one of the smaller oil heaters that we tested and comes in at around 13 pounds meaning that you can easily lift and carry the heater downstairs if however because its a slight cheaper model and probably made slightly cheaper as well, the wheels do not work at all meaning that you will have to carry it because you will not be pulling in anywhere. Even to simply move the heater over some carpet, it was more effort to drag the heater than just picking it up and moving across the room.

The heater is controlled by an on-off switch and then three settings of power with the top setting being around 1500 watts and the lowest setting around 600 watts, however there is also an automatic thermostat program control meaning that you can set a temperature and the device will try and hold the temperature in the room. The optimus heater is constructed well and feels like even if you dropped it from some height it would not break (we borrowed a unit so could not test this) and come with a one year warranty. The heater has other safety features such as a tip-over protection feature meaning that the heater will automatically switch off should the heater fall over which is a safety feature that many of even the most expensive space heaters do not come with.

The unit produces a fantastic amount of heat and on full blast heated our small room to 85 degrees fahrenheit which is the hottest we could get our room to with an oil-filled heater and whilst the unit did give off a terrible smell the first time we used it, this quickly burnt off and stopped smelling. One of the other slight problem of the unit giving off so much heat is that it actually gets quite hot which could be a problem if you have small children or pets and given its superb efficiency takes a long time to cool down which means that you will not be moving your heater in a hurry after you have switch it off as its too hot to pick up and the wheels do not work to drag it.

Even though this heater produces so much heat and there are customer reviews on Amazon with one customer saying that he uses his Optimus heater to heat his entire 800 square foot flat, they are really not expensive to run and flat out, we worked out that our optimus space heater cost us almost $2.50 per 24 period to run which is actually really good considering that you would never leave your space heater on 24 hours a day.

How Much Does Your Space Heater Cost To Run

Generally oil-filled space heaters are cheaper to run than either coil or ceramic element heaters however it does depend on for how long you use your space heater and at what temperature. On the best things about the best space heaters is that they will usually come with temperature controls meaning that you can set a temperature for the room and the heater will main it by switching itself on or off depending on the heat in the room. Using this type of heater can save your bills by as much as 40% in any 24 hour period.

To work out the cost of you space heater, you need to take into account, it’s Kilowatts, the cost of electricity and how much you are going to use it. Use the formula below to work this out.

Kilowatts x Cost x Hours Used = Cost

In this example a 1,500 watt space heater running for 10 hours at rate of $0.10 per kilowatt-hour will cost you $1.50. We calculate this by taking the 1,500 watt and dividing this by 1000 to get kilowatts per hour and then multiplying this figure by the cost of electricity which in this case will be $0.10 and then by the time which in this case is 10 hours to give us the dollar amount for how much our space heater will cost if we run it flat out for 10 hours.

Types of Space Heaters

For warming up just an individual room there’s no need turn up the thermostat for the whole house if you have a space heater. They usually come in small sizes so it’s easy to find a place for them anywhere in the house. Though a safety precaution should always be taken and the unit should be placed not close to any inflammable materials. Space heaters are available of several different types that offer various features with their benefits. To determine which would be the best heater for you, it’s best to understand their different types.

Spaces heaters can be differentiated according to the fuel type they use, such as gas, electric, propane, or kerosene (best kerosene heaters guide here). But also they can be categorized according to the heating technology they use. Below are the most common space heater types based on the technology used for heating a room.

Convection Space Heaters

These heaters are designed for heating a whole room. For providing better heat distribution convection heaters sometimes use a fan. The most efficient among this type of heaters are the units filled with water and oil. In a bath of water or oil they utilize the heating element that cycles on and off. The water and oil stays warm heating the surrounding air. The hot air produced by the unit rises to the ceiling, which pushes the cooler air to the floor level, thus creating air circulation in the room. Another type of these heaters are the baseboard heaters.

Radiant Space Heaters

These heaters use a variety of heating elements. The best element for directing heat are a ceramic core, infrared quartz tube, or an electric ribbon element. When you switch off the unit the heat of the elements quickly dissipates. These units are designed to heat mostly the objects and people in a room. They don’t specifically heat up the air in the room. Usually a person has to sit right in front of a radiant space heater. They produce heat very quickly, so if that’s what you’re looking for it’s a good choice. But when using one of these space heater there’re certain safety precautions that should be taken. It should be placed right next to inflammable or combustable objects. To find a model among this type, read our best infrared heater review.

Parabolic Heaters

These units use a ceramic core for heating. They are usually a bit more expensive than quartz heaters but produce about the same amount of heat with every watt used.

Halogen or Reflective Heaters

The heat of these units is provided by a halogen bulb that saves energy and produces heat. The created heat reflects on nearby objects and feels like the sun is shining on you.

So when choosing a certain type of the space heater you need to consider your needs. If you need to heat a whole room, large or small, a better choice would be to get a convection heater. On the other hand, if you want the heater to produce warm air quickly, a more suitable choice would be an infrared heater. Also think about how much heat you need it to produce. Mostly space heaters operate at about 600 to 1500 watts. The more watts it uses, the more heat the unit produces, but also it will consume more energy.

What to consider when buying a space heater?

Safety

Along with consistent performance and good value the heater should also combine safety. Check the features of the space heater. A safe one should automatically shut down the unit if the temperature rises to a dangerous level or if the heater tips or gets knocked over. Also a heater that has a protection over the heating coils reduces the temperature of the surface and thus making the space heater more fireproof.

Portability

Space heaters are convenient because you can move them from one place to another, so if you plan on moving around the unit a lot look for a lightweight model. For a safe grip the heater should have an insulated handle.

Temperature Control

It’s also an important feature, so you won’t have to turn the machine on or off so the room maintains the desired temperature. Also for saving energy units that have multiple output settings are good, so you can set the temperature at high, medium or low and achieve consistent heating.

 

Space heaters are a good way to reduce the energy bill for heating. Using a space heater for warming up an individual room, you won’t need to heat the whole house. They’re usually not very high priced. If you’re looking for an electric space heater, look for such labels as UL (Underwriters Laboratory), CSA (Canadian Standards Association) or ETL (Intertek). These labels verify that they were laboratory tested and that their performance and construction meet the U.S> safety standards.

Safety Advice

  • Don’t leave the unit unattained if it’s plugged in and in operation
  • Place the space heater on a flat surface and on a level where children and pets would be able to reach it. If you want to place the heater on a tabletop make sure that the manufacturer has specified it.
  • Unless the manufacturer has specified that the space heater can be used outside or in the bathroom, don’t place it in wet or damp area. Moisture can damage the heater.
  • Always keep a distance of about 3 feet between the space heater and any combustible objects like curtains, furniture or bedding.

We have reviewed many different types of heaters to find the best products in this industry. In our research we have reviewed their quality, price, overall performance and effectiveness, and electric heater reviews of users. We hope that in our best space heater reviews you have found the needed information.

What is the Best Hardwood Flooring for Your Home

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When it pertains to deciding on a floor for your residence, you want the best. You desire flooring that will certainly be enjoyable to consider as well as one that will certainly give you that comfortable and homely feel. Hardwood flooring offers this as well as much more. Wood floors provide your house a feel of beauty and course. The pros of wood floorings consist of the convenience of cleaning as well as their longevity all the while providing that air of the aristocracy. If you do opt to utilize hardwood, it is important that you follow a certain collection of ideas so that you can accomplish the look that is most fit to your requirements and expectation.

What is the Best Hardwood Flooring for Your Home?

Budget plan as well as style

Consider your budget as well as the theme you have in mind. Hard timber can be costly. This implies that it is necessary to set your spending plan to make sure that you do not end up with incomplete floor covering and poverty-stricken at the same time. Keep in mind though that there are various kinds of hardwood floorings as well as varieties to fulfill the demands of any spending plan. As you do this, determine your style. Identifying the style and budget plan ensures you do not start to prepare with a certain style in mind just to realize later it is past your spending plan. Take time to do the research on your style since when done, you will certainly have to live with the floor for a long period. Research study online, look at house design magazines or look for the help of an interior developer.

Wood varieties and color

Difficult woods can be found in different types and ranges. The most common ones are Red as well as white oak, Brazilian and also American Cherry as well as Hard Maple. When choosing a certain sort of wood, consider the advantages and disadvantages of each. This would certainly be in areas such as firmness, color, resistance to temperature level changes as well as even more. Keep in mind that while oak could be durable; its shade might not kindly you. Your choice of timber will likewise be figured out by your motif. Different species of tough wood come in different natural colors. Naturally, one can opt to paint the timber to accommodate their theme but the weathering that floors undergo will make maintaining the quality of the flooring challenging. Commonly,hardwood flooring colors range from light as well as dark browns to wine reds as well as tan red.

Traffic and atmosphere

When picking the timber, think about the quantity of vista in your residence. If your residence has, numerous occupants or you would classify your site visitor numbers as above average about various other homes, then the wood you pick needs to have the long life to birth the wear that the rush hour requires. The timber shade can alter when based on hefty foot website traffic. The temperature and environment of your home is additionally a very important factor. Certain types of hardwood do shrink and broaden when subjected to vast temperature level changes. This undoubtedly creates the wood to weaken and crack overtime.

Completing and floor covering

Another crucial factor to think about for your wood flooring is the completing and floor covering. There are 2 sorts of completing: the ‘unfinished’ and the ‘completed’. The finished is the most typically used as it comes all set to set up. The incomplete is suited for those people, who wish to accomplish a much more distinct tailored look; you can coat or sand the difficult wood items according to your needs and layout inclination. When it involves floor covering, the usual sorts of flooring include, solid wood flooring and the engineered flooring; one of the most prominent is the last, as it is less expensive and more resilient.

Top Quality Hardwood Flooring

There are many kinds of hardwoods offered for the flooring, including pine, oak as well as maple. One hardwood that grows much faster compared to every one of these kinds is the bamboo. It takes 5-7 years for the plant to develop, and it can expand at a rate of nearly one foot each month. You need to recognize that the other woods need fifty to a hundred and fifty years before they quit expanding.

Apart from being eco-friendly, bamboo is cost-effective as well as it has various types and grains. Yet, it is as hard as any other wood made use of for floor covering. An important requirement for deciding on the floor covering material is the simplicity of installation. Installing bamboo flooring is as hassle-free as other hardwood flooring. The accessibility in organic colors as well as differing grains at budget-friendly costs, plus the easy installment makes bamboo an optimal choice for flooring. Whatever is the style of your insides, you can definitely find a bamboo floor covering that goes well with it.

Depending on its kind, like interweaved or created, the price of hardwood bamboo flooring varies. However, the high quality of bamboo and its qualities are not jeopardized. Real to its name, this kind of flooring is constructed from solid pieces of bamboo, joined together with adhesive to obtain hardwood flooring with striking appearances.

Shredded fibers of bamboo are made use of for making the engineered bamboo flooring. Though such flooring has the looks and offers the feel of strong bamboo flooring, it is not so pricey. In case of the crafted variation, the suitable treating of bamboo plays a very significant role in the overall efficiency of the floor. As its leading layer is coated with plastic, using a cross-ply core, it could present the trouble of shrinkage when obtaining subjected to completely dry air. Nevertheless, normally, engineered bamboo flooring jobs well and it has good appearances.

Compared with various other kinds of bamboo flooring, the woven variation is fairly different. This sort of floor covering is made from fibers of shredded bamboo, to which material is added, and then pressed to get strong blocks. These blocks are grated and placed to get the floor covering profiles. The procedure used for its making cause having a floor covering tougher compared to solid bamboo. What matters one of the most is that, regardless of the type of flooring utilized, when using bamboo, the setting stays healthier.

Dishwasher Installation – The How To

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Without a doubt, a dishwasher installation is the easiest of all the appliance installations IF the necessary plumbing and electrical are in place and, of course, there is a space in between the cabinets to place the dishwasher. This space should be 24 inches wide. Less space is not acceptable. More is kind of OK as you can add fillers.

Dishwasher Blanket

    • The first thing you do is unpack the dishwasher and place it in front of the cabinet opening. There will be a blanket wrapped around the tub of the unit. The blanket is very important for noise abatement, so leave it wrapped around the tub.I am amazed at the number of professional installers, during a dishwasher installation, think the blanket is packing material and throw it away.

      FYI: Higher quality units have thicker insulating pads than their cheaper counterparts.

 

    • Next, check to make sure you have all the necessary materials for your dishwasher installation.
      • A hose, 3/8” braded steel, solid plastic or copper pipe to run from the hot water connection under the sink to the bottom of the dishwasher;
      • An electrical cord to run from the electrical outlet under the sink to the front of the dishwasher; and
      • Some yellow wire nuts to connect to the dishwasher wiring.
    • The drain hose should be connected to the pump under the dishwasher. This runs to the inlet on the disposal.The drain line from the dishwasher should run high to eliminate siphoning from the disposal back into the dishwasher. It should be as high as possible or should I say as close to the bottom of the countertop as you can get and still have the hose reach the drain. You can also provide a loop inside the sink cabinet after the dishwasher is installed.
    • Connect the dishwasher drain to the outlet at the top of the disposal. MAKE SURE TO KNOCK OUT THE PLUG.
    • Use a screwdriver and recover the metal or plastic piece inside the disposal. Stick some duct tape inside the disposal to catch the plug or use a pair of needle nose pliers.

 

Dishwasher Brass Fitting

    • Connect the hot water line to the dishwasher. Some manufacturers include the brass fitting adapter and some do not. Make sure you have this part before you leave the store to start your dishwasher installation.
    • Connect the other end of the line to the hot water shutoff valve.
    • Turn the water on and check for leaks.
    • Run the electrical cord from the sink cabinet through the hole in the cabinet to the dishwasher. The plug end of the wire should stay in the cabinet, DO NOT PLUG THE CORD INTO THE OUTLET.

 

Electrical Connection for Dishwasher

  • Install a romex clamp in the 3/4 inch hole in the electrical junction box in the bottom front of the dishwasher.
  • Run the cord through the clamp and leave several inches of cable in the box.NOTE: For this dishwasher installation, I prefer to strip the electrical cord before placing in the box. I strip off 3 inches of insulation revealing the three wires (black, white and green). I then strip off 3/4 inch of insulation on each wire and tightly twist the end.
  • Tighten the screws on the clamp just enough to provide strain relief. Do not damage the electrical cord.
  • Join the electrical cord to the wires from the dishwasher using the yellow wire nuts. Some manufacturers simply connect the green wire to a screw on the chassis.
  • After all the connections are completed, place the cover over the wiring. Usually it will hinge in with just 1 screw.
  • Turn on the water and check for leaks.
  • Plug in the electrical cord, no sparks or smoke? Good.NOTE: If you open the door, hold onto the door as the brackets that keep the dishwasher from tipping forward are not yet attached.
  • Turn on the dishwasher. Does it run OK with no leaks?

Dishwasher Leveling Feet

Let it run the entire cycle. After it finishes washing it is time to push the dishwasher into the cabinet. We are getting close to the end of the dishwasher installation. Center it in the opening. Adjust the height if necessary. There are four screws in the bottom framing to accomplish this. See the picture to the left.

Dishwasher Anti-tip Brackets

There are two brackets at the top of the dishwasher. See picture above. These need to be attached to the bottom of the countertop. The purpose of these screws is to prevent the d/w from tipping over.

There, your dishwasher installation is complete.

Enjoy your new dishwasher

The Many Uses of Indoor Outdoor Carpeting

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If you are in the process of finishing your basement, or if you have a three season room, you should consider using indoor outdoor carpeting. This type of carpeting is very inexpensive and is made to hold up better when it comes to moisture. It has a rubber backing that deflects water and thus eliminates the potential for mold build up.

Indoor Outdoor or IO Carpeting in the Basement: IO carpeting is the perfect choice for a basement because of several reasons. If you have been looking for flooring for your basement, you have probably considered the options of tile or carpeting. Both are very expensive options however. For functionality and price, indoor outdoor carpeting for your basement may be your best option.

Why pick a cheap option when it comes to your basement floor? Simple – because the basement is below ground and can flood. Even if you live in an area that never floods, basements can be the weak link. It only takes torrential rains or the sump pump to stop working and your basement is under water. Replacing carpeting and tile can be very expensive.

IO Carpeting v/s Linoleum Tiles: The only option that is cheaper than indoor outdoor carpeting for a basement floor is linoleum square tiles. The time for these tiles was in the 1960s, and this is where they should stay. They look tacky and give off a cold appearance. A basement tends to be ten degrees cooler than the rest of the house, why make it even colder with tile?

IO Carpeting in Three Season Rooms: In addition to using this carpeting in the basement, you can also use it in a three season room. Basically a covered porch, a three-season room is also called a garden room. It is usually surrounded by glass, but is not insulated. Because it is essentially an extra room it is usually not heated and the room can get too cold to use in winter. Three season rooms are commonly used to store hot tubs.IO carpeting is a good idea in a three season room because it can give the room a bit of warmth and can withstand the cold temperatures. Moreover, itÂ’s water resistant feature is a boon if you intend storing a hot tub in the room.

IO Carpeting in the Kitchen and Bathroom: Because it is water resistant and can withstand stains, people often used IO carpeting in the kitchen and bathroom. Today, very few people carpet these rooms, however you may see indoor outdoor carpeting in kitchens and bathrooms of older homes.

IO Carpeting on the Patio: Indoor outdoor carpeting can also be used on cement porches to make them more comfortable and safer to walk on. Because it can be used directly on concrete, it is also a viable option for patios. Indoor outdoor carpeting is still used quite a bit today and is an ideal option for a finished basement or patio.

IO Rugs: If buying carpet is out of the question then consider some indoor outdoor area rugs instead. There are many different styles, colors and patterns available for every room of the home. You can even shop for outdoor braided area rugs that are just perfect for the kitchen.

 

 

Build a Train Table for Thomas the Tank Engine!

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Have you considered building a train table for your toddler to play with his or her “Thomas the Tank Engine”? Well, why not? It’s actually very easy.

Our son, Rob, built one because he could not find exactly what he was looking for; plus, it was more affordable and much more sturdy than train tables that were available at the local retail store or online. (Click on the picture to enlarge it.)Rob finished it just in time for his son’s third birthday. Now, Thomas, Percy, and all of their friends from Sodor have a place to play.

Follow along as we see what he did to build the train table. The project had to be fairly basic as Rob has a very limited amount of tools. It had to be completed partly indoors and partly outdoors due to limited space and not much free time.

The basic size for the train table was determined by the sizes of lumber the local big box carried to reduce the amount of board cutting time. He wanted a good looking wood finish that could be stained or painted and be durable for his children’s use and would last a long time.

With those specifications in mind, we agreed on a pre-cut 2’ X 4’ sheet of good quality plywood. For the sides and the legs, he used 1”x3” and 1”x4” clear spruce.

Total list of materials for this project is:

  • 1 – 2’X4’ piece of 3/4” plywood (top)
  • 2 – 1”X3”X8’ clear spruce (legs);
  • 2 – 1”X4”X8’ clear spruce (legs);
  • 2 – 1”X4”X8’ clear spruce (top rail);
  • 1 – Glue (I prefer Sumo or Gorilla Glue) It is VERY strong and waterproof;
  • Assorted finish nails.

You will need these tools.

  • a miter saw box and back saw;
  • hammer;
  • assorted clamps; and
  • power sander with assorted sandpapers.

Sand all the materials with 120 grit sandpaper. Be careful NOT to round the edges, keep them square.

Cut the 1X3 into 2 ft sections, set aside.

Cut the 1X4 into 2 ft sections, set aside.

Glue and nail together as per the picture. Keep the ends even. Set aside until the glue dries.

Cut the remaining 1”X4” into a section 49 ½” long. Cut the ends at a 45 degree angle. Cut the remaining piece 25 ½” long. Do the same with the other 8’ piece.

You should have 2 pieces 49 ½” long and 2 pieces 25 ½” long. The 45 degree cuts should point inward as these will be the inside corners.

Glue and nail the longer pieces to the edge of the plywood ¼” to ½” above the top surface. This will keep things from rolling off. Now fit the shorter pieces to the opposite ends. These should fit like a picture frame. The top is completed.

Now take the four legs and glue and nail to the inside of the top. Make sure the legs are the same length. You may want to shorten them to a height suitable for your child. My son made his table 20” high for his three year old son. The train table should be something they can grow into and not out of.

Sand the entire table with 220 grit sandpaper. Apply the first coat of stain or wood sealer, Sand again with the 220 grit sandpaper. Make sure there are no splinters or rough surfaces on the wood. Apply the finish coat.

I like polyurethane as it has proven to be very durable. If you are going to paint the wood, apply a good quality acrylic paint and let the paint thoroughly dry before using.

We have been discussing adding drawers under the table to put the toys into when not in use, maybe a pull out of some kind or perhaps wheels to simply roll the drawers around.Maybe we should rethink the wheels because these drawers could become cars to crash into the walls… then we get to repair the damaged drywall!Pull out drawers it is – with wide gaps to make sure hands and fingers do not get pinched.

Water Heater Element Replacement Without the Mess!

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My son taught me how to replace a water heater element without the mess of all that water that usually comes gushing out all over the floor.

We had a situation at one of the rentals recently wherein the tenant had hot water for only a few minutes whenever she took a shower. I called my son, James, – the plumber – and his answer was “the bottom water heater element is bad. I can fix it this afternoon if you get the parts and meet me there”.

I went to the house and pulled the cover off the lower side of the water heater to make sure what the wattage of the heating element was and verify the element was bad.

I disconnected the power, of course, and verified it was off by using my trusty voltage sensor.

Sure enough, there was no reading across the heating element.

REMEMBER ELECTRICITY CAN KILL YOU! SO, SAFETY IS IMPORTANT.

The water heater element was 4500 watts with screw terminals and it was a screw in type. A little easier to change than the four bolt flange style. I used the ohm meter to check the water heater element and sure enough it was bad.

So, off to the big box.

Notice the two different lengths on these heaters. It’s important to measure the width of your water heater. I like to do repair jobs just once and correctly the first time.

When I got back to the house, I saw that the plumber had already arrived. He is such a good son. Here is what he did:

  • He had already disconnected the electric from the water heater element. A special wrench is required to get the old element out.
  • He turned off the water supply at the valve on top of the tank.
  • Turned on a faucet in the nearest room. In this case it was the kitchen. This creates a slight vacuum in the tank.
  • Working rapidly, he unscrewed the old water heater element and took it out.
  • Inserted the new element in the hole.
  • Tightened the element down.
  • Reconnected the wires.
  • Turned off the faucet in the kitchen.
  • Opened the valve on top of the water heater.
  • Ran the hot water to make sure there was no air trapped in the tank.
  • Everything looked okay with the water so he checked to make sure there is 220 volts on the leads connected to the heating element; and
  • Turned the electricity back on

Using this slight vacuum technique, there should be almost nothing to clean up. There was less than a 1/4 cup of water that leaked out on the above job and onto the towel on the floor. A wet or dry vacuum is also a good clean up tool.

Checking the Temperature and Pressure Valve

While you are working on the water heater, this is a good time to check the T and P (temperature and pressure) valve. This safety valve operates ONLY when the pressure or pressure inside the tank gets too high. There should be a pipe connected to the bottom of this safety device that extends to within 4 inches of the floor.

The picture to the left is a picture of a typical T and P valve.

Some building code departments require this pipe to extend to the outside of the home. Lift the lever at the end of the valve and water should flow out the drain. Release the lever and the water flow should stop. If this doesn’t happen, replace the valve.

The picture to the right is a picture of a T and P replacement valve.

Maintenance

The drain valve at the bottom of the tank should be connected to a hose on an annual basis to clean out any sediment from the bottom of the tank. I usually turn off the electricity and let the water pressure clean out the tank.

FINAL NOTE: There are some water heaters on the market that claim to be sediment free. They have a fill pipe that curves around the bottom to stir up the water. The only thing is, I can’t figure where the sediment goes.
And remember, water heaters sit in the corner and require little maintenance until we have little to no hot water, then they become very important and require immediate attention.