Camera Customer Reviews

Sunday, 31 May 2009

Air Conditioner Reviews

Air Conditioner Reviews usually take BTU and EER numbers into account. BTU stands for British Thermal Units, and these numbers can range from 5,000 to 18,000. The higher the BTU of an air conditioner, the more powerful it is at cooling. But it also increases the cost of the air conditioner. Normally, the BTU of an air conditioner required for cooling a room is calculated by multiplying the square foot area of the room by 35.

EER stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio. These numbers indicate the amount of energy they consume. An air conditioner with a higher EER will use less energy and hence will save money on electricity bills. EER numbers range from 8.2 to 10.5.

The brand leaders in the air conditioner market are Carrier, Kenmore, Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, Sharp, Panasonic and Friedrich. All are available in a wide range of BTU and EER ratings. Carrier air conditioners are by far the best. They are known for their extreme noiseless function, quick cooling and long lives of compressor and condenser. Carrier air conditioners are also the most expensive air conditioners in the market. Some of the newer Carrier models have replaced the environmentally harmful Freon-22 with Puron, a less polluting liquid.

Kenmore air conditioners also have excellent reviews in the air conditioner market. They are known for their high cooling capacities and extremely well advanced EERs, which cut electricity costs. Also their designs are quite sleek and contemporary, giving them the added edge over other air conditioners.

Whirlpool and LG also have good reputations, but they do better business in Asia. They are both reliable, trusted brands with good quality air conditioners at a comparatively lower price.

Due to the tremendous competition in the market of air conditioners, each brand spends millions of dollars in researching and perfecting new features every summer. Friedrich air conditioners have devised a money-saver feature, which saves electricity bills by making the fan move in synchronization with the cycle of the air conditioner itself. Most companies now use dehumidifiers and fragrances in their air conditioning ducts to lend them an added appeal.

Air Conditioner Rentals provides detailed information about air conditioner rentals, portable air conditioner rentals, window air conditionar rentals, RV air conditioner rentals and more. Air Conditioner Rentals is the sister site of Electric Generators.

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Buying a New Refrigerator

Going appliance shopping is a lot like buying shoes. Some people hate it, while others savor the opportunity of inspecting various models to find just the right fit for their kitchen and lifestyle. If it has been a few years since you bought a new appliance, and especially a refrigerator, you may want to give some thought in advance to the type of features you want it to have, including size, storage space, compartments, and freezer capacity.

Start by browsing current newspaper ads or local appliance stores for sales or discount items. While it is not always best to buy cheap, it doesn't hurt to check out the bargain deals first to see if you can find what you want. This also will help you get a better idea of regular prices, available features, and comparison-shopping. You will need to give some thought to design, model, and color, as well. Some shoppers prefer white or black appliances to blend with kitchen dcor, while others prefer another color that goes with the theme or style of the rest of the home.

When you finally head to the appliance store to check out the various models on display, start by reading the sticker ad on or near each refrigerator. This should tell you how much each unit has of shelf space, for example, as well as other consumer interest information like how much electricity various models will use. Look for the energy saver brand, since energy use can vary widely from one unit to another.

Consider the amount of freezer space you need. If you buy meat or frozen food in bulk quantities, you may want a larger freezer that can hold a lot. Otherwise, though, you may be paying more in energy costs to keep your freezer cold when it doesn't have very much food to fill it. Find out whether a model is self-defrosting; nearly all are nowadays.

Another thing to keep in mind is how to clean a particular model. Some of the exterior casings are made of a vinyl-type material that seems to absorb grease from adult fingers and dirt from toddler hands. Ask how easy or hard it may be to clean a particular appliance before you buy it. For example, you will probably have to unplug your refrigerator and pull it out to dust or vacuum the refrigeration coils. Make sure you can easily move the unit yourself without getting hurt.

Don't buy more refrigerator than you need. A gorgeous side-by-side ice-maker model might look great in the store, but it could end up crowding your small kitchen or sit around mostly unused if you live alone and don't use it much.

The final steps to making a purchasing decision might rest on the payment options and delivery terms. This would be a good time to ask about product warranties and replacement parts while you're at it, so you'll know who to call if something goes wrong or a part breaks.

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How to Install Your Own Kitchen - Part 6 - Installing Kitchen Appliances

Installing Kitchen Appliances

Appliances
If installing a kitchen was like building a car then it's time to fit the engine, in this case the appliances. Kitchens, like cars, depend upon the quality of the appliances to give a more efficient performance. There is a wide range of appliances now available and they can range from Reliant Robin to Rolls Royce in their comparative looks and performance. The current trend is for aluminum or stainless steel finishes and due to their popularity they are more expensive.

Some appliances are fitter friendly, others not. Some manufacturers offer a good service back up if things go wrong, others don't and some may last for years others, months. After 23 years of installing appliances, I have formed an experienced opinion on what's hot and what's not in the kitchen. Anyone wishing to hear of my views before buying a particular make can contact me at tim@kitchensfitted.co.uk and I will offer an honest opinion on your choice.

Anyway, every car needs a parking space so in this article I'll attempt to show you how to install your appliances with the minimum of fuss.

Tools required:
Spirit level
Hand tools. Screwdrivers both pozidrive and slotted heads of varying sizes, pliers and grips.
Cordless drill/driver Masonry, screwdriver, and steel drill bits of various widths.
Plumbing tools.
Patience, understanding and the ability to deflect criticism successfully.
Freestanding Washing Machines/Dishwashers.
The majority of washing machines are 595mm wide and the important thing to remember is that freestanding machines are normally between 840mm and 860mm high. Important because when installing your kitchen units at the standard height of 870mm, this can leave very little tolerance for fitting when flooring has been added. A 600mm, or 450mm, in the case of slim-line dishwashers, space is sufficient and will ensure a more fully fitted look.

For correct fitting of a washing machine, all plumbing services should be fitted in an adjacent cupboard to prevent the machine protruding from the worktop. A washing machine waste of 40mm diameter can be fitted within the void of an adjacent cupboard and again this will prevent the machine protruding from the worktop.

If fitted next to a sink unit, the waste from the appliance may be incorporated with that of the sink. However should the washing machine and dishwasher be sited either side of the sink, I recommend that you install a separate waste pipe. Three appliances entering one waste pipe will render the waste extremely prone to blockages.

Electrical services should also be fitted in an adjoining unit and appropriate sized holes for hoses and plugs must be drilled through the back or base of the cupboard. This can be achieved with an appropriately sized hole saw.

Flooring for all freestanding appliances should be installed prior to final fitting. After completing the above, slide the washing machine into place and make necessary adjustments to the feet for leveling purposes.

Built under freestanding fridges/freezers.
Installation of built under fridges/freezers is carried out much the same as above yet they vary in widths. Adding 5mm to the width of the appliance will leave sufficient space for fitting.

Freestanding machines may be fully integrated by the use of a deeper worktop and by increasing the width of the space and doors that will house them.
Before explaining the installation of cookers and hobs, I must stress that to work on any gas appliance, a person must be competent to do so.

Built in Ovens/Microwaves.
Whether the oven is a single or double oven ensure the cabinet aperture is the correct size for the appliance as heights can vary. Check the electrical rating of the appliance and fit the appropriate sized outlet, again avoiding the space directly behind the appliance. Once you've fed the appliance flex to the outlet, this may be in adjacent cupboard or in the case of a double oven, in the cupboard above, slide in the appliance and screw to the cabinet gables with the screws provided.

Splash back
It may be that you wish to install a splash back with your range cooker and to fit one correctly you must determine the finished height of your worktop. The reason for this being, that your extractor should be fitted prior to fitting the cooker and splash back fixings are positioned behind the position of the extractor. Installing this before fitting the cooker will prevent any damage to the appliance and ensure that you have adequate space to work.

Range cookers
Preparation for the fitting of Range Cookers is similar to that of a freestanding appliance in that the space between cupboards needs to be accurate and I would suggest, 5mm wider than the appliance. The electrical connection, as with all appliances, should be made through an adjacent cupboard for access purposes.

Great importance should be given to the finished height of the appliance and the top edge of the cooker should finish at least 5mm above the worktop. Although not regulatory, I protect adjacent worktop edges with metal edging strips and these are available at major DIY outlets.
Should the appliance legs offer insufficient height adjustment, the appliance must be raised on a platform. This platform can then be finished in a material of your choice to match the appliance or the kitchen.

Integrated Dishwasher/Washing Machine
Integrated Dishwashers are available in slim line, generally 450mm width, and standard, 600mm wide sizes. The size of the dishwasher matches the aperture you will need to leave to accommodate the appliance, no more, no less. The only room for accommodating crossing pipe work or services behind integrated dishwashers is within the recess at the bottom of the machine. This is an important point to remember as to install services elsewhere behind the appliance will result in the dishwasher protruding from the adjacent cabinets and unless you wish to start a new design trend, this is to be avoided.

Doors are fitted to the appliance door by means of fixings provided with each machine a template assists in marking the appropriate points. The nature of the way a dishwasher door opens, warrants that the kitchen kickboard be cut approximately 10mm directly beneath the appliance in order to accommodate the door on opening.

Again, water and electrical services for both dishwashers and washing machines should terminate in an adjacent cupboard and waste services must be fitted behind an adjacent unit, within the void. Should the appliance be sited next to a sink however, the waste can be integrated with the sinks waste outlet.

When positioning the appliance in readiness to connect, feed the water hoses and electrical flex behind the appropriate rear unit leg. This will allow access to the services when the appliance is in place and will also permit fitting before the furniture plinth is installed.

The height of the appliance is made by means of adjustable feet and the rear feet can be accessed under the unit prior to fitting the plinth. Once you've achieved the correct level, screw to the underside of the worktop with the screws provided. Dishwashers require the fitting of a protective waterproof barrier and this should be fitted to the underside of the worktop once the appliance is in place.

Many integrated washing machines present a further problem for installers as they have no recess at the rear of the machine and the height adjustment is minimal. For this reason it may be necessary to install a platform ensuring that it does not protrude from the furniture plinth and no services should cross the rear wall behind the appliance as they will impede on the appliance hoses, thereby obstructing correct fitting.

Of all integrated appliances, integrated washing machines in my opinion are the least fitter friendly and require many improvements before they become so. The door is fitted to the appliance by means of side opening hinges that allow little adjustment and you may be required to drill the furniture door hinges to match adjacent door heights. There is little room for error and measurements should be double checked before drilling.

Built Under Integrated Fridges/Freezers
Follow the same rules as for installing a dishwasher. Again there is no room for services directly behind unless at low level. Feet are fully height adjustable and fridges or freezers are screwed to the worktop through pre-drilled holes once fitted. For door fitting, follow the instructions supplied with the appliance. These again, will come with a template and fixings. More manufacturers allow rear leg adjustment from the front of the appliance and this makes for simpler installation.

Built In Integrated Fridges/Freezers
Integrated built in appliances, unlike built-under appliances, are fitted within a furniture housing. Some manufacturers require the doors of the housing to be fitted to the cabinet prior to fitting the appliance but of recent; more rely on fitting the doors direct to the appliance after fitting.

Templates and fixings are provided with the appliance and provision is made for fixing through the feet and the top of the appliance once leveling is complete. Ensure that the appliance is fitted to the correct depth for correct operation of both the cabinet and appliance doors.

Again it is a good rule to avoid services to the rear of the appliance. It may be necessary to adapt the cabinet prior to fitting your built in appliance as some cabinet manufacturers leave a back fitted to the appliance aperture. This will need to be removed to allow correct fitting of the appliance.

Appliances fitted within a housing require adequate ventilation and this is achieved by fitting a ventilator to the plinth.
American Freestanding Fridge Freezers
These appliances are becoming increasingly popular and require a cold water supply. They can be integrated to blend in with your kitchen by installing a top cupboard between two tall end panels. As with other appliances, services i.e. water and electrical, should terminate and be connected to the appliance via an adjacent cupboard. Should this not be possible, fit the services as close as possible to the rear wall. If you wish your fridge to lie flush with the adjacent cabinets you will require greater depth matching end panels and this will achieve the desired effect.

Built In Microwaves
Microwaves can be fitted within both wall units and appliance housings dependent on the model purchased. To do this will require a build-in kit in addition the microwave. Electrical supply again should be fitted to an adjacent cupboard or in the cupboard above or below the appliance.

Hobs - Gas and Electric
After cutting the appropriate sized hole in your worktop and protecting the exposed chipboard, the hob needs fixing to the worktop. Apply the seal (provided with the appliance) to the worktop. Fix the hob on the underside with the fixing clips provided and electrical or gas connections can now be made. Gas connections must be made by a competent person

When a hob is fitted above an oven, gas pipe work must be completed in such a way as not to impede the fitting of the appliance below. Electrical connection in the configuration described above, must be made in an adjacent and accessible unit unless the hob is fitted above a drawer or door unit.

Integrated Extractors
Having left the appropriate gap and installed the wall outlet, if applicable, secure the brackets to the rear wall and hang the extractor. Remove the pivotal door-fixing frame and screw the appliance to the adjacent cabinets. Fit the door to the fixing frame using the screws provided. This is made easier by using a template if provided. Make the vent connection to the exhaust outlet of the appliance and make the electrical connection in the accessible yet hidden space at the rear top of the extractor.

Chimney Style Extractors
A popular choice in contemporary kitchens is the chimney style extractor and it is imperative to ensure alignment and level for its installation. To achieve the correct finish, mark the centre line of the hob on the rear wall and continue this line up to the ceiling. Use this line as a reference point for fixing the flue brackets above the extractor. Ensure that the extractor is sited the correct and regulatory distance above the hob and transfer the template measurements to the wall using the line as reference. All ventilation connections should be made behind the flue and may be possible above the ceiling dependent on the joist direction.

After installing the extractor and flue, place the telescopic two-part chimney on top of the appliance. Slide the chimney up to the ceiling and fix to the previously installed bracket. Electrical connection for chimney extractors should be made via a fused outlet in an accessible position above the worktop. The feed from this should terminate behind the flue and connection to the extractor can be made via a junction box of appropriate size.

Canopy Extractors
The cut-out for the extractor is best made prior to installing the canopy and electrical and flue connections should all be made within the canopy. Canopies fitted between units are easier installed by fixing a temporary batten across the top. Lift the canopy above the neighbouring units and slowly bring down to rest on them. This will ensure the unit will remain level with the adjoining units before fixing. Fixing of the furniture canopy can be made within the cut-out by drilling four holes to each gable and fixing with appropriately sized screws. Install the extractor into the cut out after making electrical and flue connections.

Island Extractors
Before installing an island extractor, the ceiling to which it will be fitted may require extra timber fitted, between or adjacent to the existing joists. Adequate fixing is imperative to carry the weight of the appliance. When you have determined the position of your extractor, the flue, if the joists allow, should be fed through to the nearest outside wall.

The fixing frame should be fitted to the ceiling with the screws supplied. The extractor will then require fitting. Final leveling using the adjustable bolts can now be done before tightening. Again, electrical connections can be made within the flue via a fused spur fitted to the wall above worktop height. Finally, the flue, which is in two parts, can be fitted and screwed to the frame with the fixings supplied.

Well apart from the toaster, blender and sandwich maker, I think that covers most appliances in the kitchen. All that's left once they're fitted is to cook, cool and wash in them. If like me, however, you're that cook that spoils the broth, stick to the washing.

next article : Kitchen Nightmares - how to avoid them

Tim Foley 2009

Tim Foley is founder of http://www.kitchensfitted.co.uk an established research and information resource for the kitchen buyer. T Foley Interiors specialise in the provision of Corian and Quartz surfaces to both Commercial and Residential clients in the UK and Ireland. His TV credits include Project Consultant with Granada ITV on programmes such as Better Homes; 60 Minute Makeover (series 1&2) Tonight with Trevor McDonald. If you would like an instant online quote for Corian Worktops, Quartz Worktops or Silestone Worktops, then why not visit our sister website http://www.kitchensfitted.com.

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Seven Awesome Kitchen Gadgets

Everyone who cooks can use some of these practical, time saving kitchen tools. While you can get by with a bare bones kitchen and a few old pots and pans, a lot of dishes are harder to make or more time consuming to prepare. The items in this list can free up some of your time, help you make delicious meals, store leftovers and even make the kitchen a fun place. So without further ado, here are some of my favorite kitchen gadgets. I hope you like them.

1. Bread Maker

Imagine getting up in the morning to the smell of freshly baked bread, ready for you to take out of the machine and slice up for toast or for lunch sandwiches. And all you had to do was load the ingredients the night before, then set the timer.

2. Automatic Coffee Maker

This goes well with the bread maker. Add coffee grounds and water, set the clock and have coffee waiting for you when you stumble out of bed in the morning. Rise and shine!

3. High Quality Knife Set

I used to make do with an old set of mismatched knives given to me without a knife block. Some of the handles were loose, and they had to be stored in a drawer. The new set sits on the counter top. The edges stay sharp longer, and the set contains knives for most needs. More room in the drawer, too.

4. Plastic Food Containers

With a set of containers for food storage, saving leftovers is much easier. Many have lids with vents, for use in microwaves. Another way to use them is to freeze food for future use. They look better than old margarine and yogurt containers, too.

5. Immersion Blender

These hand-held gadgets can be placed in large drinking glasses, pots, or mixing bowls. You can mix drinks, baking ingredients, gravies or even whip potatoes. They take up less space and are easier to clean than traditional blenders as well.

6. Toaster Oven

A toaster oven can cook toasted items with toppings, like garlic bread and mini pizzas, as well as make toast. Small baking projects are possible too, if you don't want to or can't use a larger oven.

7. Sandwich Grill

For grilled cheese, tuna melts and patty melts, these grills seal the edge of the sandwich so cheese and other things can't leak out.

These are some of the kitchen gadgets I like to use myself. For the larger items, maybe you can borrow one to test drive it before you buy. That is what I did with the bread maker. Our food containers, coffee maker and hand blender see daily use, and the toaster oven and sandwich grill once or twice a week. All in all, a good investment for my family. Happy cooking!

Tim Ebl likes to cook a variety of foods for his family and friends. His kitchen always has some new cooking project under way or in the planning, and he likes to try out new cooking tools. For more kitchen gadgets, check out Kitchen Gadgets

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Saturday, 30 May 2009

All About Energy Star Bottom Freezer Refrigerators

It used to be that the only kind of refrigerator you could get had a full sized door and had a freezer on the top. Now there is a much more convenient type of refrigerator - the bottom freezer refrigerator. The best versions of this refrigerator are the energy star bottom freezer refrigerators, since these also save you money on your energy bill by using 15 to 50 percent less energy than other refrigerators.

The reason many people like the energy star bottom freezer refrigerator design is that most people go looking in the refrigerator for things much more often than they get things out of the freezer. Putting the freezer underneath the refrigerator instead of the other way around puts all the things they most commonly reach for at a very convenient height. This limits the amount of time people spend bending down to get things out of the refrigerator.

Amana, Blomberg, Bosch, Dacor, GE, General Electric, Haeir, Hotpoint, Jenn-Air, Kenmore, KitchenAid, LG Electronics, Liebherr, Maytag, Miele, Profile, Samsung, Siemens, Sub-Zero, Inc., Summit, Thermadoor, and Whirlpool all have options for those interested in this type of freezer-refrigerator. The more commonly known major brands have more choices in this type of refrigerator than most of the smaller or lesser known companies mentioned above, but all are worth looking into if you want to find the perfect refrigerator for you.

These refrigerators usually cost between $800 and $3,000, depending on the brand and style of appliance you choose. For those who want to get really fancy there is the KitchenAid 20.5 Cubic Feet Architect Series II Built-In Bottom Mount Refrigerator in Stainless Steel, which costs over $6,000. One of the most affordable options is the GE 20.3 Cubic Feet model in Bisque, Black or White for about $850. As you can see, there are options for most any price range with this type of refrigerator-freezer , with the majority of these refrigerators falling in the $1,000 to $2,000 price range.

You can find most of the options you are looking for when you go shopping for this type of kitchen appliance. You can get full doors, French doors, or armoire style refrigerators. You can get an energy-efficient refrigerator model with a water and ice dispenser in the door. There are a variety of colors available as well, with the most common being stainless steel, black, and white, though biscuit, bisque, platinum, and stainless look colors are also available.

It is important also to keep in mind that most of the major distributors/resellers of these types of appliances have yearly, seasonal sales - in many parts of the country, this occurs during the winter months - so keep in mind that if you can afford to 'wait' for a few months, you can take advantage of further deep discounting. If you know that your existing refrigerator is soon to go out, do what you can to keep it going until one of these major sales comes to a store in your area.

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The Best Types of Electric Smokers in the Market

Smoking is a process of cooking food by applying steam, usually from burning wood. Meat and fish are the two most common foods being smoked. This is healthier without the need for oil.

While maintaining the basic premise, manufacturers now introduced electric smokers. Instead of burning woods, this appliance emits steam or smoke to cook foods.

Most electric smokers have temperature controls and adjustment controls vital for cooking meat or chicken perfectly. Several electric smokers also have automatic heat generators. Some types of smokers are charcoal, wood, electric and gas.

Listed below are some types of electric smokers that are available in the market:

The Brinkmann Gourment Electric Smoker is completely painted in two colors; such as black and red. It has 1500 to 1600 watt heating elements. It has a unique thermometer and front hinged door for adding water easily.

The Old Smokey Electric Smoker has a drum shape. It is completely made from aluminum. It also comes with two water pans and a rack. It is the cheapest electric smoker. Its produces heat the same way an electric oven does. It has a thermostat control and a flat top. The juice emitted from the meat drips back down to keep the food flavorful.

The Char-Broil Electric Water Smoker has a 1650 watt heating element duly controlled by a thermostat. It has a wooden handle. It can be converted into an electric brazier. Although the process of smoking using this appliance is rudimentary, this model can cook flavorful meats. It is one of the most affordable you can find in the market.

The Meco Electric Smoker 5029 and is made from stainless steel. It is a great cheapo starter smoker. It can be easily added with chunks, chips or pellets, along with its doors on its side. It has a 1650-watt heater as well as low, medium and high setting controls (with a basic thermostat). If you want to cook with charcoal, simply remove the heating element of this electric smoker.

The Cookshack Electric Smoker has an adjustable temperature control from 150 to 300oF. The sealed design is perfect for smoking meat, chicken or other foods, except for vegetables.

The Electric Water Smokers has a vertical electric smoker design that can attract the attention of consumers. The water pan helps control temperature and keeps the smoking process of meat or fish moist.

The Cabela's Premium Vertical Smokershas all the whistles and bells you need in order to take on your turkey or meat smoking project. It has 8mm steel assembled components, powder coated for a tougher fish. The adjustable ball bearings and two door design compression-fit door systems prevent smoke and heat loss as you add some water or chips or wood.

Cabela's Premium Vertical Smoker also features cool-touch handles, 20, 000BTU burners, chrome-plated racks and a built-in sausage hook. It whistles a bell when smoking is done. This appliance is heavy-duty, resembling a refrigerator. The food is placed inside "shelves" for smoking.

The Masterbuilt Electric Smoker has a digital control system that can help make those culinary masterpieces. Its heating element can be adjusted from 100 degree to 275oF. It is perfect for cooking or grilling. It also features 640 square inches of cooking surfaces and digital controls.

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Buying a New Refrigerator

Going appliance shopping is a lot like buying shoes. Some people hate it, while others savor the opportunity of inspecting various models to find just the right fit for their kitchen and lifestyle. If it has been a few years since you bought a new appliance, and especially a refrigerator, you may want to give some thought in advance to the type of features you want it to have, including size, storage space, compartments, and freezer capacity.

Start by browsing current newspaper ads or local appliance stores for sales or discount items. While it is not always best to buy cheap, it doesn't hurt to check out the bargain deals first to see if you can find what you want. This also will help you get a better idea of regular prices, available features, and comparison-shopping. You will need to give some thought to design, model, and color, as well. Some shoppers prefer white or black appliances to blend with kitchen dcor, while others prefer another color that goes with the theme or style of the rest of the home.

When you finally head to the appliance store to check out the various models on display, start by reading the sticker ad on or near each refrigerator. This should tell you how much each unit has of shelf space, for example, as well as other consumer interest information like how much electricity various models will use. Look for the energy saver brand, since energy use can vary widely from one unit to another.

Consider the amount of freezer space you need. If you buy meat or frozen food in bulk quantities, you may want a larger freezer that can hold a lot. Otherwise, though, you may be paying more in energy costs to keep your freezer cold when it doesn't have very much food to fill it. Find out whether a model is self-defrosting; nearly all are nowadays.

Another thing to keep in mind is how to clean a particular model. Some of the exterior casings are made of a vinyl-type material that seems to absorb grease from adult fingers and dirt from toddler hands. Ask how easy or hard it may be to clean a particular appliance before you buy it. For example, you will probably have to unplug your refrigerator and pull it out to dust or vacuum the refrigeration coils. Make sure you can easily move the unit yourself without getting hurt.

Don't buy more refrigerator than you need. A gorgeous side-by-side ice-maker model might look great in the store, but it could end up crowding your small kitchen or sit around mostly unused if you live alone and don't use it much.

The final steps to making a purchasing decision might rest on the payment options and delivery terms. This would be a good time to ask about product warranties and replacement parts while you're at it, so you'll know who to call if something goes wrong or a part breaks.

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Refrigerator Repair and Cleaning

Many types of bacteria thrive in normal room temperatures, and it's only a matter of time before they contaminate food if you don't seal the food or place it inside the refrigerator; so, having no refrigerator in the house is as much a waste of food as it is a waste of natural resources.

Make sure, then, that your refrigerator is working in top condition by cleaning and maintaining it on a regular basis. You don't have to wash it everyday or even every week, but just often enough to keep the compartment clean and the refrigerator mechanisms running the way they should. Cleaning is done using a scrub and a small amount of mild soap (or baking soda) mixed with clean water. Defrost the machine, either by turning it off or setting the dial to defrost, and then leave the door open for a few minutes. Then, take out all the items and begin scrubbing the walls, floor and roof of the compartment. Don't forget the handles of the fridge and freezer and the seals that allow the refrigerator door to close air tight. Rinse several times if necessary, but it is recommended to use only as little detergent as possible so you won't have to rinse again and again.

Refrigerator Repairing, Troubleshooting

Do not try to repair a broken refrigerator if you don't know what you're doing. Tampering with it carelessly can cause more harm than good, Worse, you might end up damaging it beyond repair; then you'll be forced to buy a new one.

Check some things out before you make that call to a major appliance repair person. Is the refrigerator plugged into a working electrical socket? Is it only partially plugged in? Also, check the cord and the wiring. A frayed cord could be why the refrigerator isn't working.

Is the door closing properly? Are the seals still allowing the refrigerator to close with an air-tight seal? The seals are important to trap in the cold and avoid excess energy consumption. If your refrigerator isn't Energy Star compliant, you may want to just get a brand new or used one that is. The energy savings might be worth the cost of getting an updated refrigerator.

Check that owner's manual for things that might be plausible issues. Typically the owner's manual will have basic troubleshooting tips. Also see if your refrigerator is still under warranty as that repair bill might actually be covered under the manufacturer warranty. A simple phone call to the place of purchase might be the difference between a free repair bill or a costly one.

You're saving yourself a lot of trouble and money by taking these small precautions before you make that call.

Want to know more? You can read more tips on Refrigerator Repair and Cleaning, plus other cleaning tips only at http://cleaningglow.com/

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Kenmore Dryer Repair Tips

Silky blouse, diapers, muddy sleeping bag from that camping trip, or any other laundry you have a Kenmore washer and dryer can handle it. And Kenmore is certainly a name with a reputation you can trust. But occasionally you will need a Kenmore dryer repair. Great news parts are readily available.

Here are a 6 of the more common parts you might need to invest in over time.

1. Tune Up Kit

A tune up kit has the 3 parts that generally have to be replaced every 5 year or so. The kit has a new belt, new idler puller, and new drum support rollers. It is even complete with instructions on how to do the replacement.

2. Element Kit

Comes with terminal adapters as well as the element.

3. Thermal Fuse

In the later models you will find that there is a short element in the lower half of the burner box which also houses the thermal fuse which may occasionally need replacing.

4. Gas Dryer Igniter

If your dryer isnt throwing any heat you should check the igniter to make sure it hasnt stopped working. Its a quick and easy fix.

5. Gas Valve Coil Kit

Repair your gas valves for a fraction of the cost of replacing.

6. Thermal Cuttoff Kit

Includes the hi-limit thermostat and the thermal fuse.

If it isnt working at all there are a few things you can try.

1. No Power

Make sure that the power cord is plugged in. Unplug and plug it back in. Check the breakers to make sure it hasnt tripped or that a fuse is not blown. You can also use a volt meter to check the plug itself to make sure there is power going to the plug.

2. Door Switch

In the door is a switch or sensor that when you close the door it presses against a lever which then activates a door switch which allows the dryer to start up. If that lever becomes broken the switch cant activate and then the dryer cant start. You may need to replace this lever.

3. Thermal Fuse

Almost every dryer on the market has a thermal fuse. This fuse will burn out if the dryer overheats. When this happens one of two things occur. The dryer either completely stops working or it runs but it doesnt throw any heat. You will usually find this fuse under the vent duck inside the dryer. If the fuse is blown you will want to replace it.

4. Defective Timers

Occasionally the timer on a dryer can be defective so that even if you have turned the dryer on it doesnt recognize the motion and thus the dryer doesnt start.

And here are some great tips to help you determine whats going on with your dryer.

1. Gas Valve Coils

If the igniter glows but it shuts down before it ignites the gas the coil is either worn out or defective. Replace both of the coils.

2. Flame Sensor

The flame sensor can become worn and need to be replaced. You will find the sensor located near the igniter.

3. Vents

Lint gathers inside the dryer so check the vent hose and vent itself to make sure there are no clogs. You also need to make sure you regularly clean out the vent in the dryer as it will reduce the efficiency of the dryer and increases the fire risk.

4. Thermostat

A dryer has a thermostat that regulates the heating cycles and if your dryer isnt heating properly this is the most common cause.

5. Thermal Fuse

If the dryer overheats the thermal fuse will burn out with means your dryer will either not run at all or it will run but not throw any heat. Replace it.

6. Igniter

The igniter is very fragile so it can easily become broken. Replace if necessary.

These Kenmore dryer repair tips are a great place to start. If that doesnt work perhaps its time to call a Kenmore repairman. But why not try your hand at a repair first?

Timothy has owned and operated his own laundry mat for the past 25 years. Consequently, he is also a part-time washer and dryer repairman and with http://www.lcasurf.com, he gives reviews of portable washer and dryers and states common problems that he encounters with each one, with solutions!

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Save Electricity - 12 Tips to Reduce Electricity Usage

Cutting down on electricity usage in your home doesn't just save money, but also helps to save the planet as well. Every time we plug an electronic device into an outlet or turn on a household appliance we are adding our share of pollution into the atmosphere. So the more we can learn about saving electricity, the more we can help our planet. An added benefit to using these tips to save electricity is that we will also wind up with more money in our pockets that we can use to enjoy the planet we help to save!

There are a number of fairly easy ways we can adapt our daily lives in order to save electricity. None of these electricity saving tips involve a big up-front outlay of money or a drastic change to our lifestyles. Just a few small modifications to the way we approach our use of electricity, and we'll be saving kilowatt hours in no time! Now I do believe that it's so ingrained in our way of life to use electricity without thinking about how much we use or the ramifications of our usage, but if we are to do something about helping our planet then we need to be more cognizant of the outcome of our actions and what we can do to lessen the carbon footprint we leave on this earth.

The best way to make the biggest impact on our household electricity consumption is to focus on the items in our house that consume the most energy. I'm talking about the big items, like air conditioners, electric heat and hot water heaters (if you use electric ones), electric clothes dryers, large household appliances, like refrigerators and dishwashers (especially if they're older models and are less efficient), and lighting.

So with those energy hogs in mind, here are 12 tips to save electricity:

1. Turn up the thermostat on your air conditioning, or better yet turn it off all together, and use ceiling fans and portable fans to circulate the air in your house.

2. Turn down the thermostat when the heat is on and dress warmly, sleep with an extra blanket, or use space heaters in rooms that you frequent.

3. Close heating and air conditioning vents in rooms that you do not utilize often and close the doors. This will send the cool or warm air into the rooms that you use and will be more efficient.

4. Install a programmable thermostat and set the temperatures when you are out of the house and at night so that less air conditioning and heat are needed. Have the thermostat programmed to kick on the air or heat first thing in the morning before you get out of bed or shortly before you arrive home at the end of the day so you are comfortable.

5. Wash laundry in cold water instead of hot or at least warm water instead of hot. There are a number of laundry detergents on the market now that are formulated to get your clothes clean even in cold water. By doing this, you will use less energy because the water doesn't have to be heated.

6. When possible, use a clothes drying rack or a clothesline instead of your electric dryer. This tip requires more of a dedicated commitment to change than some of the others, but can be done and will result in lower usage of electricity and ultimately lower electric bills. Even if you can't do it all the time, try to do it some of the time and you'll reap some benefits.

7. Keep your fridge and freezer stocked with food to maintain the cold air, but don't overload it or the cold air won't have a chance to circulate and the appliance will have to work harder. Also make sure that you regularly clean off the air filters on the back or bottom of the appliance to increase the efficiency of the unit. Older models are less efficient than newer models, but unless your appliance is nearing the end of its life, it's a rather pricey investment to replace.

8. If you have an extra freezer or refrigerator in your garage or basement, consider whether you really need it. You may have kept it when you replaced your old appliance just to store extras, but if you don't really need it, you'll be saving quite a bit of electricity and money by unplugging it.

9. Many dishwasher models have an option to turn off the heated dry cycle, and by doing it you will save electricity. Also by not selecting the 'temp boost' option and selecting the 'energy saver' option (if your model offers them), you will be decreasing the amount of energy used per wash cycle. Washing only full loads of dishes will also reduce energy consumption as well.

10. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. They reduce energy consumption and last a lot longer, so the extra price paid for the bulbs is more than offset in additional savings.

11. Plug your small appliances and electronics into a power strip and turn the power strip off when they're not in use. Appliances and electronics still draw electricity when not in use, especially if they have clocks.

12. Turn off lights, televisions and any other electronic appliances when you leave a room or they're not in use. This may sound like a very logical piece of advice, but you'd be amazed by how often we forget to do it!

By following some or all of these tips to save electricity you will be lowering the amount of pollution you are responsible for contributing to the planet, lessening your carbon footprint, and ultimately saving yourself a bit of money in the process!

Andrea Spenser is a regular contributor to http://www.shortcutsleuth.com, where she writes about ways to save time, save money, and save energy.

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Refrigerator Buying Guide

Buying a refrigerator can be a tricky business, which fit type? What features? Which colour? There are some things which will already be determined for you, for example the size of the fridge which you will be able to fit in your kitchen. Other elements may allow for more flexibility for example colour, brand and price. Read this useful buying guide and see exactly what you should be looking for and what you need to know when choosing your new refrigerator.

Built in - integrated or freestanding?

Usually this has already been decided before buying a fridge and it comes down to available space and also how you want the style of your kitchen to be. Freestanding models are on show so if you are opting for this type be sure to pick a colour which will look good in your kitchen. Built in - integrated models are fitted behind kitchen cupboard doors. Obviously this has the main advantage of being hidden away and the look of your kitchen will be determined by your furniture rather than appliances.

Which energy rating?

Generally fridge energy ratings are really good, most are A or A+ which means that better rated appliances will not necessarily cost you more money. As a fridge works harder then any other appliance in your home it is well worth looking straight to the best energy rated models, these fridges will save you money off your bills and help to reduce your co2 emissions.

Safety first

When it comes to safety in the home there should be no shortcuts. Not all refrigerators have all features but you should always check out which features are available in the models you like and look our for safety features which can make a difference in the home. Antibacterial coating within the refrigerator is a great extra, it helps to prevent cross contamination and stop bacteria from growing inside the refrigerator making the fridge much more hygienic place for your food. Also look our for safety glass shelves which will not shatter when they brake, we all have accidents and there is nothing worse then glass on the kitchen floor, therefore safety glass shelves are worth looking out for.

Auto defrost

The feature which is craved by everyone! This clever feature eliminates the build up of ice inside the fridge making it more efficient. This type of feature is a must for those who want to save time and energy.

Frozen food compartments

Some fridges will come with a small frozen food compartment, just enough to store those little bits and pieces you want to keep in the fridge rather than the freezer. These compartments can prove to be really handy so be sure to keep a look out and see if one catches your eye.

Brand

Before some people make a purchase they know they want a certain brand, they may have experienced the brand or heard good things about it. Other people may not know what they are looking for and in the world of appliances with so many brands to choose from it can be confusing. Each brand boasts its own features and style so see which one will suit your needs. Obviously it depends also on how much money you have to spend and there are cheaper brands like Lec and Beko or you can choose a more expensive brand like an AEG or Smeg. Just because a model is cheaper does not mean it will not perform as well as a more expensive model. So take a look at which features you want and have a price range in mind.

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Select the Best Humidifier For Your Home

Are you looking for room humidifier? If yes, first you need to understand your requirements. There is a wide assortment of humidifiers available on the market shelves but you cannot just go and buy one out of the collection randomly. You need to look into various factors before that lest you may end up making the wrong choice that doesn't serve your purpose completely.

Which type of humidifier?

The foremost thing is to know which type of humidifier will suit your home in the best possible manner. You need to find out humidity level of your house with hygrometer which will be helpful to know the humidity level of different rooms in your home and thereby aid in deciding the type of humidifier that will best suit the requirements of your home. Some of the most common and popular humidifiers in market include furnace humidifier, warm mist humidifier, ultrasonic humidifier, and cool mist humidifier. Once you know which type of humidifier is appropriate for your home, you can decide for the next factor of humidifiers, i.e, if they should be a portable one or a whole house humidifier.

Portable or whole house humidifiers?

Now, both types of humidifiers whole house and the portable ones have their advantages and disadvantages. So, this makes it essential for you to understand their pros and cons and then invest your money into buying the best humidifier for you. Since, this is one home appliance that needs one time investment. So, you need acute discretion while buying.

Whole house humidifiers are a one unit that is installed once into the furnace of your home. They keep working on its mechanism with no hurdles and complaints whatsoever. It draws required amount of water from water supply system of your house from time to time. The best feature of whole house humidifying unit is that it requires one time set up and needs minimal maintenance. You need not worry about refilling it from time to time and this is cost efficient too. It sets the humidity of your whole house to one fixed point whole time sparing you from the hassles of adjusting it time and again.

As the name suggests, portable humidifiers can be relocated from one room to another. So, this is the main point of comfort for you. Also, if you are a tenant and keep shifting from one place to other owing to your job work then portable humidifiers are the best option for you. It is plugged into an electronic socket and water needs to be changed from time to time. It is a power pack machine with capacity to keep two rooms humidity to an optimal range.

Maintenance of humidifiers - No escape

However, regular maintenance is one necessary requirement that is common in both the humidifiers. Some people may call it a disadvantage, but this is one thing that all humidifiers demand for a better performance and smooth working for a long term. Now, that you know both the pros and cons of the humidifiers so you can make wise decision regarding the type of humidifier you need for your home.

Humidifiers helps you to maintain the humidity level of your house on optimal range and keep the air in home fresh. If you are looking for some valuable information on how humidifier works, check out http://www.humidifierinformation.com/

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Friday, 29 May 2009

Front Load Washing Machine - Whirlpool Cabrio

Whirlpool knows the need of this, and actually created one that look like the top load type washers and as efficient as the front load type of washers. And this newly invented washing machine was introduced by Whirlpool called Cabrio. This washing machine is just like the normal traditional washers compared physically. But this machine acts like nothing in our world. On its internal parts, it is like the front load type of washers that makes you save more energy. This is the reputation brought by the front load washer which makes them so popular.

Whirlpool Cabrio has 4.5 cubic feet measured its drum. And it provides ten different wash cycles. If you only experienced a long time inside the appliance department of a large retailer, you would realize that this is a very astonishing product. The Cabrio operates with direct wash system, that treats and penetrates stains before it even starts the cycle. And this gives you a good quality in doing laundry. This is one of the most, or maybe the most spacious washing machine that was introduced. You could do a single cycle of wash with a very large load.

This washing machine provides ten cycle features that contains cotton, bulky, delicate, extra spin, hand washable, heavy-duty and soak. And this machine gives five selection of different water temperature, which is good for having a perfect wash cycle and would treat you clothes very well in taking the stain out. The best thing with this washer is the way it moves the clothes, on a usual washing machine, they use agitator, but with this machine they do not. Instead they use wash plate technology which allows the clothes to be perfectly treated giving it more life. The direct inject washer injects into the washer before it even start with a very high concentrated dose what gives an initial treatment other can't do.

The drum inserted in this washing machine is made with stainless silver 100%. This machine could last for a very long time unlike machines that is used today. And another feature provided by this machine is that this is one of the most silent washing machines ever. There is nothing like a machine that is as quiet as Whirlpool Cabrio. This is absolutely for those people who have a washing machine that is located on the second floor because a very noise washing machine placed at the second floor would affect the first floor.

This washer is perfectly put together. It could last for many years that would make you save money. If you would see the price, you would definitely be shocked but when you really know about washing machine, you would realize that it isn't that expensive considering its sheer size and features. The Whirlpool Cabrio costs around 850.00 dollars to 950.00 dollars because it depends on where you purchase it. But if you compare Whirlpool Cabrio with other high quality types of front loading machine, it is cheaper. It is a very great investment, and if you are planning to buy a new washer, you'd better buy Whirlpool Carbio!

Timonty is a washing machine specialist who has written many home appliance articles and washing machine reviews. Visit his site at http://www.washingmachineadvisor.com for more washer tips now.

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6 Steps to Letting Your Property

1. Obtain permission from appropriate parties:-

Mortgage Company:

If you have a standard residential mortgage you will need to request permission to let from the mortgage company - they usually make a small charge for this and may place some restrictions on the types of tenant or tenancy details.

Leaseholder:

If you own a leasehold property you may also need to inform the Headlease holder that the property will be let and check the lease for any restrictions.

Insurance Company:

You will need to maintain building insurance cover and must inform the policy holder that the property will be let.

2. Make sure the property is safe and legally compliant:-

Gas Appliances:

You will need to ensure you have a valid Gas Safety Certificate, which must be issued to the tenants before they move in and on an annual basis thereafter. A Corgi registered plumber must be contracted to carry out the safety check. The boiler and gas appliances should also be serviced regularly to ensure they remain safe.

Electrical Equipment:

All electrical systems and appliance must also be safe. The only way to ensure this is to have a full safety check of the system and fittings. An annual Portable Appliance Test (PAT) is also recommended for all furnished properties. The tests and any electrical maintenance work must be carried out by a qualified electrician.

Furniture:

All soft furnishings, such as sofas and beds, in rental property must comply with the Fire and Furnishing Safety Regulations.

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms:

All properties built after X must have a smoke alarms fitted. It is highly recommended that any rental property should have at least one alarm on each floor regardless of age. A Carbon Monoxide alarm should also be considered.

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC):-

Since October 2008, all properties advertised to let, must have an EPC. An EPC can be issued by a Domestic Energy Assessor and the certificate lasts for 10 years. A copy should be given to any one considering renting the property.

3. Presentation, Presentation, Presentation:-

There is usually a large choice of properties for prospective tenants and good presentation will give your property the edge over the competition as well as helping to achieve the best rental price.

Clean and tidy:

Tenants will be more inclined to keep the property in good condition if it was in that condition when they moved in. It is also easier to record and prove the condition of the property if it is perfect at the start.

Decor:

Do not be afraid to use some colour, there are hundreds of bland magnolia walls in properties these days!...but avoid a lot of "loud" or dark colours on walls. A slightly darker carpet will show less marks than a very light one. Consider laminate in the walkways (unless in a flat!) and lino for Kitchens and bathrooms.

Does everything work?

To avoid problems once the tenant moves in, check heating and water systems work and all appliances are in good working order. It helps to leave a set of instructions and appliance manuals for these items, even if they are hand written.

4. Furnished or unfurnished?

Furnished properties command a slightly higher premium than unfurnished but the main advantage is that there are usually less furnished properties available.

Unfurnished properties are normally supplied with the Kitchen white goods.

If you decide to furnish the property, consider:

Furnish in keeping with the period of the property.
Good quality, hard wearing, easy to clean furniture.
Check it is fire and safety compliant.
Expect slightly more wear and tear than in an unfurnished property.
Electrical items are the main things to go wrong (and need testing annually), therefore avoid supplying unless going for maximum rental value.

5. Rental guarantee and legal expenses insurance

With the current economic climate meaning more people are getting into financial difficulty, it is worth considering some insurance to protect you from the unexpected. Although tenants are normally credit and referenced checked, these checks are a snap shot in time and there is no way of knowing if your tenant will be made redundant or get divorced and suddenly stop paying the rent.

6. And finally - employ a good Letting Agent:

Look for:

A professional agent (member of NALS, ARLA, OEA).
Competitive fees - look out for those hidden extra charges!
Proactive approach and extensive internet marketing.

You may copy, publish and distribute this article free of charge providing you place a include the Authors name and link to the website below on the article.
Steve Martin
Martin Property Management
http://www.martinproperty.co.uk

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Frigidaire Refrigerators - Advances of Features in Refrigerators

The features of refrigerators have been improving constantly, with Frigidaire appliances being one of the top competitors. Newer refrigerators may include:

*Frost-free refrigeration

*A power failure warning

*Chilled water and ice available from an in-door station, so the door need not be opened

*Cabinet rollers that allow the refrigerator to be easily rolled around for easier cleaning

*Adjustable shelves and trays that can be moved around to suit the user

*A Status Indicator to notify the user when it is time to change the water filter

*An in-door ice caddy

*A cooling zone in the refrigerator door shelves. Air from the freezer section is diverted to the refrigerator door, to better cool milk or juice stored in the door shelf

Early freezer appliances accumulated ice crystals around the freezing units. This was a result of humidity introduced into the units when the doors to the freezer were opened. This build up of frost required periodic thawing of the appliances to maintain their efficiency. Advances in frost-free refrigerators, researched by Frigidaire, eliminating the thawing task were introduced in the 1950s. Also, early appliances featured freezer compartments located within the larger refrigerator, and accessed by opening the refrigerator door, and then the smaller internal freezer door; appliances featuring entirely separate freezer compartment were introduced in the early 1960s, becoming the industry standard in Toronto and other parts of the world.

Later advances in Frigidaire appliances included automatic ice refrigerators and self compartmentalized freezers.

An increasingly important environmental concern for Toronto is the disposal of old appliances including refrigerators - initially because of the freon coolant damaging the ozone layer. Modern refrigerators built by Frigidaire usually use a refrigerant called HFC-134a, which has no ozone layer depleting properties, instead of freon.

Disposal of discarded refrigerators is regulated in Toronto appliances as many parts of the world. Modern Frigidaire appliances use a magnetic door gasket to hold the door sealed but can actually be pushed open from the inside, making it safer for children.

A lot of research has been done to keep refrigerators up to date with the standards of our society and Frigidaire appliances have always been on top of the competition. More information can be found at http://www.canadianappliance.ca

Paul Rollins is an expert on Toronto appliances, for more information visit:

http://www.canadianappliance.ca/

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Choosing Home Appliances

A modern home is full of machines and equipment meant to deliver specific results, and all to save precious time and resources. We rely on dishwasher to clean our crockery well, and at the same time to save water and electricity. We look to washing machines and clothing dryers to clean clothing, linens and even rugs, all while operating as quietly and efficiently as possible. We use kettles to heat the water for our tea or coffee, we vacuum of floors and carpets and we need refrigerators to stock our food and beverages.

While home appliances are readily available in both large and small shops and over the Internet, it is finding high quality, reliable and efficient home appliances that is the most important thing.

Where do consumers turn to find the best in home appliances? Usually the most popular brand names are those that have a reputation for innovation and performance. For example, the Bosch line of home appliances is known for delivering a wide range of styles in each line they produce. Consumers do not have a limited number of choices or options in most of their equipment.

For example, their dishwashers come with flexible tray configurations, a range of wash settings and energy or water efficiency. Depending upon their budget and needs any homeowner will have several possibilities when looking at a Bosch dishwasher. The same can be said of their many other products and home appliances.
Additionally, many consumers want to purchase home appliances from corporations and companies that display a sense of responsibility about the environment - making equipment that uses less energy, water or other resources, but which is also manufactured in a way that does not have a negative impact on the environment.

Again, this is a reason many consumers turn to Bosch for home appliances, because the equipment is always designed around ecological principles and with long use and durability in mind, but also in facilities and in ways that forward concepts in corporate responsibility and environmental awareness.

Home appliances are meant to make our lives easier, and our many household chores and tasks simpler. When looking to purchase home appliances it is important to always remember exactly what the intended use of the appliance is going to be. For example, a vacuum may provide incredible results on carpeting, but if it will be used for hardwood or linoleum floors and to clean upholstery and draperies, then the ability to clean carpeting is not the feature for a consumer to focus on. Choosing to invest only in those home appliances that offer select features is one way to save money and get the most use out of the equipment.

It is also important to take into consideration the overall reputation of the manufacturer, both their willingness to invest in the newest technologies and their pursuit of Earth and people-friendly practices and policies. Home appliances and their many helpful technologies should not be wasteful of natural or human resources, and it is good for a consumer to think about their investment in budgetary as well as global terms when purchasing such large items as home appliances.

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Kuhn Rikon 5 Liter Pressure Cooker - A Review

Finding the best pressure cooker for your needs can be a challenging task. You likely have found yourself trying to balance functionality with affordability. If you are weighing and balancing the pros and cons of different brands, you definitely will want to check out Kuhn Rikon pressure cookers. The following review of the 5 liter model will help you decide if it's the best choice for you.

The Kuhn Rikon 5 liter pressure cooker is Swiss made. As a result, it tends to get high marks both for its functionality and design. This stainless steel pressure cooker looks smart in any kitchen. Moreover, it is easy to use. You will not struggle when learning the functions of this product.

The Kuhn Rikon cooker is also an extremely safe appliance. Indeed, the Kuhn Rikon product comes complete with the most significant safety and overpressure features to be found on any product on the market today. The safety features to be found on all of these cookers meet or surpass what's on offer from Presto, Fagor and Hawkins pressure cookers.

As mentioned at the start of this review, you also will want to know the bottom line: price. The Kuhn Rikon line of pressure cookers is priced reasonably. You definitely get your money's worth when you consider the functions and build quality you get

There are no huge problems associated with the 5 liter model from Kuhn Rikon. Of course, size does matter when it comes to pressure cookers. Therefore, if there is a downside to be had in regard to this model, it is that some people do require a larger size appliance to accommodate all of their various pressure cooking needs. However, for most individuals and families, this model is ideally sized.

When all aspects of Kuhn Rikon pressure cookers are considered, they are an appliance that would be a welcome addition to nearly any kitchen in the world. It will be a piece of cookware that will serve you well today and into the future. Indeed, because the Kuhn Rikon line of products, including the 5 liter model, are so durable, you really will have this appliance at your side for years to come.

Follow the links for the Kuhn Rikon pressure cooker. You can also read stainless steel pressure cooker reviews on other leading brands like Mirro, Fagor and the Hawkins pressure cooker.

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Freezers - Enjoy Frost Free

Frost free has become one of the most desired kitchen appliance features. Why? Because it saves time, money and energy. Most people looking for a new freezer now think of frost free as being a key factor in the purchase. There are a number of reasons which make this feature one of the most popular features a freezer could have.

So how exactly does frost free work? Well every time you take food out or put food into the freezer air will enter the appliance. The air is warmer then the appliance is use to and contains moisture. The moisture will then start to freeze inside the appliance and the coils begin to cool. This cycle continues and what is left is a build up of ice inside the appliance which reduces the freezers efficiency and makes the freezer work harder therefore making it less energy efficient also.

The main advantage of frost free is you never will have to defrost your freezer again. We all know the hassle of having to remove food, wait for the freezer to defrost and clean up any excess water. Frost free means you never have to worry about this again, those who know the true hassle of defrosting a freezer with a build up of ice will know how much time and effort this feature will save.

In addition to saving time, frost free freezers also offer space saving solutions. If you have a big build up of ice inside the freezer then just imagine how much extra food you will be able to fit into the freezer if that big block of built up ice wasn't there.

There are a couple of disadvantages to frost free, the first being price. You can expect to pay a little more for a frost free freezer however, generally most people would agree that for eliminating the need to defrost, it is worth investing that bit more cash. The second disadvantage is that food can dry out slightly quicker, this is because the frost free technology is designed to eliminate the moisture built up in the appliance.

Frost free is an ideal feature if people want to save time and make it easy when maintaining your kitchen appliances. There is a wide choice available on the market so see which brand and model will be most suited for your home.

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Recreational Vehicles - Loads Of Fun Until They Break!

Well you've bought the beast and it sits in the side yard just waiting to go out for it's next adventure. However towards the end of your last trip you started to notice some things that you thought needed attention.

The first question you have to ask yourself is whether or not you should even attempt some of the maintenance items yourself. Are you ready, or qualified, for do-it-yourself RV repairs? Unless properly trained and prepared, recreational vehicle owners should not attempt to make certain repairs or perform service on any RV, product or component. If you don't believe me I'll give you my father's phone number and you can ask him how much he paid the mechanic after one of his "I can do it myself thank you very much" attempts. I was there. It turned out very badly. It got VERY dark on the side of the road that cold night in Tennessee.

The Two Types of Repairs

There are basically two types of RV service; crisis repairs and preventive maintenance. Preventive maintenance can include such items as the following: checking and sealing the roof, windows, storage compartments and doors, cleaning, flushing and servicing the LP appliances, changing the oil in the generator and chassis engine and checking all fluid levels, cleaning the filters in the roof air conditioners, cleaning and treating your holding tanks, flushing and sanitizing your fresh water system, performing battery maintenance. These can be considered something you do now to prevent something worse from happening later. Call it insurance if you like. Crisis repairs (also known as Holy Cripes what now!), on the other hand, offer no options. The problem is staring you right in the face and if you want to get back on the road it has to be handled now. A few examples of crisis repairs would be an abnormally worn tire, a flat tire, or a blown engine.

Fortunately preventive maintenance will go a long way towards minimizing the frequency and the degree of crisis-type repairs. Routine tire inspection and careful study of inflation pressures, checking and cleaning the refrigerator components and checking the LP pressure, regular oil changes, and periodic cleaning of the air conditioner filters can all prevent the above crisis repairs from happening. Keep in mind the old adage..Penny foolish. Pound Wise. Don't try to cut corners.

Do It Yourself?

Oh yeah, remember that warranty you got along with the vehicle the day you shelled out the bucks to drive it off the dealers lot? Read it carefully before you even attempt to loosen a screw. In some cases, warranties may be voided or manufacturer liability lessened if unauthorized repairs are performed Some maintenance items, though mandated by the product manufacturer, may not be covered by new or extended warranties. Rarely are maintenance items ever covered under warranty. The key is knowing when to actively participate and when to simply make an appointment at your local service facility.

So the warranty is run out and you are in the garage getting the tools out. There a few more considerations to ponder before you dive in.

Am I physically fit and mechanically adept? - Buck up and realize your limitations there laddie or lassie. Ask yourself, "Can I physically perform the steps necessary to do this?" Many items in, under, on and around motorhomes require quite a bit of physical dexterity to access and remove if needed. Physical limitations may prohibit some of us from performing certain maintenance items. If the subject at hand is truly over your head then it's acceptable to back off and call a pro. You definitely do not want to risk converting a simple maintenance task into a costly crisis repair! It will cost substantially more to undo an error than to simply make an appointment with a service center if the subject is beyond your scope. (Again I offer my dad's phone number to anyone who doubts this.)

Do you have a willingness to learn - If you truly want to be able to perform some routine maintenance items, be willing to do a little homework. Servicing LP related appliances and components, for instance, virtually mandates a basic understanding of the sequence of operation of that appliance. Both electrically and with the flow of the LP gas. Each appliance is different, but your advantage is that you only need to learn those that pertain to your RV. And it's not that difficult to learn. Oh, it requires reading and studying the literature that came with your rv, but for the most part, it can be enjoyable.

Have the right tools - Be aware that many maintenance tasks require a selection of tools and that some require specialty tools that you may not have in your tool kit. Here are a few specialty tools you may want to eventually acquire:

Manometer - this device allows you to measure the LP pressure correctly.

Never adjust your LP regulator without using a manometer.

Thermocouple tester - used to bench test LP appliance thermocouples

Battery hydrometer - one that is temperature compensated is more accurate.

Volt, Ohm, multi-meter (VOM) - a digital one is best, but any is better than just a simple test lamp

Consider the time factor - Always plan your approach to any maintenance task appropriately. Realize that all maintenance requires time. Be sure to allot yourself plenty of time to complete whatever it is you are undertaking. Do not rush yourself. You are more likely to omit a step or make a mistake if you are under pressure to complete a task when in a hurry. Remember, the next time you perform that same task, the time element will be reduced. Familiarity and repetition will breed speed.

How to "Do It Yourself"

The following suggestions will get you started.

Prepare a proper and clean work area - Having a clean work area for whatever the task may be is vital in order to avoid confusion and also help keep the coach clean if you must traipse in and out of it several times. When servicing the appliances for example, it is best to perform the maintenance tasks with the appliances left in the installed positions. An exception would be the RV furnace. In some instances concerning the furnace, better results are attained if the furnace is removed and the work performed on a bench.

If you will be needing electricity, have your extension cord uncoiled and strategically placed prior to starting. Likewise, if using a drill motor, have the correct size drill bit, or screwdriver tip at hand. Proper preparation will make any maintenance task easier. Did you remember to allow enough time to do the work?

Have all replacement parts ready to go - Have all replacement parts prepared and laid out for easy access. If your maintenance task involves threaded fittings, a handy tip is to apply the correct sealant or Teflon tape before actually starting the work. It's much neater and easier when your hands are relatively clean. Lay the fittings aside and cover them with a shop towel or cloth until needed. If the new parts need any type of pre-assembly, do it now, before you get engrossed in the task at hand. If some parts in a repair kit will not be needed, separate and discard them prior to beginning. This will simplify your repair and avoid any confusion you may encounter later when you realize you have a few parts left over.

Obtain the necessary support materials - As mentioned earlier, have all wiring diagrams, service notes, installation instructions or any other type of resource open and within easy reach before starting the job. If you feel you may need additional help or support information, postpone the maintenance until all the necessary information is in your hand. Remember, preparation is much easier for a preventive maintenance procedure as opposed to an unwanted crisis repair. Also, keep in mind many maintenance tasks are now available on detailed instructional video tapes. Check out our Video Library Page. Additionally, many local community colleges now offer classes for the RVer and RV shows offer seminars on RV maintenance.

Get to know a local service facility - Do Not Leave This Step Out! Even though you may want to perform some maintenance yourself, always get to know a local dealer or service center in your area. Eventually your going to have to swallow your pride and call on them for help and aside from being there to order parts for you, they can also be a good source of information.

Additional tips - Never attempt to adjust your RV generator yourself. This is one area that is definitely better left to your service shop. Many specialty tools are required, as the generator needs to be load tested while making governor and carburetor adjustments. Load banks and specialty testers are beyond the scope of the do-it-yourselfer. Just remember that on the RV generator every mechanical adjustment that is made has an electrical result. You cannot tune a generator by ear. This item is for the professional.

Also never attempt to adjust your LP regulator without the knowledge and use of a water column manometer. Changes in the delivery pressure, though crucial to each appliance cannot be determined by visually watching a burner flame. Too high LP pressure will damage many appliances, while too low of a delivery pressure will result in improper combustion and inefficient appliance operation.

By honestly accessing your technical expertise, learning and gathering a resource library of sorts for those items on your coach, and acquiring the proper tools and parts, you may be just ready to experience the fun of maintaining your investment for your leisure over the road enjoyment. It is hoped that major repair costs are avoided and total enjoyment is realized from the experiences of working on your own motorhome.

Chuck Lunsford is a successful Webmaster and publisher of JustGoDoItYourself.com He provides more tips and advice on accomplishing do it yourself Rv repair

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Frigidaire Refrigerators - Advances of Features in Refrigerators

The features of refrigerators have been improving constantly, with Frigidaire appliances being one of the top competitors. Newer refrigerators may include:

*Frost-free refrigeration

*A power failure warning

*Chilled water and ice available from an in-door station, so the door need not be opened

*Cabinet rollers that allow the refrigerator to be easily rolled around for easier cleaning

*Adjustable shelves and trays that can be moved around to suit the user

*A Status Indicator to notify the user when it is time to change the water filter

*An in-door ice caddy

*A cooling zone in the refrigerator door shelves. Air from the freezer section is diverted to the refrigerator door, to better cool milk or juice stored in the door shelf

Early freezer appliances accumulated ice crystals around the freezing units. This was a result of humidity introduced into the units when the doors to the freezer were opened. This build up of frost required periodic thawing of the appliances to maintain their efficiency. Advances in frost-free refrigerators, researched by Frigidaire, eliminating the thawing task were introduced in the 1950s. Also, early appliances featured freezer compartments located within the larger refrigerator, and accessed by opening the refrigerator door, and then the smaller internal freezer door; appliances featuring entirely separate freezer compartment were introduced in the early 1960s, becoming the industry standard in Toronto and other parts of the world.

Later advances in Frigidaire appliances included automatic ice refrigerators and self compartmentalized freezers.

An increasingly important environmental concern for Toronto is the disposal of old appliances including refrigerators - initially because of the freon coolant damaging the ozone layer. Modern refrigerators built by Frigidaire usually use a refrigerant called HFC-134a, which has no ozone layer depleting properties, instead of freon.

Disposal of discarded refrigerators is regulated in Toronto appliances as many parts of the world. Modern Frigidaire appliances use a magnetic door gasket to hold the door sealed but can actually be pushed open from the inside, making it safer for children.

A lot of research has been done to keep refrigerators up to date with the standards of our society and Frigidaire appliances have always been on top of the competition. More information can be found at http://www.canadianappliance.ca

Paul Rollins is an expert on Toronto appliances, for more information visit:

http://www.canadianappliance.ca/

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Thursday, 28 May 2009

Partial Denture Repairs, Cleanings, and Adjustments - Practical Advice For Denture Wearers

The first time you wear a partial denture, repairs and other related topics might not be at the forefront of your mind. However, this doesn't mean you won't need to know about them eventually. The truth is that while they do take some special care and getting used to, these appliances aren't as bad as they seem at first. In many instances, some practical tips and answers concerning how to avoid broken denture repairs and other topics can make the adjustment much easier.

Caring For Partial Dentures

These appliances may seem tough, but if you fail to care for them properly, you may face the expense of broken denture repair faster than you expect. First, always stand over a table or sink to minimize the distance the appliance will fall if you should happen to drop it. If you drape a towel over the area or fill the sink with water, it will absorb the impact and help prevent breakage.

When cleaning your dentures, never use standard toothpaste. Instead, select a variety that is specifically designed for dentures. Regular varieties are abrasive and will scratch and wear away at the surface. You also want to select a soft bristle brush that is made specifically for partials to ensure you are able to clean them properly. Scratches hold germs and food particles causing the appliance to stain and become unpleasant. Once these appear, you will often need an entirely new appliance.

Adjustments

No matter how well the appliance is made, it will eventually wear on your gums, teeth, and jawbone causing the form to loosen. When this happens, it moves against your skin. If you do not have them adjusted promptly enough, you can develop sores and cuts on your gums that can become extremely painful. As soon as you notice they don't seem to fit quite as well as they once did, see your dentist for an adjustment as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Broken Denture Repair

If you accidentally damage your appliance, you should always seek help from an expert in broken denture repair. Partial denture repairs may look simple, but they have to be done correctly and precisely in order to restore the appliance back to its original state. Glues, for example, may actually eat away at the material.

DIY kits are available on the market, but these are never a good idea either. These appliances are customized to fit your mouth exactly. If you attempt to make the denture repairs on your own, you could have a tooth or other piece sitting slightly off that causes discomfort and possibly even damage.

If you have a partial denture, repairs, cleanings, and adjustments are inevitable. In spite of it all, however, you want them to be comfortable so you can wear them well into the future. So long as you care for your appliance properly and broken denture repair is left to an expert, you will soon forget you even have dentures.

Christine O'Kelly is an author for the experts in broken denture repair, Denture Shop. With more than 20 years experience, they perform expert denture repairs and offer 24 hour service and free shipping.

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Refrigerator Appliance Repair Help & Parts

Most readers are here because their Refrigerator is Broken or not working correctly!! Let's not Waist time.

Top Mount & Side by Side Refrigerators

Question: Do you have any lights in the Refrigerator? If yes, you have Power, go to Next Question.
Answer Is No: Check Bulbs First, Then Check your Outlet Where your Refrigerator is plugged in, then your Breaker Box. If you have your Refrigerator Plugged into a GFI, see if you're GFI is tripped.

Question: My Fresh Food Compartment is too warm but the freezer seems Fine.

Answer: There are several reasons this could happen. If you see Frost build up on the back wall of the freezer you might have a defrost problem and you should call a Appliance Repair Company.

Your Evaporator Fan Might not be working, This fan blows the cold air from your freezer to your Fresh food compartment. You can listen in your freezer area to hear if the fan is on. You might half to push the freezer door buttons in to activate the fan. If your machine is in defrost mode the fan will not come on.

If you have a electronic damper door it could be in the closed position, preventing the air flow from the freezer side to the fresh food side.

Your condenser coils could be dirty or Condenser Fan could be bad, this will cause your compressor to overheat and shut down causing your Refrigerator to quit cooling until the compressor has cooled down. in some refrigerators a good quick way to tell if your system is getting too hot is too feel the strip between the fresh food door and the freezer door, if this strip is hot your compressor could be overheating.

There are many other reasons for this type of problem : Intermittent compressor start device, Intermittent Thermostat, Electronic control board problems, Electronic Thermostat problems.
Please call a appliance repair service company to repair your appliance under any of these conditions.

Question: My ice maker won't make any Ice

Answer: The ice system in most Refrigerators consists of: The Ice maker itself, the water inlet valve, The Dispenser System.

There are many different designs.

Example: is your ice dispenser tray in your side by side door? If it is you might have a emitter board that detects the level of your ice bucket. This emitter board commonly fails and needs replaced to restore function to your ice maker.

A common problem with most ice maker systems is the water valve has a slow leak and freezes the water inlet tub to the ice maker causing the ice maker not to receive water. In this case you need to replace the water valve or the water valve simply is bad.
Have you check your water filter on your refrigerator? This also can cause a problem with your ice maker and water dispenser.

Good luck with your repair with your Refrigerator.

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Mr Fix it Appliance repairs : Wahsers, Dryers, Refrigerators, Ovens and Dishwashers and many brands like : GE, Whirlpool, Kenmore, Kithen Aid, Jenniar, Maytag, and more.

Call 832-695-2102
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