12/14/2011

iPool Deluxe Above Ground Exercise Swimming Pool with Filter / Pump and Heater Upgrade Review

iPool Deluxe Above Ground Exercise Swimming Pool with Filter / Pump and Heater Upgrade
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I disagree with Frank, I found the iPool to be a blast to use. The company's video does say that you need two people to assemble it. I can't imagine why anyone would want to install something like this by themselves. With two people, we got it done in less than a hour. The clean up was fairly easy, I keep mine covered when I'm not using it so there is not much stuff to scoop out. That is the price I chose to pay for leaving it outside. I thought the filter was to take all the stuff that is too small to scoop out by hand.
I have been thinking about the heater and the 220 voltage does sound reasonable since it is a spa heater. I would think a smaller voltage heater would not be enough to do the job correctly or cause my electric bill to skyrocket. So far the solar blanket has been working out in keeping the water warm. If that is the case, I might not need a heater after all.
Edit your post:
To insert a product link use the format: [[ASIN:ASIN product-title]] (What's this?)
I disagree with Frank, I found the iPool to be a blast to use. The company's video does say that you need two people to assemble it. I can't imagine why anyone would want to install something like this by themselves. With two people, we got it done in less than a hour. The clean up was fairly easy, I keep mine covered when I'm not using it so there is not much stuff to scoop out. That is the price I chose to pay for leaving it outside. I thought the filter was to take all the stuff that is too small to scoop out by hand.
I have been thinking about the heater and the 220 voltage does sound reasonable since it is a spa heater. I would think a smaller voltage heater would not be enough to do the job correctly or cause my electric bill to skyrocket. So far the solar blanket has been working out in keeping the water warm. If that is the case, I might not need a heater after all.Guidelines

Click Here to see more reviews about: iPool Deluxe Above Ground Exercise Swimming Pool with Filter / Pump and Heater Upgrade

The latest innovation in resistance swimming, the iPool acts like an extremely tiny lap pool, helping you get all the exercise you need while taking up only 6 square meters of space--far less than a full-sized pool. The iPool's small swimming tank is made of durable, lightweight fabric and is lined with PVC coating, ensuring that the 1,500 gallons of water stays securely inside. More significantly, the iPool offers a total footprint of roughly 10 by 6.5 feet, about the size of a minivan or SUV. As a result, you can move the iPool to several different locations in your backyard with ease. How does the iPool work? Unlike a full-sized pool, the swimmer doesn't actually move through the water, but instead stays in place thanks to the pool's compact Velcro harness. Once you're strapped in, your movements provide all the resistance you need to boost your heart rate and work your muscles. It's ideal for almost any user, including brand-new swimmers just learning the ropes of certain strokes, such as freestyle, frog style, backstroke, and butterfly; injured athletes looking to rehabilitate from knee surgery; and experienced swimmers who don't have the space for a large lap pool but love the cardio resistance a good swim offers.
The iPool arrives in two medium-size boxes and takes roughly 30 minutes to fully assemble. All you need is a level, smooth indoor or outdoor area that's no smaller than 14.5 by 11.5 feet. This particular version of the iPool also comes with a filter pump/heater, which turns the iPool into a year-round training tool ideal for both the summer and winter months. The filter pump handles up to 1,000 gallons per hour, while the heater's sturdy sheet metal construction help it stand up to the elements when installed outdoors. Other included accessories include a pool cover that helps minimize humidity when you're not in the pool, a ladder, a floor mat, and a repair kit. The iPool carries a one-year warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions:Q: What sizes are available? A: The iPool comes in one size. It is 10 by 6.5 feet (roughly 65 square feet, about the size of a minivan or SUV). The depth of the pool is 3.10 feet and can hold 1,500 gallons of water. Because the iPool is much smaller than an installed lap pool, people can move it to different locations with ease.
Q: How easy is it to install an iPool? A: The iPool is shipped to you with two medium-size boxes. The easy-to-install instructions located inside will walk you through installation step by step. It can be assembled in 30 minutes.
Q: Where can I install an iPool? A: The iPool is a freestanding above-ground unit that can be installed inside or outside. It can fit into a place no smaller then 14.5 by 11.5 by 8 feet (6 square meters). It must be installed in a place that is level, smooth, and free of any objects that can damage the pool. If it were installed indoors then the floor must be able to withstand 1 ton and have a way to drain water without damage to property.
Q: What about humidity for indoor installations? A: Having a body of water inside will always raise some concern for humidity. The iPool comes with a cover to help minimize humidity. The cover will also help keep foreign objects out of the pool when it is not in use.
Q: Is it difficult to keep the iPool clean? A: The iPool uses an easy-clean filter pump system to help clean the water.
Q: Can I use chloride or a saltwater system in the iPool? A: People can use a chloride or saltwater system in the iPool, but Fitmax does not provide them.
Q: How often should I replace the filter and cartridge? A: The filter should be replaced once a year and the cartridge should be replaced every three to six months.
Q: How often do I have to change the pool water? A: It is recommended that you change the pool water every three to six months to keep the filter cartage working properly.
Q: Does the iPool come with a repair kit? A: Yes, a repair kit is included.
Q: How does the swim harness work? A: The harness is a Velcro strap that wraps around your waist and clips that fastens in the front. It can be adjusted to fit waists from 22 to 42 inches.
Q: How much resistance is there in the harness? A: There is as much resistance as you want. If you want more resistance in your workout then you swim harder into the harness. To change your workout, you can change the position of the harness.
Q: How does the iPool compare to a lap pool? A: The iPool cost much less to install and has less water to maintain. It allows you to have full workout in a small area without the hassle of turning around. For parents who have children, traditional swimming pools can be dangerous areas requiring supervision. With the iPool, children can enjoy swimming with the safety of the harness.
Q: What is the iPool made of? A: It is made of a durable lightweight fabric lined with a PVC coating.
Q: Does the iPool really work? A: It really does work. You can swim against the harness at whatever speed you would like. You set the speed yourself. No turning around in a pool or changing the speed of the follow of water. If you want to change your workout you can change the position of the harness. The iPool was designed for resistance swimming to help work and strengthen the cardiovascular system without the stress and impact on your joints.


Buy NowGet 13% OFF

Buy cheap iPool Deluxe Above Ground Exercise Swimming Pool with Filter / Pump and Heater Upgrade now.

12/13/2011

Floodstop Washing Machine Valve Shutoff Kit Review

Floodstop Washing Machine Valve Shutoff Kit
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I just received this product today. The installation was very simply and it only took about 15 minutes. Overall, I am very pleased with this device. I have tested it several times and without fail, every time the sensor detects water, it faithfully shuts off the two water valves.
The plastic controller housing seems a bit cheap but the valves appear to be high quality. The wall plugin transformer is black with white plastic wire and all other parts of the device are white, so why the black transformer housing? So in the aesthetics category, I would give this product only three stars. But I did not buy it for looks or to show of to friends and family, I bought it for its utilitarian and functional purpose and for that I give the product an overall 5 stars.
There is one water risk that this device does not solve directly and that is if the drain line were to become detached or clogged and the washing machine were to begin draining on to the floor, the water supply lines would be closed but there is nothing to stop the washing machine from continuing to pump all its water content out on to the floor. Fortunately this device includes a set of both normally open and normally closed IO contacts. Using the leads provided, coupled with some relay controlled power outlet, you can use this to disconnect power from the washing machine thereby stopping the water pump. If you do want to take this additional step, make sure to obtain a relay power controlled device that supports a high enough amperage for your washing machine. I am planning on using a Furman MP-20 Power Relay Accessory to solve this. There are probably cheaper options out there but with this device there should be no hassles, just connect the IO contact leads from the controller box to the MP-20.
I also am using a FloodStop system on my hot water heater which is located in the attic. I am using the 3/4 threaded model, but here is a link to the compression fit model:
FloodStop System for Water Heaters**UPDATE** 2010-01-22
Received and installed Furman MP-20 Power Relay Accessory today. Connected to NO (normally open) contact closure leads on FloodStop. Works great!! Now when water is detected by FloodStop, not only the hot and cold water valves get closed, but also the power to the washing machine gets immediately disconnected. This will prevent the pump on the washing machine from burning out if the water leakage is not detected immediately and also prevents water on the drain line of the washing machine from being pumped out in the case where the drain line has been compromised.**UPDATE** 2010-06-23
6 month test passed! Both hot and cold values closed completely with the detection of water on the sensor pad. **UPDATE** 2010-10-06
Wife asked me to take a look at why the washing machine was not working today. The Flodstop was tripped and the Furman MP-20 powered off the washing machine. No noticeable pools of water on the floor, so I started thinking something may be wrong with the Floodstop unit. But sure enough when I picked up the sensor there was a little bit a water on the surface. After wiping off the water and resetting the unit all is working perfectly. I will count this as a successful test :-)


Click Here to see more reviews about: Floodstop Washing Machine Valve Shutoff Kit

Stop washing machine leaks from becoming a disaster.Don't risk your floors, carpets and other personal belongings to costly and ruinous water damage!Prevent flood damage and avoid costly repairs with the easy-to-install Washing Machine Valve Shutoff Kit.This system not only detects leaks early, but it automatically shuts your water off in the event of a leak, alerting you with the control panel's alarm.Designed for both residential and commercial dwellings, the Washing Machine Valve Shutoff Kit uses a pair of automatic 9VDC 3/4-inch full port motorized ball valves to shut off the water supply whenever your washing machine leaks.The non-intrusive devices can be installed in as little as 10 minutes; no professional plumbers are required.This kit includes everything you need to protect your property from costly water-leak damage: valves installed on your hot and cold water inlets, a water sensor to be placed on the floor, and the control unit, which is mounted to your wall with the included screws.A power supply is included; you can also install four C batteries (not included) for backup power if desired.You can even add multiple water sensors for different areas around your washing machine.If your washing machine should begin to leak, the controller tells the water valves to close and alerts you with an 87db alarm.The system can also connect to an alarm, an automatic phone dialer, or both.

Buy Now

Buy cheap Floodstop Washing Machine Valve Shutoff Kit now.

12/12/2011

Waring Pro ICT100 Professional Induction Cooktop Review

Waring Pro ICT100 Professional Induction Cooktop
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
If only one could get this type of cooking in a stove at a reasonable price! At the present time, since there is very little demand for magnetic induction cooking, full stovetops are very expensive. However, one can purchase a single burner unit like this one from Waring Pro, and discover how wonderful induction cooking is!
This induction cooktop is super energy efficient. All you heat is the pan. Right next to it the surface is totally cool. Indeed, the only heat on the cooktop comes from the pan itself. After use, the fan will run for a minute or so to make sure the surface is temperate to the touch. Moreover, the cooktop will will not function if it does not sense a pan/pot on the surface (or the right kind of pan), and will shut off if the pot gets to hot.
When I first put my stainless steel pasta pot on it nothing happened. I thought something was wrong. But that pot bottom was not magnetic, and thus would not work with magnetic induction. You MUST have the right kind of cookware (it should say induction on the storebox - we use Circulon Infinite Infinite Circulon 10-Piece Set- or simply test it with a magnet in the store. Aluminum, copper, etc. will not work. Cast iron works fine, but the weight of cast iron could scratch the surface if you are not careful.
I find that whatever you cook heats really fast, faster than our electric range because there is no warmup; heat is instantaneous. Cooldown almost so. No waste of energy. Some fan noise, not objectionable, and some slight higher frequency noise when it is heating. Timer can be handy if you are not sure when you might get back.
We are really pleased with this. We use it on our kitchen island where you can cook with it, or keep something warm in total safety because the sides of the cooktop are cool to the touch. You would need some counter space to use it, and we store it easily by leaning it up against the wall under the counter so it is always ready for use. It cleans up super easy since it never gets hot!
This unit could also be used camping with an inverter, during a power outage using an inverter and a car battery, or in the backyard to heat the beans when you are cooking burgers. Many uses are possible as long as you can supply 1400 watts of power from your inverter.
There are some other models available from other manufacturers right here on Amazon, but I do not think you could go wrong with this unit by Waring. It is beautifully made - a fine asset to your kitchen. It would also be great for summer cooking as less heat would be added to your kitchen. Highly recommended!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Waring Pro ICT100 Professional Induction Cooktop

Efficient and easy to operate, this professional induction cooktop provides extra help with family meals and entertaining. It uses electromagnetic technology to ensure quick heat-ups while consuming 85-percent less energy than conventional burners. Delivering even heating with no hot spots, the small appliance accommodates induction-ready cookware, and its heat stops automatically 45 seconds after removal of a pot or pan. Simple touch controls include On/Off, seven heat settings, and a 99-minute timer. Other highlights include a blue LED timer display, safe operation with no flame or exhaust gas, and elegant styling with a smooth glass top. The induction cooktop measures approximately 13-1/2 by 11 by 3 inches and carries a five-year limited warranty.

Buy NowGet 54% OFF

Buy cheap Waring Pro ICT100 Professional Induction Cooktop now.

12/11/2011

WATER SOFTENER (Flint Walling/Star S07EC24) Review

WATER SOFTENER (Flint Walling/Star S07EC24)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
You get what you pay for. Lots of plastic; I doubt this unit will last too long. It does seem to work okay now.

Click Here to see more reviews about: WATER SOFTENER (Flint Walling/Star S07EC24)

24,000 grain removal capacity/75 grain per gallon maximum hardness. Removes up to 3 PPM of clear water iron. Space saving single tank design. 6 day programmable valve head. 200 lb. salt storage capacity. 3 year warranty on valve head. 10 year warranty on mineral tank. Unit measures 18" W. x 18" D. x 44" H.

Buy Now

Buy cheap WATER SOFTENER (Flint Walling/Star S07EC24) now.

12/10/2011

Culligan HF360A Culligan Whole House Sediment Water Filter Review

Culligan HF360A Culligan Whole House Sediment Water Filter
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
The Culligan HF-360 whole house filter is cheap and effective. I have used mine for 4 years and it just now started weeping. But, you get what you pay for, so BEWARE of 3 little things:
1. Remember, it is only a single filter in a short housing. There is a reason people buy multi-stage filters in deep housings. The recommended 10 micron polyester filter did not remove all my rust (only about half). So, I ordered a finer 1 micron carbon filter. It removed all the rust, but slowed water flow and clogged monthly. Next time, I'd get a multi-stage filter.
2. When removing the filter housing, remember to SWING THE WATER SHUT OFF LEVER, then, PRESS THE RED PRESSURE RELEASE BUTTON. Otherwise, you'll twist pipe connections trying to loosen it. (To minimize stress on your pipes, stabilize the unit while turning the housing with the wrench or you'll twist the pipe connections).
3. When replacing the filter housing, HAND TIGHTEN--DO NOT USE THE WRENCH. It will twist the itty bitty gasket and you will have a leaker. Speaking of gasket, they mean it when they say lubricate when replacing. If you don't, it will stick and warp when twisting on the housing.
Do these 3 things and save yourself some grief and $$. Otherwise, the Culligan HF-360 has worked fine to clean the well water in my small 2-person house.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Culligan HF360A Culligan Whole House Sediment Water Filter

Culligan HF360A Whole House Sediment Water Filter valve in head water filter extends life of washing machines, water heaters, and other household appliances. It reduces dirt, sand, silt, rust, and scale particles. It has a built in shutoff valve in cap for easy cartridge changes, clear housing for monitoring cartridge life. 3/4'' inlet outlet for installation on 1/2'' or 3/4'' main cold water lines. Dynamically sealing, self cleaning O rings prevent leaks and clogging. Filter housing wrench included. Use replacement cartridge. 5 year limited warranty.

Buy Now

Buy cheap Culligan HF360A Culligan Whole House Sediment Water Filter now.

12/09/2011

Frigidaire EA108T Through-the-Wall 18 Inch Sleeve Kit Review

Frigidaire EA108T Through-the-Wall 18 Inch Sleeve Kit
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Be forewarned!!!. Cutting into your wall is not a simple task.
This is NOT a window box it IS a kit to install a window unit through a wall you Will need to create a hole in the wall to put this through.I've installed kits like this a few times it's a wonderful idea for a pertinent installation of what is normally considered a tacky yet important appliance.
Things you should know before starting this project.
Location of studs. (you will need to put this box in between studs never cut through a stud to install this device. If the stud spacing is to small consult a professional before you attempt an install. or risk you whole wall collapsing with half your roof.) if you must cut through a support you will need a double header and footer around the box.
Location of outlets and wires inside the wall
(You don't want to cut through any wire/pipe in your wall so don't put this OVER a plug as most plugs are dropped in from the attic or above(even if you live in a trailer.)
Ok dangerous part over with. :)
These last few items and hints are just for looks.
1. Get some molding to go around the exposed edge.
2. Have some foam or flashing to put on the outside of the box or risk water inside the wall in storms (basic stuff)
3. Have all the tools you'll need BEFOR you punch that hole in the wall.
4. Have a friend on standby just in case.
Not all kits will have molding or (make pretty) bits a bobs so expect to go to a home supply outlet of some-sort
Installing these isnt all that hard a proficient carpinder can do it in under an hour. But expect to spend most of the day on it. think weekend project take it slow.
Oh ya almost forgot.
run the AC on a flat surface for a while BEFORE you start in on the box and figure out how much of an angle you will need to insure the blasted thing drains OUTSIDE! and i mean let it run for a while it takes upwerds of 5 hrs to get a liquid buildup enough to drip.
Depending on the kit itself and your local humidity you may need to drill in a drain hole near the back of the kit (NOT THE AC) the kit! don't go drilling into your AC
Tools i used.
Tape Measure
Level
Drill
Hammer
nails/screws
Screwdriver bit for drill.
Saws-all
Flashlight
dust mask (drywall dust and junk)
screw driver (for where the drill wont catch)
old sheet/tarp
drill bits. one big one for starting the saws-all
(double header)
one to two 2x4's
Ripsaw (hand saw circular saw .. something to cut the 2x4)
LONG nails and or wood screws (DO NOT USE DRYWALL SCREWS)
Spare Drywall the hole inside will probably be larger than the required size for the box if you have to make a header. (drywall make pretty junk)
To make your life a little more easy use some header hangers (steel strips to hold up the header instead of just nails.
to create the header.
open the wall back untill you can see 3 studs
Cut the center stud out to the apropret gap.
Cut the 2x4's to the length to span the gap between the 2 outer studs you will need 4 of these.
Check your fit
Screw the 2x4's together lengthways to make them 4x4's
Use the hangers or nail in these new headers to the other studs and secure the center stud to the header. the connection point to the outer studs is the important part.
Pick where you want your box cut the outer hole and install.
Patch Drywall make it nice and install molding around the box slide the AC plug it in and enjoy the cold air. :)

Click Here to see more reviews about: Frigidaire EA108T Through-the-Wall 18 Inch Sleeve Kit

The Frigidaire EA108T Through-the-Wall 18 Inch Sleeve Kit is designed for the installation of Frigidaire through-the-wall equipment. This kit is necessary if there is no existing sleeve. It provides a weather-tight seal with or without the unit installed. It also includes an outside panel, sleeve, inside panel, construction support, weather seals, and mounting hardware. The recommended wall opening when mounting brackets are used is 26"W x 15.75"H.

Buy Now

Buy cheap Frigidaire EA108T Through-the-Wall 18 Inch Sleeve Kit now.

12/08/2011

Mr. Heater MH125LP Salamander 125,000-BTU Portable Propane Radiant Heater Review

Mr. Heater MH125LP Salamander 125,000-BTU Portable Propane Radiant Heater
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This unit looks extrememly well made, like other Mr. Heater products. But unlike their tiny portable units there is NO WAY to turn down the heat. 125000 BTUs is a LOT of heat, enough for nearly 3000 square feet. But it consumes nearly 5.5 gallons of propane per hour to do so. That would be OK for really cold conditions. But it is all or nothing. There is no thermostat or , as previously stated, way to turn down to a lower heat setting. I found a similar unit at Grainger that has three heat settings, (50/95/125,000 BtuH Output) and is priced the same, so I am sending this one back.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Mr. Heater MH125LP Salamander 125,000-BTU Portable Propane Radiant Heater

The Mr. Heater MH125LP 125,000 Btu portable propane radiant heater is perfect for large construction sites, workshops, and the like. MH125LP is a radiant heater, which means it directly heats objects instead of the surrounding air, and this model gives you 360 degrees of directional heat. You can get up to 17 hours of use from a 100-pound (minimum) propane cylinder. Hook-up is simple using the included hose and regulator, and handy jobsite features include a folding handle, transport wheels, and convenient piezo push-button igniter. Rugged steel construction means that this heater is going to last, too. CSA Certified. One-year limited warranty.--Josh Dettweiler
What's in the BoxHeater (knob control valve, filter/diffuser, orifice pilot, thermocouple, pilot burner, regulator , ignitor, piezo, axle with brackets, handle, wheel, valve supply tube, valve supply tube clamp, burner manifold, burner, hose assembly 12'), hose, regulator, owner's manual

Five Tips for Buying a HeaterChoosing a space heater is a matter of sifting through a bewildering array of types, power ratings, and fuel sources. Let's break it down a little to make the process easier.

What are the different types of space heaters?
Radiant heaters emit infrared radiation that directly warms the objects in front of the heaters (rather than the surrounding air). If you only need heat by a desk or in a small section of a room, a radiant heater is quiet and will use very little power.
Forced-air heaters use a fan to blow air that has been warmed by metal or ceramic heating elements. A forced-air heater is appropriate for quickly heating up a small- to medium-sized room, but can be noisy.
Convection heaters draw cold air from the floor; the air is warmed by heating coils and emitted from the top of the heater. A convection heater is appropriate for quickly heating up a small- to medium-sized room, but also can be noisy.
Radiators work by heating oil enclosed in a reservoir, gradually heating the surrounding air. If heating speed isn't an issue, you might want to opt for a radiator. These are extremely quiet and effective--perfect for bedrooms.


Should I buy an electric or a combustion model?If you want a heater that will be available in emergencies, or that can heat areas larger than a single room, choose a "combustion" model--one that is powered by a gas or fuel like propane, kerosene, natural gas, or diesel. Which fuel type you choose depends largely on convenience and local availability. For example, diesel would be appropriate for a heater you take with you on long car trips.

How powerful a heater do I need?Heaters are rated by BTU, which stands for British Thermal Unit (the amount of heat needed to heat one pound of water by 1 degree F). To find out how many BTU you need:
Calculate the volume of the space to be heated by multiplying square footage by height.
Multiply that number by 4 if your insulation is poor, 3 if it's average, or 2 if it's good.
The resulting number is a ballpark figure for how many BTU you'll need.
Do space heaters cost a lot to operate? As a general rule, electric space heaters are more expensive to use than combustion models. To ensure energy efficiency, a thermostat is a must-have feature for any heater. For radiant heaters, models with a 360 degree heating surface can heat larger spaces. If you need a forced-air heater, models with ceramic elements tend to be more efficient.

Are space heaters a fire hazard?Space heaters are implicated in about 25,000 residential fires every year. To ensure proper safety, always follow the manufacturer's usage instructions and fill out the warranty card to receive informational updates from the manufacturer. Also, look for extra safety features such as an automatic shutoff switch that can shut down the unit if, for example, it gets upended. In addition, choose a model where the heating element is adequately enclosed within the unit.


Buy NowGet 44% OFF

Buy cheap Mr. Heater MH125LP Salamander 125,000-BTU Portable Propane Radiant Heater now.