Home Improvement – Page 11

An Introduction to Bamboo Flooring

A little known fact: bamboo is technically not a tree at all, but a grass that includes over 1,000 species. Even without planting, bamboo naturally grows back, and it reaches maturity in only four to five years. These qualities make bamboo an excellent, forest-friendly source of wood for flooring.

Bamboo flooring may be new to North America but there are already several importers. Almost all bamboo imported to Canada and the United States is grown and manufactured in China though, it can be found in all of Southeast Asia.

Bamboo flooring is durable, and has a warmth and beauty that makes it especially desirable for flooring. Though there are many species of bamboo, only some are suitable for making flooring. Moso, for instance, is a common choice that reaches 40-50 feet high after just one year of growth. In another three years, the reeds are mature enough for harvesting. After harvesting, the bamboo is dried in the sun and then cut into strips that are shaped and planed. From these strips, bamboo flooring is made through a process of laminating and staining. The two main colors available for bamboo flooring are natural (a light woody color), and carbonized (an amber shade). There are also other color variations depending on the staining method.

Bamboo flooring has many remarkable qualities that make it equal to or better than many other “wood” flooring options. It is as hard as hard maple, and has been confirmed as harder and more stable than red oak. Maintenance for bamboo flooring is no different than for other pre-finished wood floor products — frequent sweeping or vacuuming, spray cleaners, and occasionally mopping. Environmentally, the impact on world forests would be dramatically lessened if bamboo flooring were more widely used.

When considering bamboo flooring, it is important to know that not all bamboo is equal. Nor is all bamboo processing equal. Some discount or wholesale companies are already selling immaturely cut bamboo for bamboo flooring. The result is low-quality, cheap bamboo flooring that won’t last. Timing is also important in processing bamboo. If it is not treated within three days after it has been cut, the bamboo can easily mold, making the resulting flooring look bland and dull. Be sure to confirm that the wholesaler you deal with is knowledgeable and can assure that their bamboo and processing methods are of high quality.

An In-Depth Review of Popular Air Purifiers

There are at least fifteen major brands promoting air purifiers. Below you will find condensed air purifier reviews for four of the most popular brands:

Oreck Air Purifiers

The Oreck Super Air 8 Air Purifier uses four different technologies to clear your air. The pre-filter catches large particles such as dust and pollen. The charcoal filter captures some of the smaller particles and chemicals that irritate the eyes and throat. Then the electrostatic precipitator electronically charges small particles with a negative ion, and immediately a collector plate magnetically grips the charged particles. Simultaneously, the Oreck air purifier generates negative ions and sends them out into the air, causing pollutants to drop right out of the air.

Ionic Breeze Air Purifiers

The Sharper Image Ionic Breeze GP uses a combination of electrostatic precipitator, negative ion generator, and an ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet light is a new improvement to the unit, which works to kill bacteria and viruses. The Ionic Breeze air purifier generates high amounts of harmful ozone, so make sure you place the unit at least two to ten feet away from your bed and furniture.

Hunter Air Purifiers

The Hunter Quietflo 3400 and the Hunter HEPAtech 30375 both use a carbon prefilter to capture large air pollutants. They both come equipped with a “Change Filter” light to minimize guesswork. Either can be operated manually or set on a timer. The 30375 includes a built-in ion generator.

Austin Air Purifiers

Austin Air offers five types of air purifiers. They come in two sizes: 15 pounds (the 400 series) and 6 pounds (the 200 series). They use a carbon and zeolite prefilter in combination with a HEPA filter. It is a sturdy-looking machine made of metal, for those who are sensitive to the smell of plastic.

An In-Depth Look at Air Filter Manufacturers

Because there are several air filter manufacturers on the market, it is helpful to be able to sort through the different manufacturers and products. The brief manufacturer/product profiles below are intended to help consumers do just that.

Honeywell

Honeywell dates back to 1885, and produces thermostats, air cleaners, humidifiers, and more. They offer four types of air filters: Replacement Media filters, HEPA air cleaners, Media Air Cleaners, and Electronic air cleaners. All these filters has advanced technology and meet American Lung Association Health House guidelines. Honeywell’s Whole-House HEPA Air Cleaner provides a powerful, three-stage filtration process to deliver the cleanest air. The three-stage filter system includes activated carbon, pre-filter and HEPA filter. These filters contain an AIRWATCH indicator, which reminds when to change filter, and come with a one-year warranty. The Honeywell’s Electronic Air Filter destroys almost 98% of pollutants and comes with a 5 year-warranty. Honeywell also offers two types of Media air filters: Furnace Mount Air cleaners and Return Grille air cleaners.

K&N

Unlike traditional disposable filters, for over 30 years K&N has been manufacturing air filters designed to achieve high, virtually unrestricted air flow and long engine life. K&N offers Replacement air filters that fit exactly into the standard OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) motorcycle air box, Universal air filters for racing vehicles, and more. There are almost 1000 shapes/styles of Universal air filters, each of which come under a one-year warranty. They have high flow cotton media who, providing greater performance and protection from infectants and pollutants. Replacement air filters have a million mile limited warranty. These filters also increase horsepower and acceleration of the vehicle along with filtration.

Air Bear

Trion Air Bear offers Furnace filters, Replacement filters and Media cleaners. Air Bear provides both whole house air cleaners and portable air cleaners, which facilitate cost efficient air filtration. Three sizes are available with three different dimensions 3x6x15, 5x20x25 and 20x20x5. The cost of Air Bear filter ranges from $100 to $170 depending upon the size and dimensions of the filter.

Hunter Air Filters

Hunter manufactures two distinct lines of air filters called the QuietFlow line and their so-called popular HEPAtech line of air purifiers. The HEPAtech filters use a combination of cleaning technologies, with a charcoal filter to remove odors in the house. Charcoal filters must be replaced regularly. The QuietFlow air filters are based on HEPA filters, which also need to be replaced regularly, at least once a year, for effective filtration. The cost of these two types of filters ranges from $15 to $90.

Oreck

The US-based Oreck offers a powerful Oreck XL Professional Air Purifier, which completely regenerates the air in a 30′x 30′ room every hour by capturing and destroying bacteria, pet dander, household dust and allergens. This filter traps 95% of airborne particles, some as minute as one thousand times smaller than a single hair. The light in the filter indicates when the filter needs cleaning. There is five-stage purification process in the Oreck XL Professional Air Purifier, which makes it more powerful than HEPA filter in air filtration. The five-stage system contains a pre-filter, positive charging wires, a collector, charcoal odor absorbers and an air-revitalizer, which say goodbye to all dust mites, and airborne allergens.

Aluminum Welding

Welding metalwork pieces such as those made from aluminum is relatively easy as it melts at a much lower temperature and does not crack after solidifying. Aluminum welding is done according to the type of aluminum used such as commercial grade aluminum having 99 percent purity, non-heat treatable alloys containing small amounts of manganese (Mn) or magnesium (Mg), and heat treatable alloys containing copper, silicon, zinc, or magnesium.

Work pieces made from these types of aluminum are easier to weld whereas aluminum work pieces containing copper or lead additives are difficult to weld and often lead to cracking while welding.

Aluminum welding methods include MIG and TIG welding, apart from conventional techniques such as gas, plasma, resistance welding, and welding with covered electrodes. The TIG technique is used when there is a need for good surface finishes and when welding from one side is not accessible, such as when welding pipes, and when repairing castings. The MIG technique is better suited for welding thicker aluminum work pieces at a faster rate and for achieving long, continuous welds. This technique has a lower heat input, which results in less distortion in the welding zone.

The latest aluminum welding technique involves the use of pulse arc welding combined with MIG that give much better results as compared to conventional methods. This technique gives better control of the molten pool in the case of thin material, makes the arc more stable, reduces spatters, and mitigates the risk of welding imperfections.

Welders need to take a few precautions while welding aluminum work pieces as the higher melting point of oxide that forms on its surface, when mixed into the molten pool, can cause welding defects. The surface of work pieces that are to be welded need to be scraped or brushed clean using stainless steel wire brush immediately before welding.

Aluminum Pool Fences

Pool fences are a necessity. They serve as a safety measure for all private and public pools, where the risk of young children wandering into the pool area is high. Certain strict regulations have to be adhered to when constructing pool fences. These regulations vary according to where you live, so it is a good idea to know the regulations before you install your pool fencing.

Aluminum fences make good pool fences mainly because of their durability. These fences will be able to tolerate wet seasons without needing regular repairs or expensive maintenance. They also do not rust. Aluminum fences can also allow people to look in. This is extremely useful in cases where a child wanders into a fenced-in area. Aluminum fences that come with pool gates are best, the safety latch, hinges and screws make it easy to have a proper gate to access the pool. Many safety codes require the installation of self-closing and self-latching gates.

Aluminum pool fences are also available in do-it-yourself versions which allow you to install the fence whenever and wherever you need it. This will come in handy if you are planning to have a get-together around the pool, or anywhere else.

Apart from its safety features, aluminum fences for pools are a good idea since they can be obtained at a low cost, but in attractive colors and designs. This will create a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere for your pool parties, which will be a fun activity for the children and a relaxing break for the adults.

Aluminum Fences

Fences are primarily used to mark the boundary of a property. They also serve as a safety measure for families who have young children or pets. The cost of fences vary, depending on size, style, function and materials used. People these days have the tendency to choose aluminum fences rather than wrought-iron, wood, vinyl or chain-link fences for several reasons.

Aluminum fences are powder-coated, which means they have been powder-sprayed and then baked in special ‘ovens’. The powder then becomes extremely hard and lasting. The introduction of an extensive range of powder-coated fashion colors has given the aluminum fences a much-needed fashion boost. Aluminum fences also do not rust, and are capable of providing maintenance-free operation when used with special gate hardware. The paint and powder-coat finishes are long-lasting and rarely need a touch-up. Aluminum fences now also come in various styles, from contemporary to traditional, and can even add a touch of elegance to your fencing. They are functional and practical, and also quite attractive.

Another important factor to consider is the competitive price. You can now enjoy good quality fencing in various styles and color at a lesser cost than fences made of other materials. Aluminum fences are also easy to install and repair. For example, if a picket is damaged then only the damaged picket needs to be replaced, not the entire fence. It is also easy to install since its light weight makes it easier to manage. Aluminum fences come in 4 grades starting from residential grade up to industrial grade, so you can find fences for home or industrial needs. The higher the grade, the higher the stability.

Alarm Monitor Security Systems

Alarm monitor security systems are instrumental in offering security to offices and homes. Earlier, people used to think twice about buying alarm monitor security systems, as they were quite expensive. However, the price has come down recently and now everyone can afford to have a sophisticated alarm system at home.

Let’s have a look at the basic composition of the previous alarm monitor security systems. The systems used to have gated entries along with on-site security personnel. Such a massive security arrangement was beyond most homeowners’ reach. However, with the introduction of more sophisticated alarm monitor security systems, security worries for homeowners have come to an end.

Be it home or office, owners can now go afford sophisticated alarm monitor security systems. You don’t have to hire security officers anymore. You can now keep an eye on the movement of people inside your home through control access and CCTV. The system also comes with an in-house alarm. Alarm monitor security systems are extremely easy to use. Everyone can operate the security systems. Alarm monitor security systems are capable of protecting your possessions. So stop worrying about your home and office. Get a well-equipped alarm monitor security system for your home. The systems won’t cost you too much; they have become quite affordable. This is the most reliable security system ever introduced.

No matter how much wealth you have in your home, if you don’t have a sophisticated alarm monitor security system installed, your belongings are not safe. You will find various Websites selling advanced alarm monitor security systems at affordable prices. Some companies even offer free home security monitoring. You should check out all of those offers before selecting a particular one. Making your home a secured place is the biggest concern of every homeowner. You can’t afford to take any chances.

Air Conditioning

In ordinary conversation, when the term air conditioning is mentioned, people automatically take it to mean cooling room temperature. Technically speaking, though, air conditioning is the process of controlling room temperature through various means that involve ventilation, heating and cooling. In construction, it is referred to as HVAC.

In 1902, The New York Stock Exchange was the very first building to use air conditioning units that separately cooled and heated the air. Later that year, Willis Havilland Carrier installed the very first electrically-run air conditioning unit at a printing plant. The unit not only cooled the air but also controlled the humidity.

In those times, air conditioning was mostly used in manufacturing facilities to improve products by controlling the effects of humidity, thus, increasing employee productivity. It was several decades later, in the 1950s, that homes and automobiles started to be fitted with the air conditioning technology.

An air conditioning unit cools the air through a refrigerant, a substance that alters the temperature of the air. In the early stages of its development, air conditioning units used harmful gases such as ammonia and methyl chloride as refrigerants. They were soon replaced by another type of chemical, the patented substance called Freon.

Freon is safe for humans. However, it is harmful to the environment. When released into the atmosphere, this chlorofluorocarbon gas is believed to be a contributing factor to the thinning of the ozone layer. Most air conditioning units sold today still use this type of gas, particularly the HCFC R-22. It is said that environmentalists will have to wait until 2010 to see the total eradication of HCFC R-22 in air conditioning untis.

Air conditioning units have different types of refrigeration cycles. The first type uses a heat pump that drives out hot air from the room and blows in cooled air though a compressor. The second type pumps in a refrigerant. When the refrigerant evaporates, it takes with it the hot air and leaves cooled air.

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 Repair

Most problems that people face with air conditioners can be solved by simple maintenance and cleaning. A regular cleaning of the air conditioner grille and filter helps to increase its longevity and make it more efficient at cooling. Sometimes particle aggregation inside the air filter chokes the ducts and makes the air conditioner ineffective. This can be solved by a simple cleaning of the air filter.

The common problems with air conditioners are faulty cooling, collection of water pools below the air conditioner, rattling sounds when the unit is shutting down, dysfunctional temperature control, etc. Some of these problems can be repaired by the owners themselves without calling for technical help. The air conditioner manual carries solutions to minor problems which can be easily implemented.

Before attempting Air Conditioner Repairs, it is most important to turn the power off. Removing the grille is an easy task, but care should be taken if the fan is attached to the grille as in some central cooling systems. Also, no wires should come loose while removing the grille and disconnecting the fan. If there are any wires connecting the fan to the main board, their sequence should be remembered so that they can be reconnected later.

Sometimes the air conditioner may not turn on at all due to a tripped or a broken fuse. The fuse is simple enough to be replaced by anyone. Instructions to replace fuses are mentioned in the manual. Hence, before calling a technician, it is advisable to check if there is a fuse problem.

Another common problem is the accumulation of water under the front portion of the air conditioner. This may be due to leakage of one of the ducts. Simple replacement solves the problem and instructions are mentioned in the manual.

Problems with thermostats are trickier to solve. Thermostat problems cause the air conditioner to cool the room unexpectedly. Even the heat pump may cause unexpected temperature swings if it is broken down. Thermostats and heat pumps should only be repaired by skilled technicians from the companies themselves.

Air Conditioner Repair is not a very difficult task, but people who are not confident with electrical appliances may contact the company to send their technicians. Technicians from the same company should be preferred over other repairmen.