Black Decker Cordless Can Openers

Can openers are kitchen tools used to open the lids of canned foods. It is very essential nowadays since most foods bought in the market today are stored in cans for a greater shelf life.

Can openers are kitchen fixtures. In this day and age, it is unimaginable not to have one. And because of this high demand, there are a lot of companies competing in the market to produce quality can openers. One of the leading brands is Black & Decker.

Black & Decker is better known for its top quality kitchen appliances and this includes can openers. The company manufactures cordless can openers. The idea is to just set the canned goods in place and let the can opener do the work for you. It prevents leaving cuts on your hands. It saves time also. You can do other kitchen work while the can is being opened for you.

The KEC600 model of Black & Decker is one of their newest and most saleable can openers. It comes in a white finish. It is lightweight with a comfortable ergonomic grip. It is also rechargeable and dishwasher safe. Its power-pierce cutter can open up to 30 cans per charge.

Since it is cordless, KEC600 is good for small kitchens with very limited space. The unit is very easy to clean because the blade can easily be taken off for washing and be placed back after drying it thoroughly.

KEC600 does not perform very well with thicker cans though, like coffee containers. It is very portable and suited for only light and easy jobs. Don't force it on thick and heavy materials or it might break.

Another one is the Black & Decker Gizmo, also cordless and portable. It is easy to store and can be brought along in trips. A single charge is capable of opening about 30 cans. The cutter assembly is detachable and safe to clean in a dishwasher. It also comes with a magnetic lid holder and non-slip face.

Gizmo features a power pierce cutter for precise cutting. It is also very easy to use. It stops automatically when the work is done.

Black & Decker Ergo has a black finishing. It features an ergonomic grip, is rechargeable and lightweight. The power pierce cutter automatically shuts off when done. The blades are removable and dishwasher safe.

Many customers are pleased with the performance of Black & Decker can openers. It is no wonder that many users trust this brand.

The Black & Decker Spacemaker can opener is very revolutionary. It is not only cordless, it is also unique in a sense that it is mounted under the cabinets or under the counters rather than made to sit atop tables. This is very space saving.

The Spacemaker is very durable that it can open almost any kind of can. The blades are detachable for easy cleaning. Also, it is a hands-free machine with an auto-off button. You can go on with your other chores while it opens the can for you. The machine will automatically stop after it finishes.

It also has built-in knife sharpeners and bottle openers as added features. The design is very elegant with metallic touches for a classy look.

Autor: David Urmann

For more information on Cordless Can Openers and Different Types Of Can Openers please visit our website.

Added: January 30, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Tips on Buying a Fridge Freezer

Whether you're catering for two or twelve, want discretion or are looking for something that makes a statement, there's a fridge freezer to suit you

Buyers Guide To Fridge Freezers

What to consider before you buy:
How much space do you have?

One of the first things to think about is the space that it will take up in your kitchen. Sturdy American-style models live up to the adage that big is beautiful, but may not be suitable for a small room. On the other hand, integrated appliances blend in well but may offer fewer functions than freestanding models.

Widths can vary from a conventional 60cm to upwards of 90cm for a large side-by-side model. You need to think about depth, too, as although manufacturers are bringing out narrow models, many larger appliances are beyond conventional worktop depth, and they might not even fit through your front door.

Consider the capacity split between the fridge and freezer
If you shop regularly, eat fresh produce and rarely use your freezer compartment, go for a larger fridge. But if you tend to do a lot of batch cooking, or prefer the convenience of frozen food, then the freezer will take priority. A total capacity of 260 litres is adequate for most households.

Think about the location
Make sure you have good ventilation for any stand-alone appliance, or else the compressor will work overtime, creating a build up of frost. If you are investing in a machine with an ice and water dispenser, be aware that it needs to be connected to a separate supply of water. Keep all this in mind, and you'll soon be chilling out in style.

Key Features
Frost free

A built-in heater stops condensation forming so no ice can accumulate.The latest 'intelligent' systems monitor usage to access how many times the fridge or freezer door is opened, and only defrost when necessary.

Dual thermostats
Keep fridge and freezer at separate temperatures - handy if you want to turn off an empty fridge when you go away, but leave the freezer on.

Safe and sound
Glass shelves are more hygienic and easier to clean than wire racks, and for ultimate hygiene, fridges with anti-bacterial linings use silver to kill germs without harming the food itself.

Transparent freezer drawers
Allow you to see what is stored without opening the drawer, increasing energy efficiency.

Crisper sections
Stores fruit and veg at an optimum temperature of between 2 and 9 C so they'll stay fresh for longer.

Fast freeze
Retains the goodness of fresh food by freezing it very quickly.

Even temperature
Hot air rises so foods in the fridge should be stored accordingly. An airflow system does away with guess work by circulating cold air around the cavity, maintaining an even temperature throughout.

Four-star freezer rating
Freezer will drop to -21 C and can store food for up to 12 months. Fresh food can only be frozen in a four-star-rated freezer.

CFC- AND HFC-FREE

Chlorofluorocarbons damage the ozone layer; hydrofluorocarbons can affect global warming.

Clever little extras
A host of special features are available, such as ice and water dispensers, that are plumbed into the mains supply and filtered. Fridges with a beverage door let you access milk and drinks via a mini flap, while wine fans will love fridges with fast-chill compartments that take air from the freezer to cool down a bottle in super-quick time.

Safe Disposal Of Fridge Freezers

Why do fridge freezers need safe disposal?
Refrigeration equipment contains ozone depleting substances (ODS's) and CFC's that are harmful to the environment and these must be professionally removed before the item can be scrapped or recycled.

How can I dispose of my fridge freezer?
Take your appliance to a recycling centre, or contact your local authority to come and collect it. There are also independent companies that offer disposal services of harmful waste, such as We Clear Junk.

For more information visit DEFRA Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Autor: Penny Day

You can find more information on interior design and interior design ideas at house to home, helping you create a look you'll love

Added: January 28, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Before You Buy a Stove - 6 Things to Consider

1: IT'S ABOUT STYLE

Ranges have become the status symbol of the kitchen and many treat them like a stage for performing. There are free-standing or slide-in models, or built-in. It is a smart move to select the same type of replacement range to avoid renovations. Larger professional type ranges add glamour as well as heat, but they need better ventilation and may need fireboards next to the adjoining cabinets.

2: THE IMPORTANCE OF COLOR

These days, most ranges come in white, black and stainless steel or metallic finish resembling stainless. Ask if the metal is really stainless steel. The rule is that range should match the dishwasher and refrigerator if they do not have a custom cover. Custom colors are available on premium brands.

3: FUEL - A VERY IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION

Both gas and electric offer a consistent source of heat and are reliable. Electric heats up and cools down slowly, but can give you a very low heat which is not always possible with gas. With gas, you can select different levels of heat and when the burner is off, cooking stops almost immediately. If you decide to switch from electric to gas, you will need a gas hookup as well as 120 volt circuit for clocks and electronic ignition.

4: PERFORMANCE

There are many programmable options such as delay and time-bake capabilities. Ask about even baking and custom broiling options. You may want to check out convection baking for superior baking results, low simmer and high heat options on cooktop.

5: LOW MAINTENANCE CLEANING

Ceramic and smooth glass cooktops need specific cleaners and care to maintain their good looks. Burners on professional ranges and those with drip pans require more care. If you hate cleaning your oven, the make sure that your range has self-cleaning options. Most importantly, if you are a total neat freak, please bear in mind that continuous clean will never get your oven immaculate.

6: MEASUREMENTS

The most important thing before you buy is to make sure it fits. Freestanding ranges are 30-inches wide, but can vary from 24 to 48 inches. Professional models measure from 36 inches to 60 inches.

Autor: Steven M. Fisher

Steven M. Fisher is the Editor in Chief of HomeRemodelingPortal.com. Homeremodelingportal.com was created to ease the frustration, anxiety and hours associated with spending large sums of money on building, remodeling as well as exterior and interior decorating. Its patented interface makes finding information lightning fast. For more information, visit http://www.homeremodelingportal.com

Added: January 27, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Why Should You Have a Repair Video Or Manual For the Washer Or Dryer You Own?

You should have a repair video or manual so you could learn how to repair your washer or dryer yourself. When a washer or dryer stop working, the first part that gets blame for the problem is the timer. You can't imagine how many times the problem with a dryer is a blown fuse and because the owner don't know anything about how the dryer works they go ahead and replace the timer and still have the same problem.

Example: I have a friend that his washer stopped working and instead of calling me to fix it for him, he decided to try to fix it himself. He went and bought a new timer that cost him like $90 and replace it.. After replacing the timer he try the washer, but the new timer did not fix the problem. Then he guess that it could be the water level switch, so he bought a water level switch for $40 and install it in the washer.

When he tried the washer again, he found out that the water level switch did not correct the problem. Before he could take a guess on another part, his wife call me to check the washer. When I check the washer, I discover that the problem with the washer was a broken wire to the motor.

What I am trying to tell you with this example is, don't take a guess when you are trying to repair your washer or dryer, taking a guess or calling an expensive repairman could be very costly.

Get yourself a do it yourself video or manual on how to fix your washer or dryer and save a lot of time, aggravation and money.

Trust me when I tell you that most repairs on your washer or dryer are so easy to do, that anyone could do them. Most people that own a car, know how to do maintenance on their car, like change tires, add oil, add all kinds of fluids, and many more things.

When you own a washer or a dryer you should know how to do maintenance on them or you will be force to pay big bucks to a repair company for easy repair that you could have easily done yourself with the instructions that you could get in a do it yourself video or repair manual.

Autor: Angel A Acevedo Angel A Acevedo
Level: Platinum
My Name is Angel. I live in Worcester, Massachusetts. I run A&C Washer & Dryer Repair Service. I also produce washers & dryers repair videos ... ...

My Name is Angel, I have been doing washer and dryer repairs for the last 30 years. I produce do it yourself washer & dryer repair videos to help you do the repairs yourself. There is no better way to learn how to fix a washer or dryer, than by seeing how the repairs are done in a video. For more detail information we are at http://www.do-it-yourself-washing-machine-and-dryer-repair-help.com/ or http://washer-dryer-repair-videos.com/

Added: January 24, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

3 Big Drawbacks to Drinking Ultra Pure Water

Let's face it. Water pollution has been a fact of life for the last several decades. As a result, companies have raced to get their ultra pure water delivery systems to market. The competition between reverse osmosis, distillation and bottled water companies has been fierce. But its only been recently that problems with pure water have come to the attention of consumers.

I am one of those consumers who take their drinking water very seriously. During my research to find the best in-home water treatment system, I learned about three big drawbacks to drinking ultra pure water. If you're in the market for one of these systems, you may be interested in what I found out.

1. Ultra pure water may not be pure at all.

You need to know that there are limits to the types of toxins that some of the more popular water purification systems are able to remove. Reverse osmosis and distillation are two big selling systems that have problems getting rid of synthetic chemicals, like pesticides and herbicides.

2. Making ultra pure water can be expensive and inconvenient.

The problems with pure water made from reverse osmosis and distillation can be solved with the addition of a carbon filter system. However, this tacks on an extra expense to systems that are expensive to begin with.

A reverse osmosis system can also be inconvenient because it usually requires adequate water pressure and extensive maintenance. The slow speed of creating usable water also means you'll need to have a diaphragmed storage tank. If you add on a carbon filter system, the filters will have to be changed on a regular basis.

Ultra pure water from distillation also requires carbon filters which have to be similarly maintained.

3. Ultra pure water is, oftentimes, "dead," and unhealthy.

Water, in its natural state, is alive with health-giving minerals. It was designed this way so we humans could easily get the magnesium, potassium and calcium that our body's need to be strong and function properly.

Distillation and reverse osmosis strip these important minerals from the water leaving it "dead."

You may not think that this is a big deal, but without minerals your body fluids become acidic. Your body will immediately go into action to neutralize this acid by taking minerals that are stored in your teeth and bones. If this acid isn't neutralized the production of free radicals increases, thereby exposing you to an increased risk of cancer. Cancer cells grow more readily in an acid environment.

People that live in areas of the world where the water supplies are mineral-rich don't have these problems with pure water. The residents in these places enjoy an existence that is practically free of disease. You can see why minerals have been referred to as "the spark plugs of life."

So now what?

You'll be happy to know that there is an alternative that effectively addresses the problems with pure water. Its called multi-stage filtration and I discovered it during my research for an in-home water purification system.

This break-through technology approaches water purification in a comprehensive way. Not only does it remove the majority of toxic chemicals, but it also gets rid of dangerous levels of chlorine, harmful bacteria and sediments that cause foul odors and unpleasant taste.

And the problems with pure water that has been rendered "dead" are no longer an issue. Multi-stage filtration leaves essential minerals untouched. So you end up with ultra pure water that is as healthy as it is clean.

You can choose from very affordable appliances like over or under-the-counter faucets, shower filters or whole-house systems. Everyone of these products is easy to install and maintain. The company that I purchased my system from provides outstanding customer service.

I've set up a website so that you can see pictures of these great water purification appliances. I've also included some of the results of my research if you care to get some additional information. I've even included a comment from a well known radio talk show host.

Make no mistake. If you're looking for ultra pure water for your family, you are definitely on the right track. I just hope I made you aware of some of the problems with pure water.

Autor: Olivia Romero Olivia Romero
Level: Platinum
Olivia Romero is a life-long water drinking connoisseur who has devoted countless hours looking for the best water purification systems. She enjoys sharing the results ... ...

Article written by Olivia Romero - "There are many reasons why we need clean, healthy water but there's one that has to rank as the most important of all." Visit http://www.cleancoolwater.com to find out what it is.

Added: January 22, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

How Most Top Load Washers Work

Let me try to explain to you how most top load washers work. These washers are called top load washers, because the door and the opening are located on the top panel.

Ok here it goes, when the washer gets plugged in the 120 volts wall outlet electricity flows to the timer on/off switch. This switch is activated by the timer knob, when you pull the know the timer is on and when you push the knob the timer is off. So if this switch do not work, the washer will not do anything.

The timer will direct the electricity to the proper parts according to the selection that you set the washer on.

On the beginning of the regular cycle, the washer starts filling with water according to the water temperature you selected.

When the washer fills to the selected level, the load switch switches from filling to agitating. At this time the motor starts and the washer begins the agitation cycle for 10 to 14 minutes.

After the agitation cycle, the washer start the draining cycle and the soapy water is drain from the washer and the washer spins the clothes to squeeze the soapy water out.

After that the washer start to fill with the rinse water which in most cases is cold water. The washer will agitate for a little while to remove the soap from the clothes.

After that the washer will begin the last drain cycle. After draining the rinse water, the washer starts the last spin cycle. In the beginning of the cycle, the washer will spray water for seven seconds a couple of times, then it will spin for about five more minutes until it finishes the complete cycle.

Well, that is basically how the regular top load washes cleans your clothes. By knowing how the washer works it will be easier to diagnose any problem in the washer on the future.

We hope that this be of help to you in understanding how the top load washer works.

Autor: Angel A Acevedo Angel A Acevedo
Level: Platinum
My Name is Angel. I live in Worcester, Massachusetts. I run A&C Washer & Dryer Repair Service. I also produce washers & dryers repair videos ... ...

My Name is Angel, I have been doing washer and dryer repairs for the last 30 years. I produce do it yourself washer & dryer repair videos to help you do the repairs yourself. For more detail information we are at http://www.do-it-yourself-washing-machine-and-dryer-repair-help.com/ or http://washer-dryer-repair-videos.com/

Added: January 21, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Household Water Filter - Don't Pay More For Less Protection

Don't buy a household water filter unless you do some comparative shopping. You could end up spending a lot more than you need to. Some of the countertop and under sink water filters come with a high price tag. On the other hand, if you don't know what's what, you could still be exposed to hazardous contaminants.

Most of the contaminants that are present in publicly treated supplies do not pose an immediate threat to your health. It is your long term health that you must be concerned with.

Traces of drugs, industrial chemicals, organic and inorganic substances present in farm run-off, and even the chemicals added to control bacterial growth build up in our bodies over time. The Environmental Working Group refers to it as our "body burden".

With the right household water filter, you can decrease the load that your body is carrying. The EWG recommends that we avoid toxins whenever possible, and I would have to agree with that recommendation.

So, here are the necessary steps (as well as one unnecessary one) that you'll find in sink water filters. The unnecessary one simply ups the cost without providing further protection.

Reverse Osmosis

I thought that I would start out with the unnecessary one. If you buy under sink water filters, that are truly effective and also include a reverse osmosis step, you will pay $800 or more. Every home on a public water line needs a household water filter. I think that it is important for people to know that they can be affordable.

Submicron Channel

Submicron channels allow the removal of microbes that are resistant to public disinfection methods. The major threats are cryptosporidium and giardia cysts. They are particularly problematic in areas near agricultural activity.

The US EPA indicates that at-risk individuals, people with suppressed or inactive immune systems, should be sure that their sink water filters are certified for cyst removal. Further, they have stated that consumption can occur when brushing one's teeth or eating fresh fruits and vegetables.

Granular Carbon

The average household water filter employs granular carbon to reduce chlorine and other chemical contaminants. The best systems combine the carbon granules with a carbon and multi-media block to further reduce chemical contaminants.

If the block has a submicron block, as mentioned above, it insures that water cannot circle around the filtering media. Dual stage systems with a submicron channel generally reduce chemical contaminants by 99% or more.

Ion Exchange

An ion exchange step does several things. First, if there are traces of the heavy metal lead or bad tasting copper in your water, it will trap those ions. Second, those metallic ions are exchanged for potassium and sodium ions, to further improve taste and electrolyte content. Third, the step balances the pH level, making it better for your digestive system.

You can get under sink water filters that include all of the necessary steps for less than $150 or a counter top model for around $100. That's the information that you need to shop for a safe and affordable household water filter.

Autor: Lauren Leddy

For free information on how to protect yourself from water contaminated with carcinogens, traces of drugs, hormones, parasites and other toxins click here Lauren Leddy is a consumer advocate and a dedicated researcher of health related issues. Visit her website now at http://www.safe-water-purifier.com and discover what she has learned that will help you select the very best water filtration system for your home or office.

Added: January 20, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

The Scoop on Frigidaire Water Filters

Before you buy new Frigidaire water filters, let me tell you about a better, safer option. While using your refrigerator's dispenser is a better option than buying bottled water, it still is not the best option. Here's why.

The contaminants that are present in local water supplies include chlorine, THMs, VOCs, lead, traces of prescription drugs, herbicides, pesticides, industrial solvents, gasoline additives and other chemicals. There are different models of Frigidaire water filters. Each model fits different appliances. None of them remove all of these things. Some remove chlorine and other contaminants, but not one model removes THMs or VOCs. They simply cannot include enough steps in that tiny cartridge.

In addition, bacteria are known to build up on and around the dispensers. Eventually, you may see that disconnecting the system, bottling your own water in glass containers and filling ice trays with properly filtered water is the best choice. Hopefully, this article will convince you of that. First, let's look at THMs and VOCs.

THMs are present in every publicly treated supply, because they are formed when disinfectants interact with bacteria, algae and other life forms. VOCs have been found in over 800 test sites around the US, as well as other countries. Ingesting these chemicals causes a variety of chronic and life threatening health problems. They build up in the organs of our body, over time. The phrase "body burden" has been used to refer to this build-up.

Since the chemicals are toxic, the body works to dispose of them, which creates a burden on the bodily systems, particularly the liver and kidneys. The bladder and colon are also affected, because the toxins may become trapped in the tissues there, instead of passing out of the body. That is believed to be the root cause of bladder cancer, a relatively common form of the disease.

Since, Frigidaire water filters do not remove these chemicals, drinking from your refrigerators dispenser is not the best way to protect your long-term health. There are systems that will attach to your kitchen faucet that WILL protect your long-term health by removing them. Researchers have shown that exposure to THMs doubles the individual risk of bladder cancer. They think it is THMs that are largely to blame for the prevalence of that disease.

If you like your water chilled, there is a reason for that. But, instead of using your dispenser and replacing your Frigidaire water filters, consider purchasing some glass containers, along with an effective faucet filter. Store the containers in your refrigerator and enjoy the difference that drinking out of a glass makes.

Glass containers do not leach chemical contaminants into the liquids stored within them. Plastic bottles, such as those commonly used by bottling companies, do. Production of plastics is cheaper than glass. It is also less costly, because companies don't have to worry about breakage. If you are beginning to see some high-priced water in glass containers on your grocer's shelf, now you know why.

My suggestion is to stop buying Frigidaire water filters, turn-off the dispenser, install a good purifier and start protecting your family. If you have a few minutes to spare, please feel free to browse through my website.

Autor: Gordon P Hall

Gordon Hall is fervent about enabling you and everyone to live a healthy lifestyle, and is an ardent reviewer of Water Purification Systems. To discover which Water Purification Systems Gordon recommends after far ranging comparisons. Visit his website now at: http://www.water-safe-and-pure.com

Added: January 18, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Water Filtration Faucet System - Why You Must Get One to Stay Healthy

Installing the best water filtration faucet system you can buy is a wise choice for your health. If you are now drinking water straight from your kitchen faucet without filtering it you are consuming all sorts of contaminated substances.

Dangerous elements in our water supplies range from weed killers, pharmaceuticals drugs, pesticides, petroleum products, lead, chlorine, and many more too numerous to list.

The Ralph Nader Research Group states, "U.S. drinking water contains more than 2,100 toxic chemicals that can cause cancer."

I don' know about you, but I don't want to be consuming toxic substances when I drink my 8 glasses of water a day to stay healthy. That just doesn't make sense. But that is exactly what happens if you don't have a water filtration faucet system or some other comparable way to filter out all those toxins.

If you live in the city, you may be asking doesn't my water company remove those contaminates with their filtering system. Yes and no. They remove some of them, but they also add some of them, so to be sure you are not drinking dangerous contaminates you need a water filtration faucet system.

Depending on their filtering system some cities remove more dangerous substances than others. You can get a report from your water company telling you what is in your drinking water. Just remember their report will only be on what they've tested for, and they don't test for all contaminates that may lurk in the water.

One example of this is, you could ask them if they test for all pharmaceuticals drugs that are taken by every single person in and around your city. But that wouldn't even make sense to expect them to test for everyone of them, because they have no way of knowing what everyone takes. But it is a fact that every drug taken is excreted in bodily functions thus is flushed down the toilet and gets into our water supply. I don't think any one reading this will argue with me that not 100% of every pharmaceutical drug taken is absorbed by the body, so obviously some of it ends up as human waste.

Let's also look what they put into the water. All municipal water companies put chlorine in the water to kill the deadly bacteria in water. Chlorine serves a wonderful purpose in destroying the harmful bacteria. Without it we would have more diseases like typhoid and cholera do deal with.

The problem is chlorine itself is a cancer-causing agent. So if your water plant puts it in, you must take it out with a water filtration faucet system. There's no way around it. Chlorine must be removed in order for you to have optimum health.

Another contaminate that gets into our water after it leaves the water processing plant can be lead. Many of the pipes that deliver the water to your home, leaches lead. They are old and there is lead in them. The corrosion from the many years of water running through them is one of the culprits of the lead in the water after it leaves the plant. Even if your water plant tells you there is not lead in the water when it leaves the plant, there still could be lead in the water when it reaches your kitchen faucet.

To rid your water of all harmful elements you should install a water filtration faucet system that uses carbon filtering, along with sub micron and multi block filters that also uses an ion exchange. Those four filtering medias together will deliver you safe healthy water.

Check out my website today to learn more about what is in our water supplies.

Autor: Juanita Ruby Juanita Ruby
Level: Platinum
I am passionate about health issues. Our bodies contain 70% water, and the quality of our water greatly affects our health. I study and research, ... ...

Juanita Ruby is passionate about health. She knows our bodies contain more than 70% water, thus the quality of our water greatly affects our health. She uses a water filtration system to purify her water. Visit her website at http://www.your-best-water-site.com/ to discover which water purification system she trusts for her health.

Added: January 17, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Water Filters - Discover the Revealing Reasons Why They Can Improve Your Water

Water filters a have come a long way in recent years and if you have an old device installed in your home already, then now could be the perfect time to consider upgrading to protect yourself and family.

A water filter can dramatically improve the taste of your water, reduce the formation of hard water stains as well as helping the performance of household appliances such as your dishwasher and washing machine. Certain water filters can also purify your water to remove potentially harmful bacteria or sediment that has built up in the network of pipes that distributes the water to your home.

Many people who have fitted a filter have noticed an improved taste in their water. This is because it removes the unwanted minerals such as calcium and magnesium (which also cause hard water stains), as well as others that impart a particular taste. It essentially provides a further, final treatment of the water before it comes out of the faucet and often provides people with the peace of mind that it as safe as it possibly can be.

As previously mentioned, it's the calcium and magnesium that cause the formation of limescale and hard water stains on fixtures and fittings around the home. The installation of a filter reduces the incidence of these stubborn stains forming on faucets, sinks, shower doors and glass. The cleaning time required to clean the home can be reduced. According to a study from The Ohio State University, the average person cleaning a home spends more than six hours a month cleaning tap water spots, streaks and scum alone.

As water containing dissolved calcium and magnesium minerals heats up, it causes scale to be deposited on elements and other surfaces of household appliances. This is why kettles develop a "fur" or scale on the surface of the heating elements and why the efficiency of boilers, dishwashers and washing machines is dramatically reduced over time.

It is also important to bear in mind that water treatment processes have improved over the last few decades and the water supplied is usually wholesome enough. However, there are several occasions when accidents have happened. The addition of chlorine is typically the disinfection chemical of choice, and this eliminates nearly all harmful bacteria and viruses from the water. But as we all know, accidents can happen, and faults in the process can cause unchlorinated water to pass into the network of pipes that feed peoples homes. While the quality of water is probably still perfectly drinkable and is not a health hazard, there are many people who have decided to reduce the risk to themselves and family by installing a water filter.

Other advantages of water filters include the improved water for bathing. Washing hair in hard water is particularly susceptible to a build up of hard water minerals, and causes hair to feel dull, limp and lifeless. As soap does not form a good lather, skin can also feel dry and flaky due to the minerals not being washed off causing blocked pores and an unhealthy feeling.

Here Are Some Of The Top Types of Water Filters To Consider:

Granulated, activated carbon water filters - The the simplest type of filter are portable filters that are found in jugs. They remove chlorine, large particles and parasites. They are easily purchased from most department stores and are great if you have a low budget as they are reasonably cheap. A disadvantage is that they have a short filter life and are unable filter out certain bacteria and chemicals.

Carbon block, activated carbon water filters - Built-in to the water supply in your home, the disadvantage of these filters is that they are more expensive than granulated types as described above. However, they do not need to be replaced as often and generally give better filtration.

Reverse osmosis water filters - For the best form of water filtration available these are hard to beat. They work by passing the water through a semi-permeable membrane, which filters out almost every contaminant. Although they are more expensive than other types of filters they have reasonably low running costs. Once installed they can be used to filter water to the whole house.

Combination Systems - This filter has become available in recent years and are seen as an alternative to reverse osmosis systems. They have a number of different filters, and each filtration process removes different contaminants.

Ceramic carbon water filters - To filter out a broad range of contaminants from the water supply these are effective as the filter is comprised of a ceramic and a carbon part. Some are infused with silver, as this is a good antibiotic and reduces the number of micro-organisms present. These filters are good value for money and are built-in to the home water supply and in a typical house they require replacing about every 12 months.

From the list above it is clear that there are many types of water filters available, and the correct one must be chosen for each particular home depending on the type of water that must be treated. Hopefully, this has provided you with a good idea of the products available nowadays and the advantages of installing a water filter to improve the quality of water to your home.

Autor: Patrick Henry Patrick Henry
Level: Platinum
Patrick Henry BEng (Hons), is a recognised industry expert in removing hard water stains. With an honours degree in Chemical Engineering, he teaches people how ... ...

Warm Regards,

Patrick Henry

Hard Water Consultant

Visit our popular website at http://www.hardwaterstainstips.com

Email us with any questions or queries at support@hardwaterstainstips.com

Patrick Henry BEng (Hons), is a recognised industry expert in removing hard water stains. With an honours degree in Chemical Engineering, he teaches people how to remove stubborn hard water stains and limescale using a step by step guide. He is author of the ebook "Hard Water Stain Removal Secrets Revealed". Complete information on his popular ebook is available from his web site. And while your there, don't forget to subscribe to his FREE report.

Added: January 15, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Water Purification Equipment - What Are the Essentials and Why Excellent Purifiers Don't Cost Much

Water purification equipment is everywhere in the magazines we buy, the stores we shop in, and the TV ads we are subjected to. There are several different types of purification equipment that have been developed over the years, which is easy to get a handle on. The problem is, there are hundreds - maybe even thousands - of different manufacturers who all put up claims and counter claims about their own versions of these basic filters.

So, how do you choose? And how do you know you are getting the best value for your money? And where do you get moderately priced water purification equipment that will work?

The secret is to know something about the main types of purification equipment. When you know that, you can then price the versions of them sold by the manufacturers.

One of the most common piece of water purification equipment is the carbon block and granular carbon filters. They are common on sink tops and under sinks in our kitchens. It removes a good number of contaminants as they bond chemically or physically to the surface of the filter medium. Activated carbon is recognized by the EPA.

Another common form of water purification equipment is the portable, pitcher style filter unit. They are better than nothing. But as water passes through the nodules of the filter they are pushed aside and eventually water can stream through channels among the nodules and not touch any of the purification elements built in to the unit. In time, most of the water coming out of them is as bad as the untreated water going in at the other end.

Reverse osmosis is a large scale piece of water purification equipment that was developed 40 years ago for the printing industry that requires mineral-free water. It became useful for desert farming, as it could be installed in desalination plants on the edge of Middle Eastern countries. And many US cities use them in their water treatment centers. They are inefficient, wasting two or three times as much water as they clean. But worse, they strip out from the water passing through them the healthy, essential minerals (like calcium and magnesium) that our bodies must have to be healthy and function normally. And they do not catch molecules that are smaller than water - such as those found in herbicides and pesticides.

What you need is a combination of several of them. Find a water purification specialist who can put several different types of filters in a line that will take out the contaminants and leave in the essential trace minerals you need. My own advice is to not let anyone talk you in to including reserve osmosis equipment in the line up. (I think you can see why from what I've just told you.) You will find that a set of filters is not too expensive.

Now that you know this, I suggest you have a look on the Internet for suppliers. My own web site would be a good place to start. But what you are looking for is a manufacturer who understands that water purification equipment needs to comprise several inexpensive units working together.

Autor: Len McGrane

Len McGrane writes about home water purifiers and pure drinking water from his web site, http://www.pure-drinkingwater.com where he gives advice and helps visitors with water purification equipment.

Added: January 14, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Mixer

Whether you are looking for a gift for someone else, or for yourself, a brand new Kitchenaid mixer is a fun item to shop for. With their unique shape and rainbow of colors to choose from, these small appliances are incredibly popular. You have probably seen them used by professional chefs on television, as well as by family members through the generations.

Kitchenaid's Artisan Stand Mixer comes by its reputation honestly. Each one is assembled by hand in the U.S.A., and is made to last for years to come. If you love to cook, this mixer is a fantastic tool and will prove to be a wise investment over time.

Once you've decided to make your purchase, it is easy to get overwhelmed by all the options, but this doesn't have to be the case. Here are some guidelines to consider when choosing the perfect Kitchenaid mixer for your kitchen.

STEP ONE: Do you want a "tilt-head" or "bowl-lift" mixer?

A tilt-head model works just like it sounds: the head of the mixer tilts to allow access to the bowl and beaters. This is the model most commonly used for household cooking tasks.

The bowl-lift model is better suited for jobs such as mixing thick batters and doughs. This is the type that is sometimes used for commercial purposes.

STEP TWO: What size mixer do you need?

The tilt-head models have 8 to 9 cup capacity, and the bowl-lift models have a 12 to 14 cup capacity. Take into consideration what you plan to use your mixer for, and make sure you get one that is large enough for your use.

STEP THREE: What color do you want?

Now that you've chosen the style and size that you need, you can choose the color you want. Kitchenaid mixers come in just about any color you desire, from boysenberry to pear to ice.

With these tips you can have fun choosing your Kitchenaid mixer, and even more fun cooking with it!

Autor: Holly Harris

You can get free shipping on Kitchenaid Mixers at http://www.kitchenaid-mixers.com

Added: January 13, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Sediment Water Filters - Are They Worthwhile

Are you interested in investing in one of the new sediment water filters that they are selling all over the internet? I'm sure that you'll realize after reading the product description on a sediment water filter that the last thing that this apparatus can claim to be is a water purifier.

Sediment water filters in my opinion have very few practical uses. They possibly would be useful for such purposes as filling spas, pools, or for use in irrigation, but they would be of little use for any other purpose. I would never attempt to use one of these appliances to clean the water that I was planning on drinking.

A sediment water filter is nothing more than a cheaply made version of a reverse osmosis system. As a matter of fact these appliances don't for the most part filter down to nearly the levels that a reverse osmosis system is capable of, so you will probably still end up with sediment in your water.

The truth is that if you are connected to the main water lines in your city or town then there is no need for you to even consider the use of sediment water filters, because your water has already been run through a reverse osmosis process before it was released to your home so there will not be any sediment to remove.

For this reason the only people who qualify for the purchase of a sediment water filter are people that live in more remote areas and draw their water from a well or other natural source. For reasons of efficiency I would still choose reverse osmosis as my first step filtering system for granular particles.

There are far worse things in the water that you need to worry about besides sediment, and these things are simply not taken care of by these sediment water filters. Although most models do come with the option for granulated carbon filters to block chlorine and produce better taste, this is just one of your problems.

There are roughly 2,100 other cancer causing agents in our water supply that a sediment water filter is not designed to block, and there are also biological contaminants that cannot be blocked by this system. A far better choice for you to be able to effectively protect your family would be the purchase of a home water purification system.

Unlike sediment water filters there are purification systems that will block up to 99.99% of all of the chemical and biological contaminants that can be found in our water supply as well as toxic heavy metals that may have leeched into your drinking water from the pipes that the water travels through.

As I said in the beginning I can see very few things that a sediment water filter would truly be good for, and filtering your homes drinking water is definitely not one of those things. There are far better devices through which you can have pure, fresh drinking water.

Installing sediment water filters in your home is simply a waste of your time and money.

Autor: Judith Pratt Judith Pratt
Level: Platinum
Judith Pratt was born and raised on a sheep farm in the North Island of New Zealand. During that time her food and nutrition came ... ...

Judith Pratt is passionate about maintaining optimum health naturally.To find the results of her extensive research on the best value for money, top quality, Water Filter Systems at factory prices go to: http://www.clean-water-filtration.com

Added: January 11, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Toxins From Your Tap - What Does Tap Water Contain?

What does tap water contain? Depending on your location It can contain many things, the problem is we are a chemical driven society. We have produced chemicals to take the drudgery out of our everyday lives by making cleaning easier, we use them protect our plants and agriculture. Most people never give a second thought to the thousand and one everyday uses of chemicals.

In addition to these chemicals we also have pharmaceuticals,industrial pollutants and radioactive materials. All these contaminants have the potential to find their way into our tap water and pose a potential threat to everyday users. According to the authorities they are often present in drinking water at such a low levels that they do not pose a health risk. This is a short term view. Has anyone considered the risks drinking this tap water over a long period of time?

Chlorine is a good disinfectant. Once added to the water at the treatment plant it continues to kill bacteria all the way up to your tap. However, chlorinated disinfectants react with organic matter present in the water and form what is called disinfection by-products. These can cause health problems in the central nervous system, liver or kidneys. Also the cancer risk increases.

Some industrial processes and household consumer products can contain chemicals which go by the name of chlorinated solvents. In 2006 samples of drinking water were analyzed in 12 states, ten percent were found to contain trace amounts of chlorinated solvents. Although chlorine works well up to a point it does not destroy all the pollutants present in the water.

Traces of lead in tap water usually come from household plumbing and not from your water supply. The lead can come from your water pipes if they are copper soldered with lead. According to the EPA estimates, 10 to 20 percent of your exposure to lead comes from polluted drinking water. People at the greatest risk are young children and pregnant women. Lead in the human body damages the brain, nervous system and kidneys.

Fortunately for us many of the waterborne diseases so prevalent a few years ago have been almost completely eradicated These include dysentery, typhoid, and cholera, however we should not get too complacent. There are some waterborne bacteria that are still very active, Legionella, nontyphoid and Salmonella to name a few. Legionella, responsible for a large number of illnesses every year flourishes in warm water.

The answer to the question "what does tap water contain" has shown us that it can contain many things, none of which are good for us. Because of this many people have switched to bottled water under the impression it is somehow safer. The quality standards for bottled and tap water are almost identical. Bottled water is much more expensive both to buy and produce. Where do all the empty bottles go? Only about 16% get recycled, the rest end up in the nearest landfill.

Which leaves us in a bit of a quandary, we don't really want to continue to drink tap water . If we switch to bottled water it's going to get expensive very quickly. Fortunately there is an alternative

A good water purifier is the best solution for this problem. There are plenty of water purifiers available, there are models which will deal with these contaminants very effectively. According to experts, water filters based on multi stage filtration technology would be a good choice as they can get rid of almost all these types of contaminants and give you pure water to drink.

They are not that expensive, think of the expenditure as insurance to protect your family's health.

Autor: Derek Reeve

Derek Reeve runs an informational website that provides details of the best home water purifiers. If you're serious about improving the quality of water you use visit water purification systems for home to find the most effective, efficient and affordable products available.

Added: January 10, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

The Convenience of Electric Cookers

Technology has been constantly changing ever stoves replaced bare fire in helping man prepare food, warm himself and prepare other items. Today we have cookers that have constantly evolved to what we use today. Man is now able to cool using electricity, gas and even coal. There are also stoves that can use all three; electricity, gas and coal although coal has largely been phased out of the modern world.

In today's homes, cooking is done almost always by a cooking stove of some kind. In the industrialized world, homes come equipped with pre-installed electric or gas cookers stoves which are a practice that has more or less become a standard. As we have mentioned, coal has more or less faded from the world of stoves and electric cookers and gas cookers have more or less become the predominant form of cooking although we do have coal being used in the less developed world.

Gas cookers are very popular. They work by pumping natural gas through a network of pipes that runs underground and is largely provided and regulated by gas utility companies much the same way that way electricity or cable is provided. In the event that you fall behind on your bill, the gas company can interrupt the gas supply.

The electric cooker is quickly becoming a very common way of cooking. It comes in a freestanding stove that has mostly four heating surfaces where the cooking is done. While professional chefs still prefer gas cookers because they are easy to regulate, electric cookers have become the standard cooking appliance that is installed in all new apartment units and condominiums.

Electric cookers have a few advantages. One of them is that they are cheap in the event that you wanted to install a new one. A couple of hundred dollars will get you a new or used one depending on your budget.

Another advantage is that they are safe. There is no flame involved and no smoke to spread soot around the house or cause the air to become dry. Gas cookers while being present in many homes, pose the danger of fires. There have been many incidences where someone has unwittingly left the gas knob on and gas has escaped in the atmosphere then someone unknowingly either lit a match or a cigarette. In the past when gas did not have an odor, these incidents caused numerous deaths and destruction of property.

Another advantage that electric cookers have is that they do not need a match or a lighter to light. A push or a button or a turn of the knob ensures automatically turns the on and there is a light that comes on to indicate that the unit is in use.

One disadvantage of electric cookers is that it uses metallic coils which when bombarded by electrons at high speed, become heated up. After the coils have been heated, they remain excessively hot for some time even after the stove has been turned off. This can pose a danger to people who come into contact with coil.

Autor: Theodor Cartman

Looking for electric cookers? Check out complete guide to electric cookers.

Added: January 9, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

4 Reasons Why Under Counter Water Filters May Be Right For You

Under counter water filters are very popular among many homeowners of today's times. This can be the result of a number of reasons. The thoughts and practices that we take to ensure the safety and health of our bodies is a major part of this decision. For years people have used water filters to filter out any contaminates that can cause health problems such as sickness and disease.

Choosing one that is the best at doing this can sometimes be tedious. Under counter water filters are at the top of the list when it comes to convenience, efficiency and overall cost.

If you are wondering how these under counter water filters can be of a benefit to you, then there are 4 reasons as to why these filters may be th right one for you. They are as listed below.

1.Ease of use and installation will be the first reason. Though the over installation will require a bit of work, it is rather simple and can be done in about an hour if done yourself. Once this filter has been installed, there is no need to turn it on or off. The only thing that needs to be done after the installation is done, is to replace filter cartridges about every six months or so. Doing this is very simple and can be done in a very timely manner.

2.Due to the fact that many of these types of water filters that feature granular or multi-stage carbon block can be rather inexpensive, you can obtain a constant supply of pure water for around 10 cents a gallon.

3.By using these types of water filters, you will have a constant supply of pure water that can be used for drinking, washing, cooking or any other reason that you may need water for.

4.Having the water filter located under the cabinet, makes it easier to have your kitchen or other room where the filter is located to be accessible for other purposes. It also provides a neat and clean workplace.

As you can see there are several really good reasons as to why these under counter water filters are the right one for you and your home. Providing pure and safe water for you and your family to drink is not only something that you should be done, but is inexpensive and easy to install. For the price and convenience that is offered by these types of water filters, there really is none better than this.

Autor: Daryl Plaza

Daryl Plaza is a regular contributor to PureLifeWaterFilters.com a website with information and resources for all your water filtering needs

Added: January 7, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Understanding Your Portable Water Purification System Needs

The key to understanding your portable water purification system needs is patience. There are many companies that pretend to have your interest in mind. Only a few manufacturers are backed by science and a strong company philosophy to actually protect their customers from toxins and contaminants. Portable water purification is the only way you can control your own water supply and increase the healthy longevity of your family and those for whom you care.

The foundation of good health is good water. This is a scientific fact and supported by decades of research on human metabolism and health. Without clean, pure water we can not survive, create or procreate in a toxic world. The number of contaminants in our air, earth and water multiplies geometrically each year. Detoxification of our bodies depends on obtaining a portable water purification system in our own homes and using it correctly.

The human body is more than 70% water. Every function of every human organ uses water every instant of each day. A home-based portable water purification plan is the only way to ensure your personal supply of tap water is free of major heavy metals, synthetic organic chemicals and chlorine. All of these substances are injurious to human health and present in municipal water supplies.

Seek out a portable water purification system that is certified by the strictest industry standards and offers a lifetime warranty. Evaluations from Underwriters Laboratories are available online for major systems such as those that provide portable water purification. Whole house systems and individual tap units will serve different purposes but must always remove known carcinogens, chlorine, micro-organisms and heavy metal contaminants. At the same time, the best systems will leave in important minerals for health and good taste.

Good taste is a very important issue here. If the water tastes flat then you and your family will not consume enough to flush out toxins and allow your body to work at peak capacity. Your energy level is immediately influenced by the quantity of water you drink. Just a 5% drop in body fluid volume can be scientifically proven to result in a 25-30% drop in energy. Who can afford that? Any household with teenagers in it can see the benefit and risk inherent in this equation. Portable water purification can really make your whole family brighter and easier to get along with.

Autor: Kevin Proctor

Kevin Proctor has studied health related issues for over 8 years. His research led him to realizing the importance of pure water as it relates to overall health. Kevin shares what he has learned on his website, Filtered Water Resources.com. For more information about water purification and to see the water filter systems he personally recommends visit his website now.

Added: January 5, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Activated Carbon Water Filters Rock

An activated carbon water filter is primarily designed for the removal of chlorine from our drinking water, which is far more important than many people seem to realize. Many scientists and medical professionals now believe that the historic jump in cancer cases over the last century is primarily due to chlorine ingestion.

The truth is that activated carbon filters will remove far more chemical contaminants from your drinking water than just chlorine alone, and that is a good thing because in addition to chlorine there have been 2,100 other identified cancer causing agents that have been discovered in our water supply.

The reason that an activated carbon water filter for the home is necessary is that the water treatment facilities equipment is so dilapidated and out of date that there is almost no possibility that they can simply be overhauled in order to render them capable of eliminating these toxins from our drinking water.

The likelihood of these treatment facilities being gutted and re-fit with the modern equipment that they need in order for them to be able to effectively clean our water is extremely low, especially with our economy in the state that it is in. so it looks as though activated carbon filters are our only answer, but they alone cannot guarantee us pure water.

An activated carbon water filter is capable of effectively blocking most of the chemical contaminants that we face, but it cannot block every single one of them. That is why it is necessary to complement your carbon filter with what is known as a multi media block. Between the two of these filters you will be safe from 99.99% of all present chemical contaminants.

However activated carbon filters and multi media blocks are not the only protection that you will need to have in your water purification unit if you want for your water to be truly safe. There are also biological contaminants in your drinking water that are impervious to the chlorination disinfection process.

To an activated carbon water filter should also be added a sub micron filter. What this filter does is that it acts to remove all of the parasites and cysts from your drinking water, thereby guaranteeing that you and your family will be kept safe from the ravages of any waterborne disease that may be present.

Activated carbon filters could be a real life saver for both you and your family, but remember that the other featured filters are equally important as a way of protecting your family's health. The best thing that you can do in order to ensure that you are safe from the many toxins in your drinking water is to install an activated carbon water filter today.

Autor: David Surgeon

If you're scared to death of the drugs found in drinking water, we compare the various water filter systems at http://www.best-water-filter-guide.com and show you which ones have been scientifically proven to remove the highest amounts of contaminants

Added: January 4, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

See How Easy it is to Choose a Pure Water System

There are so many different types of pure water systems available in the market today. They are based on different types of water purification methods. How do you know which one is the best and which one provides the most value for your money? Let's examine some of the most used methods to purify water and see which one is most effective.

Reverse osmosis

A reverse osmosis pure water system works on a fairly simple process. It has a semi permeable membrane through which water is passed under pressure. The type of membrane has to be chosen carefully based on which contaminants are present and in what concentrations. Therefore your water needs to be tested initially to find out what pollutants are present. Other considerations include:

1. Membrane units are susceptible to damage by chlorine and/or bacterial growth.
2. Quantity of water produced, will it be enough to meet the household demands.
3. The units performance should be monitored to check for leaks.
4. The waste water produced can be up to 20 times the amount of water treated.

Point of use distillation

A point of use distillation based pure water system has a two step process. First, water is passed through a very hot coil and converted into water vapor. Then, it is passed through a cooling chamber where it is converted into water again. In this way most of the contaminants are left behind. However it has its limitations.

1. Although distillation is a highly effective process. The amount by which contaminants are reduced will vary, depending on the degree of contamination.

2. There are a number of pollutants that can convert into vapor, in doing so they can travel with the steam into the cooling chamber. These include certain pesticides, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and radon.

3. Maintenance, distillation units depending on the quality of your water will require periodic cleaning

Chlorination

Now this is a method which has been in use for many decades. While chlorine is a good disinfectant, it does not have the ability to handle all the different types of contaminants present in water today. Chlorine, when it comes into contact with hot water tends to release chloroform, a cancer causing agent. This method with some minor modifications is used by municipal authorities to date.

Multi level filtration

Pure water systems with active carbon filters have a multi level filtration process. It involves active carbon filtration, ion exchange, and sub micron filtration. Water, when passed through all these filters, becomes free of contaminants.

Most importantly, the essential minerals present in water are not destroyed in multi level filtration. So, the water you get is both pure and healthy to drink. This is the reason why physicians suggest using a water purifier with multi level filtration.

These are the main types of pure water systems, you and your family need a supply of pure and healthy water to drink so chose wisely.

Autor: Derek Reeve

Derek Reeve runs an informational website that provides details of the best pure water systems. If you're serious about improving the quality of water you use visit water purification systems for home to find the most effective, efficient and affordable products available.

Added: January 2, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/