Sunday, May 20th, 2012

[ReviewAZON asin="B00005LEXJ"]If you’re looking for simplicity and convenience in an outdoor-only heater, the Mr. Heater MH12T 8,000-14,000 Btu single tank-top propane heater may be the answer. As the name implies, this unit mounts directly to the top of a five- to 20-pound propane cylinder (sold separately). To allow you to choose between conserving fuel or kicking out more heat, the MH12T has three settings, Hi (14,000 Btu), Med (12,000 Btu), and Lo (8,000 Btu). The heater shuts off automatically with loss of flame. Do not use in unventilated areas. One-year limited warranty.–Josh Dettweiler

What’s in the Box
Heater (replacement safety shutoff with orifice assembly, thermocouple lead, plenum assembly, grid screen assembly, replacement regulator with soft nose POL, wire faceguard, knurled lock nut, reflector, replacement regulator H-M-L w/S.S., tank union T/C, orifice)

Five Tips for Buying a Heater
Choosing 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.

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[ReviewAZON asin="B00005RHQQ"]The XPower Powerpack 1500 is a portable power system that produces household electricity for products rated at 1500 watts or less. A clean and quiet alternative to a generator, the XPower Powerpack integrates a 60 Amp/hour AGM battery with a 1500-watt inverter and produces a 3000-watt surge. This system is built to run a range of appliances such as a standard size refrigerator and microwave oven, and office equipment such as a computer, monitor, and fax machine.


The XPower Powerpack 1500 is designed for ultimate portability. See the product specifications. View the generator in greater detail.

A convenient design feature allows for easy set-up of the cart. View larger.

The XPower Powerpack 1500 consists of a battery pack that stores electrical energy, state-of-the-art electronics that convert 12 volts from the battery pack to household power, an AC power panel that contains two standard outlets, and a DC power panel that is used to run 12 volt products. These components are packaged into a rugged “cart” with a removable waist handle that allows XPower Powerpack 1500 to be wheeled from room-to-room or outdoors over rough terrain.

An excellent alternative to a generator, the XPower Powerpack produces no noise or fumes and has no moving parts. With the accessories provided, you can easily recharge the XPower Powerpack using standard utility power from your wall outlet, your vehicle, or from a solar panel.

The XPower Powerpack can be used to produce power for numerous applications. For power emergencies it can run essential appliances like refrigerators, cordless/mobile phones, radios, fireplace fans, table lamps, or microwaves. For work sites, you can power your drills, belt sanders, circular saws, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, vacuums, computers, large monitors, fax machines, and inkjet printers. For plain old fun, you can use the power source to run blenders, video games, TV and VCRs, satellite equipment, coffee makers, portable coolers and more.

The XPower Powerpack features a built-in 1500 watt inverter and sealed, non-spillable 60 Amp-hour AGM battery. Dual AC outlets allow operation of multiple products, and a built-in battery level indicator confirms the charge level. A high surge protection and automatic over-temperature and overload shutdown keeps the Powerpack running safely and efficiently, while a low voltage alarm and shutdown prevents deep battery discharge. You can recharge the Powerpack from home (up to 15 hours), or your vehicle (6 to 8 hours). A padded grip towing handle removes easily for storage in tight places, and built-in handles on sides allow for easy lifting.

The XPower Powerpack measures 14.8 x 15.6 x 12.3 inches (HxWxD), weighs 60 pounds, and is backed by a 1-year limited warranty.
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[ReviewAZON asin="B000F395X0"]At 2.5 pounds, the Katadyn Survivor 06 is the world’s smallest hand-operated desalinator and can easily fit into an emergency kit. It removes bacteria, viruses and other contaminants, and can make 1 ounce of drinking water in less than two minutes (nearly 2 pints per hour) with an average pump rate of 40 strokes per minute. This compact, lightweight unit is designed for one to two person use in liferafts or a ditch bag. It’s a trusted device used by the US Navy, US Coast Guard, US Air Force and is essential equipment for any offshore cruising vessel.
  • Water Production (+/- 15 percent): 1 oz/2 min (890 ml/hour)
  • Weight: 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg)
  • Dimensions: 5″ x 8″ x 2.5″ (12.7 x 20.3 x 6.4 cm)
  • Salt Rejection: 98.4 percent average (95.3 percent minimum)
  • Average Pump Rate: 40 strokes/minute
  • US Coast Guard Approval Number: 160.058/7/0

Katadyn Survivor units have been saving lives and offering peace of mind for years. When you need it the most, your Katadyn Survivor will be there. Katadyn offers two models of Survivor desalinators to provide emergency water when the unthinkable happens: The Survivor-06 is designed for one to two person use in liferafts or a ditch bag. The Survivor-35 is capable of providing emergency water for up to 6 people in a multi-person liferaft. Both Katadyn Survivor models are trusted gear used by the US Navy, US Coast Guard, US Air Force, and many sailors around the globe. They are essential equipment for any offshore cruising vessel.

About Katadyn
Katadyn of Switzerland has been producing high quality portable water systems since 1928. Their history has been one of innovation and durability. Katadyn products are used by militaries, health organizations and outdoor adventurers world-wide. No other water system provides higher quality or longer lasting performance. Katadyn is the global leader in portable water treatment. With subsidiaries in the United States, Germany, France, and Singapore; Katadyn develops, produces and distributes high quality products which are used whenever safe drinking water isn’t available–for travel, camping and humanitarian operations.

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[ReviewAZON asin="B00064CED6"]The Philips HeartStart Home Defibrillator. It’s the latest in essential safety equipment. Fire extinguishers. Seat belts. Airbags. Home security systems. All essential safety equipment to protect yourself and your loved ones. You know they are there, silently standing by, just in case. They give you peace of mind so that you can focus on life’s good things.

Step 1: After calling 911, grab HeartStart and place it next to the victim. Pull the green handle to begin the automated voice instructions.

Step 2: Remove clothing from the patient’s torso. Cut clothing if needed. It is important that the patient’s chest is bare.

Step 3: Peel open the protective cover and take out the white adhesive pads.

Step 4: Look closely at the pictures on the white adhesive pads. Follow the voice instructions to remove the pads from the yellow plastic liner and place exactly as shown in the pictures on the victim’s chest.

Step 5: Once the pads are in place, HeartStart will automatically analyze the victim’s heart rhythm and determine if a shock is needed. If a shock is required, press the flashing orange button to deliver the shock. Do not touch the patient until you are instructed that it is safe to do so.

Step 6: If needed, begin CPR. Press the flashing blue button for step-by-step CPR coaching. Continue to follow HeartStart’s instructions until professional emergency responders arrive.

The Philips HeartStart Home Defibrillator: It’s the latest in essential safety equipment. See the Heartstart video. You can also take a product tour.

Be prepared for the unexpected.
When sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) strikes, the electrical system of the heart short circuits, causing the heart to quiver rather than pump in a normal rhythm. It typically results in the abnormal heart rhythm know as ventricular fibrillation (VF). It usually happens without warning and the majority of people have no previously recognized symptoms of heart disease. And it most often happens at home. For the best chance of survival from SCA caused by VF, a defibrillator should be used within 5 minutes. Yet, less than 1 in 20 people survive largely because a defibrillator does not arrive in time.

Just as seat belts or airbags do not save every life in a traffic accident, a defibrillator will not save every person who suffers a sudden cardiac arrest. Yet many lives could be saved if more people could be reached more quickly.

HeartStart was designed with you in mind.
That’s why we created the HeartStart Home Defibrillator. This award-winning safety equipment has been designed so that virtually anyone can use it to help save the life of a person who suffers a sudden cardiac arrest.

Clear, calm voice instructions talk you through each step. HeartStart senses and adapts the instructions based on your actions. Using sophisticated technology, HeartStart quickly decides whether a shock is necessary. It is designed to only deliver a shock if needed. It will even coach you through the steps of CPR.

Like other essential safety equipment, you buy HeartStart hoping that you never have to use it. Yet in that moment you need it, HeartStart must be ready. It performs comprehensive daily self-tests. You can check its status at a glance. Virtually no maintenance is required.

Who should have a HeartStart?
Anyone who wants a safer home.

Consider the other essential safety equipment you own to protect your loved ones in case of an emergency. Fire extinguishers. Seat belts. Airbags. Now consider the likelihood of needing this equipment.

HeartStart Home Defibrillator Contents:

  • Philips HeartStart Home Defibrillator
  • Red carry case with 911/EMS card
  • Adult SMART Pads cartridge* (lasts 2 years)
  • Battery (lasts 4 years)
  • Training video
  • Free discount coupons for CPR training at American Heart Association, American Red Cross or Medic First Aid
  • 5-year warranty

*The Infant/Child pads cartridge is sold separately, and available by prescription only. Contact Philips at 1-866-333-4246 for more information or to order.

A Support Program Enrollment Card is also included. By enrolling in this free program, you will have access to a range of services, including:

  • Important notifications about HeartStart
  • Customer service*
  • Periodic accessory reminders
  • Post-use counseling*

*These services are available to all HeartStart owners.

Philips will send you a free Fast Response Kit (over $40 value) for enrolling in the Support Program.

Consider these things before your purchase:

  • If you have questions or concerns about your health, or an existing medical condition, please talk with your doctor. A defibrillator does not take the place of seeking medical care.
  • You cannot use the HeartStart to treat yourself.
  • Users may need to perform CPR.
  • Responding to cardiac arrest may require you to kneel.
  • Voice instructions and enclosed materials are in English.
  • HeartStart provides audible and visible indicators when maintenance is required.

Indications for Use: HeartStart is used to treat victims of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) who are not responsive and not breathing normally. If in doubt, apply the pads. The HeartStart treats the most common cause of SCA by delivering a shock to the heart. Use HeartStart and CPR, as needed, until emergency professionals arrive.

If you have concerns about your health or an existing medical condition, please talk to your doctor. A defibrillator is not a replacement for seeking medical care.
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[ReviewAZON asin="B0002X1IOM"]Government Issue Aviation Magnesium Fire Starter. Made of solid magnesium with striker. Creates hottest natural fire on the planet. Even lights wet materials. Will start 1000′s of fires and only measures 1/4″ x 1/4″ x 3″. Includes key chain.[/ReviewAZON]
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[ReviewAZON asin="B00009V2YV"] Stay alert to conditions that affect you with Midland’s WR-300 weather/all-hazard radio. The unit offers S.A.M.E. technology (Specific Area Message Encoding), which preprograms the device to receive only those warnings that apply to your local area–you can choose state, county, and/or nearby counties. The single-speaker radio offers 30 programmable county codes, AM/FM tuning, date, time, alarm functions, and even auto switch from AM/FM to pertinent all-hazard alerts.

For tuning, the radio employs drift-free PLL (phase-lock loop) technology and an easy-to-read blue, backlit LCD. You get a convenient, 10-alert memory, and you can add, edit, and remove unwanted alerts at any time. The radio uses the supplied AC power adapter or four AA Batteries (not included).

What’s in the Box
Radio, AC power adapter, and a user’s manual.[/ReviewAZON]

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[ReviewAZON asin="B000AAYD6W"]The New V2440 takes the favorite FoodSaver features and makes them better than ever. New featues like CrushFree� Instant Seal featues, an extra wide sealing strip and two vacuum speeds. Hands-free peration vacuums, seals and shuts off automatically with a single touch. Easy-clean Drip Tray removes easily is dishwasher safe and antibacterial. Includes built in roll holder and cutter to simplify making custom-size bags. Adjustable food settings allows user to change the seal level for the type of food – moist or dry. canister mode achieves the best vacuum on canisters and accessories. Includes starter kit of bag material, accessory hose, quick start guide, instructions and instructional DVD.[/ReviewAZON]
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[ReviewAZON asin="B000HZDFVO"]The SCC Super Z6 SZ139 winter traction product offers superior performance for cars, pickups, and SUVs with very limited operating clearance around the drive tires. Be ready for winter driving with an innovative solution that is a step beyond traditional tire chains.

New Design
Based on the “Z” family of products, the Super Z6 is designed for vehicles with restricted clearance around the drive tires. The Super Z6 requires only 6.33 millimeters (.25 inches) of sidewall clearance to operate, less than half the space required by most cable and tire chains.

The Super Z6 installs quickly and easily. View installation guide.

Be prepared for driving this winter with Super Z6 traction systems.

A diagonal crossmember pattern provides better outstanding traction and durability than conventional chain systems.

Easy to Install
A split outside cable with two fastening positions allows for easy installation without moving the vehicle, so there’s no need to stop and retighten. The traction coils are manufactured from alloy steel to increase the lifespan of the product. The Super Z6 is also designed to prevent scratching of alloy or high performance tire rims.

Versatility
The Super Z6 is available to fit passenger cars, pickups, and SUV tire sizes. It offers a unique combination of performance and convenience features for every user, including a “designed-in” rubber tightener, better all-around traction performance than conventional tire chains or cables, and greater durability.

Designed for High Performance
The Super Z6 has better compatibility with anti-lock brakes, traction control, all-wheel drive, and other electronically monitored control systems so as not to interfere with the normal handling characteristics of your vehicle. The unique design also offers a low potential for damage to vehicle body and mechanical components, even when abused.

The Super Z6 SZ139 is designed for tires sized from approximately 195 to 335 millimeters. Check the manufacturer’s website for the exact product to fit your tire size. Also check your owner’s manual for clearance specifications before installing winter traction products.

What’s in the Box
Chains, plastic gloves, one pair of rubber tensioners, durable, re-usable nylon bag, and clear, illustrated step-by-step installation and removal instructions.[/ReviewAZON]

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[ReviewAZON asin="B00006IS32"]25% brighter than model #285-700T Powered by 2 pints of Coleman Fuel or unleaded gas 7 hours burn time on high, 14 hours on low[/ReviewAZON]
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[ReviewAZON asin="B0002WRHE8"]Big Buddy Heater 4,000/9,000/18,000 BTU/Hour, Indoor Safe Propane Heater, Features Include Built In Protection Probe, Easy Carry Handle, Low Oxygen Shut Off Pilot Safety System, Blower Fan Power On/Off Switch, Large 4 Position Heat Level Control Knob With Built In Piezo Starter, Integrated.[/ReviewAZON]
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