Thursday, July 31, 2014

BISSELL Steam Sponge

The size of this steamer makes it very easy to use. It's light weight, even when filled with water and it has a very long cord, about 18 feet by my rough measurements. I like this because it makes it easy to move around the kitchen or bathroom with it or wherever it's needed. (My next job will be some outdoor furniture.) It's important to keep it mind that a steam cleaner doesn't pick up dirt, so you need to vacuum or go over the area you're cleaning with a cloth first and pick up any loose debris. What it does do, and does it pretty well, is to loosen tough stains with very hot steam and sanitizes the area that you're cleaning. You don't use detergents or cleaners with this Bissell Steam Sponge, just water. (I like this!) But that means it has some limitations. For example, when I used it to clean my oven it reduced most of the baked on crud to a liquid that I was able to wipe off with a damp cloth. I used it on the window on the oven door and it got some of the stuff off, but much will have to be scrubbed with baking soda to totally remove it.

One thing about steam is that it's drippy. You end up with water on the surface you're cleaning and you'll probably drip some on the floor if you're cleaning an oven. Since there's no vacuum effect to the steamer, you have to go over it with a cloth to dry it. It works better for some things than for others. It did quite a nice job on the soap scum on shower doors. It didn't get every last spot but in just a few minutes it got more off with less effort than just scrubbing it by hand would have done. I wish there was a button that could be pushed to supply a steady supply of steam rather than having to continually squeeze the trigger on the handle. I don't know if this is a safety issue or what, but I could see it being difficult if someone had problems with their hands.

This is also a small steamer and is meant for small jobs. It wouldn't be suitable for floors because it would take forever unless you have a very small room. It is good for spot cleaning grout on tile floors. I had one spot in my kitchen that just wouldn't come clean and this got the dirt out.

You can hold the steamer in any direction but if you hold it upside down, the water won't connect with the valve it goes through so you won't get new steam. It did a great job on the microwave which I wanted to include on the video, but my microwave hangs above the stove and trying to hold the camera and move the steamer was too clumsy. And the camera lens ended up all steamy so you'll just have to take my word for it.

I hope the video is helpful to you if you're looking for a small steamer. Thank you for watching it.

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Dyson DC07 Cyclone Animal Upright Vacuum

I cannot even begin to tell you the number of vacuum cleaners I have had over the years. I take in abandoned an abused animals.

Usually within 6 months the motor would go out. I have a Oreck and a Fantom Thunder. The Oreck worked great for awhile but the motor did go out and had to be replaced. I didn't like the fact it had no on board tools and the bags are expensive and hard to find. The Fanton is heavy and it started leaking dust around the dust cup. Both of these vacuum cost amost $400.00 at the time I purchased them.

After some research I purchased this Dyson. I am so glad I did.

This vacuum is a pet lovers dream. Before I used the Dyson for the first time, I vacuumed my carpet in my family room several times with 2 other vacuums, then I went back over it with the Dyson. I expected a little more pet hair after all it was a new vacuum, but it is what else I get that shocked and embarrassed me. In the vacuum cup there was a little pet hair but there was also this ultra fine dirt, it almost looked like powder. There was so much of this dust I decided to put it in a bag and weigh it. The embarrasing part is it weighed 4#, I couldn't believe it. You must understand I vacuum twice a day everyday and I shampoo my carpets once a month. I take pride in the fact my house has no pet odors, I work hard to make sure of this. But, all this was in my carpet. After I finished vacuuming my carpet look renewed like it was freshly shampooed.

I love this vacuum and wish I would have purchased it sooner. It is well worth every penny and then some. If has every attachment you could ever want. It took a little time to figure out how to attach them but once I did it was wonderful. The powerhead upholstery tool is fabulous.

Take if from the queen of vacuum cleaners, this is the one to buy.

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Oransi v-hepa Pro Replacement Filter

I am happy with my purchase. It arrived on time, it fit my unit well.

It was as advertised. The filter does a good job in my home. I have it on the second floor balcony. It cleans the area on both floors.

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BestAir D88 Duracraft

I bought my Honeywell humidifier a few years ago, and though it works great, all the local stores (Walmart, Target, Lowes, Home Depot, etc.) have stopped carrying the replacement filter. Such a pain! Thank goodness it was available here and at a cheaper price.

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Tuesday, July 29, 2014

9 Hoover WindTunnel CLOTH Type Y Vacuum Bags

Bags are a cloth like material similar to that used for spray socks and suits.(painting stuff) Durable, easier to install than other bags I have used and seem to work well. No complaints and will buy more when I run out.

Honeywell Replacement Media

Received a 2-pack of genuine Honeywell MERV10 filters, exactly what I wanted. There's a couple items on Amazon for this part number that are aftermarket even though they don't say so in the description. I was glad to see that I received exactly what I wanted.

Monday, July 28, 2014

16x25x5 MERV 13 Air Bear High Efficiency Replacement Filter

It was time to replace the filters in our system and I came immediately to Amazon and found what I needed at a reasonable price and received the item in no time at all. I would recommend this product and this Seller to all.

Deluxe Mini Mate Personal Travel Ionic Air Supply Purifier

I looked forward to using this product. It seemed to work well, while sitting. It does not protect you outside or while walking as it will not displace any wind bourne allergens. My major problem is the warrantee. It is only 90 days and my unit just stopped working after 104 days. I bought batteries but it was the unit that died. Not worth the money. Looking for other alternatives.

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Sunday, July 27, 2014

Berkey Light Water Filter System

My family got one of these about a year or two ago and I think everyone appreciates it. This thing filters water better than I could have imagined. After drinking mainly from this, I can taste the chemicals (or whatever's adding the funny taste) even in bottled water.

The biggest problem is it's going to make having to drink other water quite painful (well, the filters and the intensely slow speed of this can be a pain sometimes too).

Honeywell TRN1727R1/E 5-Inch High Efficiency Air Cleaner Filter

I got the 27x14.5x5 version to replace a Trane Perfect Fit BAYFTFREXM2 filter. This one works just fine as a replacement. This filter has its own cardboard cage which doesn't fit inside the black plastic frame part of the original filter, so just set the frame aside and use this filter just as it is. It fits very close to perfectly and I couldn't detect any significant amount of air leakage around the edges once it was installed.

No idea how the filtration or lifetime compares to the original yet.

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Saturday, July 26, 2014

Sears Kenmore Hepa Filter Replacement 86889 20-86889 EF-1

I was in need of "a" new filter for our Sears/Kenmore vacuum. After some web searching, I found that this filter (Sears 86889) could cost between $4.25-$19.99 per filter. After reading some reviews and looking at the filters, I chose to go with the least expensive ones from Kill Dirt for $4.25 each (I bought 10 filters). When they arrived, the filters looked like the originals that came with the vacuum. The price was right they fit like thay had eyes and they came to my door in 4 (four) working days! If these don't work out (I can't see why they won't) I'll write another review. But as of today save your money and go with these! Amazon.com has always been a good place to buy the right things for the right application.

Update: December 28,2011

I'm still using these filters. I change them when they need changed. They're are working out great. They fit and they filter the exhaust air very well. Will buy these again when I run out.

CleanAir Industrial Ozone Generator 4,000mg (4G) Air Cleaner Deodorizer Purifier

I highly recommend anyone who wants to purchase Ozone Generators, that you do a thorough background investigation before you purchase this powerful tool.

All tools have risks, but smart people learn the tool and use it appropriately.

This is one of the best O3 Generators for the price on the Market.

Get this tool and you will not be disappointed, if you know what your looking for.

So far I have used it on my car with great results in under 10mins (My car reeked animal feces from a prior owner) and my son's room (the smell of embedded dingy socks)...no problem, took 5-10mins (now the room smells fresh and it amazed my son).

I plan to use this device to kill mold and mildew smells in my detached office and in the house before we have visitors.

Learn the warnings, risks and safety before you purchase and enjoy a clean smelling environment.

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Friday, July 25, 2014

3M FAP04-RC Filtrete Ultra-Slim Room Air Purifier

This model is, as of May 2007 the latest from 3M's new series of air purifiers (3M has been making the filters for years, but it's a relative newcomer to the air purifier market). Speaking as an allergy sufferer and former asthmatic, I've had air purifiers around me for years before Sharper Image made the things 'go mainstream' with their incessant advertising for their Ionic Breeze.

This unit works extremely well. The filter is a good quality 3M one that captures pollen, dander, and dust mite debris. It's easy to install slides into a mount in the machine and it moves a large volume of air. (The filter's price is in line with other purifiers in this range.)

Noise in the lowest setting is almost nonexistent, which is a must when you keep a purifier in the bedroom like me. Noise is considerable at the highest setting, but no more than comparable machines.

There are three especially nice features on this model.

First, the slimline case, which comes with a mounting bracket if you want to hang the unit on the wall(!) is handier than one might think. Purifiers have to be 'central but unobtrusive' that is, most aren't all that pleasing to look at but they move air best when in a central location. The slim case and mounting pieces will give you the most options to slip the unit by a bed, next to a couch, etc.

Second, if you (as I do) keep one in the bedroom, it's nice to be able to turn off the lit indicators. Not only is this just extra power going to waste, it also lets you keep the room nice and dark when you sleep.

Finally, you have a setting which detects heavy particle emissions in the air, from smoke or dust. Upon sensing this change, the machine will automatically kick up in speed until the air is clear. A nice feature, though I caution that this is the only option that I haven't tested out yet as I don't have any friends that smoke, and I refuse to burn dinner to test it out.

Update: This feature does actually work; I spilled some talcum near the machine and in seconds it cranked up the setting as it sensed the particles of powder in the air and kept it raised for 10 minutes until the air cleared.

About the only criticism I have of the unit is its high price, though this may come down in time. Finally, if you want to move a lot more air albeit for a slightly higher price I'd recommend the Whirlpool Whispure 510 Air Purifier (AP51030S) HEPA Air Cleaner.

Miele S7210 Twist Upright Vacuum Cleaner

I wasted my money six months ago on a Hoover Tempo. It had been recommended by Consumer Reports which I am now starting to suspect of being highly biased towards certain brands... since that Hoover Tempo was a piece of junk. I used it 20 times and the thing broke and became completely un-usable. I didn't even want to bother with the warranty. I'm never going to consider Hoover for anything. I had fears before getting it due to some mixed feedback including some that were poor (how can this be a CR recommended product...). It was in-expensive so that made me try it out. Pure Garbage. I decided to check out Miele since my mother in-law had highly recommended it. I checked product reviews and they were great (aside from the high price tag). This product is actually designed to last 15 years. I bet it will be the last vaccum I"ll ever have to buy. This product is heavy, it's built solid. If you need to do a lot of cleaning in stairs and you are not a strong person this may not be so appropriate. But for bare floors to carpet, this is unbelievable. I am so glad I got this. It also doesn't take me much time to clean up. It sucks dirt so efficiently and quietly, it's amazing. Filters may be expensive but who cares, this makes your house smell nice, very clean and quickly. Get the cheaper blue model. Who cares about how it looks; it's in the closet most of the time. I'm not going to be posing for GQ while I vaccum. I give my highest ratings to this product.

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Thursday, July 24, 2014

Blueair 650E Digital HEPASilent Air Purifier

Read many reviews and research several brands. Decided to go with the 650E. It is great! I have bad allergies and I am not taking any of my meds. for them now. It is a good feeling not to wake up sneezing and runny nose every morning. Seemed a bit expensive at first, but now I am glad I spent the money. Probably the only con I would have would be the size, but it isn't very heavy and on rollers. Good job, Blueair!!

Redi Shade Z00C2801400 Simple Fit Made to Width Custom Cordless Honeycomb

Easy to put up, nice light filtering shade . It was just what I wanted. I had to look at another web site to figure out what measurements to use to order.

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Wednesday, July 23, 2014

EZ Flex EXPXXFIL0020 Expandable Filter Media 20x25

I paid for regular shipping and I had my filters in about 2-3 days. Impressive. Also my HVAC company would have charged me a bunch more for the same filters. Great service. SHould consider creting an auto ship service to help us to remember to change our filters every 6 months.

14ALL Panasonic Cut-to-Fit Replacement Carbon Pre-Filter

Panasonic couldn't supply due to their national disaster and these folks stepped up and filled the gap-now i use them for all my needs in this area and they make their stuff in the USA

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

BestAir AB2025 Trion Air Bear Pleated Filter 20x25x5

Hard to get very excited about a filter. The product seems to be doing a good job. It is hard to find this size in local stores. The price was right and Prime delivery makes it an even better deal.

Wisp Candle Refill

I absolutely love this scent and was really excited when I found it online! (I'm assuming it has been discontinued.. That's what they dodiscontinue products so you have to buy something new every couple months)

All I have to say is READ THE FINE PRINT.

I would NOT have spent $10 on a ONE CARTRIDGE REFILL!!!! I assumed it was more than one because of the ridiculous price but no. One refill. Complete BS.

Monday, July 21, 2014

13x21.5x1 (Actual Size) Accumulair Emerald 1-Inch Filter

This filter size has been impossible to find at either Lowes or Home Depot so gave Amazon a try. It turned out a lot easier than expected. The vendor made ordering simple and they shipped fast. I was hoping they'd cost a little less but don't we always hope for that? I was glad to get them.

Honeywell PetCleanAir Air Purifier HHT-082-TGT

I currently have a number of small birds and four cats. If you've ever had birds, you know how much dust they can produce. Mine is the sort of household where even high-end furnace filters have to be changed monthly. What's more, I also suffer from allergies. Since I am unwilling to give up my pets, I have adopted several strategies to make my allergies more manageable. One of them involved purchasing this air purifier.

I'll be honest, I chose this air purifier because it had a picture of a dog on the box, and I had a dog at the time of purchase (she has since passed away), although I do not think there is a lot differentiating the PetCleanAir purifier from other tower-style air purifiers. It takes two HEPA filter cartridges, and although there are a variety out there, most seem to be a standard size (you should be able to use the Holmes ones in here for sure, in addition to Honeywell-branded ones). There is an additional pre-filter which fits inside the removable back panel.

This unit is fairly effective, even when overwhelmed in an environment like my condo! When I open the back, there is a ton of dust/dander/junk that it has removed from circulation. While I am generally quite happy with this air purifier, there are a couple of reasons I knocked off a star. None of them is a huge deal, but they are things you may want to consider before making a purchase:

1) There is a light on the top which comes on when it is time to change the filter. This does not appear to be correlated to the dirtiness of the filter, but instead to the amount of time the unit has been on. For homes with fewer animals, this might be sufficient, but when I see the light come on, it's WAY past time to change the filter. (It's hard for me to remember to do this in the absence of the light...)

2) On full blast, the unit is a little noisy.

3) The air purifier (probably because of the pre-filter) is advertised as removing odors, but it really doesn't -at least not in high-odor homes. (A Rottweiler with an intestinal gas problem may have over-taxed it, though. Also, I do a lot of cooking from scratch with garlic and onions, and sometimes cooking odors can linger overnight.)

That being said, I'm inclined to go easy on this air purifier, because I know my particular living situation is probably at the extreme end of usage. It does definitely remove junk from the air, and is relatively quiet on a low setting. I have not noticed a significant increase in my electric bill (I usually run it when I am at home only, and don't leave it on all the time), so it's not drawing a lot of power. Overall, I'm satisfied with the purchase and would recommend this air purifier.

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Sunday, July 20, 2014

4 Kenmore 86889 EF-1 Exhaust HEPA Vacuum Filters

I went to Sears and they were out. The salesman said it would be tough to find one on the internet. He was right because I found four for about the same price as one at Sears. Exactly the same as the one that came with the vacuum.

Small Fan & Mini-Air Conditioner

I live and work in the desert where it's HOT, and my office is often uncomfortably warm. The Handy Cooler sits on my desk and keeps me super cool! I don't even have to turn it up high and its chilly air feels great. It's easy to fill up, very simple to use, and my pretty pink one is adorable. I have a USB hub on the corner of my desk and I just plug my Handy Cooler into it for power. It works great. I'm so happy with this little cooler. I'd definitely recommend it.

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Saturday, July 19, 2014

Sprite Pure Spray Filtered Showerhead in Chrome

I write this review concurrently with my review of a Culligan WSH-C125 Wall-Mount 10,000 Gallon Capacity Filtered Showerhead, Chrome Finish to give you some history. Especially since there's no history here at Amazon.

We've had the Sprite AM-8 for about three years now. (Bought it locally from Home Depot or Lowe's.) It's performed okay, except that the massage feature used in three of the eight settings, has been problematic. As in, stopped working.

We have a water softener on city water. No scale or crud. Even so, I soaked the Sprite in vinegar just to clean any crud out that might be in the channel the massage ball races around. No difference. It used to work, but over time, stopped working.

So when it came time for the 3rd filter change (we replace the filter once a year), I decided to buy a different brand filtered shower head instead. (See my 4 star review of the Culligan, if interested.)

Apparently we have high water pressure (new house construction, large plastic pipes) and some of the 8 settings-like fine medium spray and full-fine spray-were indistinguishable to us. Even if there had been a difference, I only alternated between massage and no massage. So three, five or eight settings? More of a marketing gimmick IMO.

From an ergonomics perspective I like the Sprite better than the Culligan. There's a tang on the selector bezel of the Sprite which makes it easier to turn when your hands are wet.

And the Sprite KDF filters are clear, whereas the Culligan are not. The nice thing about a clear filter is that you can easily tell when it's time to replace it. The media turns black. And the Sprite filters are a little cheaper than the Culligan. ($10 vs. $12 on Amazon as of this writing.)

The Culligan is cheaper out of the box and seems to work fine. Time will tell if its massage feature will work three years from now.

I give them both 4 stars. You'll be happy with the Sprite, at least for a while. If your water pressure isn't as high as ours, it may be that your unit will last longer.

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