Showing posts with label safest space heater. Show all posts
Showing posts with label safest space heater. Show all posts
Saturday, November 29, 2014
Best Mug Cup Heat Press Transfer Machine Deals
Good product and great price but it doesn't have a timer so you have to check your time and the digital pannel shows farenheit and no celsius degrees and on the button it has a little °C so you think is in celsius... is not.... So to conclude you can work with this perfectly if you have that in mind....
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Vornado VH101 Personal Space Heater Review
Customer Ratings: 
List Price: $49.99
Sale Price: $28.99
Today's Bonus: 42% Off

As a data processing manager, I have seen many office space heaters plugged into the same outlet as the person's computer. Most of these heaters draw 1500 watts at full power, risking popping a circuit breaker and shutting down their computer. Additionally, many of these 1500 watt heaters are poorly designed and melt their plugs over time. The Vornado VH101 Personal Heater draws either 750 or 350 watts, depending on setting. When placed on the desktop or hidden under the desk, it warms the user as well as a room heater without the above mentioned risks associated with excessive current draw.
It performs nicely in cool rooms. It's probably ideal for an office or cubicle in a modern, heated building where you just need a little more warmth in your personal space. The vortex action of the Vornado is impressive. Unlike heaters that aim the heat at you, the Vornado aims it around you rather than simply blowing it on you.
However if you are like me and need to heat a cold room, this is not the device for you. During the winter, the temperature inside my office when I open it up in the morning is usually in the 42F-55F range, and this heater completely fails at heating it up. I was using the heater in conjunction with my oil-filled radiator, with the Vornado providing some heat while the oil-filled heater slowly heats up. The tiny 200 watt Lasko MyHeat does an excellent job at this, but the Vornado does not. Used in this way, The Vornado actually takes nearly twice as long to bring my tiny office up to 67F as the little Lasko does.
However, I don't want to totally bash the Vornado. For people with other heating needs, it could be a perfect choice.
What I like about it:
The tip-over switch works well, almost too well. The first day I used it, I didn't notice that the rear edge was resting on a USB cable. It was enough to stop the heater from working. It's a good safety feature.
It appears well made
The heater is good looking, a shiny black with a silver grill. I don't really care how a heater looks as long as it works well, but it's a definite plus to have it be good looking as well as functional.
It comes with a three year warranty, longer than many heaters.
What I don't like:
The switches are on back, so you can't see them unless you pick up the heater and turn it around. Until you're used to it, selecting high and low settings without seeing the buttons can be tricky, especially with a non-heat fan-only option between high and low. It was a nuisance, especially on a heater without a thermostat.
The warning light that shows that the heater has failed to turn on because of a problem such as sitting at an angle is nearly the same color as the orange power light. It should be a different color, such as red. You get used to it, but there really should be a greater difference in color.
I'm knocking off one star for the design problems in a heater as well designed as the Vornado, they are unexpected and I'm knocking off a second star for its pathetic heat output.
General information about buying electric space heaters:
=============================================
I've owned and used electric space heaters since 1988, mostly DeLonghi oil filled radiators. When I recently began looking for a heater that would warm up a room faster, I was frustrated at the lack of hard, objective, facts about electric space heaters. Even the manufacturer websites often fail to mention or makes it hard to learn the most basic information you need to know, such as wattage ratings and warranty lengths. Not even Consumer Reports has enough information to really inform a consumer. Therefore it's up to us as consumers to share what we know. The rest of this review shares some of what I've learned.
In case you're wondering what heater I decided on to replace my DeLonghi, I didn't, at least not yet. I tried a Vornado PVH and a Bionaire BH1331-U, but I ended up returning both heaters. I'm sticking with my oil-filled heaters for now.
Basic electric space heater facts:
1. All electric space heaters are equally efficient. All heaters rated at 1500 watts output the same amount of heat, but may do it very differently. You have to choose the one that heats the way you need it.
2. Power consumption is determined by two things: the power setting you're using and how long the heater is actually on. Turning up the thermostat setting doesn't increase the heat or power consumption; it just lengthens the time that your heater will be running.
3. To reduce power consumption, use the lowest power setting on your heater that produces the heat you need.
4. An electric space heater will save you money only if you turn your central heating down or off and use space heaters to heat only the rooms where you need heat.
5. The only kind of electric space heater that's likely to provide adequate heat in a large or draft space is a radiant heater (not to be confused with a radiator heater, which is very different), but radiant heaters pose a fire hazard.
Don't take manufacturer wattage claims too seriously. When I used my Kill-A-Watt meter on six space heaters, I found variations of up to 200 watts between the claimed and actual wattage for each space heater. In most cases the actual watts were less than the claimed watts, but one of my DeLonghi's 1500 watt heaters turned out actually to be a 1600 watt heater.
Two crucial steps in finding the electric space heater that's right for you:
============================================================
1. Learn which heater is right for your needs. A huge percentage of complaints by reviewers about space heaters are due to reviewers buying the wrong type of heater for their needs. Your first step should be to decide between the basic types: Ceramic heaters with a fan, oil-filled radiator, micathermic, and radiant. First learn the conditions in which each one works best and works best and then select the type that will work best for your needs. There is no one single "best" heater for all situations. Each one has conditions in which it works well and conditions in which it's terrible.
2. Look at the warranties. Warranties on space heaters range from one year to five years. Delonghi and Soleus heaters that I've checked have one year warranties. Other companies, such as Bionaire, Honeywell, Lasko, and Vornado offer three year and five year warranties on many but not all of their models. If a company offers only a one year warranty on some models but a five year warranty on others (such as Bionaire), it raises question about the durability of the heater with the shorter warranty. However a long warranty is only as good as the company offering it. Read reviews to learn what experiences people have when their heaters die while still under warranty.
In most cases, you'll have to download the manual from the manufacturer's website to get the length of the warranty. It's a nuisance, but it's worth taking the time to do.
Don't let anyone tell you that any particular type of heater is "the best". The best type is the one that best suits YOUR needs. The best heater for me might be the worst heater for you. Some heaters heat up a cold room faster, some keep a room at a steady temperature, and some will work better in a large space.
Some questions you need to ask yourself before deciding which type of heater to buyWill it be keeping a room at a steady temperature? (oil-filled radiator or micathermics heaters might be best)
Will it be heating up a cold room? (a heater with a fan or a radiant heater might be best)
Are there children or pets who might be injured by touching a hot surface? (oil-filled radiator and radiant heater might be a problem)
Do you want to heat just a particular spot rather than the whole room? (radiant heaters might be best
Are you concerned about fire risks? (oil-filled radiator or micathermic heaters might be best, though no space heater is completely safe)
Oil-filled radiators:
These are my favorite heaters. These are the heaters that look like old-fashioned steam radiators. The oil retains its warmth after the thermostat cycles off, which is important if you want to keep a room at a steady temperature. The downside is that the oil takes longer to heat initially, which is why these heaters take so long to warm up.
I have two DeLonghi oil-filled radiators; I've been using one of them for 23 years, and the other is about eight years old. I love the heat they provide. It's steady, warm, with no noise and no drying out of the air like with some other types of heaters. They are ideal for maintaining a steady temperature in an enclosed room.
Oil filled heaters have a huge drawback, however: they are terrible at heating up a cold room. It can take an oil-filled heater hours longer to heat up a cold room than other types of heaters.
The US Department of Energy recommends oil-filled heaters as the most efficient, because the fins generate warmth even when the heater's thermostat cycles off. However this efficiency is only when the heater is continually on, keeping a room at a constant temperature. If you turn the heater on and off frequently, you'll lose most of the efficiency that's inherent in these heaters.
If you have children or pets, look into one of the shielded radiator heaters. I prefer the unshielded ones because they radiate more heat laterally, but the surface can get very hot and be a hazard if touched. DeLonghi claims that their shielded radiator heaters circulate heated air more quickly. Both of mine are unshielded, so I have no way of confirming that. My concern about the shielded radiators is that they would direct more hot air up rather than to the side, where I need it.
If your electric rates are different for different times of the day, you can use this to your advantage in setting your radiator heater toswitch on and warm the room from cold when rates are low, then let it provide steady heat when rates are higher.
A word of warning about oil-filled radiators: if one is poorly made or damaged, it can leak oil and permanently damage rugs and floors or even start a fire. Only buy from a reputable manufacturer and don't accept one that has any visible damage.
Ceramic fan heaters:
These are great at heating a room quickly, however many people including myself don't like the heat they blow. I don't mind it in my Vornado Personal Heater (375/700watt), which is located under my desk, but I thoroughly dislike it in the old Honeywell ceramic oscillating heater that came with my house. I much prefer the warmth that comes from an oil-filled radiator. Ceramic heaters can be most effective at quickly warming up a cold room.
Radiant heaters
Radiant heaters (don't confuse them with radiator heaters!) work by heating whatever they are pointed at rather than heating the air in the room. If you have a large, drafty space, a radiant heater might be your best choice, because it doesn't heat the air, only the objects and people it's directed at.
Micathermic heaters
Micathermic heaters work similarly to oil-filled radiators, except that instead of heavy metal fins filled with hot oil, micathermic heaters have thin sheets of mica that heat up. I've only had experience with one micathermic, a Bionaire BH1331-U, and found that it's exterior surface remained very cool except for a few very warm spots on top. There would be less risk of young children being burned by touching a micathermic heater than an oil-filled radiator. Micathermic heaters are slower heating than ceramic fan heaters, but are faster then oil-filled radiators..
Baseboard heaters
I have a Lakewood oil-filled baseboard heater I bought five years ago that has many of the advantages of a micathermic heater. It heats faster than an oil-filled radiator but has no hot surfaces and low fire risk. My Lakewood does an excellent job of heating my 12x15 bedroom.
However I have not researched baseboard heaters and only have experience with this Lakewood, so I don't know whether others are as good as this one. I was impressed that when I measured the actual wattages of my various space heaters, the Lakewood's actual wattages came closest to its claimed wattages of all the other heaters I tested. Lakewood unfortunately went out of business in 2009 and had a major problem with oil leaking from its heaters a few years earlier. Despite this, it's in many ways my best heater and has the lowest cost of operation.
List Price: $49.99
Sale Price: $28.99
Today's Bonus: 42% Off
As a data processing manager, I have seen many office space heaters plugged into the same outlet as the person's computer. Most of these heaters draw 1500 watts at full power, risking popping a circuit breaker and shutting down their computer. Additionally, many of these 1500 watt heaters are poorly designed and melt their plugs over time. The Vornado VH101 Personal Heater draws either 750 or 350 watts, depending on setting. When placed on the desktop or hidden under the desk, it warms the user as well as a room heater without the above mentioned risks associated with excessive current draw.
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
I tried to like this heater. I really did, but it's actually not correct to call it a "heater". It's really a "warmer". I ended up returning it after several weeks of trying hard to make it work for me.It performs nicely in cool rooms. It's probably ideal for an office or cubicle in a modern, heated building where you just need a little more warmth in your personal space. The vortex action of the Vornado is impressive. Unlike heaters that aim the heat at you, the Vornado aims it around you rather than simply blowing it on you.
However if you are like me and need to heat a cold room, this is not the device for you. During the winter, the temperature inside my office when I open it up in the morning is usually in the 42F-55F range, and this heater completely fails at heating it up. I was using the heater in conjunction with my oil-filled radiator, with the Vornado providing some heat while the oil-filled heater slowly heats up. The tiny 200 watt Lasko MyHeat does an excellent job at this, but the Vornado does not. Used in this way, The Vornado actually takes nearly twice as long to bring my tiny office up to 67F as the little Lasko does.
However, I don't want to totally bash the Vornado. For people with other heating needs, it could be a perfect choice.
What I like about it:
The tip-over switch works well, almost too well. The first day I used it, I didn't notice that the rear edge was resting on a USB cable. It was enough to stop the heater from working. It's a good safety feature.
It appears well made
The heater is good looking, a shiny black with a silver grill. I don't really care how a heater looks as long as it works well, but it's a definite plus to have it be good looking as well as functional.
It comes with a three year warranty, longer than many heaters.
What I don't like:
The switches are on back, so you can't see them unless you pick up the heater and turn it around. Until you're used to it, selecting high and low settings without seeing the buttons can be tricky, especially with a non-heat fan-only option between high and low. It was a nuisance, especially on a heater without a thermostat.
The warning light that shows that the heater has failed to turn on because of a problem such as sitting at an angle is nearly the same color as the orange power light. It should be a different color, such as red. You get used to it, but there really should be a greater difference in color.
I'm knocking off one star for the design problems in a heater as well designed as the Vornado, they are unexpected and I'm knocking off a second star for its pathetic heat output.
General information about buying electric space heaters:
=============================================
I've owned and used electric space heaters since 1988, mostly DeLonghi oil filled radiators. When I recently began looking for a heater that would warm up a room faster, I was frustrated at the lack of hard, objective, facts about electric space heaters. Even the manufacturer websites often fail to mention or makes it hard to learn the most basic information you need to know, such as wattage ratings and warranty lengths. Not even Consumer Reports has enough information to really inform a consumer. Therefore it's up to us as consumers to share what we know. The rest of this review shares some of what I've learned.
In case you're wondering what heater I decided on to replace my DeLonghi, I didn't, at least not yet. I tried a Vornado PVH and a Bionaire BH1331-U, but I ended up returning both heaters. I'm sticking with my oil-filled heaters for now.
Basic electric space heater facts:
1. All electric space heaters are equally efficient. All heaters rated at 1500 watts output the same amount of heat, but may do it very differently. You have to choose the one that heats the way you need it.
2. Power consumption is determined by two things: the power setting you're using and how long the heater is actually on. Turning up the thermostat setting doesn't increase the heat or power consumption; it just lengthens the time that your heater will be running.
3. To reduce power consumption, use the lowest power setting on your heater that produces the heat you need.
4. An electric space heater will save you money only if you turn your central heating down or off and use space heaters to heat only the rooms where you need heat.
5. The only kind of electric space heater that's likely to provide adequate heat in a large or draft space is a radiant heater (not to be confused with a radiator heater, which is very different), but radiant heaters pose a fire hazard.
Don't take manufacturer wattage claims too seriously. When I used my Kill-A-Watt meter on six space heaters, I found variations of up to 200 watts between the claimed and actual wattage for each space heater. In most cases the actual watts were less than the claimed watts, but one of my DeLonghi's 1500 watt heaters turned out actually to be a 1600 watt heater.
Two crucial steps in finding the electric space heater that's right for you:
============================================================
1. Learn which heater is right for your needs. A huge percentage of complaints by reviewers about space heaters are due to reviewers buying the wrong type of heater for their needs. Your first step should be to decide between the basic types: Ceramic heaters with a fan, oil-filled radiator, micathermic, and radiant. First learn the conditions in which each one works best and works best and then select the type that will work best for your needs. There is no one single "best" heater for all situations. Each one has conditions in which it works well and conditions in which it's terrible.
2. Look at the warranties. Warranties on space heaters range from one year to five years. Delonghi and Soleus heaters that I've checked have one year warranties. Other companies, such as Bionaire, Honeywell, Lasko, and Vornado offer three year and five year warranties on many but not all of their models. If a company offers only a one year warranty on some models but a five year warranty on others (such as Bionaire), it raises question about the durability of the heater with the shorter warranty. However a long warranty is only as good as the company offering it. Read reviews to learn what experiences people have when their heaters die while still under warranty.
In most cases, you'll have to download the manual from the manufacturer's website to get the length of the warranty. It's a nuisance, but it's worth taking the time to do.
Don't let anyone tell you that any particular type of heater is "the best". The best type is the one that best suits YOUR needs. The best heater for me might be the worst heater for you. Some heaters heat up a cold room faster, some keep a room at a steady temperature, and some will work better in a large space.
Some questions you need to ask yourself before deciding which type of heater to buyWill it be keeping a room at a steady temperature? (oil-filled radiator or micathermics heaters might be best)
Will it be heating up a cold room? (a heater with a fan or a radiant heater might be best)
Are there children or pets who might be injured by touching a hot surface? (oil-filled radiator and radiant heater might be a problem)
Do you want to heat just a particular spot rather than the whole room? (radiant heaters might be best
Are you concerned about fire risks? (oil-filled radiator or micathermic heaters might be best, though no space heater is completely safe)
Oil-filled radiators:
These are my favorite heaters. These are the heaters that look like old-fashioned steam radiators. The oil retains its warmth after the thermostat cycles off, which is important if you want to keep a room at a steady temperature. The downside is that the oil takes longer to heat initially, which is why these heaters take so long to warm up.
I have two DeLonghi oil-filled radiators; I've been using one of them for 23 years, and the other is about eight years old. I love the heat they provide. It's steady, warm, with no noise and no drying out of the air like with some other types of heaters. They are ideal for maintaining a steady temperature in an enclosed room.
Oil filled heaters have a huge drawback, however: they are terrible at heating up a cold room. It can take an oil-filled heater hours longer to heat up a cold room than other types of heaters.
The US Department of Energy recommends oil-filled heaters as the most efficient, because the fins generate warmth even when the heater's thermostat cycles off. However this efficiency is only when the heater is continually on, keeping a room at a constant temperature. If you turn the heater on and off frequently, you'll lose most of the efficiency that's inherent in these heaters.
If you have children or pets, look into one of the shielded radiator heaters. I prefer the unshielded ones because they radiate more heat laterally, but the surface can get very hot and be a hazard if touched. DeLonghi claims that their shielded radiator heaters circulate heated air more quickly. Both of mine are unshielded, so I have no way of confirming that. My concern about the shielded radiators is that they would direct more hot air up rather than to the side, where I need it.
If your electric rates are different for different times of the day, you can use this to your advantage in setting your radiator heater toswitch on and warm the room from cold when rates are low, then let it provide steady heat when rates are higher.
A word of warning about oil-filled radiators: if one is poorly made or damaged, it can leak oil and permanently damage rugs and floors or even start a fire. Only buy from a reputable manufacturer and don't accept one that has any visible damage.
Ceramic fan heaters:
These are great at heating a room quickly, however many people including myself don't like the heat they blow. I don't mind it in my Vornado Personal Heater (375/700watt), which is located under my desk, but I thoroughly dislike it in the old Honeywell ceramic oscillating heater that came with my house. I much prefer the warmth that comes from an oil-filled radiator. Ceramic heaters can be most effective at quickly warming up a cold room.
Radiant heaters
Radiant heaters (don't confuse them with radiator heaters!) work by heating whatever they are pointed at rather than heating the air in the room. If you have a large, drafty space, a radiant heater might be your best choice, because it doesn't heat the air, only the objects and people it's directed at.
Micathermic heaters
Micathermic heaters work similarly to oil-filled radiators, except that instead of heavy metal fins filled with hot oil, micathermic heaters have thin sheets of mica that heat up. I've only had experience with one micathermic, a Bionaire BH1331-U, and found that it's exterior surface remained very cool except for a few very warm spots on top. There would be less risk of young children being burned by touching a micathermic heater than an oil-filled radiator. Micathermic heaters are slower heating than ceramic fan heaters, but are faster then oil-filled radiators..
Baseboard heaters
I have a Lakewood oil-filled baseboard heater I bought five years ago that has many of the advantages of a micathermic heater. It heats faster than an oil-filled radiator but has no hot surfaces and low fire risk. My Lakewood does an excellent job of heating my 12x15 bedroom.
However I have not researched baseboard heaters and only have experience with this Lakewood, so I don't know whether others are as good as this one. I was impressed that when I measured the actual wattages of my various space heaters, the Lakewood's actual wattages came closest to its claimed wattages of all the other heaters I tested. Lakewood unfortunately went out of business in 2009 and had a major problem with oil leaking from its heaters a few years earlier. Despite this, it's in many ways my best heater and has the lowest cost of operation.
Best Deals on Vornado VH101 Personal Space Heater
I ordered this for my wife, who actually wanted a larger version of the same unit. After reading the specs and reviews I picked the EH1-0050-06. It Was for her cube at work and a larger one of a different brand had already tripped the circuit breaker and shut down a few computers. The IT people were not very happy. This one works great, keeps her warm and stays under the power draw to trip the circuit. She uses the fan mode when too warm and the heater when too cold. Perfect!Honest reviews on Vornado VH101 Personal Space Heater
My VH101 personal heater works great. However, shortly after running it for several hours it started to make a "clicking" sound which is very annoying. I emailed Vornado customer service about the problem and never heard back from them. We own a couple of other Vornado products that have performed well for us for many many years. Those units were made in USA. The VH101 was made in China. Even with the annoying "clicking" sound, I recommend the VH101.Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Vornado VH101 Personal Space Heater
This little heater is perfect. It's quiet, it's compact, and it keeps me warm! What's not to love? I also like the built in safety feature, which is the little button underneath which, if the heater gets tipped over, or is even lifted off the ground, it turns off. Also, I like that the body stays cool regardless of temperature so it's not hot to the touch. The only potentially negative thing I have, if you can even call it that, is when I put it on the HIGH heat setting, it smells like heat... vaguely like hot plastic even though the unit is NOT, in fact, melting. I wouldn't trade it for anything, I am finally comfortable at my office. LOVE IT.Saturday, August 2, 2014
Review of Decorative ceramic tile outdoor fireplace with stainless bowl
Customer Ratings: 
List Price: $299.95
Sale Price: $188.16
Today's Bonus: 37% Off

This could be a really great piece, but the construction quality is incredibly shoddy. The welds are messy, the tile looks cheaply put together. Also, the tile panels don't line up, the pan in the middle is out of round, and it generally looks cheap for a $300 piece of hardware. The one good part, as usual, is Amazon. Quick shipping and great customer service.I have owned this fire pit for three years. It has performed well, but its looks have deteriorated. I have to paint the firescreen cover every year with heat resistant paint. the ceramic pieces are starting to chip. Nice size firepit though. Puts out great heat even underneath when you put your feet near it.
List Price: $299.95
Sale Price: $188.16
Today's Bonus: 37% Off
This could be a really great piece, but the construction quality is incredibly shoddy. The welds are messy, the tile looks cheaply put together. Also, the tile panels don't line up, the pan in the middle is out of round, and it generally looks cheap for a $300 piece of hardware. The one good part, as usual, is Amazon. Quick shipping and great customer service.I have owned this fire pit for three years. It has performed well, but its looks have deteriorated. I have to paint the firescreen cover every year with heat resistant paint. the ceramic pieces are starting to chip. Nice size firepit though. Puts out great heat even underneath when you put your feet near it.
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Best Dimplex #ETS610W2 Electronic Line Voltage Thermostat Single Pole Deals
We are in the process of upgrading the thermostats for the electric heat in our house. The 20-year-old bimetallic thermostats have minimal utility--basically they seem to operate as on/off switches. Even when a temperature is set, +/10 degree (F) fluctuations are not uncommon. So, we want something a little more accurate as well as something that looks more contemporary. For most of the house, I have Aube or Honeywell digital thermostats. They are perfect--quiet, accurate, and reasonably attractive. I saw the Dimplex thermostat and thought I would try it. In the photos provided, it looks much more attractive than the digital thermostats by other vendors. It's also currently priced more than the digital thermostats--so, its selling point is really aesthetics. A couple points to note, however:
1) Make sure you get the right model. There's precious little description on the Amazon Web page, but there are two models depending on the Wattage requirements.
2) In the photos, it looks like the thermostat flush mounts to the wall. This for me was the real selling point: I can finally have a thermostat that's inconspicuous! As I installed it to my standard wall box, I quickly became convinced that there was no way to have a flush mount. Perhaps if the wall box was recessed into the wall and you could cut away the drywall around it, you might be able to get a flush effect. Instead, it sticks out from the wall (like every other thermostat), except the faceplate protrudes. This just looks silly. I have explored numerous ways to make this look better or to recess more of the unit into the wall, but I am convinced that this is not possible without a custom installation. Perhaps there is an optional decorative plate to go with it?
3) It's really loud when it clicks on or off. Louder than the old thermostats, and certainly lounder than the completely silent digital thermostats made by several vendors. The clicking could be quite distracting if put in a bedroom.
4) The plastic on the housing and especially the dial is very flimsy. The mechanism for turning on the thermostat entails pulling out the nob. The nob felt like it might actually break in the process. Similarly, the plastic is so thin on the faceplate that the LED status indicator actually lights up a good portion of the faceplate when there are no lights on in the room. It feels and looks cheap.
Bottom line: Save your money. At current Amazon pricing, you can buy nearly two nonprogrammable digital thermostats for the same price. I suspect they will ultimately look better and hold up better than this product.
Plus: Works with radiant and fan based heat. Electronic and therefore more accurate than bimetallic thermostats.
Cons: Poor fit to wall. Loud! Cheap materials.
1) Make sure you get the right model. There's precious little description on the Amazon Web page, but there are two models depending on the Wattage requirements.
2) In the photos, it looks like the thermostat flush mounts to the wall. This for me was the real selling point: I can finally have a thermostat that's inconspicuous! As I installed it to my standard wall box, I quickly became convinced that there was no way to have a flush mount. Perhaps if the wall box was recessed into the wall and you could cut away the drywall around it, you might be able to get a flush effect. Instead, it sticks out from the wall (like every other thermostat), except the faceplate protrudes. This just looks silly. I have explored numerous ways to make this look better or to recess more of the unit into the wall, but I am convinced that this is not possible without a custom installation. Perhaps there is an optional decorative plate to go with it?
3) It's really loud when it clicks on or off. Louder than the old thermostats, and certainly lounder than the completely silent digital thermostats made by several vendors. The clicking could be quite distracting if put in a bedroom.
4) The plastic on the housing and especially the dial is very flimsy. The mechanism for turning on the thermostat entails pulling out the nob. The nob felt like it might actually break in the process. Similarly, the plastic is so thin on the faceplate that the LED status indicator actually lights up a good portion of the faceplate when there are no lights on in the room. It feels and looks cheap.
Bottom line: Save your money. At current Amazon pricing, you can buy nearly two nonprogrammable digital thermostats for the same price. I suspect they will ultimately look better and hold up better than this product.
Plus: Works with radiant and fan based heat. Electronic and therefore more accurate than bimetallic thermostats.
Cons: Poor fit to wall. Loud! Cheap materials.
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
Bi-metallic thermostats are a thing of the past. Our old thermostats wasted energy since they needed +-15 degrees variance to turn on or turn off. These thermostats are great replacements for your old bimetallic sets. They don't ground to the frame like the old ones which seemed weird, but they have nice long leads red and black. I have them running large cadet fan/element heaters in the walls. When the unit turns on, a nice subtle blue LED lights up just above the dial. Pull the dial out and the unit is active. Push the dial in and the unit is inactive. My wife is happy that I installed the Celsius rings instead of F. We set them to 22 degrees as a back up if the fireplace would run out of wood. Every degree clicks into place for exact temperature and I it's accuracy with a room thermometer. It was off only 1 degree. Fits into a standard box, but you will want to insulate the box since the unit will allow you to see into the box through the main panel. They really kick butt! Remember, these are 16a max. I guess that's why they can use only two wires for a single pole. Very nice product. Simple and accurate. Replaced three of them, box to trash, in under 30 minutes with a Phillips head screwdriver. Awesome!Best Deals on Dimplex #ETS610W2 Electronic Line Voltage Thermostat Single Pole
Got the product and installed it same day. It worked for about 1 hour then burned out and went crazy. Manufacturer claimed it would work fine with my system. Don't spend the money for this unit, it is noisy and failed in the first hour.Friday, April 18, 2014
Best Kozy World KWP196 15,000-BTU Vent-Free LP-Gas Infrared Wall Heater Deals
Customer Ratings: 
List Price: $189.00
Sale Price: $188.74
Today's Bonus: $0.26 Off

I bought this heater to use in place of a combination of forced-air and electric heat. I have only been using this heater for a little over a week, but so far I love it!
I did the installation myself, following the instructions which I found adequately detailed. It didn't take more than a few hours and most of that time was spent buying and installing the necessary gas fittings needed to tap into the existing LP line. Note that there are several gas fittings (not included) required to be installed at the heater connection. These include a union, tee, several nipples, a cutoff valve, and a sediment trap, which can be made with a nipple and cap. This is all explained in the instructions. All the gas fittings, pipe dope, and the 12-foot LP supply line needed for my installation ended up costing an extra $62 at the local hardware store.
The installation instructions explain that the propane supply must have a pressure of 11 to 14 inches of water. The regulator (Marshall Model 230) on my existing supply line met this requirement, so tapping into the line downstream from the regulator worked fine.
Although my living space is just 275 sq. ft., I chose this heater over the smaller 10k BTU KWP122 (which is rated for spaces up to 300 sq. ft.), because this is an older dwelling with single pane windows and loses heat fairly rapidly. I wanted to make sure I had enough heating power to keep up with that, as well as thinking this one would warm the space up faster when first turned on than a lower BTU model.
So now to the actual heater usage. I usually sleep with no heat, so when I awake in the morning it can be quite cold, sometimes as low as the upper 30s. It typically takes 1 to 2 hours for this heater to bring the temperature up to 70. As an example, starting at 35 degrees outside and 38 inside, it took one hour and 50 minutes to bring the temperature up to 70. Sometimes I use another portable heater at the same time to speed up this process, turning it off once a comfortable temperature is reached. That cuts the time in half, but it really isn't necessary when it's only moderately cold to start with. For some reason, maybe due to the infrared heat being projected out into the room, it feels more comfortable at a lower temperature with this heater than it did with my conventional forced-air furnace.
One minor complaint is that it is necessary to fool with the thermostat initially to determine what setting is comfortable. It's just a dial with numbers from 1 to 5, so you have to determine what the corresponding temperature is by trial and error. I've found that setting it just barely above 2 is close to 70 degrees. Too bad there isn't a remote, digital thermostat, which would be much more accurate. I still think it's better than having a model without a thermostat, since that would be "on" continuously, even if it was on low.
The piezo ignition is not automatic. You have to push a button on top of the heater to make it spark. It is rather loud when you do this, so if you have to push it repeatedly due to the gas not having reached the heater yet it might be a little annoying to some. It doesn't really bother me but I thought I would mention it.
I also installed a carbon monoxide detector just for peace of mind. It has not alarmed at all with the use of this heater.
I've noticed that some of Amazon's images of the KWP196 are incorrect. The 15k BTU models like this one have three heating panels, not two. The 10k BTU models such as the KWP122 have two panels.
I am keeping track of my propane usage and as soon as I have something to report on that I will update this review.
***********************
UPDATE after 3 weeks of usage Here are the numbers on my propane usage. Area being heated is approximately 275 square feet, single-pane windows, not well insulated. When running I keep one window cracked open about a quarter of an inch, as well as one roof vent cracked open about the same.
Average propane used per hour of usage: 0.11 gallons
28% of the time the heater was burning continuously, bringing the room temp up to 70 degrees.
72% of the time the heater was cycling on and off to maintain the temperature at 70.
The average inside temperature was 49 when the heater was first lit.
The average amount of time it took the heater to raise the inside temperature to 70 (without using the additional portable heater) was 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Average outside temperature when heater was first started was 42.
Average outside temperature when inside temperature reached 70 was 46.
Thirteen gallons of propane lasted 21 days, average usage of almost 6 hours per day.
Conclusion: I really like this little heater. And it appears it's going to save me some money over using the forced-air furnace combined with electric heat, as I did formerly. Although my propane usage has doubled when compared to a similar period last year, propane is now my only heating fuel whereas last year I used it only to bring the room temperature up in the morning, then used electric heat the rest of the time to maintain the temperature. My electric usage has dropped by 64%.
/UPDATE 08-02-2013/ After a year and 9 months of usage the heater is still working fine. No issues. Always fires right up, except when I've had the gas turned off at the source for a long time. Then it takes about 5 minutes for it to reach the heater again when the gas is turned back on. But that's not the heater's fault.
List Price: $189.00
Sale Price: $188.74
Today's Bonus: $0.26 Off
I bought this heater to use in place of a combination of forced-air and electric heat. I have only been using this heater for a little over a week, but so far I love it!
I did the installation myself, following the instructions which I found adequately detailed. It didn't take more than a few hours and most of that time was spent buying and installing the necessary gas fittings needed to tap into the existing LP line. Note that there are several gas fittings (not included) required to be installed at the heater connection. These include a union, tee, several nipples, a cutoff valve, and a sediment trap, which can be made with a nipple and cap. This is all explained in the instructions. All the gas fittings, pipe dope, and the 12-foot LP supply line needed for my installation ended up costing an extra $62 at the local hardware store.
The installation instructions explain that the propane supply must have a pressure of 11 to 14 inches of water. The regulator (Marshall Model 230) on my existing supply line met this requirement, so tapping into the line downstream from the regulator worked fine.
Although my living space is just 275 sq. ft., I chose this heater over the smaller 10k BTU KWP122 (which is rated for spaces up to 300 sq. ft.), because this is an older dwelling with single pane windows and loses heat fairly rapidly. I wanted to make sure I had enough heating power to keep up with that, as well as thinking this one would warm the space up faster when first turned on than a lower BTU model.
So now to the actual heater usage. I usually sleep with no heat, so when I awake in the morning it can be quite cold, sometimes as low as the upper 30s. It typically takes 1 to 2 hours for this heater to bring the temperature up to 70. As an example, starting at 35 degrees outside and 38 inside, it took one hour and 50 minutes to bring the temperature up to 70. Sometimes I use another portable heater at the same time to speed up this process, turning it off once a comfortable temperature is reached. That cuts the time in half, but it really isn't necessary when it's only moderately cold to start with. For some reason, maybe due to the infrared heat being projected out into the room, it feels more comfortable at a lower temperature with this heater than it did with my conventional forced-air furnace.
One minor complaint is that it is necessary to fool with the thermostat initially to determine what setting is comfortable. It's just a dial with numbers from 1 to 5, so you have to determine what the corresponding temperature is by trial and error. I've found that setting it just barely above 2 is close to 70 degrees. Too bad there isn't a remote, digital thermostat, which would be much more accurate. I still think it's better than having a model without a thermostat, since that would be "on" continuously, even if it was on low.
The piezo ignition is not automatic. You have to push a button on top of the heater to make it spark. It is rather loud when you do this, so if you have to push it repeatedly due to the gas not having reached the heater yet it might be a little annoying to some. It doesn't really bother me but I thought I would mention it.
I also installed a carbon monoxide detector just for peace of mind. It has not alarmed at all with the use of this heater.
I've noticed that some of Amazon's images of the KWP196 are incorrect. The 15k BTU models like this one have three heating panels, not two. The 10k BTU models such as the KWP122 have two panels.
I am keeping track of my propane usage and as soon as I have something to report on that I will update this review.
***********************
UPDATE after 3 weeks of usage Here are the numbers on my propane usage. Area being heated is approximately 275 square feet, single-pane windows, not well insulated. When running I keep one window cracked open about a quarter of an inch, as well as one roof vent cracked open about the same.
Average propane used per hour of usage: 0.11 gallons
28% of the time the heater was burning continuously, bringing the room temp up to 70 degrees.
72% of the time the heater was cycling on and off to maintain the temperature at 70.
The average inside temperature was 49 when the heater was first lit.
The average amount of time it took the heater to raise the inside temperature to 70 (without using the additional portable heater) was 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Average outside temperature when heater was first started was 42.
Average outside temperature when inside temperature reached 70 was 46.
Thirteen gallons of propane lasted 21 days, average usage of almost 6 hours per day.
Conclusion: I really like this little heater. And it appears it's going to save me some money over using the forced-air furnace combined with electric heat, as I did formerly. Although my propane usage has doubled when compared to a similar period last year, propane is now my only heating fuel whereas last year I used it only to bring the room temperature up in the morning, then used electric heat the rest of the time to maintain the temperature. My electric usage has dropped by 64%.
/UPDATE 08-02-2013/ After a year and 9 months of usage the heater is still working fine. No issues. Always fires right up, except when I've had the gas turned off at the source for a long time. Then it takes about 5 minutes for it to reach the heater again when the gas is turned back on. But that's not the heater's fault.
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
I bought this heater to save money instead of running the furnace in my motorhome. I hook it to a 5 gal propane tank inside the coach and it keeps the whole coach warm. The thermostat works great. I bought 2 legs that bolt on the bottom to make it free standing. This model radiates heat and is a lot better than the blue flame model. Well worth the money. This size is plenty of heat in a 40' motorhome.Best Deals on Kozy World KWP196 15,000-BTU Vent-Free LP-Gas Infrared Wall Heater
I would not recommend this product. Due the fact,that the write up and product information is not totally correct. Deerso, the seller of this product, after several attempts has yet to return any correspondence that I have tried with them. when contacting World Marketing the distributor they explained to me that The operating pressures stated are not correct. I then had to purchase a second regulator to handle the increased pressure. I then had to pay a second service call charge to have it installed and adjust. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT REPRESENTED VERY WELL. THE SELLER DEERSO HAS NEVER CONTACTED ME AFTER NUMEROUS TRIES, TO BACK UP THEIR PRODUCT. I FEEL THIS COMPANY SHOULD BE BANNED FROM SELLING ANYTHING ON AMAZON.Honest reviews on Kozy World KWP196 15,000-BTU Vent-Free LP-Gas Infrared Wall Heater
This product is fitting the bill in my 600 sq ft space I have it in. Pretty easy to install except that many fittings were needed. I paid about $100 extra to install it...mind you I ran copper pipe over about 12 ft and had to connect it to existing lines using a flaring tool and fasteners, etc. All in all though, the thermostat seems to work good and it does it's job. I'm pleased.Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Kozy World KWP196 15,000-BTU Vent-Free LP-Gas Infrared Wall Heater
worked very good love it i would oder it agian good for the price worked fine it gives out a lot of heatThursday, March 27, 2014
Best Dimplex CS1205 Compact Electric Stove Deals
Customer Ratings: 
List Price: $179.00
Sale Price: $90.41
Today's Bonus: 49% Off

Some critter got under the house and detached our heating ducts a few years ago so we only use electric heat and ambient heat from other rooms in the livingroom. I was looking for a better space heater after an Econoheat panel shorted and melted while I slept.
The problem with most space heaters is they are UGLY. They look like they belong in a garage. I wanted something that looked like a piece of furniture that wouldn't set fire to my cats and that could heat up a big room with open doorways. I should also mention that I have a humor-based decorating style, so whether someone else will find it tacky or not is of no concern to me. I don't invite people without a sense of humor into my home.
Anyway, I went with this. On a scale of 1 to 10, 1 being an orange spotlight behind a fan blowing white bits of fabric around like some Halloween decorations, and 10 being a real fire, I'd give it a 7.5. It only looks like a real fire if you're not looking directly at it. The foily logs help a bit and it does have a slight 3D effect that makes it better than some, but even if you add a crackling fire mp3 and burn wood incense in the room no one is going to mistake it for a real fire.
That's not to say I don't like it. It does provide that hypnotizing effect you look for in a fireplace!
Additionally, it was 35 degrees F last night. I live in a farmhouse with 4 inch walls and cellulose insulation. I put it in my livingroom, which is approximately 500 sq feet, with an open doorway, 2 large windows, a sliding glass door, no basement, and an open stairway. It kept the room at 72 to 74 degrees all night.
It seems to be of sturdy construction. The top stays cool. The fan is very quiet. It's also light and portable. Overall I'm satisfied enough to get another one for my office.
We use it in our 14x17 bedroom, and it warms the room up nicely, in fact TOO nicely, as we are usually sweating to death halfway through the night! We have an old, drafty Victorian house that has very little heat coming into the room at all, and this little guy does a great job. We are planning on getting a plug-in thermostat to go with it. In fact, that is my only complaint. I wish it had a built-in thermostat so you could set a temperature for the room. Because if you use a plug-in thermostat it will turn the entire unit off, including the flame effect, which I actually really like to sit and enjoy, whether the heat is on or not.
I read another review about this stove that the door does not open. Hmmm, that's interesting, because ours does open. When I showed it to my mother and opened the door for her, she was convinced enough that she put her hands in front of the "flames" to feel the warmth.
We like the stove so much we ordered black flue pipe and a collar so that it looks like it's attached to the chimney that runs up the one wall of the room. We are also building a tile hearth board for it to sit on. If you need extra heat in a room, but want something that looks nice at the same time, this little stove really does the trick!
List Price: $179.00
Sale Price: $90.41
Today's Bonus: 49% Off
Some critter got under the house and detached our heating ducts a few years ago so we only use electric heat and ambient heat from other rooms in the livingroom. I was looking for a better space heater after an Econoheat panel shorted and melted while I slept.
The problem with most space heaters is they are UGLY. They look like they belong in a garage. I wanted something that looked like a piece of furniture that wouldn't set fire to my cats and that could heat up a big room with open doorways. I should also mention that I have a humor-based decorating style, so whether someone else will find it tacky or not is of no concern to me. I don't invite people without a sense of humor into my home.
Anyway, I went with this. On a scale of 1 to 10, 1 being an orange spotlight behind a fan blowing white bits of fabric around like some Halloween decorations, and 10 being a real fire, I'd give it a 7.5. It only looks like a real fire if you're not looking directly at it. The foily logs help a bit and it does have a slight 3D effect that makes it better than some, but even if you add a crackling fire mp3 and burn wood incense in the room no one is going to mistake it for a real fire.
That's not to say I don't like it. It does provide that hypnotizing effect you look for in a fireplace!
Additionally, it was 35 degrees F last night. I live in a farmhouse with 4 inch walls and cellulose insulation. I put it in my livingroom, which is approximately 500 sq feet, with an open doorway, 2 large windows, a sliding glass door, no basement, and an open stairway. It kept the room at 72 to 74 degrees all night.
It seems to be of sturdy construction. The top stays cool. The fan is very quiet. It's also light and portable. Overall I'm satisfied enough to get another one for my office.
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
We got this stove as a Christmas gift this year. My husband and I were both VERY surprised at how nice it actually looks. The fire effect is very realistic for an electric unit, far more convincing than any other brands we have seen; as we have several friends with electric fireplaces and stoves made by different companies besides this one. I had researched Dimplex brand fireplaces before, and everything they claim is true...no other brand electric fireplace (at least that I have seen) really comes close to the realism that they have come up with in their units. Of course nothing will ever beat the look of real logs burning, but this is still great looking nonetheless.We use it in our 14x17 bedroom, and it warms the room up nicely, in fact TOO nicely, as we are usually sweating to death halfway through the night! We have an old, drafty Victorian house that has very little heat coming into the room at all, and this little guy does a great job. We are planning on getting a plug-in thermostat to go with it. In fact, that is my only complaint. I wish it had a built-in thermostat so you could set a temperature for the room. Because if you use a plug-in thermostat it will turn the entire unit off, including the flame effect, which I actually really like to sit and enjoy, whether the heat is on or not.
I read another review about this stove that the door does not open. Hmmm, that's interesting, because ours does open. When I showed it to my mother and opened the door for her, she was convinced enough that she put her hands in front of the "flames" to feel the warmth.
We like the stove so much we ordered black flue pipe and a collar so that it looks like it's attached to the chimney that runs up the one wall of the room. We are also building a tile hearth board for it to sit on. If you need extra heat in a room, but want something that looks nice at the same time, this little stove really does the trick!
Best Deals on Dimplex CS1205 Compact Electric Stove
I purchased this product for its nice looks at first ...then when i used it ,i couldn't believe how fast and hot this item worked to heat my bedroom 14 x 16 ...I have to get up in the middle of the night and turn it off ...also I use a ceiling fan to circulate the heat as well ...I have 5 people ,5 electric stoves in my home as a main source of heat ..my bill with other electric appliances , tv 's ,washer ,dryer and lights was only $ 115.00 this month ....I have oil heat but keep my regular thermostat on 58 due to over $3.30 a gallon for oil ...This product works better and even saves more money on electric then even those infrared or those Amish heaters that are advertised lately using 12 cents an hour to heat your home ...Beware of those ...I've tried them also .....a lot higher bills then they stated ...Dimplex is the way to go ...its quiet ,efficient,and looks great ..5 stars from me ...=0) Happy Glowing......Honest reviews on Dimplex CS1205 Compact Electric Stove
With some reservations, I bought this small Dimplex CS1205 heater for my bedroom because of some cold air coming in both my windows (when winds blow). I was very happy to know that this heater was like having a fireplace in my room instead of a 'little heater', as I described it to be. I would recommend this compact stove to anyone who was looking for beautiful flowing heat and the looks of a fireplace (with the incredibly real looking fire in the front). One reviewer made a suggestion of replacing the 60 watt bulb (contained in the unit) with a 7 watt night light, which I did, and got the same real effect of a fireplace and less electricity. All in all, this was definitely not the boring, small heater I had visions of before I bought it.Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Dimplex CS1205 Compact Electric Stove
We purchased this stove for our cool and drafty San Francisco living room (15' x 15'). I can't imagine a nicer room heater for the price. The stove is stylish, and the 3D flames almost look real ! Granted, this is not a real wood fireplace, but it is a great alternative. I like that you can turn on the flames without the heat. The heat is warm enough for the room. I consider this one of our favorite finds for the year !Monday, March 24, 2014
Cheap Patton Electric Utility Heater- PUH680
It warms up well. It's kind of weird to use so follow the instructions because it may turn off automatically. I would NOT recoommend it for the workplace, though. It's very very loud.
Monday, March 17, 2014
Cheap Sunbeam Ceramic Heater
Bought at Walmart for $30 in February as a little heater to warm up my wife's craft room since its a back bedroom and we only open to receive heat from the rest of the house when she is working in it. However, I will be taking this heater back. The heater is a handsome little unit: 10" tall, 14" wide, and 8" deep. It sits on a 7"x9" base that makes the unit very stable and resistant to tipping over from accidental bumping. The base allows 360 degree rotation and about 15 degree tilting. The heater's operating modes (per the manual) are: Fan Only, Low Heat ("if applicable..." said the manual. This unit did have Low Heat mode.),Eco-Smart, Max Heat, and Thermostat Control. Max Heat runs continuously at 1500 watts. Low Heat (if it were available) would run continuously at 750 watts. Eco-Smart "cycles between High Heat (1500 watts) and Low Heat (750 watts) settings...". Thermostat Control only has four room-temperature settings: 70, 75, 80, and 85 degrees. The extreem left of the thermostat scale has a "Frost Protect" setting (thermostat control set for 40 degrees). The extreem right of the thermostat scale is "Constant On". While the front of the heater presents a good sized 8"x14" grill, it is for looks only the actual heat producing opening is only 2"x6". The remainder of the area behind the grill is just black plastic. When the heater is on and at 6" from the front of the heater, you feel VERY hot air at 18" from the front you feel no hot air. This is my first point about the poor functionality of this unit: the output of the internal fan is so pathetic that it can barely produce enough of a wheeze of air to get the heat only a few inches out of the heater and then (hot air rising) goes straight to the ceiling. Perhaps this is a general trait of all ceramic heaters: they can produce very hot air without using red-hot (read: accidental ignition source) heat elements; however, they cannot support large volumes of air being passed through them. Here is my second point on the poor functionality of this heater: Although the box advertises: "High/Low Heat Settings" the low setting is not actually selectable. The unit seems to run at a high heat output all the time I did not discern any "cycling" between a high and low heat output in the lame "Eco-Smart" mode. The third point is the thermostat control: only four choices: 70,75,80, and 85 nothing inbetween and nothing below 70 degrees room temp is available, and it seems to operate at max heat when in thermostat mode. Dear Sunbeam, What I wanted to know about a heater is: the heat wattage of the settings, the operating range of the thermostat, and can the low heat only setting be selected for thermostat control. You're packaging told me absouluty nothing about the details and specifications of a heater that are actually important. Oh, by the way, people are tired of, and turned off, by manufacturers who trot out the same mediocre, half-hearted designed products but think that by putting a green leaf on the box and use the word "eco-" that consumers will think that the products received an improvement of some sort.
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
This heater is a great idea, and the functions work great. It is one of the best space heaters I have owned with one major exception. I think they undersized the wiring on it, because the power cord gets very hot, and I'm afraid it will catch fire. It actually melted my Kill-A-Watt power meter I had it plugged into. I wouldn't buy this item. It does heat very nicely, but it is a fire hazard in my opinion. Made in China...Best Deals on Sunbeam Ceramic Heater
In less than a month the heater not only just quit working, but a wire inside melted when fortunately I was at home. I opened the machine and there it was, the burnt wire. It could have burned down my houseHonest reviews on Sunbeam Ceramic Heater
This heater started out heating a small bathroom and washroom quite well.Like other products I have purchased I bought before looking at reviews.After 30 days the heater started to blow cold air.At this point I looked up the reviews and saw where mine wasn't the only one that has done this.Rather than to take it back and let them throw it away and not do anything about it I decided to take the heater apart and see what was causing the problem..If costing me $30 keeps one house from burning down it has made the loss profitable. There are 3 wires leading to the heating elements 2 red and 1 black in the middle.The black wire in the middle had been hot and melted the plastic cover on the wires and had burnt in two.I have pictures but cant upload them here.Just another Chinese piece of DANGEROUS JUNK.Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Sunbeam Ceramic Heater
We've had this about a year. Have not had any issues and we use it every day; placed near where we sit. However, when used in a bedroom sized space (our office) and keeping the door closed, it heats up the area quite nicely and soon we turn it off when it reaches a heated comfort level for us. However, due to reviews about a burned wire, I will be more careful in how long I let it run and I do always turn it off and unplug it when I leave the space.Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Review of Proctor-Silex 34101 Fifth Burner
We got this to replace a burner bought off the shelf. It died within the first week. I have been much happier with the results for this burner as a replacement for our dead stove. In fact, it heats up faster that our stove used to. Produces good heat quickly and has worked well in almost all situations.
The only issue I have is with what seems to be an overtemp safety because it will cycle itself on and off. A pot will get hot quickly but it also seems to senses that the pot is still there and hot, and decides to take a rest or turner off the burner for 15-30 sec while things in your pot stop boiling. It seems to come back quickly to reheat again, but cooking with an even hear is lost as the burner cycles on/off.
-As was mentioned from the other reviews, this burner annoyingly cycles off and on. I have to unplug and re-plug to turn it on again. You cannot disable it. For me, this is the biggest deal breaker for this product.
-There is nothing in the manual to show the features and specs except safety precautions.
-You cannot use a large pan on it.
-Nothing to stabilize the pan but the actual heating coil.
-You have to use heavy pans with good heat conductor at the bottom (like the copper bottoms pans). If you use the aluminum teflon type, it will not sufficiently heat to fry anything.
Pros:
-Like the portability, size and weight.
-Very affordable.
My excuse to buy this was that my house is under the hammer and we decided to chuck away the old gas stove. And, that means we can only eat frozen meals heated up in the microwave or this coil burner.*w*
Unlike some other reviewers expressed, I have only used this for boiling pastas, or stir-fried dishes. And, it was just amazing that how this $15 burner can cook as well and fast as my GE electric stove in my other condo. I have cooked some Chicken Soup for 4 hours one day, which turned out great as well, so I don't agree with other people's discontent myself.
I just wish I could put 4 of these coil burners when the house is complete instead of purchasing a couple of thousand halogen cook top. At least, a young couple on HGTV did it in their compact loft condo this way. with the coil covers, very clever! I think it looks good enough to keep it on the counter top.
The only flaw is that the spill plate under the heat coil leaves the burn marks from cooking if you don't wipe them immediately. But, then again, I could buy another without thinking! A very good value.
I purchased this for my travel to India... I rented a room at a place in India and wanted to be able to prepare quick meals in the comfort of my room, including tea... well this electric burner heats up quickly and safely ... just like my stove at home. It is small enough to easily store away.
Now that I am back in the US form India travel I sometimes use it when other stove elements at home are in use.. so the burner helps things move along faster and the best part is that it works so wonderfully and just like a stove element... Its a must have tool... especially for single folks :-) .. or if you move around a lot on travels away from home..
This heats fast and the coils actually turn red like a regular electric stove. We got this for use while remodeling our kitchen and so I have used it daily for almost 2 months. I am very pleased with its performance and would recommend it as an efficent, no nonsense little appliance.
The only issue I have is with what seems to be an overtemp safety because it will cycle itself on and off. A pot will get hot quickly but it also seems to senses that the pot is still there and hot, and decides to take a rest or turner off the burner for 15-30 sec while things in your pot stop boiling. It seems to come back quickly to reheat again, but cooking with an even hear is lost as the burner cycles on/off.
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
Cons:-As was mentioned from the other reviews, this burner annoyingly cycles off and on. I have to unplug and re-plug to turn it on again. You cannot disable it. For me, this is the biggest deal breaker for this product.
-There is nothing in the manual to show the features and specs except safety precautions.
-You cannot use a large pan on it.
-Nothing to stabilize the pan but the actual heating coil.
-You have to use heavy pans with good heat conductor at the bottom (like the copper bottoms pans). If you use the aluminum teflon type, it will not sufficiently heat to fry anything.
Pros:
-Like the portability, size and weight.
-Very affordable.
Best Deals on Proctor-Silex 34101 Fifth Burner
I saw this on HGTV in some trendy house renovation shows. And, I did not know what it was but it looked really cool. And, when I saw it on later, I realized that this is an ancient kind of product we all are familiar with.My excuse to buy this was that my house is under the hammer and we decided to chuck away the old gas stove. And, that means we can only eat frozen meals heated up in the microwave or this coil burner.*w*
Unlike some other reviewers expressed, I have only used this for boiling pastas, or stir-fried dishes. And, it was just amazing that how this $15 burner can cook as well and fast as my GE electric stove in my other condo. I have cooked some Chicken Soup for 4 hours one day, which turned out great as well, so I don't agree with other people's discontent myself.
I just wish I could put 4 of these coil burners when the house is complete instead of purchasing a couple of thousand halogen cook top. At least, a young couple on HGTV did it in their compact loft condo this way. with the coil covers, very clever! I think it looks good enough to keep it on the counter top.
The only flaw is that the spill plate under the heat coil leaves the burn marks from cooking if you don't wipe them immediately. But, then again, I could buy another without thinking! A very good value.
Honest reviews on Proctor-Silex 34101 Fifth Burner
This is an excellent piece of cooking equipment! I love it!!I purchased this for my travel to India... I rented a room at a place in India and wanted to be able to prepare quick meals in the comfort of my room, including tea... well this electric burner heats up quickly and safely ... just like my stove at home. It is small enough to easily store away.
Now that I am back in the US form India travel I sometimes use it when other stove elements at home are in use.. so the burner helps things move along faster and the best part is that it works so wonderfully and just like a stove element... Its a must have tool... especially for single folks :-) .. or if you move around a lot on travels away from home..
Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Proctor-Silex 34101 Fifth Burner
I shopped at SEVEN stores for a 5th burner type appliance. All I could find were warmers or products that looked as if they would not even boil water. All were priced much higher than this Proctor-Silex Fifth Burner.This heats fast and the coils actually turn red like a regular electric stove. We got this for use while remodeling our kitchen and so I have used it daily for almost 2 months. I am very pleased with its performance and would recommend it as an efficent, no nonsense little appliance.
Friday, November 22, 2013
Cheap Vornado VH101 Personal Vortex Heater
Had this for 2 years now. I use it at work on cold days, as I sit next to a large bay window. Puts out adequate heat at low and high heat output settings. This is NOT a room or space heater. It's meant to be used "up close and personal". Also has a separate 1-speed fan control (On and off). The base has a safety/anti-tip feature. If you lift it up or it topples over, the device turns off. The fan is relatively quiet, sort of like comfortable white noise. I haven't had issues with its use tripping any circuts. Overall, a good unit for the price.
Monday, November 18, 2013
Mr. Heater Double Tank-Top Propane Heater - 8,000-28,000 BTU Reviews
Customer Ratings: 
List Price: $134.96
Sale Price: $102.47
Today's Bonus: 24% Off

* This heater puts out a lot of heat. Do not place any item that can catch on fire within four(4) feet of the front of this heater. Do not place any item within six(6) feet of front of heater that you do not want to get very, very hot. With both burners on, even on low, one can feel the heat emanating from it 10 feet away.
* Items to the side and rear over a foot away do not receive direct heat and do not get hot. If one builds a stand/brace to hold it a foot away from any rear or side surface, this could be easily wall mounted rather than mounted on a tank. In a workshop, one could use a 12' extension hose and place the tank out of the way.
* This model requires lighting it with a flame. You will need to purchase a butane lighter with long nozzle or fireplace type(extra long) matches.
* You can light one or two burners but once lit you cannot shut-off just one. If you lite two and it gets too hot, you have to turn off the heater and light one burner.
* The hose is very short and fittings are under considerable stress if used as suggested by attaching directly to (20#/30#) propane tank. A short extension hose is advised. This also protect the brass connection from too much wear.
* It is pretty quiet but does have a constant hiss and will ' sing hi & low ' loudly when it first starts.
* If you are going to need it for extended time, you should plan on having at least two 20# tanks, minimum. If the power is out due to a storm and not expected back on for weeks, you might want to buy a 40# or even larger tank. NB: A 40# tank will weigh > 70# when full not light!
* If using this for indoor heating, do NOT use it in an unvented area. This heater will suck the oxygen out of a tightly closed space in a very short time. Do not use it in any area without venting it so that a fresh supply of air is always available. An old house like the one I am remodeling has plenty of air exchange but new homes do not. If it must be used inside, place near a window and open the window a little so that fresh air is supplied. CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING AND DEATH CAN RESULT IF YOU DO NOT DO THIS!
( A _vented_ fireplace is another good location to place the heater. )
Other than the inherent danger in burning anything, especially burning anything inside a home, the only problem with it is that it gets so hot that one cannot be near it ... or even walk in front of it with 3 or 4 feet.
The most obvious missing item is no thermostat control to regulate the output of the burners. Manual intervention is the only way to regulate temperature in the area.
I like the heater. However, it is an ugly eyesore and really has no permanent place inside any living space, IMHO.
For a situation where normal heating is not possible, it can and does heat a couple of rooms in a very drafty old house enough to be comfortable even when it is below freezing outside. Once the normal heating is restored this will make a great workshop/garage heater and also very nice for grilling outside in the winter without freezing the buns.
If the situation is not so dire and there is some heat available, the smaller 'Buddy' version, which I also have, does very good. However, it cannot handle unheated areas when freezing temperatures are present.
...
Although not perfect, it gets five stars because there is nothing better, it works as Mr. Heater promised and should be usable for quite a few years in the future.
Be cautious like any unvented heater it can be dangerous if you try to heat an unvented space for any length of time.
It is economical to use and even more so if you are able to find a local propane tank refiller. If you are forced to exchange the tank, it can cost [$$$]. If you have the tank refilled it will only cost [$$$].
My heater was given to me, used, and I liked it so much I gave one to my sister to use when she didn't want to burn the fireplace. I am now going to buy a newer one for the house, and relegate the older on out to my workshop.
Reliable, efficient, made in the USA whats not to like.
The unit is solidly built, and I've used it now for about 4 months without a problem.
A couple of improvements I think could be made:
1) The unit I have does not have an igniter on it, so you must light it via an external source (usually a match). I found I can easily light it via a small Benzomatic torch I own, but it would be nice to have an igniter on it. I'm not sure; perhaps a pricier model has this feature.
2) To connect the heater to the propane, you have to use a wrench. I would prefer if it were more like my BBQ grill, where you can tighten on the connection without tools.
Overall, I'm very happy with the purchase!
If your living in an alternative living space, need heat in an area with no central heating, or wish to save on the heating bill yeah this heater is the most economical, most powerful heat source I've found on the commercial market.
Lighting, as mentioned above is a somewhat dicey operation. You must hold in the pressure release valve button, and hold the flame source to the heater simultaneously. You must keep holding the button for about 30 seconds after the burner has taken the flame until it is fully lit. To do this more easily, squat to the level of the heater, and face the side (not the rear) of the heater.
And watch that your garments, jacket sleeves, etc., do not brush against or come to near the heater unit during operation. They can be easily singed.
It heats up fast. In less than two minutes, a very cold area should heat up, especially if both burners are lit I generally only use one burner. That's all I need for personal heat. The other reviewers aren't kidding. Do not have any object closer than a four foot radius from the heater and the area must be ventilated. I make a practice of never leaving the heater unattended.
One liter of propane should keep you warm for at least a good 10 hours with one burner going. I've often found myself turning the heater to the lower setting or entirely off after the area heats up.
The tank connection fitting screws into the tank counter-clockwise. To tighten, use a fairly substantial crescent wrench, with smooth jaws, as the fittings are brass and malleable. I don't recommend an extension, as it's one more fitting to worry about having a potentional leak. Tighten the connection firmly, but don't get paranoid and overtighten.
A powerhouse piece of gear. When the weather warms up, I disconnect the heater, and store the tank in a cool place, and if not emptied, on the floor, in an upright position.
List Price: $134.96
Sale Price: $102.47
Today's Bonus: 24% Off
* This heater puts out a lot of heat. Do not place any item that can catch on fire within four(4) feet of the front of this heater. Do not place any item within six(6) feet of front of heater that you do not want to get very, very hot. With both burners on, even on low, one can feel the heat emanating from it 10 feet away.
* Items to the side and rear over a foot away do not receive direct heat and do not get hot. If one builds a stand/brace to hold it a foot away from any rear or side surface, this could be easily wall mounted rather than mounted on a tank. In a workshop, one could use a 12' extension hose and place the tank out of the way.
* This model requires lighting it with a flame. You will need to purchase a butane lighter with long nozzle or fireplace type(extra long) matches.
* You can light one or two burners but once lit you cannot shut-off just one. If you lite two and it gets too hot, you have to turn off the heater and light one burner.
* The hose is very short and fittings are under considerable stress if used as suggested by attaching directly to (20#/30#) propane tank. A short extension hose is advised. This also protect the brass connection from too much wear.
* It is pretty quiet but does have a constant hiss and will ' sing hi & low ' loudly when it first starts.
* If you are going to need it for extended time, you should plan on having at least two 20# tanks, minimum. If the power is out due to a storm and not expected back on for weeks, you might want to buy a 40# or even larger tank. NB: A 40# tank will weigh > 70# when full not light!
* If using this for indoor heating, do NOT use it in an unvented area. This heater will suck the oxygen out of a tightly closed space in a very short time. Do not use it in any area without venting it so that a fresh supply of air is always available. An old house like the one I am remodeling has plenty of air exchange but new homes do not. If it must be used inside, place near a window and open the window a little so that fresh air is supplied. CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING AND DEATH CAN RESULT IF YOU DO NOT DO THIS!
( A _vented_ fireplace is another good location to place the heater. )
Other than the inherent danger in burning anything, especially burning anything inside a home, the only problem with it is that it gets so hot that one cannot be near it ... or even walk in front of it with 3 or 4 feet.
The most obvious missing item is no thermostat control to regulate the output of the burners. Manual intervention is the only way to regulate temperature in the area.
I like the heater. However, it is an ugly eyesore and really has no permanent place inside any living space, IMHO.
For a situation where normal heating is not possible, it can and does heat a couple of rooms in a very drafty old house enough to be comfortable even when it is below freezing outside. Once the normal heating is restored this will make a great workshop/garage heater and also very nice for grilling outside in the winter without freezing the buns.
If the situation is not so dire and there is some heat available, the smaller 'Buddy' version, which I also have, does very good. However, it cannot handle unheated areas when freezing temperatures are present.
...
Although not perfect, it gets five stars because there is nothing better, it works as Mr. Heater promised and should be usable for quite a few years in the future.
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
I have the older version that is functionally identical to the current version (they replaced the L-bolt that holds the heater on the tank with a ribbed knob on the new version). I love it for taking the morning chill off the house in the morning. I keep it in the kitchen and fire it up first thing on a cold morning. After about 30 minutes the chill is off not only the kitchen but the adjacent master bedroom and living rooms.Be cautious like any unvented heater it can be dangerous if you try to heat an unvented space for any length of time.
It is economical to use and even more so if you are able to find a local propane tank refiller. If you are forced to exchange the tank, it can cost [$$$]. If you have the tank refilled it will only cost [$$$].
My heater was given to me, used, and I liked it so much I gave one to my sister to use when she didn't want to burn the fireplace. I am now going to buy a newer one for the house, and relegate the older on out to my workshop.
Reliable, efficient, made in the USA whats not to like.
Best Deals on Mr. Heater Double Tank-Top Propane Heater - 8,000-28,000 BTU
I bought one of these for keeping me warm in the garage while I'm working. My garage is too big to economically heat the entire space, so I opted for a directional heat, as I'm typically somewhat stationary at the bench. This does the trick quite well!The unit is solidly built, and I've used it now for about 4 months without a problem.
A couple of improvements I think could be made:
1) The unit I have does not have an igniter on it, so you must light it via an external source (usually a match). I found I can easily light it via a small Benzomatic torch I own, but it would be nice to have an igniter on it. I'm not sure; perhaps a pricier model has this feature.
2) To connect the heater to the propane, you have to use a wrench. I would prefer if it were more like my BBQ grill, where you can tighten on the connection without tools.
Overall, I'm very happy with the purchase!
Honest reviews on Mr. Heater Double Tank-Top Propane Heater - 8,000-28,000 BTU
The above reviews say it all. Not to be superfluous, I'll add a few points, mostly cautionary.If your living in an alternative living space, need heat in an area with no central heating, or wish to save on the heating bill yeah this heater is the most economical, most powerful heat source I've found on the commercial market.
Lighting, as mentioned above is a somewhat dicey operation. You must hold in the pressure release valve button, and hold the flame source to the heater simultaneously. You must keep holding the button for about 30 seconds after the burner has taken the flame until it is fully lit. To do this more easily, squat to the level of the heater, and face the side (not the rear) of the heater.
And watch that your garments, jacket sleeves, etc., do not brush against or come to near the heater unit during operation. They can be easily singed.
It heats up fast. In less than two minutes, a very cold area should heat up, especially if both burners are lit I generally only use one burner. That's all I need for personal heat. The other reviewers aren't kidding. Do not have any object closer than a four foot radius from the heater and the area must be ventilated. I make a practice of never leaving the heater unattended.
One liter of propane should keep you warm for at least a good 10 hours with one burner going. I've often found myself turning the heater to the lower setting or entirely off after the area heats up.
The tank connection fitting screws into the tank counter-clockwise. To tighten, use a fairly substantial crescent wrench, with smooth jaws, as the fittings are brass and malleable. I don't recommend an extension, as it's one more fitting to worry about having a potentional leak. Tighten the connection firmly, but don't get paranoid and overtighten.
A powerhouse piece of gear. When the weather warms up, I disconnect the heater, and store the tank in a cool place, and if not emptied, on the floor, in an upright position.
Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Mr. Heater Double Tank-Top Propane Heater - 8,000-28,000 BTU
These are great for camping and on your patio. We have used these for a number of years. We tried another brand and they were noisey and did not approach the standard of Mr. Heater.Sunday, October 27, 2013
Review of Duraflame Firestart 24-Pack Firelighters
Let me just start saying I am usually very skeptical of buying anything without reading a solid review history in favor of a product so for me to buy this product was a bit out of my comfort zone. I just moved into a new home with a fireplace and was struggling to get one going with my fresh delivery of wood today.
I hopped over to the local Home Depot to see what alternatives they had for just starting fires with very little trouble. I am familiar with the duraflame brand from just general knowledge but no firsthand experience so I was not sure what I was getting myself into so I looked up the product here (which is pretty standard procedure for me) but was astounded to only see one review for this product.
Being in a pinch and with limited options in front of me at the time I figured what the heck. This pack of 24 was only $10 at my local HD (I have no idea why it is so expensive here so I would encourage you to look around first) so I figured I'd try it out. It far exceeded any expectations I ever had of it. Simple, easy to use, I lit the little brick and the thing just took off and I have a raging fire in the amount of time it took me to stuff newspaper into my fire.
I now type this review after sitting by the fire the last 4 hours watching movies. I would highly recommend this to anyone, just not at the current $17 price here. Again, look around. For $10 at HD I'll have a few boxes of these on hand every year from now on.
Now this product can have 2 reviews. I'll leave the 3rd up to the next person. Anyone?
These "fire starters" are the BEST in the business ! They used to be available at several store in our area. For some reason they have stopped carrying them. The good news was, that these are twice the amount for less then twice the price and as an Amazon Prime member, I get to have FREE SHIPPING on these. So glad it all happened this way ! ALWAYS easier to start a fire in the fireplace/wood stove using these. Nothing else we have ever tried works as well as these.
I hopped over to the local Home Depot to see what alternatives they had for just starting fires with very little trouble. I am familiar with the duraflame brand from just general knowledge but no firsthand experience so I was not sure what I was getting myself into so I looked up the product here (which is pretty standard procedure for me) but was astounded to only see one review for this product.
Being in a pinch and with limited options in front of me at the time I figured what the heck. This pack of 24 was only $10 at my local HD (I have no idea why it is so expensive here so I would encourage you to look around first) so I figured I'd try it out. It far exceeded any expectations I ever had of it. Simple, easy to use, I lit the little brick and the thing just took off and I have a raging fire in the amount of time it took me to stuff newspaper into my fire.
I now type this review after sitting by the fire the last 4 hours watching movies. I would highly recommend this to anyone, just not at the current $17 price here. Again, look around. For $10 at HD I'll have a few boxes of these on hand every year from now on.
Now this product can have 2 reviews. I'll leave the 3rd up to the next person. Anyone?
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
I was very excited to see that I could order this excellent product on Amazon. I should have known-I order trash bags & refrigerator filters, among other things!These "fire starters" are the BEST in the business ! They used to be available at several store in our area. For some reason they have stopped carrying them. The good news was, that these are twice the amount for less then twice the price and as an Amazon Prime member, I get to have FREE SHIPPING on these. So glad it all happened this way ! ALWAYS easier to start a fire in the fireplace/wood stove using these. Nothing else we have ever tried works as well as these.
Best Deals on Duraflame Firestart 24-Pack Firelighters
This is the best fire starter available. I have tried every other type and this is the only one that has the heat and the burn time needed to start even the most stubborn firewood. Don't waste your time on any other. At 75 cents each at amazon (with prime), it still isn't too bad a price for the trouble it saves. It could be purchased in stores for a bit cheaper. I think Target may carry it. Why more stores don't carry it is baffling. Walmart carries about 5 different types of useless starters, but doesn't carry something worthwhile like this.Honest reviews on Duraflame Firestart 24-Pack Firelighters
Bought a new house with a fireplace, never had one before. These do the trick nice and easy to start the fire, much cheaper than the local storesFind helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Duraflame Firestart 24-Pack Firelighters
I find these are great to start my upside-down fire with but way over-priced here and then w/shipping on top of that. Home Depot (in store) has a box of 24 for $10.98.
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