Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Common Cold Temperature Snow Thrower Problems

Snow blowers are made to run in the cold weather but when it gets REALLY cold outside, funny (or not so funny things) can develop. Same goes for a snow blower that is stored outside or in an enclosure where the temperature is at or near the same temperature as outside. If you have a heated garage, or a way to heat your garage or shed or wherever you store your snow blower, then you are way ahead of the game.

I don't know how winter is in other parts of the country but, here in the Northeast, when there is a snow storm the temperature is generally in the twenties or low thirties. But sometimes it snows when the temperature is in the single digits or close to zero and that is when some new and not so nifty things start happening to snow blowers stored in the cold. Handles won't depress. Impellers won't engage. Engines that were running fine won't start. Belts start to smoke and squeal when engaged. Cables break and starters won't engage.

A lot of that has to do with putting away a recently used "hot" snow blower without cleaning off the snow. The snow now melts and freezes in the strangest places. Let's address most of these problems assuming we have a two stage wheel propelled snow blower. But first, a brief explanation of the types of snow blowers out there.

A two stage snow blower has the large steel auger up front that turns at a fairly slow rate of speed and scoops in the snow. The second stage is the smaller, faster turning fan below the chute that actually throws the snow. A single stage snow blower has a fast turning impeller / auger that turns at a fast rate of speed and both scoops and throws the snow. The wheel propelled single stage snow blower is becoming rare as the rubber-paddled units have taken their place. They are lighter and less expensive to make and they throw the snow just as far or farther.

1) Let's take the smoking belt or impeller won't engage scenarios (usually related) first. You grab the auger engagement handle and no snow comes out of the chute but the belt starts squealing or smoking. Let go of that handle RIGHT NOW and shut down your snow blower. Tip it back on it's handle bars if possible. If the gas tank is full, put some plastic from a grocery bag under the filler cap to keep the gas from pissing out of the cap vent. Reach in back to the second stage impeller. That's the 3 or 4 bladed fan that throws the snow out of the chute on a 2 stage snow blower. See if you can turn it by hand. If not, it is probably frozen to the bottom of the drum it is housed in. There is usually a drain hole at the bottom of the drum to prevent this but it is not always sufficient. Occasionally the impeller blade coasts to a stop with one of the blades straight down. This makes it easier to freeze.

2) How to repair: Drag or drive your snow blower into an area where you can turn on some heat to thaw out the snow blower. If you don't have this luxury, use a hair dryer. I've also seen people make a tent with a tarp over the snow blower and using a space heater to thaw out the unit. Be careful how close you set up the heater and the direction you point it. A space heater can melt or start a plastic tarp on fire. You could just direct the space heater into the auger area and hope for the best. It doesn't usually take too much to melt the ice. Using a propane torch is the least desirable and most unsafe option, as an open flame is dangerous near any outdoor power equipment. Just a little bit of gas spilled nearby can be a potential disaster waiting to happen. You've read about it in the newspaper so don't even go there or you'll end up in the newspaper too. I can't tell you how many times, back in the business, when we just dragged a bunch of frozen snow blowers into our warm shop prior to entering the "triage unit" and that was all that was needed to cure the problem.

3) How to prevent: Clean the snow off the snow blower and inside the impeller /auger housing when done snow blowing. Then make sure that none of the impeller blades is pointing straight down where the melted snow can puddle and freeze.

4) Auger or wheel drive handle won't engage: This generally occurs on models with cables rather than linkage. The cable gets moisture inside and freezes. If you don't have cables, follow the linkage to a pivot point that is frozen. This may require removing an access cover. Thaw out cables or linkage using same method as frozen impeller; safely applied heat.

5) How to prevent: Remove both ends of the cable and apply low temperature or white lithium grease. Work the cable back and forth to coat the entire inner length. WD40 or any rust penetrant may do the trick but the grease is more permanent. PLEASE NOTE: If you have a grease gun or use grease out of the tube or tub on your snow blower, make sure it is LOW TEMPERATURE GREASE. It will say so on the container. If unsure, ask the sales person - if you can find a knowledgeable one these days. The grease is usually blue in color. Don't use regular ball bearing or general use grease on your snow blower. It will gum up when it is cold out and make parts stick or harder to use. On units that have linkage instead of cables, thaw out and spray or apply low temp lubricants on all pivoting parts.

6) Manual or electric starter won't engage: This is why it is a good investment to buy the optional electric starter for your snow blower. If one starter doesn't work the other one might. Again, safe heat applied in the proper location may solve the problem temporarily but it will probably happen again when the weather temperature drops. If your manual starter won't engage or the rope stays out, it should be removed. There is generally a metal "dog" that freezes. It should be fairly obvious when the starter is removed where the "dog" or metal tab that engages into the starter cup is located. You shouldn't have to remove the pulley but you should remove the center screw so the lube gets down into the pivot area. In this case, any sort of grease is usually NOT recommended. Use WD40 or similar liquid lubricant. Grease just gets gummy in cold weather, especially on a smaller gadget such as the starter dog.

If your electric starter sounds like it is spinning but it is not turning the engine over, then chances are the starter gear is frozen to it's shaft. Thaw with safe heat. To help prevent freezing, a light lubricant on the gear shaft is recommended. On some machines you may be able to use a spray lube with the plastic nozzle extension on the shaft without removing the starter - but removal of the starter may be required. That way you can slide the gear all the way out and spray the shaft with low temp lube underneath where the gear slides or parks when not in use.

7) No start: A snow blower that ran fine the last snow storm but now won't start, especially if it is very cold out, might just have a small amount of moisture in the tank, fuel line or carb that is frozen. Thawing out safely and adding gas line anti-freeze should do the trick but, if there is too much water in the fuel, you may have to remove the fuel line and drain the tank. But that doesn't remove water in the carb. Some older snow blowers have a spring loaded drain on the bottom for that purpose. If not, you can crack the high speed adjustment screw or jet (as the case may be) open a few turns to drain the float bowl. This a messy job as the fuel usually goes in all directions or down your arm so have a coffee can and some rags ready.

Removing the carburetor or bowl itself is best left to a trained technician. But if you feel confident enough to try it yourself, be warned that if removing the float bowl (assuming it has a float type carburetor) is done in the horizontal position, the float and /or float needle can fall out. It is best to prop the unit up safely on it's nose with an empty or near empty fuel tank. With clean rags and coffee can at the ready, the bowl can then be carefully removed and cleaned out. Carefully remove the float and check by shake it to determine if it has water or ice inside. If it does, replace with a new one and consider a carburetor rebuild kit while you are at the parts store.

Note: Some snow blowers have a diaphragm carburetor, and regardless of design, should have a carburetor kit installed if you are disassembling. Older Briggs engines with diaphragms have the carburetor bolted to the top of the gas tank and have to be removed as a unit.

As you can see, some preventative maintenance can go a long way towards avoiding cold weather freeze ups. If you are mechanically inclined but, can't afford a mechanic, purchase a repair manual to help you with your project. It's a good investment towards doing the job right the first time and it will feel good to do the job yourself.

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Coleman BlackCat PerfecTemp Catalytic Heater with InstaStart Technology by Coleman

Possess the Perfect Coleman BlackCat PerfecTemp Catalytic Heater with InstaStart Technology For Your Needs

It usually is that easy to look at an innovative Coleman BlackCat PerfecTemp Catalytic Heater with InstaStart Technology and put it off as just another creation that is just like most of the others available, especially if there are numerous versions presently available. Not only does possessing a big variety frequently cause it to be tough for the shopper to choose what one to shop for, it means that being a Coleman we have to work harder to generate a creation that is way greater than any of the remainder of them available.

Coleman BlackCat PerfecTemp Catalytic Heater with InstaStart Technology

Keeping this in mind, Coleman has determined that we should not merely create a different duplicate of the products that already are out there. Instead that which we desired to carry out is offer you with the perfect Coleman BlackCat PerfecTemp Catalytic Heater with InstaStart Technology. Our company's investigation staff researched the concepts presently being manufactured and then looked over that which you really wanted in this variety of product before they even started to draw out the earliest style. Their only objective would be to give you a product which was different from any you have ever seen.

We're also pleased to be able to state that what they invented may be the best Coleman BlackCat PerfecTemp Catalytic Heater with InstaStart Technology currently available. We've built in every one of the features you've been hoping to see for a long time and then added a few of our own additional unique details which we are positive you'll find make our latest product really worth the exceptionally cheap price we are asking for the item.

Coleman BlackCat PerfecTemp Catalytic Heater with InstaStart Technology
List Price : $84.99

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A great portable heater to take with you on a camping trip, to a sports outing or in your golf cart, the Coleman BlackCat InstaStart Heater features a 3000-BTU heater that will run for up to 7 hours on a single 16.4-ounce can of propane (sold separately). The BlackCat features PerfecTemp Catalytic technology, for safe, efficient, flameless heat, while Coleman's InstaStart battery ignition provides push-button, matchless lighting. A convenient switch offers both High and Low temperature settings for more control. The BlackCat Heater's legs fold up for easy storage, and an easy-grip handle provides comfortable, convenient carrying. Limited 5-year warranty.

Feature

  • Powerful 3,000-BTU heating unit
  • Runs up to 7 hours on one 16.4-oz. propane cylinder (sold separately)
  • InstaStart ignition for easy, matchless lighting
  • PerfecTemp Catalytic technology for safe, efficient flameless heat -- at the game, in the tent, in the garage or around the home
  • High and low temperature settings

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

RV Living Verses Apartment Living

A few years ago we made the decision we would travel the united states inside a semi-upon the market condition. We started the kids (throughout 21), offered the house and bought a motorhome. Well live situations change and that we did not get on the highway, a minimum of not. We wound up remaining in the region and taking full-time jobs. But we made the decision at that time to remain in the RV as full-timers.

The objective of the content would be to offer some insight regarding the options of utilizing RV's rather than flats and the benefits of Rving. First just a little background for individuals that do not know the Motorhome (RV) terms. RVs has sorted out into a number of different groups.

Class A would be the bus like automobiles the thing is traveling in the future. Forms of known as Motorhomes and permanently reason. Class A's would be the cream from the crop as they say. Those are the most costly when it comes to cost but possess the most storage and amenities. I've come across some great Class A's and when the time comes for all of us to upgrade or exchange our current RV we are searching in the Class A again. However, my tastes begin in the 0,000 range, that is a little hard that i can justify.

Next are Class B, they are small motorhomes. They're built on the medium to light truck chassis and could be recognized through the truck cab appearance from the vehicle. For me, these won't be appropriate for full-time use unless of course you actually like small places. Some more recent Class Baloney are including what exactly are known as 35mm slides that are parts of the RV that 'slide out' in the body providing you with more living area inside. Living area is what you should be searching for over time.

Following the Class B comes Fifth Wheels. Fifth Wheels are trailers which are drawn by pickups. So to obtain a fifth wheel additionally, you will require a pickup of appropriate size. I'd figure a minimum of a ¾ ton pickup. Fifth wheels present an edge on Class A and sophistication B for the reason that after you have the 5th wheel set on a campground, the18 wheeler is detached and can be used an easy method of transportation. With Class A &lifier B RV's you will have to either tow or bring another vehicle along with you to obtain around. Fifth wheels approach the category A RV in amenities and perhaps convey more space. Dollar for dollar you're going to get more living area inside a fifth wheel than the usual Class A.

However, you need to do require an costly tow vehicle (truck) which needs to be looked at included in the purchase. The 5th wheel can also be a part of a category regarded as 'Towables'. The following 'towable' may be the travel trailer (TT). These are the same fifth wheel with the exception of the connections towards the tow vehicle. With TT you connect with a hitch that sits close to the bumper from the vehicle. Hence, nearly any vehicle has got the abilities of towing a TT based on weight and size obviously. Class A, Fifth Wheels and Travel Trailers would be the 3 primary RV that might be people residing in on the fulltime basis. Following the TT comes the camper class. They are lightweight RV not really appropriate for full-time, however, I've met people who are full-timers in pop-ups, truck campers as well as tents. The top quality for that camper class is most likely the18 wheeler campers.

They are models that slide in to the mattress of the pickup. Generally, the max length is a maximum of 12 ft from tailgate to cab and perhaps 10 ft sideways. They're very compact. These provide the epitome of freedom, for the reason that they're quick to create and take lower to ensure that you are able to move rapidly around. However, similar to the class A &lifier B, your house is also your transportation, unless of course you bring another vehicle along with you. The final number of towables may be the popup or tent trailers. These possess a study box frame and because the title suggests appear or raise to boost the rooftop within the frame. These kinds of campers will often have soft sides made from cloth. I have tried personally advertisements popping for a long time instead of hotels during projects round the country. Even did some camping in the center of winter with snow on the floor inside a popup. Obviously, a heater was needed also it went all day long and through the night. During the night it had not been able to maintain the cold therefore the morning would be a little fun escaping . of mattress. It had been 20 levels outdoors contributing to 50 inside.

That's a fundamental summary of the kinds of RV's available. As pointed out before, Class A, Fifth wheel and Travel Trailers would be the models that many individuals will find appropriate for full-time living.

Our encounters with living full-amount of time in a motorhome.

We presently possess a fifth wheel. Ours comes from Jayco and it is 38 ft lengthy with 3 35mm slides. One slide is incorporated in the bed room, another two 35mm slides have been in the family room one on both sides from the trailer. After almost three years within the RV as full-timers, both of us like it. My spouse loves to express it takes under an hour or so to wash from tailgate to cab, floor to ceiling.

Let us begin with the financial side of just living inside a RV. You will find the price of the RV. These should be treated much like cars. If you purchase new, you'll have a beating on depreciation. However, just like a home, the eye is tax deductible. So the best offer appears to become a unit that's a couple of years old and funded. If you wish to buy new, figure a price reduction of approximately 25-30% removed from their email list cost. Our unit would be a 2003 still around the lot in 2005 using the 2006 models being shipped. The car or truck was over ,000. We compensated ,000 saving us about 38 percent. Now at that time we was without a tow vehicle therefore the dealer shipped the 5th wheel to some close by campground.

Oak Grove in Hatfield, PA is really a all year round campground. This will be significant. You need to look for a campground that provides all year round procedures. You won't want to need to re-locate within the winter season. Lots of camping grounds close from November to March or early April. Whenever we began there our rent was 5 per month and incorporated water and electric. Our only other expense was gas for heating and warm water. Oak Grove provided 2- 100 lb gas tanks plus they instantly transformed the tanks for all of us. This is actually nice, type of like automatic oil delivery whenever you possess a house. Throughout the warmer several weeks we hardly use any gas, perhaps a bottle almost every other month in the event that. However, winter season we'll use 3-4 bottles per month because of the heater. Presently gas runs about a bottle. So in the perspective of leasing a condo to residing in a motorhome expenses are usually cheaper. My daughter pays 0 per month to have an apartment near us and that we pay normally 5-450.

Other advantages of residing in a RV - people! The folks you discover camping are the prettiest folks you'll ever run into. They're friendly, useful, youthful in mind and merely plain nice to be with. We've been enthusiastic campers since before i was married. I did previously sneak lower to P where my spouse (girlfriend at that time) and her family were camping and pitch a tent, make myself area of the family. Within the almost 4 decades we've been together and camping we've never met anybody which was rude, a crook, or otherwise prepared to help if requested. Actually we've had more offers of help without asking than anytime we resided inside a house or apartment.

It's funny, however when I traveled and remained at hotels, you almost felt just like a ghost or leopard or something like that. Paradise forbid should you stated 'hi' to a person within the elevator or hallway. However when camping, everybody waves while you walk by, many will offer drinks and have you sit through the fire and chat for hrs. Its like many of us are family.

Talking about fires, what exactly is it in regards to a fire? To sit down lower during the night around a pleasant fire is really relaxing. Nothing must be stated, just watch the flames also it appears all of the stress just floats away. But campfires have another advantage, food. Nothing is more enjoyable than food cooked over a wide open fire. Try doing that within an apartment.

Rving has another advantage, holidays. If you reside within an apartment, you vacation contain seeing a destination, getting a hotel/motel, eating at restaurants each meal, and taking enough clothes along with you for the size of the holiday. Whenever you reside in a RV, your house complements you. 30-40 minutes to bring along the RV, disconnect the utilities and hook up with the18 wheeler and you're simply on the highway. When you are getting for your destination, another 30-40 minutes and you're simply prepared to benefit from the sites. Foods are no problem, you've got a complete kitchen already filled much like in your own home, as it is home. On the special diet? Not a problem, you normal routine is continuous. Clothes get dirty, lots of RV include washing machines and hairdryers, so that you can do your laundry while using the nights or before getting began during the day. Rving is generally cheaper too. When comparing the price there is a RV trip will be a lot less expensive than hotel/restaurant trip.

These are merely a couple of of the things that to think about whenever you take a look at residing in a condo verse residing in a RV. I think you'll have discovered the data helpful.

Sunday, April 21, 2013

The pros and cons of Dry Camping

One of the key advantages of RV travel is that all it takes to technically start camping is to throw the motorhome or tow vehicle into "Park." With most vehicles being highly self-sufficient - even away from the power grid and water hookups of your average campground - any stretch of land can become an impromptu campsite for the night. A secluded spot next to a stream. An empty field or a deserted parking lot. Yes, even Aunt Edna's driveway, if you're so inclined.

Such features as an onboard generator and/or inverter, LP tank(s), fresh water supply, and holding tanks make such a reality possible. That is, assuming you know what you're doing. Surely, the temptation to dry camp or boondock, where travelers camp in one way or another away from standard campsites and hookups, appeals to the gypsy spirit in many of us at some point and time. And there are other reasons, too.

Me, Myself, and I
A sense of community is always nice, but sometimes being thrown into the mix at the local campground isn't exactly what you're looking for. Larger campgrounds may swell to thousands of campers on a busy weekend; poorly laid out parks stack RVs one right on top of each other. Where did all these people come from? While no one can deny the benefits of full hookups, hot showers, game room, and mini-mart, frankly, established campgrounds are not for everybody. Even the five-star RV resorts that do everything from back in your RV to massage your feet might sometimes miss the point. You want to get away from it all, and that means blazing your own trail. Setting up the travel trailer at the secluded fishing hole. Maneuvering the motorhome through the deepest reaches of the dense forest until you find the perfect spot. Ah, now that's more like it. No sounds of idling diesels next-door, no kids playing Frisbee through your campsite. Just you, your crew, and nature. Isn't this the way it was supposed to be?

Location, Location, Location
An RV trip isn't always to popular destinations, where campsites are plentiful. Some folks, who take the second-home concept seriously, choose to set up their rig for an extended stay in a place where an established campground might not be found. For example, that fold-down camper of yours might work admirably in grandma's backyard during your lengthy visit. Best of all, the grandkids are nice and close. Or perhaps it's the part-time job that's got you working at the Christmas tree lot, volunteering at that State Park, or selling your wares at a regional art show that requires on-site living sans hookups? Patient's families have been known to "camp out" at the hospital, in order to be close to a loved one during a time of crisis. Furthermore, those whose hobbies take them far off the highways - such as motor sports enthusiasts, rock climbers, or boaters - often won't find better nightly accommodations than their RVs. Different situations call for different accommodations, and your RV is ready for any of it.

Drastic Times Call for...
The couple was absolutely dumbfounded by the no vacancy signs up and down Pennsylvania's Interstate-80. They looked everywhere, by the end of the night just hoping for any campsite, anywhere. Unfortunately, it was fall foliage season and every single place was booked. Sound familiar? It's getting late and everyone's exhausted? Somebody forgot to make the reservations and things are looking a little grim. Any RV maverick who heads for a prime tourist spot in-season knows full well how quickly campgrounds can fill up, often forcing a decision of where to beach the rig for the night. Truth is, sometimes boondocking is a necessity - even if you don't particularly like the idea of bunking down in a Wal-Mart parking lot or deserted field. If you're not going to be a stickler about making reservations, it's best to work out dry camping skills in advance - before you have to use them.

Money Woes
Compared to even a moderately priced motel, most RV parks, campgrounds - even plush RV resorts - are terrific deals. A night spent at a state or national park is cheaper still, bolstered by the kinds of bedazzling views one won't find just any old place. However, there are those of the RVing sect who say hooey to the whole notion of paying to camp. After all, they already ponied up 0,000 for the motorhome, which is the premier full-time camping machine. By their thinking, every night spent parked in the woods or at a friend's house or catching zzz's at the truck stop is money in the bank. Of course, campground owners don't much like this free-wheelin' philosophy, but you can't beat the price of a night of dry camping.

The Can-Do Spirit
Many RVers started as tent campers, so we're used to the idea of roughin' it. And just because we made the transformation from soggy sleeping bag to comfy digs doesn't mean we no longer embrace - or at least pine for - the pioneering spirit. Many of us still cuddle our inner explorer and we get a thunderous sense of pride from camping out where few motorhome tires have tread before. We're talking about a spot so rustic that not even the pricey satellite dish works. Generating your own power, carrying your own water, feasting on fresh trout or a pantry full of canned goods is a sure-fire way to restore one's swagger - regardless if it's in a ,000 truck camper or 0,000 diesel-pusher. Free camping can be found throughout many of the million acres governed of the Bureau of Land Management and National Wildlife Refugees.

Before You Go...
However, contrary to popular belief, the world is not your oyster. One cannot simply park their vehicle anywhere they please and throw out the welcome mat. There are laws to consider, etiquette to follow, and safety concerns to factor. Furthermore, different RVs offer different capabilities as far as boondocking is concerned. Many smaller towables lack the ability to generate their own power, lacking an onboard generator, inverter, or even solar power applications. Smaller fresh water tanks will limit the duration of the trip - and length of shower, for that matter - of any off-roading adventure. Is your RV up to the challenge? Are you? Here's a few things to consider before camping without a net.

Safety First
The problem with camping in Parts Unknown is just that - you just don't know. Is it safe or not? While every campground isn't necessarily Fort Knox, the reputable ones are well-lit, fenced-in, and offer the safety-in-numbers reassurance you won't get bunking at the truck stop or deepest, darkest woods. For me, every snap of a tree branch sends me into a deep, paranoid panic when parked in isolation. For others, it's all part of the natural experience. Still, one must never compromise the safety factor. If it's just a matter of spending the night before moving on in the morning, gravitate towards spots that are well-lit, fairly busy, and ideally located near the communal bond of another RV or two. Parked under a streetlight might not make for the best night's sleep you've ever had, but it does provide some assurances of safety. Moreover, make sure doors and windows are locked, possession brought inside for the night, and you know where the keys are in the case of a much-needed quick getaway. That, and a Louisville Slugger in case things ever get, ahem, interesting.

Legal Matters
While Wal-Mart has made it well-known how much they just love harboring RVers for the night, many potential landlords aren't so giving. Nor are some towns, which feel squatters may not be the best thing for the community - or the local businesses that profit from overnight guests. The fact is the land you're looking to camp on - be it in the back of a mall lot or next to a woodland stream - belongs to somebody. And that somebody probably isn't you. At the very least, one should always try to get the owner's okay before activating the slide-out and sending up the TV antennae for the big game. Otherwise, that tapping you hear on the side of the window at 4 a.m. might just be Officer Friendly looking to point you back on the highway. As a rule of etiquette, it's always nice to support a business that has allowed you to camp over for the night.

Is Your Rig Worthy?
The axiom is painful yet true: The smaller the RV, the less stuff it's got. Smaller fresh water tanks mean less aqua for drinking and washing, while minuscule holding tanks dictate fewer days spent in the wild before needing to purge. Keep this in mind before scheduling a two-week odyssey far away from civilization. As we mentioned, your vehicle may or may not have means to create electricity onboard, forcing owners to invest in a portable generator or inverter to do the work. On the flip side, a smaller unit is better when it comes to maneuvering you and your crew to more reclusive places. A camper van or truck camper is a superior off-road machine, capable of squeezing through the tight passages that a 40' motorhome or 60' worth of trailer and tow vehicle can only dream about. In short, don't write checks your RV can't cash. Know and respect your RV's limits, and plan accordingly. Moreover, what is the condition of the RV? Is everything working okay? Better be sure before you find yourself 20 miles away from a paved road with a flat tire or a dead battery. As you would before any trip, fully inspect the unit and stay on top of any preventative maintenance and routine service.

Ready, Set, Camp
Even if you never intend to spend one single, solitary moment camping away from full hookups and the predictable fun of a campground, it's still a good idea to at least know how what your RV is capable of - just in case. The best advice is to test your dry-camping skills in a safe environment. The smartest way is to get a no-hookup campsite (or get full hookups and don't use them the first night or two) to see how you do. Or just try things out in the driveway. You'll learn all-too-quickly you and your RV's learning curve. How fast does your family go through water? How much LP do you need for a weekend or more? How adept are you at cooking over a campfire if the LP gas runs out? How much can your generator handle at one time - or how good are you at conserving electricity? Ah, yes, conservation, the backbone of the dry camping experience. Here's some ways to get the most out of less.

Restore Power
If you run out of electricity, you run out of a lot. Fortunately, there are ways to keep that from happening, namely through the use of a generator or inverter to keep the batteries surging. Portable models aren't cheap, but are available to prolong your stays in the great outdoors. Otherwise, you'll need to adopt a highly disciplined approach to squeeze every bit of juice out of your batteries. Turn off all unnecessary lights and appliances when not in use. A few guilty parities are the water pump, electric step, or exterior lights, which all subtly eat up the amps. Forgo the blow dryer and air conditioner, which are big electricity-users. Park in the shade, on hot days, to keep the refrigerator from overworking, but still keeping things cool onboard. Don't keep playing with the slide-outs or spend the whole afternoon watching TV. Keep an eye on that monitor panel. You don't want the batteries to drain to zero. Remember: In a pinch, a decent-length drive can partially recharge your coach battery when readings begin to wane.

Water World
Not everyone has a 100-gallon water tank. For everyone who doesn't, it's time to conserve, considering that water is critical for cooking, cleaning, and hydrating the crew. How else are you going to make Kool-Aid? Thankfully, fresh water is pretty easy to maintain and re-supply if you should run out (Quick Mart, anyone?) Still, shorter showers (remember the in-and-out style of the "Navy" shower) and minimizing hand washing (use hand sanitizers when possible) should maintain water levels. Don't leave the water on when brushing teeth or washing dishes, either. If there are facilities nearby for showering and such, use them. And just think - the less water you use, the less goes into the holding tanks. It's a win-win. A final thought: Just because no one may be able to see you doesn't give you the right to dump the tanks during your boondocking adventures. We're on our best behavior, right? Fifty gallons worth of spewing gray and black water is no way to repay someone for using his or her property.

Pro-Propane
LP gas is a pretty hardy resource, meaning it's tough to run out if you have any decent-size tanks. However, our conservative approach should still be employed here as well. The best way to stretch the propane supply is to cook outdoors. A campfire is still the most fun and flavorful way to prepare a meal, a method that simply can't be replicated in the RV's oven no matter how you try. Snuffing out pilot light's when not in use will stretch your supply even further. Otherwise, go easy on the furnace and water heater.

Provisions
Overloading the RV is a bad thing. Running out of Mac N' Cheese 30 miles from the nearest town isn't too good, either. Dry-campers must walk the line between loading up and overloading, which is hopefully something that comes with experience. Spare canned goods, firewood, and portable cooking devices can go a long way when roughin' it - provided they don't tilt your vehicle into the overweight condition. If boondocking plans simply call for a night here and a night there, you probably won't run out of food or supplies. However, if the campout is of the epic variety, be realistic about how much of everything you might need and how easy it will be to get more. Bring extra food and water, if need be, since a hungry group quickly falls into mutiny mode. A few other possible items to include: portable grill/cooking grate, charcoal, fishing poles and tackle box, extra blankets, alkaline batteries, cell phone, first aid kit, tool kits, hatchet/saw, manual can opener, cooking tools, and bug spray. And don't head into the woods with the fuel tank on "E." Chances are your generator will munch on some of the fuel and dry camping is no time to run out of gas.

Friday, April 19, 2013

Mr. Heater MH15T Single Tank-Top Propane Heater by Mr. Heater

Mr. Heater MH15T Single Tank-Top Propane Heater
List Price : $63.69

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In any world filled up with remarkable gadgets that are meant to cause our lives simpler, it may be tough to visualize that something new or perhaps seriously improved can come along. Mr. Heater is here now to convey to you that not only have we designed a completely new Mr. Heater MH15T Single Tank-Top Propane Heater for you, but that what we have created will probably setback the opposition apart. Never before has anybody designed this sort of amazingly valuable product so we will provide you the possiblity to own one for you.

As you well realise it will take more than simply saying that something will be both cutting edge or improved upon to really make it thus. We recognized this as we started to make our new Mr. Heater MH15T Single Tank-Top Propane Heater and also have been driven to ensure that it's everything you may possibly actually need. We attempted to produce a product that would not only be better than something our competition placed on the marketplace, but could leave them so far behind that there's no way they can come close to making up ground.

Since you now know our Mr. Heater MH15T Single Tank-Top Propane Heater might be positioned as the greatest available on the market, what can we perhaps do to make it better yet? For starters we've included quite a few extras which none of the others on the market seem to have even thought of. However, since the genuine indication of a terrific product is in delivering authentic value, we've established the price so exceptionally reduced that they are flying off the shelves.

Click here to read the Mr. Heater MH15T Single Tank-Top Propane Heater full review & compare prices

Mr. Heater MH15T Single Tank-Top Propane Heater

Mr. Heater Single Tank-Top Propane Heater is mounted directly to a 20-pound propane cylinder and requires no electricity. It uses manual ignition, and reaches its full heat output in seconds as well as made of rugged durable materials. This has an safety shutoff which facilitates easy installation.

Feature

  • Mounted directly to a 20-pound propane cylinder and requires no electricity
  • Uses manual ignition, and reaches its full heat output in seconds
  • Safety shutoff
  • Mounts directly to 5- to 20-pound propane cylinders (not included)
  • Adequate ventilation must be provided; 1-year limited warranty

Sunday, April 14, 2013

How Safe Are Indoor Gas Heating units?

You will find always queries about the security of indoor gas heating units. Much continues to be promoted regarding the risks of using gas gas heating units in limited spaces, and the probability of deadly carbon monoxide poisoning occurring that has naturally made lots of people reluctant to make use of this kind of heating inside. However, many changes happen to be designed to gas heating units to be able to make sure they are dependable inside. Nowadays, if your gas heater is made for indoor use you don't need to bother with the possibility of utilizing it.

All modern indoor gas heating units have built-in security features, which assist them to be utilized with full confidence inside. Actually, so many people are using large gas heating units to supply a lot of their heating nowadays, especially as gas gas is very cheap to make use of and easily available. Indoor gas heating units possess a built-in oxygen depletion sensor that will instantly identify if oxygen levels inside a room are shedding. When they get below a particular point the heater is instantly turn off.

The primary danger that also is available happens when people use gas heating created for outside use, inside rather. They don't have exactly the same security features, thus they aren't appropriate for indoor use. If you are using gas heating while camping, inside a tent or any semi enclosed space you have to make sure that there's sufficient ventilation.

You will find various sorts of appropriate indoor gas heating units available. Some are bigger models, for example gas fire places which are installed into walls that will generate lots of warmth for a whole room, usually moving the warmth around via using an built-in fan. More compact portable gas indoor heating units are created to ensure that they may be easily moved from area to area. These kind of heating units are wonderful to make use of to include additional heating to some room, or rooms that aren't directly connected to heating models. The more compact portable kinds of heating units will often have a little gas gas cylinder connected to the heater. The bigger stationary gas heating models obtain gas supply from an outdoors gas storage tank. They're venting, and then any poisonous gases are immediately shunted outdoors.

Using correctly designed indoor gas heating units pose no dangers to health. Should anything fail and also the unit malfunction, or even the gases not shunt outdoors because they should, the heater is made to instantly turn off. Gas heating is a superb standby in places that the electricity changes or chimes every so often too, and therefore getting a little portable gas heater is a superb option for backup emergency heating.

Friday, April 12, 2013

Conversion Van Camping Tips

Conversion van camping does not provide you with the luxury of existence within an RV, nor the discomfort of over sleeping a tent. It may be difficult to securely warmth a van during the night, but it is cheap in comparison for an RV, and you may go places they can't. We spent a lot more than 25 nights over sleeping our conversion van this past year.

Existence Inside A Conversion Van

Help make your van into something that's able to be used for you personally, particularly if it will likely be your residence for several days or days at any given time. For we, this meant getting space to maneuver. We got the 2 middle seats which, I convinced Ana, could be good armchairs for that family room. Only then do we had enough space for dressing or cooking. The bench-chair at the spine folds out right into a comfortable mattress, therefore we were ready for camping.

When you are traveling, you'll need a system of organization to maintain your space within the van livable. After our first lengthy trip, we observed the numerous things we not used at all. We've got more effective next. We are also effective in keeping the area open, despite transporting a lot of things, by utilizing plastic storage tubs you can purchase almost anywhere. They stack well, and when you'll need more room during the night, place them on the top. They are rainproof using the covers clicked on.

Heating A Conversion Van

Camping inside a van could be cold sometimes, because it was for all of us within the deserts of Arizona last winter. We began the van and started up the heater every now and then, only in short periods. The possibility of deadly carbon monoxide poisoning is simply too great to depart the vehicle running when you are sleeping.

We cooked to warm up the van. Our gas camping stove burned very clean. Whenever it had been cold, the time had come to prepare dinner, breakfast, or tea. This heated the van nicely. Again, due to deadly carbon monoxide, I would not recommend ever sleeping having a gas burners going. Still, a quick warm-up is all that's necessary before you decide to crawl underneath the blankets for that evening.

The key to heating a conversion van when camping is to stop. Enjoy meal time warm-ups, but unless of course you've electric energy, I'm not sure of the safe method to warmth a van through the night. Rather, you are able to warmth her. Put on warm clothing. Bring more blankets than you believe you will need. Make a thermos bottle filled with hot coffee each evening, for it to be waitng for you personally each morning. You're able to warm the van whenever you allow it to be, and warm-up her consuming it in the morning.

Benefits Of Conversion Van Camping

Traveling and camping inside a conversion van costs under within an RV. The first cost will be a lot less if you purchase used, once we did, and the price of driving it's substantialy less. We averaged 18 mpg on our last mix-country trip. Most motorhomes are lucky to obtain 1 / 2 of that, and they are very costly to keep.

In comparison with tent camping, a van is a lot more comfortable. Even when you backpack, you're most likely likely to drive some type of vehicle to anywhere you go. Having a van, you are able to come inside whether it begins to rain. If you are backpacking a lengthy way at home, it can save you on hotels around the drive back and forth from the trailhead.

Camping could be much more comfortable within an RV, although not in most ways. It's nice, for instance, to fit anywhere. We have taken naps in parking lots, and no-one was the smarter, because of tinted home windows, curtains, and also the inconspicuousness of the van. In a free campground in Florida we've got the very best place, on the bank looking over Lake Talquin, because our van was sufficiently small to suit there, unlike the majority of the RVs.

It is good to have the ability to drive anywhere. Within the conversion van, camping wherever we're if this will get dark isn't any problem. Finally, some bigger RVs drag a vehicle around since the large rig just is not simple for daily driving. Our coversion van is another home AND our primary vehicle for shopping or likely to work. That's flexibilty.

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

ZODI Outback Gear Hot Tap HP Instant Shower from Zodi

ZODI Outback Gear Hot Tap HP Instant Shower
List Price : $269.95

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Prior to you make any decision for your house improvement you must be sure that you will probably get a great item for yourself. Form above truth, Zodi try to appropriate the most important cause of generating the item ideal for you. And in the moment we're incredibly proud to present to you our fantastic ZODI Outback Gear Hot Tap HP Instant Shower the smart thought for your house. And we're willing to do whatever its take to produce our item is excellent sufficient for each and every property.

Zodi is attempting to produce the most effective or this newest item for the market. By the really clever skill of our technicians created this item ideal for you. Although you will find numerous related goods with our item from yet another factory everywhere specially on the web, we're confident that with our exceptional top quality and clever thought of generating this item will confirm you and everybody that this fantastic ZODI Outback Gear Hot Tap HP Instant Shower is develop specially for each and every property which includes your house too. We have been modifying this item with all our experience to produce this item be the most conclusion property improvement item on the web worldwide.

So we're really convinced that ZODI Outback Gear Hot Tap HP Instant Shower will be the great invention that you ever purchased. And you may fall in adore with this smart item and glad that you have a chance to obtain it for your beautiful property.

Click here to read ZODI Outback Gear Hot Tap HP Instant Shower full review & compare prices

ZODI Outback Gear Hot Tap HP Instant Shower

The Zodi Hot Tap HP is packed with performance! This self-contained high output double burner portable hot shower system heats unlimited water instantly. The Hot Tap HP includes matchless push button ignition for extra convenience and a 4-gallon multi-purpose storage case for ultimate portability. The Hot Tap HP is our best compact instant hot shower featuring ultra-durable all-steel construction for all season use.

Feature

  • Self-contained, high-output hot water shower that sets up anytime, anywhere
  • Attaches to pair of 16.4-ounce propane cylinders or 5-gallon propane tank (with kit)
  • 6-volt water pump with pushbutton ignition; 8-foot hose with showerhead
  • 4-gallon storage case doubles as water tank (holds enough water for 10-minute shower)
  • Temperature adjusts up to 100 degrees F; case measures 14 x 12 x 12 inches (W x H x D)

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

LB Whitened Premier TS080 80K BTU Gas Tent Heater





Find Out More: http://goo.gl/cfD9a Product Information:Remote Thermostat IncludedTotally Enclosed FlameEasy Start Electronic IgnitionOutput of 450 CfmService Sav...

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Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Gas Camping Showers: What Sets the very best Apart?

Why is the very best gas camping showers much better than the rest of the options? Camping shower reviews will help you evaluate the data you will get on these easy-to-use portable hot shower options so that you can with confidence choose the very best option for your requirements. If you are wondering what sets the very best gas showers aside from the relaxation, here's a listing of features to search for if you are searching for the very best in portable gas showers:

When Needed Heating: The very best gas showers currently available offer when needed heating which takes your water from chilly to some hundred levels within 10-seconds. Coleman has their "Hot-Water-On-Demand" model, however they aren't the only real band offering warm water when you wish it. Camping Chef has got the Triton on demand warm water heater and Zodi has numerous warm water when needed options. Most will need some re-circulation to obtain water warmer than 100°F though, and all sorts of will need some longer to warm up water that's near freezing.

Easy Ignition: The very best gas camping showers include easy push-button ignitions where you can start the heating mechanism with no lighter. Which means you get the shower ready to go more rapidly, and it's not necessary to fuss by using it for lengthy before getting a warm shower.

Temperature Gauge: It's wise to possess a gas shower that demonstrates how hot water is. Since some could possibly get water to warm up to more than 100 levels, you risk scalding yourself by testing water manually rather than having faith in a thermometer.

Temperature Controls: The very best camping showers will help you to easily control the temperature of the shower to ensure that you will get water lukewarm or super hot. Temperature controls ought to be sensitive enough that you could adjust the temperature with a couple of levels if required.

Bulk Tank Option: Most gas camping showers are intended to be elope of the standard 16 oz disposable gas canister, but getting a choice of a bulk tank ripper tools is definitely convenient. Getting the opportunity to elope of the bigger, refill-able tank permit you to run the shower for extended without needing to bring extra more compact tanks to change out and in.

Battery Powered Pump: Gas camping showers include two various parts, normally - the heat tank and also the pump unit that really gets into the tank or water supply. Battery power operated pump is much more convenient than the usual hands-operated pump, making this most likely what you would like to search for in your camping shower.

Of course, it's wise to check out camping shower reviews before determining around the shower which will best meet your requirements. Not the suggestions above features are essential, however they make utilizing a portable shower easier and simpler to make use of. Searching for a baby shower with excellent reviews and also the above features will help you select the right gas camping shower around.