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Coleman Lay-Z Spa Inflatable Hot Tub Review

Last updated on June 7, 2016 By Alex Leave a Comment

Coleman Lay-Z Spa Inflatable Hot Tub reviewWant to add a hot tub to your patio but don’t think that you can afford it? With a cheap inflatable hot tub, you can! The Coleman Lay-Z Spa Inflatable Hot Tub is designed for those yearning for the hot tub experience minus the hefty price tag. Check out this review to see if this inflatable hot tub is well-suited for your pampering needs. Based on consumers we surveyed, it is one of the most sought after inflatable hot tubs on the marketplace. Like a hard hot tub, this product is a large tub filled with hot, bubbly water can be used for recreation or physical therapy purposes. Unlike a hard hot tub, this product is portable; thus, is easy to take it wherever you go.

Coleman Lay-Z Spa Inflatable Hot Tub has outer walls made from fabric coated material and an insulated aluminum foil coated pool cover that keeps the water extra warm. This product comes with a DVD explaining how to setup the inflatable hot tub.

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Top Features

  • Lay-Z Massage System – One of the top features is the hydromassage system powered by 120 bubble jets.
  • Rapid Heating System – This system allows to the hot tub’s water temperature to escalate as high as 104 degrees Fahrenheit within 24 hours. The water temperature rises 2 to 3 degrees Fahrenheit per hour.
  • Integrated Water Filtration- This system ensures that the water is clean. The water filtration automatically comes on when the heating system is activated. When the heating system is turned off, the water filtration remains on.
  • Digital Control Panel- This control panel is used to activate the bubbles and adjust water temperature of the inflatable hot tub. It comes with an automatic Start/Stop timer to adjust the heating system in which allows the user to set the temperature they wish (Note: maximum temperature is 104 degrees Fahrenheit). Also, it comes with child-lock safety.
  • Sturdy I-Beam Construction- The hot tub uses I-Beam construction to ensure sturdiness while users to sit on the sides.
  • Cushioned Air Pad Floor- An air pad cushioned floor sits underneath the inflatable hot tub. This feature aids in insulation by reducing the loss of heat

Coleman Lay-Z Spa Inflatable Hot Tub features

What We Like About The Coleman Lay-Z Spa Inflatable Hot Tub

  • Low Cost Hot Tub- Getting a quality hot tub under $500 – $700 is attainable with this product.
  • Very Portable- Being that the product is inflatable, the user can take it wherever they go
  • Durable & Sturdy- The hot tub is made of a TriTech 3 ply reinforced material that ensures durability. The I-Beam construction gives the inflatable hot tub a sturdy frame strong enough for users to sit on the side.
  • Keeps Water Warm- The hot tub’s rapid heating system ensures the water temperature stays between 98 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Very Relaxing- The Lay-Z Massage System (equipped with bubble jets) guarantees the user a relaxing and soothing experience
  • Easy Setup- The product comes with a DVD that shows the user how to install the inflatable hot tub. In addition, the DVD shows the user how to maintain the hot tub. Installation takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
  • Excellent Customer Service- If a user ever had issues with the hot tub, they can contact Coleman’s customer service. Most users who have called their customer service has described them as friendly and courteous.

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What We Don’t Like About The Coleman Lay-Z Spa Inflatable Hot Tub

  • Not big enough to host a party- Coleman Lay-Z Inflatable Hot Tub can hold only 4 people in most cases. Of course, that is not ideal if a user wanted to host a party of more than 4 people.
  • Not able to use under 40 degrees Fahrenheit- If the temperature outside dips under 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the hot tub’s heating system shuts off. So if you stay in a cold climate place, this may not be the most ideal hot tub.
  • Water does not warm up fast enough- It takes about 24 hours for the hot tub to reach the maximum temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit. There are other hot tubs on the market that heats up faster than that.
  • Filters need to be clean daily and changed weekly- The water filters need to be cleaned daily and changed out weekly when the hot tub is use. This could be a problem for people who are extremely busy.

Best Suited For

  • A couple- Since the seat capacity is 4 to 6 people, this product would be well-suited for a couple
  • People who want a low-cost hot tub – It cost under $500 – $700 so it is a great bargain for those in the market for a budget-friendly cheap hot tub.
  • Those who have time to maintain product- Since the water filters needs to be cleaned daily and changed weekly, time must be put aside for proper maintenance.

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Coleman Lay-Z Spa Inflatable Hot Tub features

Not So Great For

  • A party- The 4 to 6 people seat capacity is not ideal for a party-setting
  • Those looking for a hot-tub that heats quickly- It takes about a day to reach maximum temperature.
  • Busy people- This product requires daily care to maintain it.

The Verdict

While it doesn’t heat faster and has less space than a hard hot tub, this product is well worth the investment. For consumers searching for an affordable and portable hot tub that is of good quality, the Coleman Lay-Z Inflatable Hot Tub will meet their requirements.

Ultimate Leaf Blower Buying Guide 2017

Last updated on August 5, 2017 By Alex Leave a Comment

If you find yourself with a yard full of leaves and other organic debris, what would you do? When I was growing up, my dad had one of those old manual metal rakes with the wood handle. He would rake everything into a few files in our yard – all by hand. And, if my brother and I didn’t jump in the leaf piles first, he would then bag up the leaves into some of those large, black trash bags by hand. He would do this by grabbing the rake close to the metal part and using it as sort of a dustpan to make the process a little quicker.

Each of us has different personal preferences and needs, but I want to help you do a little comparison shopping on leaf blowers to select one that will keep your yard looking its best.

Want to See Leaf Blowers Online? Click Here to Go to Amazon

Top 10 Best Leaf Blowers 2016 - 2017 (Editor Picks)

Black and Decker BV3600 12 Amp Blower VacBlack and Decker BV3600 12 Amp Blower Vac
Greenworks 24012 7 Amp Single Speed Electric 160 MPH Blower
Toro 51619 Ultra Blower/Vac
Toro 51585 Power Sweep 7 Amp 2-Speed Electric Blower
Black and Decker LSW20 20-Volt Lithium Ion Cordless Sweeper
Hitachi RB24EAP 23.9cc 2-Cycle Gas Powered 170 MPH Handheld Leaf Blower
Earthwise CB20018 18-Volt Cordless Blower
Black and Decker LSWV36 40V Lithium Ion Sweeper/Vac
Black and Decker LSW36 40-Volt Lithium Ion Cordless Sweeper
Husqvarna 965877502 350BT 1.6 kW 50.2 cc 7500 rpm 180 MPH Backpack Leaf Blower with 2.1 HP X-Torq engine

While you can still clean up dead leaves and organic yard waste by hand like my dad did, I bet you would rather have pretty much ANY leaf blower to help you clear them out of the yard. You can use the interactive chart of the best leaf blowers for the money down below, as well as my reviews and analysis of each tool, to find the best leaf blower for you.

The leaf blowers that I have included on this chart actually only begin to scratch the surface of what is available for purchase. So many manufacturers and models exist that there is no way that I could have listed all our top rated models. However, many exceptional leaf blowers are included at every price range and from a variety of quality makers.

I hope you find success using this chart to get started on shopping for your new yard tool.

Do You Need to Buy A Leaf Blower?

A good leaf blower vac is a great yard tool for getting rid of leaves that are cluttering up the lawn. Unless you want to rake leaves by hand, you need to get one of these tools to rid your yard of leaves.

The blowers are available in two main different power offerings – gas or electric. You can also find a few battery operated leaf blower models. For the fastest leaf blower, you need to go with a gas model as they offer the quickest removal. However, they are considerably noisier than electric models. And, if you live in a neighborhood with noise restrictions, then you will likely not be able to make much use of a gas powered leaf blower vac.

Fortunately, the electric models are not far behind in speed and are often cheaper in price. In fact, if you compared gas leaf blowers to electric leaf blowers, then you will likely discover that the lower price and noise level make the electric a pretty decent trade off compared to the quicker gas model. Plus, they are better for the environment.

How To Find A Leaf Blower That Meets Your Needs

If you are looking at the handheld electric blowers, know that they offer enough power for even big jobs. However, they often need to be with 100 feet of an electrical outlet.

With a handheld gas blower, you can go anywhere since there is no cord. However, that fuel tank results in extra weight that you have to carry. It also comes with more noise and higher costs. And remember, your safety with the leaf blower is most important so don’t buy something that is too heavy for you to carry safely.

Backpack leaf blowers offer a good solution to carrying the weight of the blower, since it takes the stress from your arms and puts it on your shoulders and back. Of course, a good backpack leaf blower isn’t the best choice for everyone.

And if you have an abnormally large yard with a lot of leaves to remove, then a wheeled leaf blower may be the best bet for you. That being said, this is the most expensive model and it can sometimes be difficult to control and push.

Before making a decision or purchase, you should first check to ensure that you are not in an area that prohibits or restricts the usage of leaf blowers. The Noise Pollution Clearinghouse maintains a database of this type of information, but you can also check with your community or HOA.

Ask yourself if you need equipment that also functions as a vacuum. A lot of the handheld leaf blowers that are available for purchase are also capable of picking up yard debris. Of course, they have relatively small tubes which limits how much debris you can actually pick up with the machine. If getting a model that offers this capability is important to you, then I suggest looking for one that has a metal impeller as opposed to the nylon versions. Doing this will ensure that your blower vac can ingest leaves and twigs while standing the tests of time.

Features can be an important consideration factor when comparing leaf blowers. If you expect to be doing a lot of sweeping of leaves, then go with a flatter nozzle. However, if you want to loosen leavens, then choose the model with a rounded nozzle. If you choose a model with adjustable speeds, then you will easily be able to go at a lower speed around your flower beds. And if you want to easily be able to know when your gas blower is low on fuel, opt for a model with a clear gas tank.

If you are going to be spending a lot of time out in your yard with this thing, then you may want to go with a model that saves you a little manual labor. The handheld models are usually easy to hold and comfortably fit in your hand. They balance good in your grip and some of them even have a second grip for more control. If you choose a model that has a bottom-mounted air intake as opposed to a side mount, then you have less tugging at your clothes when using it. And if you have a conveniently located shut-off switch, then you will be able to quickly cut off the motor or engine if you need to do so.

Regardless of which model you decide to purchase, it is important to remember that these tools are quite noisy. As a result, you should purchase some safety headphones to protect your hearing. Goggles and a dust mask are other safety items that you will want to wear while using your leaf blower.

Electric or Gas Leaf Blower – Which Is Better?

Shopping for a new leaf blower to clear the debris from the yard can be an overwhelming experience. There are a number of different features and options that you can choose from when comparing leaf blowers, but fuel type might be one of the more important things to consider.

There is a pretty good chance that you are asking yourself one question – do I need a gas or electric leaf blower to clear my yard?

Typical Electric Leaf Blower Features

This type is primarily designed to be handheld while in use.

You can choose to get this type of leaf blower either as cordless or corded. For a cordless model, the tool with have a rechargeable battery for its power source. For the corded model, you will need to connect the tool to an electrical outlet for it to work.

Typical Gas Leaf Blower Features

You can choose between either a backpack or handheld design when it comes to gas powered leaf blowers.

Engines for this type of blower will be either two-stroke or a four-stroke.

What Are The Advantages and Disadvantages of Electric Leaf Blowers?

Electric models are generally cheaper than the gas models, which is beneficial for users on a budget.

The warranty for this type of blower is normally a short 60 to 90 days.

While this type of leaf blower is generally more lightweight than a gas model, you do have restricted mobility with it. If corded, then you can only go as long as the cord will reach. And if cordless, you can only use the tool for as long as the battery holds a charge. This can be a little at 10 minutes.

For the quietest experience, you should go with an electric blower as their engines emit less noise than gas models.

What Are The Advantages and Disadvantages of Gas Leaf Blowers?

For budget conscious consumers, a gas-powered model is normally a bit more expensive than the electric models.

You get a nice warranty on this type of model; usually about 5 year.

If you are in a hurry, then you should know that gas models are not only much more powerful but clear the debris quicker than electric models.

However, gas blowers are generally louder and emit more harmful emissions than electric models.

Since the blower has a gas tank, it will be heavier than an electric model.

Comparison Results

Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. In fact, the best type of leaf blower for you depends on your specific needs and budget.

My Top 3 Favorite Battery Operated Rechargeable Leaf Blowers

If you are in the market for leaf blowers that are rechargeable, then there are some great battery operated models for you to choose from. And the best thing about these models is that they tend to be a little cheaper than some of the other types of leaf blowers that are available. This is an environmentally friendly choice as their is no gas, oil or fumes. It is also better for your hearing since electric battery-powered leaf blowers have a quieter engine noise than the gas powered models.

The benefit to this type of yard tool is that it is cordless, however if you have a large yard then you may not be able to do it all at once if the battery does not hold the charge long enough. Of course, you get to miss out on the backache caused by hauling around those heavy gas powered blowers, so this is still a great choice. To help you narrow down the choices a little, I want to point out what I think are the three best battery powered leaf blowers for the money.

Black and Decker 36V Lithium Ion Sweeper Review

Black and Decker 36V Lithium Ion Sweeper

If you want a really powerful leaf blower with a rechargeable battery, then this Black and Decker model is your best bet for the money.

The battery charge lasts a LONG time so that you can complete even the biggest and toughest jobs. It only takes around an hour for this powerful battery to get a full charge.

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You can carry this one without much effort since it only weighs 4.7 pounds. And the handle has a soft gripper to fit comfortably in your hand.

This tool’s blow tube has a built-in scraper, which is perfect for clearing matted leaves and debris out of gutters and such. The warranty period is for 3 years.

Makita BUB182Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Blower Review

Makita BUB182Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Blower

Makita is one of the most trusted names in yard equipment, and for good reason. They make solid tools that can last for years and years while continuing to work perfectly. This blower is no exception to that.

The nice thing about this one is the motor offers three different speeds, with a max of 179 MPH.

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This one is the easiest of the three to hold as the handle is designed for a comfort grip. It makes it so much easier to hold this thing for a while if you have a lot of leaves or a large yard.

The compact design of this tool is quite impressive and it results in a super light piece of equipment. It weighs just 3.9 pounds, which makes it easy to use for even the worst of backs. You get a nice 3-year warranty on this one. And the battery only takes 30 minutes to fully charge!

Earthwise 20 Volt Lithium Ion Blower Review

Earthwise LB21018 18 Volt Lithium Ion Blower

This single speed leaf blower has rubber molded around the handle so that it fits comfortably in your hand. It is also very easy to carry because it is lightweight at just 4.8 pounds.

The speed you get with it is 140 MPH and it features a 18 Volt li-ion battery.

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You can easily and quickly clean a patio, deck or walkway with this blower. It comes with a 20-Inch tube that snaps on for extra reach and access. And with the lithium ion battery, you get more than enough charge to get the job done.

What Are The Best Backpack Leaf Blowers For The Money?

If you are interested in getting a backpack leaf blower to clear your yard debris, then you might want to start your shopping by comparing the products that are currently on the market. Checking out how current owners like me have rated their backpack blower can help you to determine which of the leaf blowers are the best bets for the money. The last thing that you want to do is to spend a chunk of change on one of these yard tools that ends up being a really bad product. I know that I haven’t has the chance to check out all the models that are available, but the ones below are those that I have been able to test.

1. Husqvarna 350BT 50.2cc 2-Cycle X-Torq Gas Powered 180 MPH Midsize Back Pack Blower Review

Husqvarna 350BT 50.2cc 2-Cycle X-Torq Gas Powered 180 MPH Midsize Back Pack Blower

I have to say that I really like this one right here (even though I’m not a huge fan go gas models). I love how lightweight it is – especially since I have a big yard. It is easy to handle and fits comfortably into my hand while in use.

Click here to view on Amazon

If you’re going to choose a gas model, then this one right is a good choice because it is very fuel efficient. That efficiency also means low emissions from it, which is a little better for the environment than your standard gas engine. I think one of the reasons this one has the good fuel efficient thing going on is the X-Torq engine, so don’t expect that of all gas models.

2. Husqvarna 560BTS 65.6cc 2-Stroke X-Torq Gas Powered 232 MPH Backpack Blower Review

Husqvarna 560BTS 65.6cc 2-Stroke X-Torq Gas Powered 232 MPH Backpack Blower

A buddy of mine has a landscaping business and he swears by this thing. So, I got him to let me take it for a test drive one afternoon and boy does this thing have some power! I’m not surprised since it is a commercial grade model that can be used by regular consumers, wow is it something.

Click here to view on Amazon

Like the model above, this one has one of those X-Torq engines for the better fuel efficiency and reduced the emissions going out in the air. I’ve noticed that this seems to be common for this brand, which is a definite benefit. I also noticed that this one feels a lot more comfortable in your hands than the one above, despite this one being a bit heavier. The ergonomic handle helps it feel right in your hands though.

3. Makita BBX7600N 75.6 CC 4-Stroke Backpack Blower Review

Makita BBX7600N 75.6 CC 4-Stroke Backpack Blower

This leaf blower is another one of the ones that my landscaping buddy uses with his employees. As you may have already guesses, it is another one of those powerful commercial models with a crazy strong engine that packs a lot of punch. heck, I bet if I used this on my yard, then I would be done in about half the time it normally takes me. That’s how powerful this thing is. With that in mind, if you’re not a pro, then I think this would only be a good option if you have a really, really big yard. Otherwise, it might be just overkill.

Click here to view on Amazon

The biggest disadvantage to this one is that it feels like it weighs a ton. It doesn’t matter how comfortable the handle feels at first cause this thing is heavy. In fact, it is so heavy that a lumbar support and padded straps are included with it! Yup, that’s heavy alright.

Leaf Blowers: CFM vs MPH – What Does It Mean?

Are you in the market for a leaf blower and need some help learning all the terminology and such? Well you’ve come to the right place because today I am going to show you some tips for purchasing a leaf blower. I am going to go over common terminology as well as provide you some tips so that you can get the best leaf blower your budget can afford.

Leaf blowers are commonly measured by their blowing strength. There are 3 common measures used to indicate a leaf blower’s strength which includes CFM, MPH, and CC. These might seem confusing for you at first but do not worry I will explain what they mean to you!

CC

Your CC stands for how large your engine is going to be

CFM

CFM refers to cubic feet per minute. So for example, 400 CFM means that every minute 400 cubic feet of air volume is pushed through the end of the nuzzle. CFM as of right now is generally the best factor to decide on because it seems that machines with a higher CFM have more power than the ones with a high MPH or CC.

MPH

MPH refers to the speed that the air reaches the end of the nozzle. These can seem like an important factor but if you have no power then your speed is going to be pretty useless if you can’t move anything.

MPH vs. CFM

A lot of people, when they first go to purchase a leaf blower assume that MPH is the largest factor, similar to how fast a car goes but generally speaking the CFM will determine how powerful your leaf blower is. Ideally you want a blower that is large in both these numbers. It’s always best to get a blower that both have power and speed.

Before you purchase your blower it is important that you check local guidelines to make sure that your leaf blower is not too loud or produces air pollutes that are banned in your area. Leaf blowers are known to cause a lot of problems in our environment as well as cause damage to hearing so keep those factors in mind as well.

Choosing a leaf blower can be hard just make sure that you do your research and learn the differences between them all so that you don’t end up owning two blowers instead of one.

Leaf Blowers Dangers: What You Need To Know

With so many cities and communities outright banning leaf blowers, it get to wondering why that is. In fact, plenty of news stories are articles warn against the dangers of leaf blowers. But what, exactly, are these dangers?

As pointed out by the Greenwich community organization, they can be pretty loud. So loud in fact that it can damage your hearing or anyone else in close range. Of course, you can just wear safety ear muffs or ear plugs to protect your own ears.

These yard cleaning tools are also a drag on the environment. A study out of California concluded that they emit a lot of pollution into the air. And when I say a lot, I mean a LOT. Half an hour use of one of these is apparently the equivalent of a car traveling 440 miles at a speed of 30 mph (who would go that slow for that long?!?). That is a heck of a lot of air pollution.

Another possible environmental issue involves top soil. It seems that these machines really do a lot of damage to top soil, which is kinda fragile to begin with. And it takes many, many years for top soil to recover.

If you want to read up some more on these dangers and how they might pertain to you, then start with the CleanHouston article on this topic.

You can also take a look at the video below to see what a gardener has to say on this topic…

Tips On Operating A Gas Leaf Blower

Whether you just recently became a home owner or are simply new to using a gas powered leaf blower, you should not start using one with out getting a little information on the best practices. While you may have seen landscapers using them and think that it looks fairly simple, there is a little more to it.

When operating a gas leaf blower, it is important to keep safety at the forefront of your mind. You do not want to be careless with the tool, otherwise someone may get hurt. You also do not want to annoy the neighbors with your usage.

In order to have the best results from your gas powered leaf blower, and practice safety, I suggest that you watch the video below to pick up a few tips. The video is the perfect introduction for someone who is new to using leaf blowers to clear yard debris.

How Much Power Do You Need In A Gas Leaf Blower?

When you start checking out all of the gas powered leaf blowers , you will notice that there is a lot of variety in terms of power offered. And the amount of power that you need really varies from on person to the next. Sounds a little confusing, right?

The answer here is that there is no single best power for a leaf blower (gas or electric). The truth is that you need to find that one that is the best solution for your unique needs. Sounds good, right? But now you might be wondering how you know which power level you actually need.

To help determine how much power you need in your gas leaf blower, I suggest you watch the video below to get more info.

Potential Environmental Impact of Leaf Blowers

Leaf blowers are commonly used for cleaning yards, maintenance and landscaping. People use them because they are good at what they do and make their lives so much easier, but just like everything that’s good there’s always a catch.

Leaf Blowers Environmental Impact

Let’s go over some of the common problems that have been found so far when we put leaf blowers to use:

  • When you use a leaf blower it produces air pollutes that are similar to driving a car. For example, using a blower for half an hour is the same as a car driving 440 miles at an average speed of 30mph. This only applies to gasoline powered blowers however, so keep that in mind.
  • The sound noises of these devices can be really hard on our earring. It has been shown through scientific research that any noise level over 75 decibels can be harmful to our health and cause hearing loss.

With the cons of using leaf blowers adding up one might argue that the negative out ways the positives. If you do decide to use leaf blowers be aware of what damage you are causing to the environment, we need to stop destroying our earth so going for an electric alternative is a step in the right direction at least.

Also, make sure that you use ear plugs or something to block out the loud noise that emits or else you will be deaf in no time. Try to go for a green alternative if you can, it will be better for you and your kids, and you can feel good about yourself or doing so.

In the end you should really just think about doing it by hand. This will give you exercise and besides is racking leaves really that hard to do? If for some reason you need a leaf blower try going for an electric version instead. Sure, it still uses energy but it’s definitely better for the environment none the less.

I hope this article helped to open your eyes to a deeper problem that exists in our world. Although I only listed the basics there are still more problems that leaf blowers cause such as destruction of habitat, loss of topsoil, and spreading allergies and diseases.

To give you an idea of the environmental impact, check out this video from the Studio City Neighborhood Council on why leaf blowers are illegal in Los Angeles.

Are Leaf Blowers Annoying?

annoyed kid

If you are considering purchasing a leaf blower for home use, then you may want to take a moment to consider how your neighbors might feel about this new addition to your yard tools arsenal.

You see, leaf blowers are incredibly loud (some more than others) and that noise level can be a bit of a nuisance to other people. And the longer you are using the tool, then the more annoying that sound is to everyone around you.

For instance, I live in a community where yard upkeep is included in the HOA fees. So, a landscape company regularly comes around and cuts the grass, trims the trees and shrubs and so on. And, of course, they use leaf blowers. And boy are they slow about it! With so many houses close together, it seems as if they are spending forever with that loud thing.

Of course, that won’t be the case with your use of the yard equipment.

When you are ready to use a leaf blower, it is a good idea to consider your neighbors (if you have any close by). Think for a moment how it would feel to you to hear that loud noise before you get up at 6 a.m. and start blowing around the leaves on your deck. Green Towns Guides has some thoughts on why they are so annoying right here.

You do not want to be the inconsiderate neighbor who angers everyone with the early morning loud noise. And take care that you are not blowing yard debris at people who may be passing by walking their dogs and such. You can be a responsible leaf blower owner.

Note that some communities have banned leaf blowers because they were deemed to be a nuisance to the local citizens. You do not want to be the person that is the catalyst for such an action.

Advantages of Gas Leaf Blower Backpack

Are you considering buying a backpack leaf blower but not sure if the style is for you? Learning the advantages of the tool will help you to make an informed buying decision as to if it meets your needs or not.

As you may already know, the backpack style of leaf blower does rest on your back and shoulders as you work to clear leaves and other yard debris. This can be a good thing as it means that you are not limited in terms of where you can travel in the yard to access the debris.

However, that tool can get a little heavy if it is one of the models with a large fuel tank.

Finding The Best Log Splitter For The Money

Last updated on February 18, 2016 By Alex Leave a Comment

wood splitterIf you’ve got some wood at home that needs cut, a good log splitter makes the job easier. When shopping for a log splitter, there are three different types – gas, electric and manual. The type of log splitter for you really depends on your needs and things like how much manual labor you want to put into the process, how much wood you have to work with and the conditions. Take a look below at my guide on the types of that you can buy, then keep reading to learn more about which one I use and like, as well as a few safety tips. I hope that I can help you come to a decision on which type wood splitter best meets your needs.

Top 10 Best Log Splitters 2016 - 2017 (Our Picks)

Anaconda 878 Slide-Hammer Manual Log Splitter
WEN 56206 6-Ton Electric Log Splitter
Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter
Timber Tuff TMW-11 Manual Log Splitter
Powerhouse XM-380 7-Ton Electric Hydraulic Log Splitter
''Easy-Split'' Wood Splitter
Ironton Horizontal Manual Hydraulic Log Splitter
Sun Joe LJ10M Logger Joe 10 Ton Manual Log Splitter
Powerhorse 3-Pt. Horizontal/Vertical Log Splitter
Boss Industrial EC5T20 Electric Log Splitter

Which Type of Log Splitter Do You Need?

Before buying a new log splitter, it is a good idea to know which type you should look for. This is important because you want to make sure that the equipment can handle the job. And likewise, you don’t want more of a machine than you really need. Generally speaking, if you need something that can split a lot of logs, then a gas powered log splitter is the better choice. They tend to offer higher tons in capacity. Electric log splitters are good enough for most people as they have a pretty reasonable processing capacity. And manual log splitters have the lowest capacity. Let’s look a little closer at each type now.

Electric log splitters are the most popular because they offer versatility and have the capacity to handle most projects. You can use one of these either inside or outside. So, if it’s too cold out, you can do your log splitting in the garage or basement with no problems. Typically electric log splitters run off a regular 120V electrical outlet. And, they are usually cheaper than the gas models.

Gas log splitters
have the highest processing capacity and they are the toughest models on the market. It doesn’t matter how knotty the wood is, because a gas powered log splitter can handle it all. If you need to do your log splitting away from home, most gas powered models come with a trailer hitch to make it easier. The disadvantage of this type of log splitter is that you can only use it outside because the gasoline creates fumes that are toxic if used inside. In fact, even when you’re outside the fumes can be strong and you should wear a mask. The other downside to this type of model is that it is the most expensive type of log splitter.

Manual log splitters are a good old school choice if you don’t mind putting in the manual labor. These typically have the lowest capacity and max out at around 10 tons. So, if you have a lot of wood to split, then this type should probably be avoided. However, these are the cheapest type of log splitters on the market. And you can use them inside and outside since their are now fumes.

The Log Splitter I Use At Home – My Review

WEN 56206 6-Ton Electric Log Splitter reviewIf you have a stack of wood out in the yard that needs to be split for firewood, then I suggest that you take a look at the WEN 56206 6-Ton Electric Log Splitter to determine if it is the perfect machine for the job.

Right now, this is the model that I’ve been using to deal with those trees I cut down for fire wood this winter. Based on my experience, this efficient electric log splitter is one of the best log splitters for the money when it comes to splitting logs for firewood at home.

I really like that it is not too big or not too small for the job that I need it to do. I find that the 6-ton capacity is just right for my household firewood projects like the clearing of a small areas of trees on my land. And for my budget, I found the price to be affordable which is one of the reason that I bought it. In fact, I think that this little machine is good for any homeowner who needs a quick and easy way to turn chopped down trees into manageable firewood.

One thing that I do want to point out is that this one right here is an electric model. I purposely chose it over a gas model cause I didn’t wanna be breathing in those gas fumes while I was working outside. Sometimes my son helps me, you see, and I really didn’t want him exposed to the gas smell since he’s just a kid.

And since the motor does use household current (and if you use an extension cord), it’s important that you use the proper one or this thing won’t function properly. A 50′ twelve-gauge extension cord is what you have to use with it. This is something that is very easy to overlook if you’re not used to dealing with this type of machinery, which is why I wanted to point it out.

I like that it is so easy to use too, without being too powerful for my son to help out (when he’s not texting his girlfriend!) But make no mistake, this thing does pack a punch. The 2HP, 15-amp motor uses up to 12,000 pounds of force when it splits the logs, which means that the job is a piece of cake if the wood is no bigger than 10″ in diameter and 20.5″ in length.

One thing that is unique about this model is that a two-hand operation is required. If you remove a hand, the ram goes back to its starting position. While this can seem frustrating at first, it is purposely designed this way for safety cause it means you’re less likely to get injured.

This model has 6″ tires so that you can easily move it around as you need to. And as long as you have the correct extension cord, you can use this indoors and outdoors. There are also comfort grip handles on the WEN 56206 6-Ton Electric Log Splitters.

WEN backs this piece of equipment with their two-year warranty. It is a high quality machine though, so I don’t expect you to run into any issues with it.

One thing to note about this model is that you cannot use it vertically. So, if you need that option, you should skip this machine.

Safety Tips

Whether you are using one of these things for the first time this season or if you’re an old pro at it, you should still take a moment to brush up on these safety tips. Make no mistake, if you are not careful then you can end up causing injury to yourself or anyone else you might be nearby when using one of these. And while most of our tips below are just common sense, we still urge to you read over them before heading out in the yard to split some logs.

Always put on protective gear.

I know how tempting it can be to just go on out there in your jeans and long sleeve shirt without putting on any protective gear other than a pair of gloves. Well, don’t be that guy cause you just might get yourself injured.

You’re definitely gonna need some safety goggles or something else to protect your eyes from flying debris. And unless you’re using one of the quieter electric models, you’ll also want to get a good pair of ear plugs or headphones to block out those loud decibels that can damage your hearing.

Those gloves that you put on should definitely be one of the heavy duty options. And since logs and other wood parts can fall on your toes or hit you in the legs, you need long work pants on and some good steel toe boots. That last thing you need is a 50-lb log falling on your toes and breaking some bones.

Don’t let the kids help or watch.

This is some serious machinery and it is the last place that kids belong. You definitely do not want them thinking that it is a toy. And you don’t want to start splitting those logs if the kiddos are nearby cause you never know how far debris might fly. Keep them safe by keeping them away from the machine.

Don’t Forget The Owner’s Manual

It is easy to toss aside the manual whenever we get a new toy or machine like this, but it exists for a reason. Giving it a quick read lets you brush up on the best way to use the splitter so that you get the best possible results. It also helps prevent you from doing something stupid that gets you hurt.

Prevent Back Pain

Each day I realize that I’m not as young as I used to be, and it is no different for you. One of the biggest injury risk when using splitters is back pain or back strain. It is easy to see how that can happen when you are leaning and standing at odd angles and lifting up heavy logs. But here’s the thing – there is probably a height adjustment mechanism that you can use to reduce that chance of back injury. So definitely take steps to make this process easier on your body.

Keep a Clean Work Area

Sometimes, just having a cluttered work space outside can contribute to some safety issues and injuries. Since the wood can fly up and away from the machine, you should clear a space around your work area of about three feet. This also gives it plenty of room for proper ventilation.

Watch For Irregularities

It is common for wood to have knots in it and weird grains, and you should keep an eye out for this sort of thing. Why? Because it can result in the wood splitting in an irregular fashion that you might not be prepared for, which can lead to an injury. But, by knowing that you are putting in the splitter, you stay ready for any thing that might go wrong with the woods.

No Booze, Drugs or Medication

As I’m sure you noticed in the user manual, you should never try to operate one of these things while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any prescription or over the counter medication. This includes things like cold medicine and allergy medicine. These things can slow your reaction time, which can lead to terrible injuries if something goes wrong out there. They can also just make you sleepy, which is a recipe for disaster.

Only Use Gas Models Outside

Sure, this seems like common sense, but it can be tempting to use a gas-powered model inside if it is really cold out. But you should never do that because the fumes from the gasoline have carbon monoxide, which is not good for you to be inhaling.  In fact, it can be deadly. If you have to use a machine inside, even if it’s just a garage or shed, then it needs to be an electric model.

Only Use in Good Light

This one is another common sense tip. Always make sure that you use the machine in a well-lit area. This means that if the sun is going down or is already down and you don’t have a good light outside, then you need to leave the job for the next day. If it is too dark or dim, you might end up injuring yourself accidentally.

Fire Up Your Summer With These Propane Gas Grill Reviews

Last updated on February 18, 2016 By Alex Leave a Comment

grilling
For me, one of the most important things about spending time at home is having a great outdoor space for relaxing with the family. I look forward to the warmer months when we can not only spend more time outside, but also enjoy some meals on the deck as well as fire up the ole BBQ for some excellent chicken, burgers, hot dogs, steaks and veggies.

When we first moved into our current house, we had all this old and outdated outdoor equipment that just really needed replaced. One of the first things that we did was decide to upgrade our BBQ area. To get started, we visited with friends and family to see what they were using and how their experience was going. Then, there was the extensive research on the web of checking reviews and complaints on sites like Amazon and this site before finally making a decision on which one would be the best bet for our family.

Since the entire process took so long, I wanted to share some of my findings from my research with other people who may find themselves out shopping for something shiny and new for the patio or deck. Keep reading below to learn a little more.

To do your shopping the way that I do, I highly suggest that you take a peak at what everyone else is buying since people tend to flock to the items that end up being the best. And if you want to know what the best of the best are for 2015 when it comes to propane BBQing at home, then I think that the best place to start is by looking at what is currently a hot seller. And reviews help you pick a winner.

So, as I said, this is the way that I started out my comparison shopping. Why? So that I did not waste any time looking at products that were going to end up being a poor user experience. And for my family, we do not mind spending a little more if there is a quality difference. If something is going to last a little longer, then that is what I am interested in buying. What about you?

My Top 6 Favorite Best Propane Grills for 2016

I find that the easiest way to make a decision to narrow down your choices to the top few and then give them a real thorough review and comparison before making your final decision. We ended up getting down to just six contenders. Keep reading to see which six made the final cut, what we liked about them and what we did not like about them. You will also get to see which one we ended up buying!

Char-Broil TRU Infrared Urban Gas Grill with Folding Side ShelvesChar-Broil TRU Infrared Urban Gas Grill with Folding Side Shelves Review

We seriously considered buy this model – the Char-Broil TRU Infrared Urban Gas Grill with Folding Side Shelves. There simply isn’t a better option out there in this size or price range.

Click here to view on Amazon

I especially like the folding side shelves which give excellent work space when needed, yet store away neatly when not in use. As you can clearly see, it has a very attractive look and is of very sturdy construction. Perfect for a small sized patio or outdoor space.

Overall though, it was not for us as we do not need something compact for the deck.

Weber Genesis 6570001 S-330 Stainless-Steel 637-Square-Inch 38,000-BTU Liquid-Propane Gas GrillWeber Genesis S-330 Stainless-Steel 637-Square-Inch 38,000-BTU Liquid-Propane Gas Grill Review

I cannot tell you how badly I wanted to buy this Weber Genesis S-330 Stainless-Steel 637-Square-Inch Grill. I mean, just look at it! Who would not want it on their deck or patio?!? It is so professional looking! Unfortunately, it is out of my family’s price range, but I did manage to talk someone else into buying it so that I could visit it every now and then….If I had unlimited money, then I would say to you – This one is oh SO worth the extra price!

Click here to view on Amazon

Why? It looks great and the meat tasted incredibly good after I use this at my parent’s house.

Yup, that’s right – I talked them into buying one of these! When I asked my dad how he felt about this new addition to the deck, he said – I will never go back to using the charcoal again! Based on what he was telling me, it is much easier to cook and prepare the fire.. and it tastes great. He says that it is the best option out there for the money – anywhere.

Two things – I do not know how it compares to charcoal cause I do not use that type and I hate that this one is not in my budget!

Weber Genesis 6532001 E-330 637-Square-Inch 38,000-BTU Liquid-Propane Gas GrillWeber Genesis 6532001 E-330 637-Square-Inch 38,000-BTU Liquid-Propane Gas Grill Review

This Weber Genesis E-330 637-Square-Inch Grill is actually very similar to the model that I ended up buying. I actually used this model at my uncle’s house before making my decision.

Click here to view on Amazon

It is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for one of these – solid quality and design. According to my aunt, the assembly took around 2-3 hours – instructions were clear, concise and easy to follow. First steaks that were made came out wonderful – My uncle says it is the best he has ever used on his own! He and my aunt are very happy with the performance and quality of their new Weber model.

After using it, I would recommend this to my friends without a doubt.

Weber 46110001 Spirit E210 Liquid Propane Gas GrillWeber Spirit E210 Liquid Propane Gas Grill Review

A little too small for my family’s needs, but the Weber 46110001 Spirit E210 Liquid Propane Gas Grill is a good cheap choice without compromising quality.

Click here to view on Amazon

My younger brother owns one of these at his townhouse. He upgraded to it in 2014 after using a cheapo model for a long time. He just loves it and thinks that it is the best money he has ever spent on one of these! In fact, I think that he could not be more pleased with the purchase!

For me, I think it is sleek and looks great out on the patio or deck! Perfect choice for small family cookouts!

Weber Genesis 6511001 E-310 637-Square-Inch 38,000-BTU Liquid-Propane Gas GrillWeber Genesis E-310 637-Square-Inch 38,000-BTU Liquid-Propane Gas Grill Review

The winner! We bought this Weber Genesis 6511001 E-310 637-Square-Inch 38,000-BTU Liquid-Propane Gas Grill model! Setup on this one took us about two hours or so to get it all the way it needed to be so that we could use it for dinner. Worth the time and every cent I spent on it.

Click here to view on Amazon

As you may expect from a Weber product, it is very heavy duty and I have confidence it will last us for many years to come. We have enjoyed cooking with it. easy to use, clean and maintain. I am looking forward to many years of grilling on this awesome Weber Gas product!

You cannot go wrong with this choice for your family. And hey, it looks great, right?

Weber 57067001 Q 3200 Natural Gas GrillWeber Q 3200 Natural Gas Grill Review

Confession – we bought this model too! Only, we bought it for use at our beach condo for when we are on vacation. The patio there is small so we needed something that could cook a lot without taking up a ton of space. Couldn’t be more happier with this portable Weber Q 3200.

Click here to view on Amazon

It is super easy to put together – we did so in less than an hour. Then, we fired it up and the Weber Q 3200 was cooking right away. Had 12 burgers and one package of hot dogs at once one the Weber Q 3200. The cooking grates are the best ever, high quality. Great Warranty too.

Highly recommend the Weber Q 3200 to anyone.

Runner’s Up – The Rest of The Considered Grill Models

Naturally, the initial list of possible products that I started out with was a lot longer than just the ix items that you see listed up above. To give you an idea of some of the other items that we were considering but ultimately decided against, keep reading here. You will find out the positive features as given to me by current owners.

Weber 50060001 Q 1000 Liquid Propane GrillWeber Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill Review

My neighbor, Joe, has one of these for camping. Here is what he told me about it – This little guy is the best portable and best camping grill and overall best tabletop grill for 2015. As you can see, this Weber Q 1000 is both great looking and efficient. The Weber Q 1000 leaves great marks on meat while cooking.

Click here to view on Amazon

I have not purchased the tank adapter for the Weber Q 1000 but 16.4 oz tanks last for a while I used it about 10+ times on one 16.4 oz tank. Easy to clean and great size since I live in an apartment.

The small size is one of the most important things for people short on space, like in an apartment or condo. You will love the Weber Q 1000.

Weber 54060001 Q 2200 Liquid Propane GrillWeber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill Review

My buddy Chris, who I work with, tell me that this model is actually better than Joe’s. I don’t go camping, so it is not really practical for me, but you can use this as a tabletop model. That is why I considered it for the condo.

Click here to view on Amazon

Here is what Chris says about it – The Weber Q 2200 is a great product. Super design and function. The Weber Q 2200 performs better than most of the larger home Webers I have had in the past. Able to handle all the tailgate food you could ever want.

Quit reading the reviews and buy the Weber Q 2200 now! You will not be sorry!

Weber 1520 Propane Gas Go-Anywhere Grill Weber 1520 Propane Gas Go-Anywhere Grill Review

My MIL tried to get us to buy this one. Why, is beyond me, but here is what she has to say about it – Yes, it’s ugly but it’s also cheap – and It’s a Weber! This little model is a great take anywhere product.

Click here to view on Amazon

You can buy the tanks needed a lot of places and the heavier metal housing won’t rust out so soon. A little pricier than a cheap model but I think this Weber 1520 is going to last a much longer time. The plates are heavier as well.

We have a small rv and like using the picnic table for the Weber 1520 so this Weber 1520 doesn’t take up a lot of space and easy to set up and take down. – Note that I agree about the brand meaning that it is high quality, but I still do not want a little ugly tabletop version like this on my deck!

Char-Broil TRU Infrared Patio Bistro Electric GrillChar-Broil TRU Infrared Patio Bistro Electric Grill Review

This one has a small size. which is great for small spaces. After talking with some owners, it seems to have easy assembly, which is a plus.

Click here to view on Amazon

Owners of it seem to be very happy with this little small BBQer and hopeful that it would hold up well over time.

It seems to have a lot to offer in a small package, but I really did not need a small package.

Coleman RoadTrip LXE Propane GrillColeman RoadTrip LXE Propane Grill Review

My husband’s best friend swears by this thing. He takes it everywhere with him – tailgating at the Cleveland Browns stadium, fishing, baseball games – you name it and he’s probably taken it there. He even talked one of their other friends into buying one.

Click here to view on Amazon

Here is what he had to say about it – I have already used it 4 times in the first couple of weeks of buying it and it works great. I was able to cooked a 2 whole package of chicken wings and legs, hotdogs, and hamburgers with ease (and with the lid down most of the time) no melting over here. This is my replacement home and camping grills. If you buy this then I highly recommend the hose to connect to 20lb tank and the bag to transport. And if you twisted my arm to make me say something bad about it, I would only be able to say it needs a built in thermometer on the lid, but heck, who am I to complain at this low price point.

Cuisinart CGG-200 All-Foods 12,000-BTU Portable Outdoor Tabletop Propane Gas GrillCuisinart CGG-200 All-Foods 12,000-BTU Portable Outdoor Tabletop Propane Gas Grill Review

Another friend from work raved about this one. It looks very sleek and professional for a little tabletop model, don’t you think? When she was trying to convince me, here is what she had to say about it – This state of the art little tabletop model is already put together, so it is essentially ready to be used “out of the box.”

Click here to view on Amazon

As you will learn, it heats up very quickly when you are ready to use it, and the surface of the grate is nicely and evenly heated. Perfect tabletop grill to take tailgating or to the pavilion at the local park or rec center area! Or to use on the apartment patio.

It also has a great low price for any budget.

Fuego Element Portable Gas GrillFuego Element Portable Gas Grill Review

Another of Dale’s tailgating buddies suggested this little model. It is small and compact and looks super cute.

Click here to view on Amazon

Here is what he day to say about it – I just love this little thing because it is so amazing for the size! Perfect for tailgating. The portable Fuego Element EP01AMG is amazingly light and the way it folds up makes it really easy to carry. More importantly, this Fuego Element EP01AMG is effortless to use and can cook enough food to feed a group of people.

It does a great job cooking for up to two families because it heats up so quickly and gets the job done with nice sear marks from the hot cast iron plate. I like how compact it stores once we are done with the cooking, we remove all the parts and wipe it down and toss it in our balcony closet after each trip.

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