Nilfisk E140 2-9 S X-tra Pressure Washer with 2100W Induction Motor

The Nilfisk E140 2-9 S X-tra Pressure Washer with 2100W Induction Motor. My Honest Review.

I hadn’t even heard of the name ‘Nilfisk’ until I was using the internet to shop around for a good, heavy duty pressure washer. I did some research into the company and read as many reviews as I could about their products and opted to buy a Nilfisk E140 2-9 S X-tra and after using it on numerous jobs around my house and garden thought I’d add my comments to those that have already been written to let others know how good it is.

First, a bit about the company. Nilfisk have been around since 1905 which is really quite reassuring. How I had never heard of them before I really don’t know! They are a Danish company and manufacture a large variety of industrial, commercial and domestic cleaning machines including vacuum cleaners pressure washers and are currently one of the world’s leading suppliers of professional cleaning equipment.

They have divided their pressure washers into three ranges; the Compact range, the Excellent range, and the Pro range. The E140 is one of two models in the Excellent range which are suitable for medium to high frequency cleaning tasks.

That doesn’t mean it can’t be used for smaller jobs though. The trigger has a low pressure adjuster so it should really be described as a low to high frequency cleaner. The low pressure use was perfect for cleaning the grouting in between the tiles in my bathroom – brilliant!

In a nutshell, this is a great all rounder and is very good value for money.

What to Look For When Buying a Pressure Washer?

Powerful Enough?

Pressure washers with a  low wattage are perfectly good for small, light-weight jobs such as cleaning small patio surfaces, garden furniture, bicycles etc  but for those big, heavy-weight jobs like large patio surfaces that haven’t been cleaned in years (similar to mine), garden walls and trucks as well as cars, a much higher wattage is needed. The Nilfist E140 is powered by a 2100 watt induction motor which is really quite impressive and will serve a multitude of stubborn cleaning jobs.

A Lot Depends on the Flow Rate

Flow rate is very important when considering the cleaning abilities of a pressure washer. The working water pressure of the Nilfisk E140 2-9 S X-tra is up to 500 litres per hour which is powerful enough to take the skin of your fingers if used incorrectly! It would be hard to imagine any job too tough for this machine.

Accessories

The E140 2-9 S X-tra comes complete with Vario and Powerspeed interchangeable nozzles suitable for most jobs. The Patio Cleaner Plus and the Nilfisk Auto Brush can be purchased separately but unless you are someone would like to have a ‘complete’ kit there really is no need to spend more than the cost of the original machine in my opinion.

Features

You will already have in mind the kinds of jobs you would like your pressure washer to do so it is important to check the specifications of a machine, especially the hose length, before you go ahead and buy. Don’t just assume that all makes and models will come with a generous length. Some, similarly priced machines that I researched had as little as 3 mitres of hose to play with. The Nilfisk E140 2-9 S X-tra pressure washer has a very generous 9 mitre hose that will stretch a good distance from where it may be stored. Picture yourself using your machine in various parts of your home and garden  if it helps. It has a telescopic handle for easy storage and conveniently hooks onto a wall. The integrated hose reel that comes with this model has proved very useful for me as I can be a bit clumsy at the best of times and trailing hose pipes are an inevitable hazard for people like myself.

The patented Click & Clean system makes using this pressure washer very easy even if you have never used one before. The system enables quick and easy change of nozzles and tools.

The large wheels at the base of the cleaner not only make it easy to move around, they also stabilise it making it difficult to topple over and the clever telescopic handle slots neatly away after use.

Price Range

Prices of pressure washers vary enormously. You can buy small, lightweight washers for as little as the average cost of one night’s stay in a budget hotel and some of the top of the range, heavy, industrial ones can cost as much as a fortnights stay. Taking into consideration the overall capabilities of the Nilfisk E140, the tools that are included and the manufacturers guarantee, it would seem like a very sensible choice of  pressure washer for the majority of households.

What Others Are Saying

This is a top class product for domestic use…

Great product – happy pressure washing!

Excellent value for money

Pleasantly surprised with the versatility of this machine…a must have

Does it Have a Guarantee?

Yes, the Nilfisk E140 2-9 S X-tra has a 2 Year Guarantee.

Any Complaints?

It is not really a complaint, more of a warning to those who are new to using pressure washers. As I mentioned previously, the power of the Nilfisk E140 2-9 S X-tra is capable of causing  injury if not used according to the manufacturers safety guidelines and your own common sense, and it is important to remember that when cleaning patio surfaces that have been sanded/cemented in between blocks that it will quite easily lift this and turn it into debris…user beware!

Where Can You Read More Reviews From People Who Have Bought the Nilfisk E140 2-9 Pressure Washer

This pressure washer has received great reviews from most consumers on the internet with an average star rating of 4.5 out of 5 from most reviewers on Amazon. To read some of these reviews click here.

Where Can You Buy the Nilfisk E140 2-9 S X-tra Pressure Washer?

The Nilfisk E140 2-9 S X-tra is available from lots of online merchants. I opted to use Amazon to buy mine because they are always very competitive with their prices and so far with all of my purchases they have arrived on time. Click here to buy from Amazon now.

 

 

Vax 6131T 3-in-1 Multivax Dry Vacuum and Carpet Washer

The Best Review for the Vax 6131T 3-in-1 Multivax Dry Vacuum and Carpet Washer

It hasn’t changed much from its original design but that’s probably because this iconic, handy to have Multivax cleaner has always been one of the best on the market. They were such a revelation I think just about everyone bought a Vax carpet washer when they first came out. I love my Multivax so much I can’t imagine ever not having one.

Thinking of all the hours I have spent doing household chores and the cost of hiring  professional cleaners, if I had owned a 3-in-1 before I could have saved myself lots of time and money. It just makes everything so easy to do all in one go and it doesn’t just perform brilliantly around the house, it’s also great for cleaning car interiors because when the extension tubes are removed and the smaller tools are placed directly onto the hose handle what you have is in effect is a hand held cleaner that doesn’t restrict your movement in confined spaces. The crevice tool is ideal for reaching down the sides of and underneath car seats…my car has never been so clean since I bought my Vax 6131T 3-in1 Multivax cleaner!

It is perfect for all types of households but is particularly useful for small apartments and houses with limited storage space because it stores away neatly without taking up too much room or the space of separate machines.

What to Look for When Buying a Multifunction Carpet Cleaner

Wide range of functions

So what exactly do manufacturers mean when they call their carpet washers multifunction? Well, they usually mean the machine can be used for a number of different jobs such as dry vacuuming a variety of surfaces, washing carpets and upholstery, and sucking up liquid spills. The great thing about the Vax 6131T 3-in-1 is that it performs all of these functions (and more) and it is very reasonably priced for such a great all-round appliance.

Capacity

3-in-1 machines have three measured capacities; dry, dirty and clean. The Vax 6131T 3-in1 Multivax Dry Vacuum and Carpet Washer has a huge 10 L dry capacity so you won’t have to change the dust bag as often as you would with smaller machines and a 8 L combined dirt capacity (4 L clean + 4 L dirty). Unless you are cleaning massive surfaces you shouldn’t have to empty the tank too often in just one use.

Top Tip: Don’t forget to check the both the cone filter and the motor filter regularly especially if you have furry pets!

Durability and reliability

The Vax 6131T multifunction cleaner has been built to last. The cannister itself is very sturdy and the attachments are all solid. The carrying handle for carting it around is also very strong. The wheels do look a little small in comparison to the actual size of the machine but they are well attached to the base.

Useful tools

The bigger the selection of tools, the more cleaning jobs can be tackled. The Vax 6131T 3-in-1 Multivax comes with five different heads and wash tools; a large combination floor head for hoovering carpets and hard surfaces, a large fibreflow wash head for washing carpets, a small upholstery wash tool for sofas and chairs, a small dusting brush (great for sucking up cobwebs!), and a small crevice tool for getting into awkward places.

What’s Included?

1 x 6131T

1 x Fibreflow head

1 x Combination floor head

1 x Upholstery wash tool

1 x Dusting brush

1 x Crevice tool

1 x Extension wand

1 x Delivery solution tube

1 x Bottle Vax solution

Does it have a guarantee?

Yes, the Vax 6131T 3-in-1 Multivax comes with a 2 year guarantee.

What Others Are Saying

Just some of the things others are saying about the Vax 6131T Multivax Dry Vacuum and Carpet Washer

Excellent machine. Third one I’ve had in 30 years.

…results are always first class.

3 in 1 perfection!!!

..the best cleaner I’ve had in years.

Any Complaints?

It can be a bit fiddly attaching the carpet solution tube to the main hose at first but the secret is to leave a little slack when clipping it on.

Where Can You Buy the Vax 6131T 3-in-1 Multivax Dry Vacuum and Carpet Washer?

Most good home electrical outlets or online stores will offer the Vax 6131T 3-in-1 as a choice of multifunction cleaner because of it’s popularity and Vax reliability. I bought mine on Amazon because even though some stores were including special discount prices Amazon were hard to beat in price.

Where Can I read More Reviews for the Vax 6131T 3-in-1 Multivax?

The cleaner consistently receives between 4 and 5 stars from consumers which can be seen mostly on Amazon and the Vax site itself. Don’t just take my word about how good it is. Click here to read more Amazon reviews and to Buy Now.

Vax V-124A Dual V Upright Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner

My Review of the Vax V-124A Dual V Upright Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner

Some friends from abroad had included a weekend stay with us without much notice and instead of thinking how lovely it would be to see them after such a long time, my immediate thoughts turned to my stained and dirty carpets that I still hadn’t got round to cleaning before Christmas last year. I wouldn’t say I am particularly house proud but I couldn’t stand the thought of having guests with such filthy carpets to greet them.

I sent my partner out to buy the cheapest carpet cleaner from a local catalogue store but as soon as I tried to assemble it the plastic handle broke in two. Back to the store for a refund! I then clicked on Amazon to see what they had to offer and equally important, how quickly they could get one delivered. After reading the reviews it was a toss up between a Vax and a Bissell.

No more compromises on price and quality. I chose the Vax V-124A Dual V because of it’s sturdy build, compact look, and numerous features. I spent more than I initially intended to but when I considered that this was a machine that would last me a long time and wouldn’t fall apart whilst unpacking it I decided to go for it. And if I chose this particular carpet washer I could also have it within a few days…Bingo!

After using my Vax carpet cleaner my conclusion is that it’s not worth messing around with cheap/cheaper versions. If you’re going to spend money on something that you intend to use over a long period of time, choose from a reputable brand like Vax and invest that extra bit of cash in a quality product that is going to save you hundreds of pounds in the future.

What to Look for When Buying a Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner

Built to last

There’s no doubt that the Vax V-124A Dual V Upright Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is built to last. It has a very sturdy frame and handle (that didn’t snap when I got it out of the box!). This is a robust bit of equipment that if used correctly will carry on cleaning your carpets and upholstery for years.

Dual V Technolgy

The reason the Vax out-pipped a Bissell carpet cleaner was mainly down to the Dual V that only comes with Vax products. It’s patented Dual V twin air path technology sucks up the water from the carpet with such power and intensity that they are virtually dry within a couple of hours. You can actually feel the power of the suction as you wash.

The unique patented SpinScrub technology gently brushes the carpet clean and is also used on the hand tool that is supplied. The SpinScrub hand tool is designed for stairs and upholstery and is also very handy for difficult to reach areas.

Versatility

I enjoyed using my cleaner so much that I didn’t want to stop. Vax recommends that you pass over each area of carpet slowly between two and four times so it’s not a quick job but it is very satisfying seeing the dirt lift up and your carpet taking on a new appearance.  A simple click and the upholstery tool is connected to the hose ready to tackle upholstery, cushions and stair carpet. The upholstery hose is a generous 2.3 m so is ample for most stair cases. I also discovered that it cleans my curtains as well as my carpets. I used the upholstery tool with the curtains stretched out on the floor and got great results. However, I wouldn’t recommend that anyone else do this as this use is not suggested by the manufacturers. I took a chance after doing a sample test and it worked for me.

The Vax V-124A Dual V can also pick up liquid spills without actually washing the carpet or upholstery surface. There is a simple slide setting that can be set to adjust the brushes to either on or off, and in addition there are two slide settings located on the handle stem to allow you to choose from wash or rinse…great for switching modes easily.

Deep clean assurance

The Vax V-124 Dual V carpet cleaner has a clean water capacity of 3.7 L and a dirty water capacity of 3.3 L. The separate clean and dirty water tanks combined with the rotating brushes produces deep down cleaning and spruced up the appearance of my carpets all in one go. A useful automatic shut off is engaged when the dirty water tank is full to remind you to empty it. A clever automix cleaning system ensures that the right amount of solution to clean water is provided so you aren’t left guessing or measuring the liquids.

The heated cleaning system that this machine uses acts like a hair dryer and also improves the overall standard of cleaning…very clever.

Maintenance

It’s important to empty and rinse both water tanks and clean the dirty water tank lid after every use. Make sure that they are dried out completely before re-attaching them. It’s not necessary to empty the solution container which can be left for the next time. The tools can be lifted out of the compact caddy and dried separately too.

What’s Included?

  • 1 x V-124A Dual V carpet cleaner
  • 1 x Guarantee card
  • 1 x Carpet and upholstery solution

Does it Have a Warranty?

Yes, the Vax V-124A has an incredible 6 year warranty.

What Others are Saying About the Vax V-124A Dual V Upright Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner

Don’t tell your friends and family. They’ll want to borrow it!

A great deal of thought has gone into the design

An amazingly good cleaner

For whole house cleaning this machine is highly recommended

Overall a great purchase – thank you

A really splendid machine

Any Complaints?

The Vax V-124A Dual V could be a little heavy for some users but as slow pushing of the cleaner is recommended and the fact that it glides easily over carpets, most people should be able to manage it with ease.

Although it is a very good carpet washing solution, Vax’s own brand is a bit pricey.  There is always the choice of buying cheaper solutions but you often get what you pay for. I think I will stick to the Vax Ultra+ Limited Edition Orange scented solution that I purchased from Amazon at the same time because it simply smells divine.

I’m slightly hard of hearing so the noise that some owners referred to in their reviews isn’t so much a problem for me. If however, you find it makes a bit too much noise, cotton wool or cheap plugs in your ears will do the job.

Where Can You Buy the Vax V-124A Dual V Upright Carpet and Upholstery Washer?

There are lots of online merchants selling this cleaner including the official Vax website. You can save lots of money by buying it on Amazon where it is advertised at a consistently low price. Click here to view on Amazon.

Where Can You Read More Reviews for the Vax V-124A Dual Upright Carpet and Upholstery Washer?

The official Vax website has reviews from customers but the best places to look at  reviews from people who actually use the product is Amazon because there are so many of them.



 


 

Zumba Fitness DVD Exercise Kit includes toning sticks

I LOVE It! My Review of the Zumba Fitness DVD Exercise Kit

When my local gym finally caught on and recently introduced Zumba classes to its fitness programmes I really wanted to join in but thought I’d be a bit out of  my depth so I decided to buy the Zumba Fitness DVD Exercise Kit to learn a few steps and prepare myself for the class. I am sooooo glad I did!

There are so many great things about Zumba but one of the best things has to be that doing it really does make you feel happy when you are doing it. I can’t help but have a smile on my face when I’m listening to the music and dancing away. I’ve only been using my set for a few weeks now but already I’m confident with most of the moves thanks to the easy breakdown of steps on the Basics and 20 Minute Express DVD. I found it difficult to keep up when I first played it but you do become quicker the more you practice. I spent two hours a day for the first few days learning the basic steps and slowed them right down to make it even easier.

Using the set of four DVDs at home really does make exercise fun and you just know that when you are dancing your whole body is benefiting from the movements. Not only that but it feels natural too unlike some of the fitness training exercises that I have used in the gym. Some of the moves are simple stretching and lunging motions that loosen up the body and get rid of any stiffness you may have so they are ideal for people with limited mobility.

The Cardio Party DVD is made up of rhythms that really get your heart pumping. This is perhaps the best DVD for those that especially want to shed a few pounds in weight. It’s a bit more manic than the Basics and 20 Minutes Express DVD but it is worth giving it a go even if you limit your time with it.

The Sculpt and Tone DVD focuses on movements that will define certain areas of your body and is great for making you realise you have muscles in places you never imagined! In just a short space of time, I have noticed subtle changes in my definition and with all the shaking of my booty I’ve been doing, my bottom has definitely become firmer and more shapely than it was before.

There aren’t many people that can show off their abs with pride and I’m not one of them! The Flat Abs and Zumba Live! DVD, along with the Total Body Transformation book that includes helpful tips and suggestions on healthy, nutritionally balanced meals to help you get the most out of your new fitness regime, will get me my bikini body in no time.

My favourite part of the set has to be the Zumba Live!  It really does sum up the whole Zumba experience and will make you want to join your local Zumba class (they are popping up everywhere) and make Zumba part of your lifestyle. With all of those endorphins jumping around you will feel alive and kicking just watching the Live! performances.

If you think you can’t dance, that all exercise is boring, and it looks too energetic for you, just give it a go…you are bound to be pleasantly surprised. I can’t believe it has taken so long for something like Zumba to come along. After all, Latino dancing has been around forever.  Another couple of weeks of practising at home with my Zumba DVDs and I think I will be ready to join the class!

What Makes the Zumba Fitness DVD Exercise Kit Different from Other Fitness DVDs?

Well, firstly, the way that it is presented really makes you want to join in. It’s lively and fun, and you can learn at your own pace. It’s like anything, take what you want and leave the rest, although be warned, it can be addictive. Once you get the hang of it and feel part of the Zumba experience it’s difficult to find the stop button on the DVD player! I think the music is a very important part of the success of Zumba. It is lively, upbeat and appeals to all ages. Although it is party/group inspired, don’t feel that you can’t benefit from the programme whilst being home alone. You can enjoy Zumba solo as much as you can with a crowd of people.

Secondly, Zumba is unique. There is no other exercise programme that combines Latin-inspired dance with a total workout in such an enthusiastic party environment. It is here to stay and not just another ‘flash in the pan’ fitness craze. How many times have you seen old celebrity fitness DVDs at car boot sales and in charity shops that have been thrown out and discarded after a few weeks? Zumba is more of a lifestyle than a fitness regime. In fact, I think it’s best described as a ‘cult’. I’m so convinced that Zumba will be a regular part of my life that I have already ordered myself a pair of cargo pants and racerback top from the fantastic range of clothing that is on offer. It’s great to feel part of something that is enjoyed by so many people worldwide.

And thirdly, there is so much variation to Zumba fitness that you are much less likely to get bored. For most of us, even getting to the gym is boring let alone performing the same old training routines over and over again! The Zumba Fitness DVD Exercise Kit gives you lots of choice and you can vary your exercise programme to suit your own personal needs.

Any Criticisms?

It’s more of an observation than a criticism but I wish the makers of the DVD included more ‘real’ people in the filming of it.

Where Can You Buy the Zumba Fitness DVD Exercise Kit?

The Zumba Fitness DVD Exercise Kit which includes four DVDs AND two toning sticks is extremely good value. Always on the look out for a bargain I purchased my set from Amazon where it is selling considerably cheaper than other online sales merchants. With the winter nights drawing in, this is a good time to buy right now by clicking here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now, if you have the extra money and feel like diving in at the deep end, you could opt to buy the Zumba Fitness Exhilarate: The Ultimate Experience DVD Set which has an additional 3 DVDs but I really don’t think it’s necessary. The Exercise Kit gives you plenty to concentrate on and learn to begin with.

 

 

Vax W90-RU-P Rapide Ultra 2 Pre-treatment Upright Carpet and Upholstery Washer

My Personal Review of the Vax W90-RU-P Rapide Ultra 2 Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner

I have just bought my very first house but it has left me almost penniless. I have all the time in the world to do the necessary repair jobs and re-decorating but I couldn’t stand the thought of living with someone else’s dirty, old carpet! The amount of money that it would cost to replace the carpets throughout was unimaginable which is why I was left with only one option…buying a carpet washer and making the most of what I have got. I could, I suppose, have left it to the professionals to do the job but I remembered that a long time ago my Mom had a Vax tucked away under her stairs for many years and always trumpeted how useful and cost effective it was so I decided to take a look at what they had to offer these days. Technology has certainly moved on but being totally clueless about which type of machine to buy I was forced to do some research. I’m glad I did. I was led to the Vax W90-RU-P Rapide Ultra 2 Pre-treatment Upright Carpet and Upholstery Washer. I already have a very good vacuum cleaner that still has plenty of life in it so I didn’t see the point of buying a multifunction cleaner, besides, I didn’t like the idea of mixing up the two machines.

Read why I believe I chose the best carpet washer on the market without parting with too much money.

Really Important Things to Consider When Buying a Carpet and Upholstery Washer

Simplicity

I’ve been told that once you wash a carpet it will get dirtier, quicker, which is probably true but the Vax W90-RU-P Rapide is so easy to assemble and use that I intend to make washing the carpets a regular thing anyway. It’s no more difficult than hoovering your carpet. The ….gets right up into the corners of rooms

My three piece sofa didn’t need cleaning but I had been given a few scatter and floor cushions that were a bit dirty so I used the upholstery hose and wash tool to tackle them. It’s perfect for cleaning softer textiles with awkward shapes. The solution is directed into a smaller, hand-held nozzle that is easy to direct and get into corners, and around curved surfaces. This wash tool is also intended for use on stairs

Pre-treatment accessory

Not all carpet and upholstery washers include a pre-treatment kit which puzzles me slightly because cleaning individual stubborn stains can be the main reason for buying a washer. The  previous owner of my house obviously had pets because there were quite a few stains (and odours) caused by animals in certain spots around the house. By using the Vax Rapide’s pre-treatment wand before attempting to clean all of the carpet I’m able to make sure that stains are treated deep down and the freshness has been put back in my carpets. A pre-treatment solution is squirted through the wand in a fine spray that can be directed onto the chosen area.

Upright or Canister?

My Mom’s old Vax was one of the original canister cleaners (which Vax still make) and the only thing I ever heard her complain about it was that on occasions, as she pulled the cleaner along, it would topple over. It was probably her misuse of the machine but I decided that I wanted an upright one because they appear to be steadier. I certainly feel that when my Rapide Ultra 2 is in use it would be unlikely to fall over but it really is swings and roundabouts because as you would expect, my upright weighs 3 kgs more than the canister one.

Extras

Unlike any other make of carpet washer, the Vax Rapide Ultra 2 has been cleverly designed with Dual V Technolgy. Dual V provides equal suction across the full width of the floor nozzle, extracts more water leaving carpets drier, quicker, and its powerful suction means more dirt and grime is lifted from the carpet. Gone are the days of having to evacuate the house for half a day whilst the carpets dried, and professional results can be achieved every time you use your cleaner.

How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

The Vax W90-RU-P is reasonably priced on many online stores. However, Amazon consistently sells the cleaner cheaper than anywhere else I looked. Click here to see the latest price and special delivery offers.

Included in the Box

1 x Carpet washer

1 x Ultra+ solution

1 x Stretch hose

1 x Upholstery hose

1 x Instruction manual

1 x Guarantee card

How Long is the Guarantee?

The Vax W90-RU-P Rapide Ultra 2 comes with a 2 year guarantee. 

What Others Have to Say

These are just some of the comments already made about the Vax W90-RU-P Rapide carpet and upholstery cleaner:

Any Complaints?

If like me you have a separate vacuum cleaner you will need extra space to store the Vax Rapide, and it is rather a bulky machine. However, most of us have an garden shed or similar facility so it’s just a case of finding that bit more room whether it is indoor or outdoor.

Where Can You Buy the Vax W90-RU-P Rapide Ultra 2?

One of the best places to buy this cleaner from Amazon. Right now they include free shipping which makes Amazon’s offer even more value for money.

Where Can You Read More Reviews for the Vax W90-RU-P Rapide Ultra 2?

You can read lots of reviews for this product on Amazon.


 

Panasonic Lumix FZ45 14.1MP Digital Camera

The Easiest to Understand Review of the Panasonic Lumix FZ45 14.1MP Digital Camera

Since I came to live in Northern Ireland I have become obsessed with taking photos. I keep them as a photographic diary and include them in my memoirs. Like most amateur photographers (or should I say complete novice photographers), I have only ever owned the average, cheapest in its price range, compact digital cameras on the market at the time of purchase. It made perfect sense to me when I came here and discovered the real beauty of the country that I should find out a little bit more about decent cameras and be willing to spend a bit more of my hard earned cash on something I use on almost a daily basis. I wanted to make sure I found the right camera so I spent a considerable amount of time researching the ones within my price range. The best I came up with was the Panasonic Lumix FZ45 14.1MP Digital Camera from the award winning Lumix range and these are the reasons why.

THE most important things to understand when buying a digital camera

The amount of technical details that manufacturers include for their products can be very overwhelming if you don’t know photography jargon or are simply new to photography. Make it simple by checking the most important things such as:

Optical zoom

An optical zoom allows the photographer to take close up pictures from a distance. The strength of the zoom is described by manufacturers by using a number followed by a ‘x’. The higher the number, the better the zoom, the better the zoom, the better the picture quality. The Panasonic FZ45 has an impressive 24x optical zoom so there is no compromise when taking close-ups of distant subjects.

Wide angle lens

If like me you enjoy taking photographs of landscapes, a super wide angle lens is a ‘must have’. The width of a lens is measured in millimetres. When compared to lots of other similar cameras, the Lumix FZ45 has a very respectful 25mm wide angle lens which is also great for indoor shots as you won’t have to stand too far back to fit everything you want in your picture. It very cunningly makes rooms look larger than they really are too so it’s perfect for interior photos.

Manual controls

The Panasonic FZ45 has the expected IA mode ( intelligent auto) that makes the camera automatically adjust itself to obtain the best picture for the conditions you are shooting in but to get the most from your camera, especially if you are interested in learning a few photography skills, a range of manual controls will allow you to experiment for yourself. A simple turn of the dial enables you to switch from one mode to the another.

The Panasonic website states that this camera is aimed at any level of photography and I would have to agree, although at first, the variety of settings in the AE mode (own settings) can seem quite daunting. The camera has a rear dial which can be used for more complex settings such as ‘programme shift’ but however basic your photographic skills are, a little practice is all that is needed to master them. Once you have figured out how to use the manual controls you can be sure of fantastic results every time.

 

 

Image sensor  and megapixel rating

The image sensor that a camera has captures the light coming in through the lens to create an image and generally speaking, the bigger the sensor, the better the picture. This camera has CCD sensor. It’s not the most sophisticated sensor but when I compared my pictures with those taken by my friend’s very expensive digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera, I was very impressed with the quality comparison.

I have recently enlarged some of my favourite pictures taken with my Lumix FZ45 and printed them out for display. I was concerned that I might loose the quality of them by doing this but the 14.1MP (which denotes the megapixel rating) has enabled me to enlarge, edit and crop without worry.

Video mode

Advanced digital cameras now have HD video mode which is exactly what the Lumix FZ45 has. HD gives you exceptionally clear, crisp pictures with vivid colours and up to five times more detail than standard definition. High quality videos can be produced with this camera at the touch of a button with a maximum of 110 minutes actual record time.  The built in microphone works extremely well at picking up sound too, something my previous digital camera didn’t do, so I can look forward to making some brilliant home videos of my friends and family as well as taking excellent photos.

What’s Included?

  • 1 x Lumix FZ45 Camera
  • 1 x  Battery Charger
  • 1 x Battery Pack
  • 1 x AV Cable
  • 1 x USB Cable
  • 1 x Shoulder Strap
  • 1 x CD-ROM
  • 1 x Lens Hood
  • 1 x Lens Cap
  • 1 x Lens Cap String
  • 1 x Software

Does it Have a Warranty?

The Panasonic Lumix FZ45 comes with a manufacturers warrant of 12 months. When I purchased my camera from Amazon, for peace of mind, I also bought a 3 Year SquareTrade Warranty to cover any accidental damage.

What Others are Saying

Overall – A REAL LITTLE CRACKER

The best digital camera I have ever used

Terrific value for money

…great quality photos

Lots of features, easy to use and it takes great photos

A great little camera if your budget can’t reach a SLR (single-lens reflex)

Any Complaints?

There are so many delightful features to this digital camera that it can seem quite daunting to begin with if you are a novice photographer but the manual that is included is really very easy to read and understand making this advanced bit of equipment almost idiot proof.

The Lumix FZ45 doesn’t come with a carry case which is a real shame but there are plenty of cases (including the one pictured here) that you can purchase separately or add to your Christmas Wish List.

Where Can You Buy the Panasonic Lumix FZ45?

I was amazed at how the price for this digital camera varied when I was shopping around. Some online prices took the cost over and above my intended budget. You can buy the Panasonic Lumix FZ45 14.1MP Digital Camera from Amazon at a consistently low price. Their extensive store of accessories and ‘Customers Who Bought This Item Also Bought’  feature make it easy to choose a bundle of add ons such as a large case or additional digital cards for your camera at the same time.

Where Can You Read More Reviews for the Panasonic Lumix FZ45 14.1MP Digital Camera?

The best place for reviews from people who have bought this equipment is Amazon. Click here to read more.

Tefal Pro Express – GV8330 Steam Generator

You Could Enjoy Ironing Too with a Tefal Pro Express – GV8330 Steam Generator. Read My Review.

Unlike the majority of  people, I actually enjoy doing the household ironing! Strange I know, but I find that it can be quite therapeutic and I always feel better when I see the results of my work; nice, freshly pressed clothes hanging in the wardrobe. Over the years I have purchased more irons than I care to remember (most of which have had a relatively short life span).  I have never stuck to one particular steam iron or any one brand because I suppose I had a passion for trying out new makes and models in the hope that one day I would come across a product that would beat all others and one I would want to purchase again once it needed replacing. That day came when I bought my Tefal Pro Express – GV8330 steam generator. Although, as I mentioned earlier, I enjoy ironing it is also true to say that it is important for me to use an iron that makes the job easier and quicker and that’s exactly what this steam generator does with fantastic professional results. I like the word ‘Express’ in the product name. I have worked out that I probably spend at least 50% of my time now getting the same amount of ironing done than I used to with my previous conventional  iron.When you read my review you will realise that with all of the features that are included on this product you might end up enjoying ironing too!

What to Look for When Buying a Steam Generator

  • Pressure and continuous steam
  • Vertical steam function
  • What the soleplate is made from.
  • Boiler capacity
  • Cord system
  • Anti-scale

Oh, the pressure!

When we talk about pressure in terms of stress, most of us could do without it. However, when we talk about getting the ironing done in super quick time we definitely need more of it and this generator’s high 5 bar pressure enables the steam to penetrate deeper into the fabric removing creases in just one stroke. The higher pressurised steam, the quicker the ironing. Not only that, the continuous steam shoots out at 120 g/min to deal with tough creases and because it is continuous, no more forever pushing buttons like you do with a conventional iron. If you need extra steam for extra tough creases there is an additional ‘shot of steam’ button but I rarely need to use it because the normal steam pressure is enough for most ironing jobs. Which? has awarded 5 stars for the overall performance of the GV8330 so it doesn’t get any better than that.

Horizontal AND Vertical

The vertical steam function on this generator is just perfect for ironing curtains (even heavy duty, lined ones) and garments that are already hanging up. Don’t be concerned that the high pressure steam will damage your delicate fabrics. Believe it or not, the vertical steam function actually protects them because the soleplate isn’t touching the fabric as it would if you were ironing them horizontally.

Soleplate material

Soleplates can either be steel or ceramic. The GV8330 has a ceramic soleplate as pictured.  Both have their qualities but there is a general consensus that ceramic soleplates are superior. Most people prefer them because they are lighter and tend to pick up less dirt than steel ones. They also generate less friction so it’s easier to glide as you iron. The pointy tip of the soleplate makes ironing pleats and other tricky areas so much easier too. Another very pleasing thing about this generator is that it heats up incredibly quickly, far quicker than any other iron I have used before.

Filling up

Nothing is more frustrating than having to keep refilling your iron with water every few minutes as you do with ordinary irons. Steam generators reduce that frustration because the water is kept in a separate boiler and the Tefal Pro Express – GV8330 has a very convenient 1.8 Litre water tank. Compared with a lot of other steam generators on the market that only have a 1 Litre boiler capacity, that’s more than generous. Not only that, the continuous fill means that there is no need to switch off your generator when you do need to refill it.

Out of the way

How many times have you cursed your normal iron because the cord is continually hampering the job? It really is a nuisance. Tefal’s Ultracord system is an absolute blessing. The revolutionary spring assisted cord prevents you from putting more creases in your garments than you take out!

No anti-scale = No sale

Anti-scale products help prevent the build up of lime scale so that you get improved performance and a longer life out of you appliance.  My motto when buying irons has always been ‘No anti-scale = No sale”. I live in an area where the water is very hard and I know from bitter experience the terrible effect that build up of scale can do to certain household products. Tefal have come up with a very easy solution to storing and getting rid of inevitable scale. They came up with the Anti-Calc Collector. Quite simply, the generator alerts you when it is time to remove the anti-scale collector (so there is no danger of forgetting to do it) and all you need to do is to rinse it under a cold tap, then reinsert…pure genius!

How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

Tefal’s RRP for the Pro Express is £249.99.  Amazon’s current price is well under that, saving you pounds.

What’s Included?

  • 1 x Steam generator
  • 1 x Instruction manual

Does it Include a Warranty?

Yes, the Tefal Pro Express – GV8330 includes a 1 year warranty.

What Others are Saying

There are plenty of 4 and 5 star reviews for this steam generator on Amazon. Here are some of the comments to date:

  • “Good value for money.”
  • “This iron is brilliant!”
  • “Takes all the pain out of ironing!!”
  • “…this iron is the best of the best. I’m delighted with it.”
  • “I would never go back to a normal iron now.”

Any Complaints?

Some ironing boards don’t have a big enough holder for the Tefal Pro Express to fit in comfortably so I would suggest you check the size of yours before you buy. If it is too small you could always treat yourself to a new ironing board at the same time as your iron!

Where Can You Buy the Tefal Pro Express – GV8330 Steam Generator?

There are plenty of online merchants selling this product and one of the cheapest places to buy it is Amazon. Their speedy and reliable delivery service also means you won’t have to wait too long before it arrives on your doorstep. Click here to view on Amazon.

Where Can You Read More Reviews for the Tefal Pro Express – GV8330 Steam Generator?

The best place for reviews from people who actually use the product is Amazon. Click here to read more.

Bosch Rotak 34 LI Ergo-flex Cordless Rotary Lawnmower



My Review of the Bosch Rotak 34 LI Ergo-flex Cordless Rotary Lawn Mower

I’ve just started my own little odd jobs and gardening business and have invested some money in ‘must have’ equipment that included a compact, robust and easy to use lawnmower. I purchased the Bosch Rotak 34 LI Ergo-flex Cordless Rotary Lawnmower after reading some very good reviews on the product and I have to say that I’m more than happy with my new toy and I’m certain that my customers so far have been very pleased with the results. Speed is of the essence when getting paid for jobs so I wanted one that was quick as well as the above. This Bosch lawnmower makes cutting grass a doddle compared to my previous Flymo and also has the added benefit of being cordless (no interfering leads getting in the way).

What to look for when purchasing a lawn mower

With so many lawnmowers to choose from; petrol or diesel, grass collecting or non grass collecting, lightweight or heavyweight, so on and so on, these are a few important things to take into consideration before buying one:

  • Box capacity
  • Cut height
  • Weight
  • Easy handling
  • Power
  • Cable Length (if not cordless)

No More Stopping and Starting Every Few Minutes

The box capacity of any lawn mower is a very important detail because the last thing you want to do is continually empty the grass collector. Some boxes only have a capacity of 15 litres but the Bosch Rotak 34 LI Rotary Lawn Mower has a very generous 40 litre box which will result in far fewer breaks in your mowing.

Grass Grows Very Quickly!

If you don’t always have time to cut your lawn as often as you would like you will love the range of cutting height on this lawn mower. The blade can be adjusted from a minimum of 20 mm to a maximum of 70 mm to accommodate a lot of over-growth; that amounts to 10 different heights to choose from. The manufacturers have also given the blade a 34 mm cutting width so it is ideal for large lawns.

Weight a Minute

If you are like myself and find it difficult to lift and manoeuvre bulky or heavy objects this lawn mower poses no threat. Its total weight including the battery is just 12.8kg (3 or 4 times lighter than some petrol mowers). During a busy day I may have to lift my lawn mower on and off my trailer 5 or 6 times so weight was a very important issue when selecting a replacement for my old mower. Another advantage of having a lightweight lawn mower is storage options. I like to store a lot of my garden equipment off the floor to prevent winter frost damage and the Bosch Rotak is ideal for hanging or shelving.

Easy Manoeuvrability

The Ergo-flex System that Bosch have designed makes manoeuvring this lawn mower easier than pushing a pram! My lawn is fairly square and continuous but many of the gardens I have tended in my work have had some very interesting features such as rockeries, water features, and randomly placed statues braking up the grass that would have proved impossible to mow around without the Ergo-flex’s flexible steering. This is also where the innovative grass combs come in very handy because I can also mow right up to the edges of any grass surface and there is less need for a strimmer or garden shears.

Power

The power for this lawn mower is generated from a re-chargeable 36 volt/2.6Ah Lithuim-ion battery. Lithium-ion batteries are ideal for portable items because they are lighter and store more energy than ordinary batteries. As my Bosch Rotak is fairly new it will be quite some time before I need to change the battery as Bosch claim that it can withstand up to 700 re-chargers.

No Lead, No Interference

Now this is what makes this rotary lawn mower really impressive and if you have never used a cordless lawn mower before you really should give it a go, it is so liberating. To avoid clumsy extension leads and interfering cables the Bosch Rotak 34 LI is cordless. Since using my cordless mower I am totally confused as to why all lawn mowers aren’t cordless. It just makes sense not to have cables draped around the garden waiting for you trip over, or worse still, cut through them.

How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

The  Bosch Rotak 34 LI Ergo-flex Cordless Rotary Lawn Mower is consistently priced on Amazon at around £225.00. Good news when you realise that the RRP is £280.00.

What’s Included?

  • 1 x Bosch Rotak 34 LI Ergo-flex Cordless Rotary Lawn Mower
  • 1 x Lithuim-ion battery
  • 1 x Battery Charger

Does it Include a Warranty?

Yes, the Bosch Rotak 34 LI includes a 2 year warranty.

What Others Are Saying

The majority of reviews on Amazon give huge thumbs up for this lawn mower. Listed below are just some of the comments:

  • “I cut the grass in record time now!”
  • “This is so easy to use.”
  • “Full marks!”
  • “…treat yourself and set yourself free from cords!”
  • “Can’t imagine using a corded electric mower again.”

Any Complaints?

The most common complaint about this rotary mower is the battery length but this only really applied to users with extremely large lawns. For the majority of owners there is ample charge to get the job done in one go without having to re-charge. When it does need re-charging all it takes is just 90 minutes from start to finish.

The cost of replacing the battery after approximately 700 re-charges is quite expensive but if you think about it, even if you need to re-charge every time you mow your lawn and you do that say, fifty times per year, the battery should have years of life in it. I’ll be replacing mine a lot sooner than most due to excess usage but it will have earned its initial outlay and any future expense several times over by then.

Where Can You Buy the Bosch Rotak 34 LI Ergo-flex Cordless Rotary Lawn Mower?

Amazon continues to offer the best deals on everything from children’s toys to gardening equipment. I checked out prices for lawn mowers similar to the Bosch Rotak 34 LI Ergo-flex Cordless Rotary Lawn Mower in the Argos catalogue and other mail order brochures and Amazon simply can’t be beaten. If you have signed up for Super Saver Delivery they will deliver this item free of charge to your door for around £225.00 saving you pounds all round.

Where Can You Read More Reviews for the Bosch Rotak 34 LI Ergo-flex Cordless Rotary Lawn Mower?

Amazon is the best place to read reviews from Bosch Rotak 34 LI Ergo-flex lawn mower owners.


Karcher K3.550 & T250 1800 Watt Water-cooled Induction Pressure Washer

Best Water-cooled Induction Pressure Washer Review: Karcher K3.550 & T250

I must admit to being a bit of a snob and famous brand addict when buying goods whether they are for my home or garden use so when I decided recently to invest in a pressure washer I immediately turned to the most prestigious and commonly known brand name in the pressure washing manufacturing industry, which is Karcher, and decided to look up some reviews and specifications on the Internet that might lead me to the right machine for me.

At a time when so many of us are having to think of ways of saving money, even if it means laying a substantial amount to do so, it just makes sense to invest in a product that will not only do the job required but will last a long time too. There were certainly no shortage of Karcher product reviews but I was looking for a pressure washer that was reasonably priced, within my budget of £200, and one that was good for both low and high intensity cleaning so when I stumbled across the K3.550 & T250 1800 Watt Water-cooled Induction Pressure Washer I was very impressed with what I read and decided to go ahead and purchase one.

I am definitely not disappointed with my pressure washer. In fact, I can hardly put it down! It is capable of all the tasks I expected it to do and more. I’m amazed at the variety of jobs it can easily tackle. I have a medium sized conservatory so the T-racer (brush) is ideal to tackle large, difficult to reach and sensitive surfaces.

 

For very high windows and other hard to reach places there is also a window and conservatory cleaning set that can be bought in addition to the existing tools which will be of great use to those of us who enjoy keeping our summer rooms spic and span too!

Currently Karcher are the only manufacturers who offer the combination of water-cooled technology with a powerful asychronomous motor (more on that later). In 2010, Karcher celebrated their 75th Anniversary so it was very reassuring for me that the company has been in existence this long.

There is a wide range of accessory kits available for this product including a motorcycle cleaning set and a garden cleaning set, great for cleaning all kinds of garden furniture. There is also a large range of additional lances that can be purchased to compliment your kit such as the 3 stage lance extension which is very useful for those who are challenged height wise, and a telescopic jet pipe for difficult to reach places. Brushes and cleaning sponges come in a variety of shapes and sizes too, and for the more adventurous amongst us there is a complete set of tools available for cleaning roof guttering and pipes. All of these, of course, are an additional expense but it’s good to know that you can add to you kit at any time in the future.

Product Details

Things to Think About Before Purchasing a Pressure Washer

There are a number of important things to think about before purchasing a pressure washer. Ask yourself as I did:

  • What kind of jobs do you want to tackle with your power washer?
  • Will it be used for a combination of both indoor and outdoor jobs?
  • How often is it likely to be used?
  • What would be the most intensive job you would require it to tackle?
  • Will it be used by a number of different people with varying abilities i.e. does the size and weight of the machine matter?
  • With so many pressures washers on the market today make sure you buy the right one for YOU!

Important Components of a Pressure Washer

Asychronomous Motors versus Sychronomous Motors

The Karcher K3.550 1800 Watt Water-cooled Induction Pressure Washer has a asychronomous (induction) motor which basicly means it is ruggedly constructed, low maintenance and has a long life span for high intensity use. This kind of motor also has the precise and unique ability to efficiently and effectively control its speed when the trigger is released.

Conversely, a synchronomous (universal) motor is less rugged, high maintenance and has a low life span for high intensity use. Also, with a universal motor, speed control is considerably less effective.  It doesn’t take a genius to figure out which is the best technology when it comes to purchasing a medium to high level tool that could be used almost daily in some households and often for some pretty tough jobs. Combine water-cooling with an induction motor and you have the latest in pressure washer technology. Only Karcher have managed to do this. Karcher water-cooled induction motor pressure washers rule!

What’s In A Watt?

Motor size is measured in Watts and indicates the power of the machine. This pressure washer has a powerful 1800 Watt motor so you can be sure that’s it’s got more than enough vroom to keep working hard for you.

Flow Rate

This is the amount of water that the machine uses when in operation.  The higher the flow rate per hour, the better the performance. This particular Karcher pressure washer has a very impressive flow rate of 420 litres per hour.

Easy to Assemble? Easy to Use?

A blindfolded monkey could assemble and disassemble this machine! It is as easy as assembling Lego blocks. There is a quick connect release on both ends of the high-pressure hose that fits easily on to the new style trigger gun and unit (also useful for preventing kinks in the actual hose). Child’s play! The ingenious Plug ‘n’ Clean System makes it quick and convenient to change between different detergents without any wastage too.

The light weight and upright design of of the Karcher K.3.550 undoubtedly make this one of the easiest pressure washers to use. The last thing you want after using your machine is a bad back or muscle strain. Karcher’s design is aimed at improved working posture so if used sensibly you won’t have to worry about injury to yourself.

How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

Karcher UK do not sell their products directly. Their website www.karcher.co.uk offers a list of suppliers and prices will vary considerably. On average the Karcher K3.550 1800 Watt Water-cooled Induction Pressure Washer is priced at around £200.00 and that’s without the T250 T-racer included in Amazon’s offer making their price extremely good value and difficult to beat.

What’s Included?

  • 1 x K3.550
  • 1 x Transport handle
  • 1 x Vario lance
  • 1 x Dirtblaster
  • 1 x T250 T-racer
  • 2 x 0.5m Extension lance
  • 1 x Trigger gun
  • 1 x 6m High-pressure hose
  • 1x Adaptor
  • 1 x Manual
  • 1 x Registration card
  • 4 x Screws
  • 1 x Detergent regulator
  • 1 x Universal detergent
  • 2 x Wheels

Does it Include a Warranty?

Yes, the Karcher K3.550 & T250 1800 Watt Water-cooled Induction Pressure Washer includes a 3 year warranty. Great news for new purchasers. Purchases made before 2011 are only covered by a 1 year warranty. Buy now and take advantage of this extended warranty period.

What Others Are Saying?

This pressure washer has received lots of favourable reviews from people who have purchased one. Most of the reviews have awarded between 4 and five star ratings for this product. Here are some of the most popular comments:

  • “Excellent all round machine”
  • “Gets the job done quickly and effectively”
  • “Compact, powerful, easy to use”
  • “Very easy to use and connect up”

Any Complaints?

I’m generally very pernickety when trying out new and unexplored goods so I’m delightfully surprised that there is very little that I would change about my Karcher K3.550 pressure washer. It’s the neatest bit of equipment I have purchased in a long time and I am confident that it will last me for years to come. As a proud Karcher pressure washer owner I would like to give you my three Top Tips:

Make sure that you have the correct garden hose connectors for this product. Certain connectors are not suitable for a high-pressure machine like this. The connector at the tap end of the hose needs to be an aquastop connector. This prevents any contamination from entering your water supply. The connector on the machine end of the hose needs a free-flow connector that can be bought for around £3.50 from most good hardware stores or gardening centres.

The Karcher branded detergents for all of their machines can cost up to £11 per litre. Other, much cheaper solutions will provide the same results. Shop around!

Make sure that when you store your pressure washer during the winter months that you fully drain any water left in it. You can do this by disconnecting the hose and running the machine for 2 or 3 minutes. This will prevent costly repair charges caused by frost and freezing weather conditions.

Where Can You Buy the Karcher K3.550 & T250 1800 Watt Water-cooled Induction Pressure Washer?

As I mentioned earlier in my review, Karcher UK don’t sell direct. There are no shortage of dealers and outlets where you can purchase your pressure washer but these can prove to be costly with very few discounts or benefits available. Amazon offers the best deal on this item that I have seen to date for this product, made even better by their Delivered FREE in the UK with Super Saver Delivery option. With Amazon’s amazing price for the washer and T Racer included (which is normally priced at around £40.00) I would recommend using Amazon to buy this product.

Where Can You Read More Reviews for the Karcher K3.550 & T250 1800 Watt Water-cooled Induction Pressure Washer?

There are plenty of reviews on Amazon for the Karcher K3.550 pressure washer.