Programmable Thermostat Reviews: Honeywell 7 Day Programmable Thermostat

Honeywell Wi-Fi 7-Day Programmable Thermostat (RTH6580WF), works with Amazon Alexa

The RTH6580WF, a thermostat for your home from Honeywell can be adjusted from anywhere in the world through your smartphone, computer, or tablet.  A free app is available for both Android and Apple smartphones and tablets.  

This wireless thermostat needs a “C” (common) wire in order to operate properly, however, it will work with most of the air conditioning and heating systems in the United States. 

Here is a video from Honeywell on what to do if you do not have a C wire.

HOW TEMPERATURE AFFECTS YOUR SLEEP

Approximately 30% of American adults have insomnia related problems. They may go to sleep, but wake up three or four hours later.   If you have trouble sleeping, you should pay close attention to the temperature in your bedroom.

How well you sleep is affected by the temperature in your sleeping area and how comfortable you feel.  Your body temperature goes down when you sleep. This decrease in temperature induces sleep.  

It is easier for this to happen in a cooler room.  But you are more prone to waking up if it is too cold or too hot.  How comfortable you feel may also affect REM sleep, or rapid eye movement.

It’s hard to say which is the correct temperature since it is subjective but the common recommendation is to keep the room between 65 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.  Or you may set the temperature that makes you feel comfortable.


HOW IT AFFECTS INSIDE YOUR HOME

Changes in the temperature can affect the wood flooring of your home.  The flooring reacts to the changes in humidity and temperature.  Sudden changes are not good for wooden floors.  It can shrink or grow.

It doesn’t matter what type of wood it is or how it was installed (nailed, glued, floating).  As conditions change inside your home, the wood flooring absorbs or loses moisture.  You should keep the temperature and humidity inside your home in a certain range if you want the wooden flooring to perform as intended.

The range depends on the manufacturer and type of wood but usually it should be around 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

The floor will expand if there is an increase in humidity and your will end up with a buckled floor.  And when the humidity decreases, it may shrink back but with damages to the edges of the boards and you might see gaps in between the boards.  It’s also possible that it may split in the center or at the ends.


RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS

If your house is too cold, you will end up with increase in moisture or condensation.  Condensation can lead to mold.  Breathing in mold can cause a number of health problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and others.  

Air conditioning systems that are not properly maintained can also cause health problems according to a study from the Indoor Air Journal due to exposures of microbials.  Some of the problems might include headaches, problems with the upper respiratory system, eyes, skin and concentration.

If your air conditioner is causing health problems change the filters and read this review on air purifiers.


COLD AND FLU

You will increase your chances of catching a cold or flu if the interior of your home is too cold.  A study from Mount Sinai Medical School in New York states that it is harder for you to get rid of viruses if you are cold because normally, the contaminants that are inhaled are cleaned out as the mucus flows into the upper respiratory tract. 

The problem occurs when the colder temperature impairs this mucus from fighting airborne viruses by increasing the viscosity of the mucus.


RTH6580WF

The RTH6580WF can automatically adjust itself by calculating how long it will take to cool or heat your home.  You can permanently or temporarily over ride the settings with the “boost” button.  



Pros


Access the thermostat remotely by WIFI through your phone, computer, or tablet

Set up schedules with 4 programming periods per day (7 day programming feature)

It alerts you of unusual temperature variations and alerts you if the WIFI connection has been disconnected

You can control it from anywhere from a computer, smartphone or tablet

The energy saving feature has been pre programmed into this thermostat

You can view the local weather via the app or the web portal

The display screen is easy to read

Comes with a 1 year limited warranty



CONS


“C” (common) wire is required.  However, there are instructions on how to work around the C wire and make it work

Needs to be powered by 24 VAC

It may not connect to your WIFI network if your WIFI password or network name contains special characters.  For example, “Pass&word”

Does not come with a feature where you can lock the device so other people can’t have access to it



VERDICT

This 7 day programmable WIFI thermostat can be connected to you home wireless network.  Easily program and schedule the days with the free app on your phone, computer, or tablet.  Simply program your thermostat through your computer, phone, or tablet or by pressing on the buttons on the thermostat. Installation of the software updates are easy.  It will be downloaded and installed automatically. 

Control the thermostat from anywhere that has internet connection and the energy saving feature is already pre programmed into the thermostat.  The RTH6580WF is a good option to consider if you are looking for value.  

Nailer Review: Which Nail Gun To Buy

BOSTITCH RN46-1 3/4-Inch to 1-3/4-Inch Coil Roofing Nailer

If you are a roofer, builder, work in construction, or are in to DIY projects, this may be the best roofing nailer for you.  It is perfect for the homeowner as well as the professional.  It has the capability to deliver 410 inch/pound of force at 100 PSI which allows you to drive up to 100 nails per minute.  The depth dial has flush mount driving, shallow driving, and countersinking features to help you find the driving depth.  

The RN46-1 will show when the magazine is empty and will not fire if the magazine is empty.  You can load the nails quickly with the side load canister which has been patented.  It also features skid-resistant pads and a tool less shingle guide.  According to Bostitch, this roofing nailer has been tested in its testing labs by dragging it 75 miles across asphalt shingles.

PROS

A number of applications including exterior drywall, fiber cement, insulation board, etc…

The magazine can hold up to 120 coil nails which helps reduce down time

It will not fire when it is empty due to a lockout mechanism

You can adjust the following:  depth control, full round driver, body and magazine wear guards, and side load canister

It is easy on your arms.  Housing (magnesium) that is lightweight and durable and features carbide tips for longevity and only weighs 5.8 pounds

Load nails quickly with the patented single action side load canister.  Quick shingle spacing with a shingle guide that is adjustable

Comes with a 7 year limited warranty

CONS

The RN46-1 may be loud

Does not come with an air supply nipple

Does not come in a hard case

VERDICT

The RN46-1 is perfect for the homeowner or the professional.  It is easy on your arms because It is made of lightweight aluminum.  You can use it on a variety of jobs including exterior drywall, fiber cement siding, vinyl siding, composition roofing, and more.  And it helps reduce down time because the magazine holds up to 120 coil nails.  It is good value for the money.  In my opinion, you’re getting your money’s worth.

Air Purifier Reviews: Filter 99.97% of the Particles and Odors

Levoit Air Purifier Filtration with True HEPA Filter, Compact Odor Allergen Eliminator Cleaner for Home, Pets, Smokers, Cooking, LV-H132

WHO SHOULD BUY THIS

If you live with smokers, pets, someone with asthma or allergy problems, have problems eliminating food odor, or if you just want fresh, clean air indoors, this may be the best air purifier for your allergies, asthma, and your home.  

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

It is portable and weighs only 6.5 pounds.  It is designed with 3 filtration processes: Fine preliminary, True HEPA, and Activated carbon.  99.97% of the particles and odors are filtered by the 3 filtration processes.  

The fine preliminary filter neutralizes airborne bacteria, fungi, mold, and dander from pets.  The true HEPA traps, pollen, dust mites, and large particles.  And the activated carbon filter neutralizes smoke from cigarette, odors from pets, and household odors such as cooking smells.  You do not need to waste money on buying air fresheners. 

PROBLEMS WITH AIR POLLUTION

Research from MIT shows that air pollution causes about 200,000 early deaths a year in the U.S.  In addition, there are negative effects such as pre term births, autism, and asthma for the children of pregnant mothers.  Some of the problems may arise from breathing in household cleaning products and poor indoor air circulation.  For these reasons, buying an air purifier makes perfect sense.


WHAT TO AVOID

"Ionizers" are popular types of purifiers on the market but the downsides may outweigh the benefits.  Allergens, dust, and airborne particles that are positively charged are trapped by the negative air ions that are generated by the Ionizers.  One problem is that it may not work well in large spaces.  It is only good for smaller spaces.  But a much larger problem is that it may produce ozones which is bad in an indoor environment.

Electrostatic reactions produce oxygen molecules called ozones.  Low concentrations of this molecule may not cause harm.  However, at higher concentrations, it may cause problems such as damage to your lungs and respiratory tissues.  Some of the devices may produce a lot of ozone which can damage your health.  So what is the solution to this problem?

LEVOIT'S LV-H132

For the reasons stated above, you are better off purchasing a device that draws air through a filter that holds pollutants and harmful particles.  HEPA, or high efficiency particulate air, is a type of filter that accomplishes this task.  99.9% of particle above a certain size are removed by this filter.

One of the best devices with replaceable HEPA filters is the LV-H132 by Levoit.  And it is 100% ozone free.  You do not have to worry about the negative consequences of Ionizers.  It is a good idea to keep it where you spend most of your time or in your bedroom and leave it on day and night to increase its effectiveness.  It can help clean your indoor air from things that cause or worsen allergies and asthma.

PROS

CLEAN AIR:   99.97% of odors, pet dander, mold spores, dust, pollen, smoke are filtered including small particles such as 0.3 microns.  The HEPA technology filters air pollution of PM2.5

ALLERGY RELIEF: Great for people who have allergy problems and stuffy nose

FRESH SMELL: Pet odor, smoking, and smells from cooking are reduced from activated carbon filters

VERSATILE: Set the speed from low, medium, and high.  It features 2 brightness settings for night time.  Since it is quiet, you can leave it on overnight

PERFECT SIZE: Perfect size for small spaces or office space. It fits in small spaces around your house or office due to its size

SAFE: This machine does not use Ions or UV that produce harmful air pollutants or measurable amounts of ozone because it is 100% ozone free

WARRANTY: It has a 2 year warranty and comes with a lifetime support from Levoit.

CONS

You have to replace the filter every 6 months

During the initial set up, some machines might make mechanical noises but after regular usage, the noises will diminish

Before you run this unit, the plastic bag of the HEPA and charcoal filter must be removed or it may cause damage to the machine

VERDICT

Every household should have this device because not only does it work effectively, but it's voltage usage makes it economical and it's portable.  It improves air quality and you can control the speed of the fan from low, medium, or high. 

You can leave it on while you are sleeping and no harmful substances are released by this unit.  Besides improvements in air quality, you will notice less dust on your furniture.  It’s perfect for families, pet owners, the elderly, or anyone that desires fresh, clean air indoors.

Air Compressor Review

PORTER-CABLE C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor

This 6 gallon pancake air compressor from Porter Cable with a 150 PSI, water drain valve, and rubber feet might be the best home air compressor for you.  It features 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI.  Also has an oil free pump for no maintenance, low AMP 120V motor easily starting in cold weather.

It is portable and easy to use.  Perfect for everything from using it as a compressor for car tires to firing nailers and runs off of normal household circuits which provides a mess free and oil free process.

At just 34 pounds, the C2002 is lightweight and portable enough for workshop, or uses around the house. It's a great tool for many jobs including installing trim to inflating air mattresses.

Thanks to its low amp, 120 volt motor, it produces a lot of power and the motor starts easily in cold weather, comes with an extension cord, and features replaceable brushes.

It also has a built in automatic thermal overloadprotection.  At the same time, it gives you the flexibility to take on a number of jobs due to the high flow air regulator.

5 Reasons To Buy The C2002

1. Good value and easy to use

2. It's perfect for around the house

3. Oil free pump.  Don't have to worry about oil spills and no routine maintenance required

4. Fairly easy to move around.  Only weighs 34 pounds

5. 1 year limited warranty on compressor components

CONS

• May be loud
• Cost of repair could be high

VERDICT

The C2002's 6 gallon pancake style tank includes a water drain valve and rubber feet that won't scratch wood surfaces and is perfect for around the house.  You don’t have to worry about oil spills and comes with a 1 year limited warranty on the compressor components.  Furthermore, it supports 2 users at once because of the 2 regulated factory installed air couplers.  It’s a perfect buy for use at home.

Read This Review Before You Buy a LED Light Bulb

LED LIGHT BULBS REVIEW:  Philips LED Bulb 16 Pack 60 Watt Equivalent

Are these the best LED bulbs on the market?

Philips LED light bulbs come in a variety of color temperatures and energy saving wattages from soft white to daylight.  The kelvin ratings are 2700K for soft white and 5000K for daylight.   

These bulbs are perfect for any activity around the house. You can stock up and replace existing incandescent bulbs for immediate energy savings allowing you to save some money.

It uses 90% less energy. An 8.5 Watt LED bulb uses up to 86% less energy than traditional incandescent lights, while producing the same beautiful, warm and familiar light.

PROS

EXCELLENT REPLACEMENT:  Replaces the traditional 60 Watt incandescent bulb.  About the size of the traditional incandescent light bulb and contains no mercury.

QUALITY LIGHTING:  Light is warm and bright.

CONVENIENT:  No need to frequently replace your light bulbs.  The average life of this Philips LED bulb is 10 years.

SAVE MONEY & ENERGY:  Helps cut down electricity bill.  Save energy without sacrificing light quality. Only uses 8.5 watts of energy.

WARRANTY: 3 year warranty based on up to 3 hours average usage per day/7 days per week, when used as directed.  Not interoperable with the Philips Hue System

CONS

Not dimmable.

Some of the bulbs might make a buzzing sound.

May not work properly with a light sensor.

Cannot be used in an enclosed fixture.

VERDICT

Save money on quality lighting.  It does not have to be expensive. Philips LED light bulbs are an affordable alternative to the standard incandescent bulbs and has the familiar feel of traditional light bulbs.  Save energy and money with LEDs without sacrificing the quality of light.  Reduce the annoyance of replacing bulbs frequently and replace the light bulbs in any room in your home.