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Scuba Diving For Beginners

Last Updated on December 5, 2019 By San Leave a Comment

Beyond doubt, scuba diving can be enthralling, enchanting and adventurous. However, for those who haven’t tried it yet, the picture of getting into the ocean and witnessing marine life may only remain an elusive dream, far from reality. Perhaps, there is this fear that holds people back from finally trying to learn scuba diving themselves.

Scuba Diving for beginners – Beginners Side

For whatever reasons it may be, scuba diving is only a quick and easy-to-understand activity. It may seem to be frightening for some, but all those who have tried it have testified that it only takes determination and one step forward to overcome that fear and finally be a scuba diver.

True, the action of scuba diving entails a lot of patience, focus, and risks. But it is safe to say that it is in the risks and the challenges taken underwater while doing scuba diving that we come to appreciate its true wonder and beauty.

How to Get Started in Scuba Diving?

The key there is only to know the basics of scuba diving unless you decide to become a professional scuba diver and really learn all advanced skills.

Knowing the basics include knowing and mastering how to use the basic scuba diving equipment.

The most basic includes, of course, the self-contained underwater breathing apparatus, which the term ‘scuba’ stands for. This equipment is responsible for allowing the diver to breathe underwater for a longer period of time.

Other basic equipment that one beginner needs to be familiar with include buoyancy compensators, diving fins, diving masks, exposure suits, snorkels, diving weights, weight belts, diving shots, diving watches, power whistles, diving flags, dive computers, and dive instrumentation.

Underwater Navigation

The next stop for scuba diving beginners is the training.

Termed as the Basic Open Water Training, it is an extensive and helpful introduction to scuba diving. The training is to be conducted or offered by PADI- or NAUI-affiliated diving schools.

PADI, or the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, and NAUI, or the National Association of Underwater Instructors, are both established institutions when it comes to scuba diving, and thus offer certifications to diving schools.

The training can be as long as 11 weeks, or even longer, but it surely pays off. The training allows the beginner to be more comfortable underwater and master the use and know-how of the basic scuba diving equipment.

The training also includes mastery of the basic scuba diving skills. It covers both theoretical lessons and practical applications. There will be classroom training, where all theoretical aspects of scuba diving, such as techniques and safety parameters, among others, will be discussed.

Meanwhile, after about 9 weeks of learning through a classroom, pool training comes next. This is where hands-on skills training is conducted. The pool training includes the simulation of water conditions and diving skills.

And finally, beginners now can try their luck in the open water. However, one needs to undergo written examinations before proceeding to the open water. There is a minimum rating that is required so the beginner can get a certification to proceed to open water rating.

Newly certified scuba divers can then test their acquired scuba diving skills and knowledge in the open water together with a dive instructor or divemaster. In this stage, evaluation of the driving skills is being done so to improve one diver’s performance and being adept with operating various scuba diving equipment.

The most important there is to learn how to dive and knowing the basic skills and knowledge, like hand signals and scuba diving skills, safety checks, washing the gear and more.

Best Place to Scuba Dive

When a beginner finally gets an in-depth training of scuba diving, perhaps the next thing to look out for is where the best place to scuba dive is.

If you haven’t tried real ‘scuba diving’ yet, you will be amazed at how many beautiful places and options you have to try and offer you breathtaking scuba diving experiences.

Lots of diving destinations, dive sites, dive resorts are scattered all around the world. So wherever you may be, you can surely find a good diving place to visit. You can actually have your own choice of diving spots, as long as you get to have fun and enjoy scuba diving at its best.

Diving School

Perhaps you may also decide to take seriously and pursue your love for scuba diving. Thus, you can also proceed to take Advanced Open Water and professional level courses. In this manner, you get to know more and be more skilled when it comes to scuba diving.

Additionally, it can prove to be rewarding if you know much about marine life. When you have much knowledge, it can make your scuba diving more enjoyable as you get to see different types of marine life. You can even learn how to deal and interact with them when you are finally joining them underwater. You will know what to expect when you scuba dive, including what they are and how they look like.

Getting Started

Similar to snorkeling, it is still pretty much safer to venture into scuba diving with a buddy or a companion. Having another person to dive with you gives you a feeling of protection or security, should there be something unknown to greet you. As they say, prepare for the unknown and for the unexpected.

Buckle yourself up with the complete and dependable scuba diving gear. Staying alert and calm also makes you safer amidst sea mishaps. When purchasing scuba diving devices, always check for damages or leaks. Report immediately if you spot anything strange or uncomfortable in your diving gear.

Swim to the Deepest Ocean

Ask for advice from divers or swimmers who had been into scuba diving for quite a relatively long period of time. If it is your first time to dive into a specific location, a little research might be of help.

Nose problems are warning signals. As a response, you may either move your scuba diving adventure into another schedule or immediately take a no-drowse medicine. Always bear in mind that during tough times, it still pays to be calm and alert.

Guides to Scuba Diving Equipments

Enjoying and exploring the outdoors need not be land-bound. Scuba diving is a great underwater activity that lets you explore the great sea bed. The wonders of the sea will leave you spellbound as you thread below the waves.

It is not an everyday sight to see the seaweed vegetation or to be immersed in schools of fish. Would it be fortunate for the diver to witness other sea creatures that come along your diving path?

The thrill and adventure of an underwater activity such as in scuba diving would truly be a memorable and exciting experience.

Scuba Diving: Equipment

A scuba diver must be trained before he or she dons the suit and carry the breathing apparatus.

It takes defined swimming and breathing skills and scuba diving training because of the environmental risks and health precautions involved in this activity.

However, anybody with good physical standing and with the right attitude and determination can learn and obtain a scuba diving certificate. The right training and licensing can take you to different diving spots and a whole new level of exploration.

Many scuba diving schools offer qualified training, especially to beginners. However, not all diving professionals explain the basic essentials of the scuba diving gear and equipment.

Basic Gear for Suba Diving

Unlike swimming, scuba diving entails the necessary equipment and certification before you can actually benefit from it. As a novice diver, you can get these types of equipment as rentals in some diving schools and shops.

However, the essentials are sometimes bought and may not even be available for rent. If you plan to be a serious diver, it would be best to invest in these necessary requirements.

Scuba Equipment

Any diver should begin with the following basic gear:

Scuba Suit
Scuba Tank
Scuba Mask
Swim Fins
Scuba Booties
Snorkels

Scuba Suit

You cannot dive effectively without wearing a scuba suit. There are three variations to the scuba suit: wet suit, dry suit, and dive skin.

A wet suit is made of neoprene with foamed thickness to protect the body and keep it warm during dives. This is an ideal and most common suit for diving warm waters.

A dry suit is suitable for colder dives as it provides better thermal protection but is more expensive than wet suits.

On the other hand, a dive skin is a thin one-piece bodysuit that does not provide much thermal protection. Its material is commonly Lycra and protects the body from cuts and stings during dives. Due to its thin material and the lack of thermal protection, it is advisable to wear dive skins in conjunction with wet or dry suits.

Additionally, the wearer should feel comfortable wearing a scuba suit. It should ideally have a snug fit without compromising normal breathing and must be properly maintained before and after use.

Scuba Tank

To keep you underwater for longer periods, a scuba tank will do the job. These cylinders are generally made of steel or aluminum and must be generally filled with 3000 psi of air.

Aluminum types are the cheaper variants commonly available for rent. The steel scuba tanks are more durable and expensive because it does not dent easily.

When buying for your own use, you must decide on the amount of air you often consume as a diver. It is determined further by your body size, lung size, fitness level and breathing pattern among other things.

Passport to Scuba Diving – Scuba Mask

A scuba mask protects your eyes and nose during your dives. It allows you to see clearly the underwater marvels that you encounter during your mini expeditions.

Choosing scuba masks is not a difficult situation. You can select from different styles and colours and should find one that is perfect for your head size.

There are other considerations in buying the ideal scuba mask. If you plan to invest in a durable scuba mask for long term scuba diving, make sure that you consider other features and factors apart from its form and style.

These features include the comfortable fit of the mask especially on the nose and eye areas, the material it is made and the field of vision it can provide.

An ideal scuba mask and straps are made of high-grade silicone material. Although higher-quality scuba masks are generally expensive, you are assured of heavy-duty use and durability.

Additionally, proper maintenance is required to keep your scuba masks in tiptop shape. It is suggested that you clean your mask every after dive especially on the lens area. Always make sure to rinse in fresh water after every use and to keep in its hard case when dried.

Dive Equipment, Ready!

Swim Fins

Swim fins make your threading underwater possible. Without fins, you can not achieve the adept nature of threading and swimming during your dive.

The weight from your air tank, suit and the resistive properties you get from water often contributes to the difficulty in maneuvering underwater. But when donning swim fans, these allow you to move around the water with minimal energy and effort.

Shopping for ideal swim fins should depend on the size, color, and style you want. The overwhelming designs appeal to the individual tastes of divers too. However, the essentials for diving fins should include the comfort it provides to your feet.

It should allow you to swim and kick faster and prevent you from getting leg cramps. The type of material may vary too, but the safest choice is to look for high-quality swim fins. The bottom line is swim fins can last longer if you properly maintain and care for it before and after each dive.

Scuba Booties

Scuba booties are like socks for divers. These are made of different materials but commonly, these are made from neoprene and bear different colors, designs, and styles.

Wearing diving booties primarily protect your feet from blisters, abrasions, and cuts from wearing swim fins or from walking on hot or rocky beaches and pavement.

When buying scuba booties, check if the thickness and the manner of donning (such as pull-on or zippered) are to your preference. Also, the thicker the material, the more effective it is to keep your feet warm during cold-water diving.

Learning to Board – Snorkels

Snorkels allow a diver to spend time on the surface of the water. Snorkeling is a pre-diving activity that allows the diver to conserve energy for deep diving.

At the same time, divers can enjoy the underwater sights without having to lift the head from the water to breathe air.

Apart from the basic scuba gear, there are other equipment and accessories that contribute to effective and pleasant diving. These include scuba gauges, buoyancy compensators, scuba regulators, scuba weights and belts.

Other nonessential scuba gadgets include underwater cameras, dive computers, compasses, gear bags, first aid kits, logbooks, glow sticks, diving gloves, dive knives, glow sticks, underwater lights, diving watches, and watchbands.

Basic Scuba Diving Skills

Most of us, maybe, really have the hidden interest in scuba diving. Imagine what an adventure it can be.

However, the sad thing is, the interest is hidden because we don’t know how the whole thing is done. We may have lacked the necessary skills and abilities to venture into scuba diving. But hey, it is never too late to learn.

Nice Discoveries Underwater

Try something new, like learning how to scuba dive. It is also actually a good way of allowing yourself to grow as an individual. You can always take scuba diving lessons if you are really decided to consider this hobby seriously.

In this way, you will learn the basics from the professionals. You can try for yourself how it is like. It’s a good thing you have someone to help you and guide you into learning these basic skills of diving. You can also go to training to improve whatever you already know about scuba diving.

Meanwhile, let us list down some of the most popular and the most basic diving skills. Most of these, you may already learn from diving lessons and tutorials.

Water entry techniques: There are four types of water entries – wading, seated, feet-first, and back-roll. Knowing these things will prevent you from any injury upon entering the water.

Clearing the mask: Using a mask with a purge valve can be a resort to divers who cannot freely move their neck and thus cannot tilt their head upward

Using the snorkel and regulator. It is a must to know how to use the equipment. The snorkel, as defined by Random House Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary, is “a hard rubber or plastic tube through which a swimmer can breathe while moving face down at or just below the surface of the water.” A regulator, meanwhile, is “a device on scuba equipment for regulating the rate at which compressed air is fed through a breathing tube in proportion to the depth of water.”

Dive Destinations

Since you are already in for a scuba diving adventure, then you definitely have a lot of choices to consider. The world is full of spectacular and breathtaking diving sites – it is for you to decide.

Dive to the Underworld

But of course, it is very costly to travel to other places and countries for new scuba diving destinations. Well, if you’re really decided to try scuba diving and take it seriously, then you can always try and discover your own country for scuba diving destinations.

Here in the Philippines, you can always have an awesome and exciting diving experience with the amazing diving spots the country offers that will leave you at awe.

Since you’re really interested in scuba diving, then here are the most recommended scuba diving sites and destinations around the world that you might want to try:

Yongala, Australia

This place ranks #1 in the Top 100 Dives of the World, according to http://www.scubatravel.co.uk What’s amazing about this place is that you can dive there all year round.

Yongala, Australia

And upon diving, you will be amazed by the marine life you will see right before your very eyes. The place is undoubtedly rich in marine creatures – turtles, rays, sea snakes and everything else – it is best to see all of them yourself.

Plus with the corals that you can’t find elsewhere, you can’t surely wait to do the adventure over again.

Cozumel, Mexico

This one, meanwhile, is the first of the Top Ten Scuba Diving Destinations listed in http://www.thescubaguide.com. The water and the reefs are just perfect for scuba diving.

Cozumel Mexico scuba diving

The fact that Cozumel is an island makes it more exciting to be a diving site. In fact, you can choose from at least sixteen reef areas in the island to dive in.

Throughout the years, with good promotions and with preservation of nature, the island has earned a reputation of one of the most famous and most sought-after diving destinations all over the world.

Puerto Galera, Philippines

Didn’t I mention the Philippines having the diving sites to die for?

Well, here’s one place found in the Philippines that you surely wouldn’t want to miss. Your scuba diving experience can be at its best when you do it from December to April since the Philippines is a tropical country.

Scuba Diving Puerto Galera, Philippines

Wikipedia even mentions that “Puerto Galera is also one of the main [technical diving] destinations in Asia. Technical Diving International – [TDI] has many dive centers in the area, offering the full range of TDI courses from Basic [nitrox] to advanced [trimix].”

Thistlegorm, Egyptian Red Sea

It’s going to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure as you go deep down the wreck. It is one enjoyable dive in this spectacular and mysterious structure.

The huge wreck will leave you hanging with the fascinating sights you will love to explore. It’s a given that you will have fun in trying for yourself the Thistlegorm experience.

Scuba Diving Inside the Thistlegorm Ship Relic. Red Sea, Egypt

You get a feeling that there’s something new for you each time you visit and dive into the place. Visitors and divers testify that it is really one hell of diving experience.

Palau, Micronesia Many people say that it is even the best in the world. The variety and diversity of marine and aquatic life you can find in Palau are superb. It is best that you try the experience yourself.

Even the nice words visitors and divers who have visited the sites have said it cannot be enough to describe how fantastic and how perfect the place can be for diving. Be marveled with the wide array of marine animals you can find. One exciting adventure is coming to you.

Camping Chair Buying Guide

Last Updated on December 3, 2019 By San Leave a Comment

Looking to buy a camping chair? This guide will help you to buy a camping chair that suits you. Camping chairs are specifically designed for a variety of outdoor excursions. They are typically resistant to adverse weather conditions and environmental damage and are ideal for all-around outings with friends and family.

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Because these camping chairs are designed for a mobile or transient purpose, most of them will be equipped with retractable or folding qualities – folding chairs. This allows each individual chair to be folded into a much more compact unit and stored effectively within the interior of the car or transport vehicle.

A camping folding chair usually has a number of unique qualities that distinguish it from other chairs, apart from its folding capability.

Camping chairs are sometimes designed with a nylon-based fabric spread between the outer metallic framework and attached with small metal tacks. This provides a comfortable seating arrangement that is similar to the memory-comfort system employed by higher-end mattresses and pillows from their respective manufacturers.

Most of the outer framework for these chairs will be constructed from aluminum or steel. Steel is obviously the more durable choice, offering exceptional reliability and a longer life span.

However, aluminum-based frames still manage to perform their function appropriately and will not bend or break unless an excessive amount of force is used on them. The choice should ultimately depend on the camper’s budget.

Most of these chairs are available from regular department stores and some furniture stores and also you can buy online. They are also available from retail outlets and web-based stores, the latter being among the more cost-effective options for their purchase.

Online stores will usually offer a broader selection of camping chair types than local stores, and will usually feature many different styles, shapes, and material types. An additional benefit to online shopping for camping chairs includes the wider availability of free shipping offers, special product discounts, and bonuses for repeat customers.

Pop Up Camper Buying Guide

Last Updated on November 28, 2019 By San Leave a Comment

Looking for a pop up camper buying guide or If you’re curious about pop up campers and are looking for more information, read on. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the benefits that can be found by owning a pop-up camper as well as the drawbacks. By the end of the article, you’ll have a better understanding of the pros and cons of pop up campers.

Pop Up Campers

So what exactly is a pop-up camper? Well, to put things simply, a pop-up camper is any sort of camper trailer that folds down for travel and pops up or unfolds to serve as a camper. If you are looking for a pop up tent read this post.

They’re generally going to be something like the camper to the right – both of the wings on the sides fold in and the roof lowers to about a foot off of the base. This makes for a very compact trailer, making it easier and more convenient for travel.

Pop up campers are really very similar to folding campers in that they both fold down for travel and pop back up for use.

Benefits of Pop Up Campers

There are several benefits to pop up campers.

1) They are affordable. Pop up campers are very reasonably priced compared to other types of towable campers. This is a particularly important benefit for families who love the outdoors but don’t have a lot to invest, or for families who are just starting out with camping and don’t want to invest a large amount.

2) Storage is simple. Since pop up campers don’t have the height issues of RV’s, you can easily store a pop up camper in the garage so you don’t have to worry about having specialized storage space.

3) Pop up campers are lightweight. Since they are made of lighter-weight materials and weigh less than many other kinds of towable campers, you don’t have to own a heavy-duty truck to tow them. Most min-vans or SUV’s will be able to tow a pop up camper without a problem.

4) They are fuel-efficient. Since pop up campers fold down and have a low profile, they cost less to tow than other types of campers.

5) They are easy to tow and maneuver. The low profile of pop up campers means there is no need for specialty rearview mirrors and the driver’s view will not be obstructed. Also, their small size makes them easy to position once you arrive at the campsite.

pop up camper too, unfortunately, despite all the benefits, pop up campers are not without their downsides.

Drawbacks of Pop Up Campers

1) They require time for setup and tear-down. Although some pop-up campers take only 10 minutes to put up, others can take an hour. For most pop up campers the set up is a manual process that involves unfolding it, sliding portions out, and cranking it up to the appropriate height. It can feel frustrating when you’ve spent an hour setting up your camper to see a 5th wheel drive into a site next to you and have their camper set up and ready to go in 10 minutes or less, including getting their campfire going.

2) Fewer amenities than other types of campers. Features like hot water, ovens, refrigerators, and toilets are all add-on options on most pop up campers. As pop up campers are more of an entry-level type of camping trailer, the standard features are more limited. Even if you do choose to include some of the add-ons the quality is not as high as it would be in a more expensive 5th wheel or RV.

3) Not built for windy weather. Because pop up campers are so lightweight, they also tend to move about a little during a wind storm. If you plan on camping in windy areas and don’t like the feeling of your camper rocking a bit, a pop-up camper may not be the best choice for you.

Brands and Types to Consider

When you decide to start looking for pop up campers for sale, the first thing you should do is investigate the different brands available. Coleman pop up campers are among the most popular.

Fleetwood and Keystone are also good brands to look at, in addition to Jayco pop up campers. If you have a pickup, look into pop up truck campers. When you’re out on a retail lot you may also find other brands that you like the look and features of.

Before choosing a brand, make sure to compare all their features and benefits. Also, take a look at the warranty offered and what their service reputation is like.

If you’re on a budget and don’t want to spend too much on your camper, then looking at a used pop up camper can be a good option. Just make sure to buy a quality camper from a reputable manufacturer, and if you can get a warranty on it, all the better.

Finding a Good Price on Pop Up Campers

Try to identify which types of features you will use the most so you don’t overpay on a camper that has bells and whistles you will never use. On the other hand, don’t go without a particular feature simply because you think it will be too expensive. If you know having an oven will make a big difference in your camping experience, then price shop until you find a pop up camper with that feature. Finding pop up campers used may be a great way to find all the features you want while staying within your budget.

Conclusion

If you’re on a budget but want a more comfortable camping experience, pop up campers are likely a good choice.

However, if you are looking for a more luxurious camping experience with a lot of amenities, pop up campers may not be the best fit. Hopefully, this article has provided you with enough information to determine if a pop up camper is the right choice for you and your family.

There are a lot of camping vehicles on the market – whether you choose a pop up camper or another type of vehicle, there is sure to be one out there that is the perfect match for your camping needs.

Outdoor Patio Heaters

Last Updated on November 27, 2019 By San Leave a Comment

What do I need to consider before buying a Patio Heater?

There are several significant considerations should be made before buying an Outdoor Patio Heater which I have detailed below:

Environment:

The patio or garden environment you are trying to heat could immediately play a factor in your decision.

Is there enough height to have a free-standing patio heater? Do you have a wall where a wall-mounted heater would go?

Is there an electricity supply if you are thinking of buying an electric patio heater? Are there any restrictions i.e. a porch awning or an outdoor kitchen etc.

Taking your environment into consideration could narrow your searching time quite considerably.

Heat Output of Outdoor Patio Heater :

Patio Heaters come in many different shapes and sizes and can have varying levels of heat output.

The required heat output depends on the size of the area you are trying to heat. If you are unsure what range would suit and maybe how strong 12.5Kw of heat actually feels like, there is always the option of asking a salesman to turn on the heater so you can get a better idea.

It would be a waste of money to buy a patio heater with a 6-foot radial heat capacity if it is for a 25-foot wide patio.

It would also be helpful if you find out how the heat travels as there are some patio heaters (mostly the gas type) which heat the air and can be affected by wind, whereas some of the newer electric patio heaters heat objects and people and are unaffected by wind.

Safety Issues of Outdoor Patio Heaters:

Most outdoor patio heaters come with an automatic shut off device that will instantly cut the heat to your heater to prevent I overheating.

They also can come with tilt shut off devices that cut off the heat source if the heater is tipped up or blown over ensuring that the surroundings will not catch fire. These, together with the usual heat adjustment buttons are the most common safety precautions items found within most types of patio heaters.

It is always best practice to ask about the available safety features before purchasing as this area is an important one often influences people’s decisions on whether or not to buy the heater.

Cost of an Outdoor Patio Heater:

The traditional full standing gas patio heaters seem to be on the whole slightly less expensive than the freestanding electric patio heaters although prices can range depending on the heat output and style.

You seem to pay a little more for the style and design of a propane heater compared to the electric version, which seems a bit more basic looking. The wall-mounted electric patio heater tends to cost less as they are much smaller and don’t require a base like a standing patio heater, but the price can easily vary depending on the heat output requirement. A table gas patio heater which is the most common table heater is more commonly the cheapest type on the market due to its size.

It must be said that the cheapest or dearest heater available or the heater that has the greatest heat output or the largest number of safety features doesn’t always make it the best. Make sure that you consider all of the other factors mentioned when choosing your patio heater.

What are the different types of patio heater available?

There are many different patio heater styles but only really about 4 types which I have detailed below:

Traditional Gas Patio Heater:

Traditional Tall Standing Patio HeaterThe traditional gas patio heater is what we commonly see in a garden center which is generally a tall upright heater that has a widened bottom that normally houses and conceals a propane gas bottle.

These types of heaters are generally the same shape looking a bit like a lamp post with a flat bottom and come in a variety of different colors and styles, for example, an old fashioned style that look like an old lamp post from the 19th century.

There are also more modern patio heater themes with chrome patio heaters and bronze patio heaters which look great in a modern garden or patio. The only difference between these types of patio heaters apart from the style is the heat output which can vary depending on size and price with current propane prices.

Table Gas Patio Heaters:

Table Patio HeaterThe table gas patio heater is a perfect choice for a small outdoor dining area or where height clearance is tight and can be also used for camping and if necessary under an awning.

Endless Summer, GLT1343SP, LP Gas Outdoor Table — Endless Summer, LP Gas Outdoor Table

This type of patio heater as the name suggests will simply sit on your Rattan Outdoor Garden Furniture and keep the area cozy and warm.

They are a shortened version of the traditional patio heater and like their taller cousins come in a range of styles and themes. The heat output on a table patio heater is more commonly less than a taller traditional taller model but depending on the price you are willing to pay is more than capable of matching it.

Traditional Electric Patio Heaters:

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Electric Patio HeaterTraditional electric patio heaters look like their gas counterparts but rather than use a Propane gas bottle to generate its energy, it uses electricity with halogen elements.

These heaters provide heat similar to the way the sun’s heat distribution works, where things are heated up rather than just the air in between. Electric patio heaters provide the best efficiency levels of anything on the market today making it the economist’s choice and combined with zero carbon emissions also makes it the environmentalist’s choice too.

Wall Mounted Electric Patio Heaters:

Wall Mounted Patio HeaterThese types of patio heaters have all the benefits of the traditional patio heaters mentioned above with their efficiency levels and environmentally friendly emissions but have the added advantage of being wall-mounted rather than free-standing. Therefore you don’t need to find space to stand the heater or take up room on a table a piece of the wall will do nicely.

These types of heaters are more often being used commercially at the moment in pubs and restaurants rather than vertical radiators but they are now creeping into the domestic market as they are space-saving and with the appropriate garden lighting ideal for smaller gardens and patios.

Outdoor Patio Heaters Q&As

It is absolutely essential that before buying a patio heater that you fully understand the requirements to keep one. Therefore I have compiled a list of common patio heater Q&As:

Q. Are all patio heaters the same?

A. NO. There are several types of patio heaters that come in a range of styles and shapes. The main differences are the energy source whether i.e. gas or electric and the purpose whether it is for a wall, a table or just simply free standing. With a variety of products to choose from, there is obviously a varying cost level depending on the style you require and the heat output generated.

Q. How much heat do patio heaters produce?

A. The latest patio heaters produce around 40,000 BTU/h of power which is enough to heat a small house. Don’t think more is better, larger heat capacities require a wider reflector to reflect it downwards or the heat is lost in the air.

Q. How much gas do patio heaters use?

A. Most of the modern patio heaters today have high energy burners with pilot control which lets you decide the temperature of the heat. Normally at full power, modern patio heaters will use just under 1kg of LPG per hour. Older models burn a great deal more. The best way to use patio heaters is to warm up the surroundings and then reduce the heat control to the level which is most comfortable. Under average use, a gas LPG cylinder will normally last between 3-5 weeks depending on the weather.

Q. Are electric patio heaters cheaper to run?

A. A standard 2KW electric patio heater will run at about 10p per KW per hour. Gas (LPG) patio heaters running at a maximum heat of 13KW cost around 8p per KW. This cost is obviously reduced when the heater is turned down a notch.

Q. Are the patio heaters I see in bars the same as my own?

A. NO. The patio heaters that you see in bars with nice landscape lighting are generally more robust and are with higher-grade components and are manufactured and engineered for heavy usage. These types of patio heaters are generally more expensive and do not come in a range of styles like the home use patio heaters.

Q. Can patio heaters be left outside all the time?

A. During the spring and summer months, patio heaters can be left outside all the time but during the winter months, it would be best practice to purchase some patio covers for use to prevent weathering. Most patio heaters are pretty durable depending on what it is made from as stainless steel patio heaters are generally more durable than powder coated patio heaters.

Pop Up Tent For Camping – How To Choose The One For You

Last Updated on November 27, 2019 By San Leave a Comment

A pop-up tent is a great choice to take on any trip where you need sleeping quarters, whether it is for one night or several nights. They also make a nice little beach tent. They are lightweight and assemble quickly and easily.

Because they come in such a wide array of sizes, materials, styles, and price points, there are many things to consider before you make your purchase.

The beauty of pop up tents is that they are an ingenious combination of being lightweight, they store flat in a case or backpack, and can be assembled within minutes. Unlike the traditional tents, there are no complicated set-up instructions, the mess of poles, or even the need for more than one person for assembly.

You simply remove it from the carrying case, and because of the flexible frame, it will spring into shape when you release the strap. The only assembly will be putting a few pegs into the ground and possibly tightening the attached ropes.

A pop up camping tent can come in all different sizes, so first you need to decide how many people will be sleeping in it. If you are single or will be going on the trip by yourself, then obviously you will only need a 2 man pop up tent.

However, if you are part of a couple, or have children, then you will need a larger tent, like a 4 man pop up tent, unless everyone will have their own 2 man tent. Unfortunately, I don’t think there is a pop up 6 man tent, so if you have a large family, you might want to buy a couple of tents. You may also want additional room for items like food, or cooking supplies.

The next thing to consider is the season of the year, and the temperature when it will be used. While most people will be camping in the warmer months, there are some people who will need a tent that can provide protection from the elements, like cold and snow.

Tents come in different fabrics for different needs. Nylon tents are light, a canvas tent is durable but heavy, and polyester will be good under extreme exposure to the sun.

Obviously, the larger the tent, and the more specialized it is, then the more expensive it will be. A 4 person tent will likely be more expensive than a 2 person model. If it will only be used occasionally, then you will probably go for the less expensive model.

Those who camp frequently may want to invest in more features. Anyone who uses the tent for extreme situations, like mountain climbing or sleeping in the snow, will want the top of the line model.

Some other things to consider are features like window flaps for ventilation, and mesh to keep the bugs outside. Because pop up tents come in a vast array of colors and patterns, you will need to decide if you want it to blend into the scenery, or stand out so it can be easily spotted in the forest or campground.

A pop-up play tent is great for children to play in because they can be set up in the back yard, or even indoors, and they have different themes and characters. With all the styles and features to choose from, there is sure to be a pop-up tent that will suit everyone.

Experience The Great Outdoors In a Camping Tent

Last Updated on November 25, 2019 By San Leave a Comment

If you want to experience the great outdoors and feel close to nature than nothing beats a camping tent. An RV may be the way many people prefer to travel but if you want to escape from your busy lifestyle and get back to nature why would you take the lifestyle with you? A camp tent adventure can take you places that an RV can never get to.

Camping tents don’t take up much space and are normally easy to transport and carry. Most camp tents even come with their own carry bag that holds everything you need to erect your campsite once you have decided to stop for the night.

You can even carry it with you on a hike and travel along hiking trails to destinations that can only be seen by walking there on foot. Imagine finding that perfect spot along an inland pond or lake that is secluded, lush vegetation and a great place to swim or fish and you have with you a camping tent.

Camping tents come in many shapes, colors and designs so you can choose from a small one-person camping tent or 2 man tent to a large 4 person tent or 6 man tent like Colmen 6 Person Tent depending on the size of the party you need to house for your outdoor experience.

Of course, if you need to sleep more than 5 or so people and you don’t want to buy more than one tent, you could always get a canvas tent. They are much larger than the normal tents you see and can sleep a lot more people.

Camping is a fun past time for the family and a great way to get the children involved in the outdoor world around them. Make sure your camping tent is water repellent so it will hold up to any rainstorms or adverse weather. Most camping tents are already water repellent but you can buy a spray that will make it water repellent if yours isn’t.

Camping tents usually have an insect screen as part of the design to keep out the pest mosquitoes and any flies you may encounter. Many tents even come with screened windows and doors that you can open with just a pull of a zipper to let in some fresh air.

Pop up camping tents are even available now that one person can erect and seem to nearly do all the work themselves. Many are so light that you may find yourself double-checking your backpack to make sure you brought along your tent.

Colman 4 person tent — Colman 4 Person Tent

A great way to spend some quality time with your friends or family is certainly spending some time exploring the great outdoors in a family camping tent or even two. No distractions like television, computer, the Internet or the dreaded Play Station, just you and nature.

Take time to go fishing, hiking, swimming or just enjoy a night together around a campfire maybe seeing who can tell the best ghost stories. Isn’t it time you took time for yourself and enjoyed the natural world around you.