October 21, 2008

All About Optional Automation


All About Optional Automation

When you say optional automation the first thing that comes to mind is a Timer. A timer is a kind of clock that can control a process or an event. It ranges form being mechanical to digital, electromechanical to software. Almost everything comes with a timer from watches to cellular phones, from computers to television.


Mechanical timers use mechanisms applied in clocks like escapement and springs in order to pick up the pace when it comes to the speed. If it is inaccurate, these mechanisms are said to be cheap and it is better to use a timer that is able to resist this. An example is the mechanical egg timer.


The accurate mechanism of a timer resembles those small alarm clocks. The advantage of these timers is hat they don't need a battery or electricity. They can also be stored for a long time. The most common application of this kind of automation control are bombs and explosives.


The Two types of Electromechanical Timers


1. Thermal type


It has a metal finger that comes with various rates of expansion. The most common are the bronze and steel. The process involves the electric current flowing through and heating it. A side expands making the other side shorter. There is contact on the other end and it moves away from the switch contact. The most common application are the flashers that turn the signals in cars. It is also applied in Christmas lights.


2. Cam Timer


This kind uses a small motor that is synchronous and turns the cam through the switch contacts. This contraption, referred to as the AC motor, is always turned on and by alternating the current, it becomes an accurate rate. Power companies regulate these kinds of timers. This slow the motor to the desired speed and turns the cam on. The most popular application are those in dishwashers, driers and washing machines. This kind of timer comes with a friction clutch between the cam and the gear train. Therefore, the cam can be reset at any time.


Electromechanical timers are really popular because they are less expensive when compared to the mechanical switch conducts. They are also cheaper than those devices that have to be controlled by heaters, motors and power lights.


Before, mechanical timers were used in electric relays in order to guild controllers powered through electro-mechanical contraptions. These electromechanical timers reached a state that were very extensive and eventually were applied in weapons systems and aerospace. Thanks to these electromechanical timers that can be controlled and programmed, launching of sequence events, rockets and missiles were made possible.


What are Digital Timers?


Digital timers are more precise compared to mechanical timers. They have integrated circuits that come with digital logic which is inexpensive. Therefore, an electronic and digital timer is cheaper than electromechanical and mechanical timers.


It is cheaper because it only needs a single chip. It is like that of a watch. The technology conducted in these devices are simpler than those of electromechanical appliances. However, most timers have software to implement their functions. The modern timer controllers resort to logic that is programmable instead of a box that is filled with parts that are electromechanically but quite complicated for the layman. The logic behind this is that the digital timer is designed to be simple. Digital timers are also safer than the mechanical and electromechanical timers. An application of the digital timer is the gas timer.


Air Switches and Wireless Controls


Most spas have electronic timers. Usually, they are digital counters that are controlled by the software. Their count down reaches zero. The minute it does, then the heater goes off.


The popular timers for spas and hot tubs are the air switches which provides the remote control. All you need to do is to push the button that is connected to the mechanism. This is flexible enough to allow the user to operate the hot tubs pump and blow up to 75 feet. Also, these models are round the clock and has a multiple timer which turns from one to two speed pump.


Finally, there is the field control operations that is very perfect for irrigation and lighting. These are also perfect for hot tubs and spas. They are also used in green houses, parking lots, traffic control, mostly for outdoor use.

October 20, 2008

The Best Spa Doesn't Necessarily Have All The Fancy Things!


The Best Spa - Portable Spa

Relaxing need not be done in a single place like spa centers, because now you can purchase your own portable spa and relax in the comfort of your own home. If you think that everything ends the moment that you have decided to purchase your portable spa, then you are wrong because this is only the beginning of endless decision making and reasonable organization of several elements.


Basic things of spas


As you are faced with a number of attributes, arrangements, models and fixtures, it would seem quite formidable to study every single possibility and decide the best formation for your requirements.


You can start with your search as you browse over the net and familiarize yourself with the terms that you may encounter as you are choosing your portable spa. Of course, you must start with the characteristic of a portable spa which is best described as a home spa or tub that is pre-manufactured and usually rests on top of the ground.


The real characteristics and size of the spa differ extensively, because there are small tubs which weigh around a hundred pounds and can be raised with ease. While there are larger tubs which are more or less a thousand pounds and will require specific installation assistance and some electric wiring help.


Considering your needs


While searching for the perfect portable spa on the net you might stumble into several specifications that include, the number of persons which can be accommodated by the spa, the therapy benches and seats, and the jet system of the spa which involves the power circulation.


There are also offers which provide the users with electronic controls, the water cleansing arrangement, the filtration systems, the covers, some fountains and there are also some which contain a fixed stereo system.


Thinking about the costs


This factor should be among your utmost consideration when you intend to consider your spa as an investment. You have to know the initial set of costs and the ongoing costs to be able to know how much money to budget.


At this point you may be enlightened that there are many choices as you install a portable spa. You need to be reminded that the best spas aren't the ones which are filled with various fixtures but it is significant that you choose the most suitable spa for your preferences and wants.

October 18, 2008

Relocate and Relax With Your Portable Hot Tubs


Relocate And Relax With Your Portable Hot Tubs

Portable hot tubs were among the most recent innovations brought to us by technology. So you can just imagine how a hot tub could be moved from one space to another with assurance that all the necessary components are intact. These portable hot tubs include independent plumbing so there will be no need for you to experience a muddled setup which consists of the erection of the external water pipes.


Pros in using a portable hot tub


Portable hot tubs contain the similar jet system together with the same seating options which you may find in the obstinate tubs. Thus there is no need to be anxious regarding the possible decrease in comfort offered by this hot tub. Aside from achieving the same comfort you can also transfer it to any place you want to soothe yourself.


The principal benefit offered by these portable hot tubs is the fact that, there is no need to attach it to an outside water source. With this kind of feature added to the hot tub, setting up and maintaining it will be a breeze. If you want to fill it, you can simply grab your garden hose. After doing so, the preparation will be complete with you adding the crucial chemicals and then you are good to go.


Since there is no need for you to have a permanent water source installed in your home, you won't need to worry about a piping or plumbing system. The one thing that you need to secure with these portable hot tubs will be the source of electricity.


Judging the services


If you are to assess the performance of these tubs, you would come up with a fair judgment that it functions similarly to the fixed models. It is because the attached water jets also provide relief on our stressed muscles through massage.


Adding to the feature of the hot tubs is the fact that they are lightweight, when emptied the tub just weighs around 50 to 60 pounds. Typically these tubs were produced from a small fry type of plastic materials and foams designed to provide comfort and durableness.


If you are in search of a good investment which will last a long time, you should take into consideration a portable hot tub. These tubs can also assure you lasting therapeutic features with less hassle in terms of maintenance.

Tips for Home Spa Care and Maintenance


Tips for Home Spa Care and Maintenance

Your home spa can give you more in terms of service if you make sure it undergoes maintenance on a regular basis. Maintenance not only makes sure that your home spa is working properly but also guarantees that it is safe to use. Here are some key points you should remember to keep your home spa clean and functional:


Keep your filter clean.


If your home spa filter is disposable, replace it regularly. Depending on how heavily it is used, do this after about 8 months or simply follow the manufacturer's recommendation. In between, detach the filter unit and clean it manually. Remember that a clean filter system means clean water.


Clean the tub.


You can prevent stains and discolorations from forming by simply using a vacuum or a skimmer net to remove floating residue. Each time you use your home spa, body oils, sweat, grease, dirt, dust and additional oils from cosmetics can mix with the water and form residues on the side of the tub. For maintenance, simply wipe off the residue or use a mild cleanser for more stubborn stains.


Disinfect your home spa.


Home spa maintenance is never really complete without disinfection. The warm temperature and dampness is an ideal environment for germs and bacteria to grow. Algae and mold can also appear, which can cause allergies and other health risks.


After cleaning, make sure your home spa is disinfected. Simply mix some disinfectant into a pail of water and use this to rinse your tub.


Ensure circulation.


Checking the circulation of your home spa is part of its maintenance. Observing the circulation will alert you to any defect in your equipment. Good circulation also means that water is moving efficiently throughout the tub and that it mixes thoroughly with chemicals. For maintenance, run the circulation system of your home spa for 3 to 4 hours every day.


Change water.


Sooner or later, the water in your home spa will get dirty, even if you clean your filter regularly or add chemicals. Grayish, cloudy, discolored and smelly water means you will have to drain your tub and replace it with new water. This usually happens after 3 to 4 months of regular use.


Home spa maintenance is quite simple and can easily be incorporated into your home equipment care schedule. If necessary, have your home spa serviced at least once a year. A professional can ensure that the equipment is working properly and that any defects are immediately repaired.

Hot Tub Bacterium