DuroMax XP4400E 4,400 Watt 7.0 HP OHV 4-Cycle Gas Powered Portable Generator With Wheel Kit And Electric Start Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)PowerMax XP4400E 4,400 Watt 6.5 HP OHV Gas Powered Generator With Wheel Kit And Electric Start (CARB Compliant)
We live in Southern Louisiana, smack-dab in the middle of hurricane alley, and decided to purchase a backup generator to deal with power outages in the event of an emergency. I wanted sufficient power capacity to run our refrigerator, a small portable AC, a few lights, a small TV, charge our cell-phones, and occasionally charge laptop batteries. We figured that around 3000 continuous watts and 4000 surge watts would be sufficient for our needs.
There are several generators sold by the hardware chains (Lowe's, Home Depot) that fit this description, but they're priced around $600 - $700. After some research on the internet, we decided that the PowerMax XP4400 would match our needs, and suit our budget. Just before purchasing it, on an impulse I decided to get the model with the battery powered electric starter, instead of the one that has a rip-cord. Our purchase price (on eBay - from MaxTool - the same company selling them on Amazon) was $469.99, including a cover for the generator, and shipping.
The generator was shipped Fedex Ground and took about a week to arrive. The external cardboard box showed signs of rough handling during transportation, but the generator was well packed in foam, and not damaged during shipping. The whole box weighs about 130 lbs, and it helped me considerably that the Fedex driver wheeled it right into our garage. Unpacking took about 20 minutes. There are a couple of shipping braces that support the engine during shipment that take a little while to remove.
The first thing I did was to flip the generator upside-down on a mat to install the wheel-kit. There are tools provided with the generator to get the wheels and handles on. As shipped, the tires were sufficiently inflated to bear the weight of the generator.
After flipping the generator right way up again, I filled it with SAE30 oil. We live in a relatively warm climate, so I chose 10W30. If you use generator oil, make sure you chose oil made for a four-stroke engine. The oil-fill tube is awkwardly placed - I have a funnel with a tube at the end out it, and found that I had to use it to avoid spilling oil. It takes about 20 oz of oil. To condition the engine, I would suggest changing the oil after 6 hours of run-time, then twice after 8 hours, and every 20 - 30 hours beyond that.
After filling it with gas (there is a mesh fuel-filter underneath the gas cap, I turned the fuel valve on, and started the generator. The engine turned right away, but wouldn't start. This turned out to be an error on my part - it dark, and what I thought was the fully-off position for the choke was instead the fully-on position. After moving the choke to the correct position(fully-off), the engine started up. It is pretty smoky and sputters until the choke is opened. After that it runs very smoothly,with no visible smoke in the exhaust. I don't know what the noise level is, but it is sufficiently low that it doesn't bother me when the generator is running outside the house, and I am on the inside.
The control panel has two 120V outlets (20 Amp), and one 30 Amp outlet that is switchable between 120V and 240V. There is also a 12V outlet to charge a car battery. There is a circuit breaker and a voltmeter. During my initial tests, between 60 watts and 2400 watts of load the voltage stayed at 115 volts, and didn't drop. I haven't tested higher loads yet.
So far, we are quite satisfied. The PowerMax XP4400E is built well, works well, and is less polluting that more expensive Honda, Subaru, and Yamaha powered units sold at the hardware chains.
And a little tip - for any small engine that is run infrequently. Make sure you mix the fuel with some anti-oxidant such as Stabil before putting it in the tank. Gas mixed with anti-oxidant should last for about one year.
Six month update (August 2009) - the generator still works like a champ. Some of the bolts worked themselves loose through the vibrations, so I've tightened them. No other major problems.
Eighteen month update (September 2010) - no problems yet. But I finally got around to installing a transfer switch to connect the generator to the main breaker panel in our house. I recommend this highly - it is far better than running cords all over the place, or back-feeding the main panel, which is illegal and very dangerous for linesman working on the utility company's lines. Reliance Controls makes a pre-wired six-circuit transfer switch (31406/30406) that is perfect for this generator and is available from Amazon. Took me about 3 hours to install, 2 of which were spent flush-mounting it in the drywall.

Click Here to see more reviews about: DuroMax XP4400E 4,400 Watt 7.0 HP OHV 4-Cycle Gas Powered Portable Generator With Wheel Kit And Electric Start

The XP4400 Features:? Durable DuroMax 7.0 Hp, air cooled OHV enginewith low oil shutoff .? Heavy duty steel frame with four point fully isolated motormounts for smooth and quiet operation.? Wheel kit w/ front handle for easy transporting.? Full power panel with engine shutoff switch, volt meter,circuit breaker and power outlets.? (2) Fully protected 120V outlets & (1) 120V/240V twist-lock outlet.? 8 Hour run time.? All steel 3.2 gal. fuel tank with ez-read gauge..? Low oil shut-off protects engine.? Super quiet muffler reduces engine noise.? Idle control holds RPM at a constant level even under heavy loads for fuel savings and noise reduction.Specifications:? Max AC Output: 4400 watts? Rated AC Output: 3500 watts? Current (120V/240VAC & 12VDC)? (2) 120v 20A 3-prong outlets(Standard Household plug).? (1) 120v/240v 30A twist lock(NEMA L14-30 3 Pole 4 Wire).? Low oil shutoff.? EPA & CARB approved engines.? Super quiet exhaust w/ built-in spark arrestor.? EZ-Pull Recoil start.? 7.0 Hp air cooled OHV engine? Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.2 gal? Decibel: 69 dBA? Run-Time [ @ 50% Maximum Output ]: 8.0 hrsIncludes:? RV Switch for 30Amp 120v power to supply demanding RV needs.? Extra large pneumatic tires.? Flip-Up stow away Handles.? Spark plug wrench? All new high impact interior/exterior packaging insures your generator will get to you in 100% factory perfect condition.? Shipping Weight: 130.00 lbs.

Get 17% OFF

Click here for more information about DuroMax XP4400E 4,400 Watt 7.0 HP OHV 4-Cycle Gas Powered Portable Generator With Wheel Kit And Electric Start

Read More...

Lux Products TX9000TS Touch Screen 7 Day Programmable Thermostat Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)BOTTOM LINE:
Took about 45 minutes from removing old unit to new installation and completing programming. It works great!SYSTEM:
4 wire Gas heating and electric cooling.OLD UNIT:
Honeywell Electronic C9825 - bought in year 2000. Has weekday, weekend, 4 periods per day and adaptive recovery. Replaced as temperature override and 'Hold' features work erratically.TOTAL EXPERIENCE:
1 WeekREVIEW:
The TX9000TS is the 3rd electronic thermostat I've owned and is probably the most intuitive of them all. Lux has provided a generous sized display and a very responsive touch-screen. The back light is a pleasing blue. The unit is 3 parts - the main unit, a back plate where you connect the wires and an optional accent plate that provides a .75 inch border to provide a finished look.
I had read the earlier reviews on Amazon and had decided that I will not read the instructions prior to the install to determine how intuitive this system really was? The only exception I would allow myself was if the wiring was significantly different from my old unit - which it was not!
The setup was relatively simple. Removed the old unit and replaced it with the new back plate and accent bezel. No new holes to drill. The accent bezel is the closest piece to the wall and is held up by the back plate. I straightened the old wires, inserted into the corresponding clamp and tightened the screws - Total time of 15 minutes.
I inserted 2 new alkaline batteries (And NO, I did not use the recommended Duracell or Energizer!) and the unit came to life. I clicked on the time and it started beeping. I could see arrows on the right and intuitively touched them to set the time. Did the same to set the day. Touching the 'Menu' got me into the programming mode for the unit. I touched "SCROLL" to skip to the next feature, and "NEXT" for the next step in the feature programming. I do admit I took a few iterations to get used to the programming logic. Also 'YES' to accept settings is a little different from the colloquial "ENTER" we are used to in a computer literate world!
This unit is programmable for every day of the week. I, at most, need one setting for all week-days and one each for Sat and Sun. While programming the days, I noticed that they had a "COPY" function. I was sure that this was to copy my settings - every time I touched it, it went over to the next day. I thought that the data was being copied over and I did verify it after I completed my first iteration of programming. By the way, once you are in the programming mode, setting the start time for any period and/or setting the temperature is as simple as touching the time or temperature and using the up/down arrows. Could not be simpler!
I was fortunate that I had the program settings available from my old unit - once I went through a few iterations of errors (not using "YES" to accept settings!) the unit was programmed - Total time of 15 minutes
I spent another 10 minutes setting the 'Filter Usage' and 'Swing settings' and reviewing the 'Temperature Calibration' and 'Energy Usage' monitor. The Swing settings only went upto 2.5 degrees in 0.5 degree increments (One of the other reviewer found that it went upto 3.0 degrees???)
I did not see the 'Smart Recovery' option and thought that it might be a switch on the circuit board like my last unit. It was 1.30 in the morning and I did not feel like reading the instructions. I attached the TX9000TS and it kicked off instantly.
The instructions did have the following options that can be changed with the small slide switches towards the back of the main unit -- 12/24 hours time format, Smart Recovery, Degrees in C or F, and 2 or 5 minute interval between restarts.OTHER REVIEWER'S CONCERNS
Some of the other reviewers have concerns that the unit does not automatically switch between heating and cooling to keep the temperature constant. This is done intentionally!
In the summer, our ideal temperature is 74 degrees. When we leave for work, our "DAY" period is set to 82 degrees so that the AC does not cool the home while we're out. In an auto switch between heating and cooling, the heat would take over and get the temperature to 82 degrees and maintain it - which is NOT the intent!! We do not want the AC to cool any below 82. I can, of course, see the gentleman's point if one spends 90% of their time at home and is OK with the associated heating/cooling cost.PROS:
* TX9000TS is rated #1 by Consumer Reports
* Cheapest in its class for display size and features
* Very easy to program
* Love the LARGE display and the accuracy of the touch zones.
* Very nice Backlight and fantastic positioning of the backlight switch.
* Like the "CHANGE FILTER" feature. I used to use a Sharpie on the filter and then try to read the date through the grill
* Like the "Low Battery" alert.
* Power Usage also seems like a valuable feature...will find out in the near future! I did manage to find it by pressing menu and scrollingCONS:
* Lux could have done a better job with the programming terminology and could have improved the user experience with regards to the programming. For e.g., if you had to program day and time, it continues to loop when you click "NEXT"...to exit the programming you need to use "MENU".
* Another feature I miss from my old Honeywell is the "RUN PROGRAM" button which when pressed would clear the "OVERRIDE" functions and run as per the program. The TX9000TS unit achieves this either by touching the temperature and using the arrow keys to bring the temperature to the programmed value, OR, by touching "HOLD" twice. Minor inconvenience.
* The tabs, on the top of the base plate, that hold this unit are very small and I am in constant fear of breaking them off. My old Honeywell had a very robust design.CONCLUSION:
I do agree that the TX9000TS is not completely intuitive, but it is nowhere as unintuitive as others claim. I do like to play around with stuff that I get...if it were all super-intuitive and easy then it'd be no fun! ;o)

Click Here to see more reviews about: Lux Products TX9000TS Touch Screen 7 Day Programmable Thermostat

Efficient. Easy. Economical. That's why you'll love the Lux Products TX9000TS Seven-Day Programmable Thermostat. This clever device gives you complete and accurate temperature control at the touch of a finger. And compatible with a variety of heating and cooling systems, this thermostat incorporates do-it-yourself installation, a responsive touch screen, and a large lighted display for straightforward programming and operation.
Customize Your Home's Heating and Cooling ScheduleWith the TX9000TS it's easy to set a daily heating and cooling schedule for your home, which can ensure your comfort and potentially reduce your utility costs. With easy-to-use menu-driven programming and intuitive touch-screen commands, this thermostat allows you to program up to four different time and temperature settings in a 24-hour period (morning, day, evening, and night).

You also have the option of setting a different program for every day of the week.

Environmentally Friendly, Wallet-Friendly ChoiceThe TX9000TS can be an energy-efficient, environmentally friendly choice that can save your family approximately 33% on energy bills.

It comes pre-programmed with a default energy conserving heating and cooling schedule that's designed to save up to $180 in energy costs over one year.

And thanks to the keyboard lockout feature, the TX9000TS is great for households with small children or other potential unauthorized users.

User-Friendly Features and Operating SimplicityIncredibly user-friendly, the TX9000TS boasts a range of helpful features to simplify both programming and everyday operation. First, a large blue electroluminescent display is easy to read--even in low light--and clearly shows the current day, time, temperature, and filter status.

Additionally, audible touch confirmation indicates that your choices are being registered, while snowflake and flame icons indicate cooling or heating mode. For further convenience, a filter-usage monitor allows you to set filter limits from zero to 720 hours of use, and a 'replace' icon will appear when battery power is running low.

What's in the BoxTX9000TS programmable thermostat, mounting hardware, and manual.

Get 14% OFF

Click here for more information about Lux Products TX9000TS Touch Screen 7 Day Programmable Thermostat

Read More...

Shop-Vac 9520262 5-Gallon 4.5-Peak HP Hang Up Wall Mounted Wet/Dry Vacuum Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I originally purchased this vac in 2002. I mostly use this little vac on a 21/2 inch dust collection system for my table saw and miter saw. It does a real good job of removing dust and chips from the two tools. I have it hanging on a 10x10 post to one side of my small shop and can vacuum the whole shop floor with the 18 foot vac hose that came with the machine. It has a good selection of tools and filter replacement is fast and easy. However, it is noisy. It actually drowns out the sound of my table saw. The 4" Delta dust collector I use for my planer and jointer is actually quieter than this little vac. I will continue to use it (maybe build a sound box for it), because it does do a great job. Except for the noise level, I would reccommend it to anyone.
An update...Nov. 2004...8 months after I got this machine it started making strange growling sounds at shutdown, and was getting very hot. I called Shop Vac's customer service and the rep was extremely helpful. She told me to put it in the orig box and ship it back to them and they would replace or repair it free. I commented that the orig box was long gone, and could I use a generic box. She said never mind, we will send you a new unit and you put the old one in that box and send it back. Three days later the new machine showed up, I unpacked it and repacked the old one, applied the shipping label they supplied and sent it back. The replacement machine has worked flawlessly now for about a year and a half. Want to thank Shop Vac for their excellent customer service.
Update...April 2005..This little vac is still hanging on it's post and doing a great job. It probably averages 2-3 hours of run time every day and has performed perfectly. It now only services the miter saw, r/o sanders, large disc sander and of course cleaning the shop( everything else is on the 4"). Still highly recommend this vac...it is a great little tool.
UPDATE...JANUARY 2007..It's still hanging on its post and still doing a great job. Ya gotta love a machine that keeps on delivering great performance year after year. Still highly recommend this vac.
STILL JAN 2007...shortly after writing the update above my little vac began to make weird noises at shutdown. I contacted my local repair shop and was told if they had to get into the motor it would cost over $100 to repair. They recommended that I contact Shopvac direct. I called the 1-800 number and after speaking to a very nice young lady, discovered I could purchase a new motor for $40, including shipping. Needless to say I ordered one. It took about ten days to arrive in the mail and took less than 15 minutes to install. My little vac is once again doing its job, still hanging on the same post for over five years. I think any electrical appliance that will last five years with the use and abuse this one has had is a great machine. Still highly recommend.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Shop-Vac 9520262 5-Gallon 4.5-Peak HP Hang Up Wall Mounted Wet/Dry Vacuum

Mounted in a central location, Shop-Vac's clever 5-gallon Hang-Up wet/dry vacuum is the perfect no-clutter cleaning tool for garages, workshops, laundry rooms, and hobby areas. With the vac's 18-foot locking hose, you can cover a large area without the hassle of maneuvering the tank, and the unit's 4-1/2-horsepower motor delivers impressive suction and airflow of 165 cubic feet per minute. The filtering system features a high-quality cartridge filter, along with a foam sleeve for wet pickup. The vacuum also comes with a complete offering of 1-1/4-inch tools, including extension wands, crevice and gulper tools, and a 12-inch floor nozzle with squeegee insert. A handy tool-storage bracket keeps all tools organized and ready to use.

Get 29% OFF

Click here for more information about Shop-Vac 9520262 5-Gallon 4.5-Peak HP Hang Up Wall Mounted Wet/Dry Vacuum

Read More...