More on vacuums

There’s not one, but two, big bold labels on the new Eureka AirSpeed (shown left) claiming that it “cleans carpets better than Dyson at half the price”. The company backs that with data from ASTM F608, an industry standard test measuring how well a vacuum removes embedded dirt from carpets. Eureka, which is part of Electrolux, commissioned the  test to compare the AirSpeed vacuum and the Dyson DC-25, DC-33 and DC-41 vacuums. They say results show that the AirSpeed vacuum outperformed the Dyson models.

This design is based in part on two short tubes, which are supposed to decrease the distance for dirt to travel, increasing the amount of airflow and improving suction. Fourteen feet of hose and wand and 32 feet of cord give it a good long reach, and a pet-friendly “power paw” skims off pet dander another allergens. Like many new models, this one has a HEPA filter, which means that it captures 99.9 per cent  of dust and allergens. There’s a convenient light on the head of the base, which also has a lever for changing the bar for two depths of carpet and bare floors. Another lever on the side of the machine lets the user switch between using the floor function and attachments, of which there are three; a crevice tool, upholstery brush, and duster.

Personally, I can’t vouch for that, as my own testing is, of course, less than scientific. But I can say that there are a couple of design features I find inferior to the Dyson. While assembly instructions are clear and simple, I found it a bit tricky, for example, to get the tube at the back of the machine to stay put. The cord extends from lower down on the machine than it does on the Dyson 14 I have, and I found it got in the way.

But with a manufacturer’s suggested price of $140, there’s no doubt it’s far less expensive than the Dyson, and I know that’s an important consideration for many families. Check it out at Walmart, Home Hardware, independent vacuum dealers, or online .

I hesitate slightly to tell you about Shark’s new Lift-Around Vacuum, as it’s unlikely to be available in Canada before the fall. But it’s a dandy little cleaning tool, so keep an eye open for it. It’s being promoted as being perfect for pet owners, as it promises to capture 99.99 per cent of dust and allergens in the air. At six pounds, it’s a breeze to carry around;  it’s even got a strap to make hauling it about easier.Take note, though, that this is a corded machine and that the head on the attachment is quite small, as it’s designed for quick small jobs. The price should come in at about $160, and I’ll share availability as soon as I know.

Of course, if we’re speaking of compact models, I’ve got to also call out Dyson’s new DC35 Digital Slim. This is a very sweet machine. It performs beautifully, thanks to a digital motor that spins up to three times faster than conventional motors, and Dyson’s cyclone technology. This model has longer run time that the previous generation of Dyson hand-helds that I tried — 15 minutes of high constant suction, 13 minutes with the floor tool, and six minutes on a max setting, which turn on at the touch of a button on the handle.

The only complaint comes from  my 17-year old son, who says the handle space is a bit small for his great big paw — making it “hard” for him to vacuum the stairs and car. Too bloody bad, I say. Make it fit! On the other hand (ha!), my 19 year old daughter loves it for quick clean-ups, and is, I believe, angling to take it back with her when she returns to University in the fall.  We’ll see about that!

The well-sized motorized floor tool — with efficient carbon fibre filaments — can be used on hard surfaces or carpets, adjusting as it goes. Love that. The lithium-ion battery can be charged either from the docking station or through an independent charger. Accessory tools fit cleverly into the dock, which can be attached to a wall for storage.

But, as Sir James pointed out in a recent email interview, all those clever features are the result of research and testing, all of which costs money. Which accounts for the price-tag of $350 (at The Bay, Home Outfitters, Bed Bath and Beyond, Future Shop, Bestbuy.ca and Dyson independent retailers.) Pricey? Yes. But it’s a lovely little machine. 

Since it is wedding season, I’ll point out that this would make a wonderful gift, especially if the cost of it was shared among a few family members. Perhaps not as sexy as Waterford crystal, or French linen tablecloths (although both are great presents as well) but one that’s bound to help its owners on almost daily basis, in part by resulting in fewer fights over who does the vacuuming.

Caveat Emptor. But really.

Bargains hunters love thrift stores and storage auctions. But the CSA Group, a non-profit certification and testing organization, wants buyers to beware before they pounce on that special item. Some, because of age or uncertain history, might be hazardous. To help consumers separate the trash from the treasure, they’re offering the following tips:

Avoid electrical or gas products that don’t have a label from a recognized certification organization such as CSA Group. Check that the certification mark matches with the design and colour of certification marks from the same organization on similar products.

Check wiring and extension cords for wear and damage. In particular, look for worn insulation and splices on the cord and loose or exposed parts on the plug. To avoid shock and fire hazards, have a qualified electrician make any repairs.

Be wary of outdated power tools and building supplies that may not meet current standards or codes. Don’t operate any power tools or equipment without having them inspected.

Avoid used bicycle, hockey or construction helmets. Damage may be hidden, and a helmet that has been in a serious crash may have lost its full protective capabilities.

Check with local regulators to ensure products are safe for use. Some products may have been recalled or even banned for resale in some jurisdictions.

Counterfeit packaging is often poorly designed or has only partial illustrations. Misspellings and unclear printing on products and labels are a tell-tale sign. Check for discrepancies between the contents of the product package and its description, as well as missing product information or enclosures.

Products that don’t include a brand identifier or trademark may be a counterfeit. Look, too, for missing return addresses or company contact information.

Check the look and feel of goods - fake products often seem light and too flimsy.

Confirm CSA Group certification of a product by comparing the product's identification against the certification record.

 Educate yourself about consumer tips and safety advice.

I'm a big fan of the Dyson Fan

 

The temperate air of Spring can turn oppressively hot and soggy before you know it, as it has recently here in the Centre of the Universe (aka Toronto). Shop now for a fan, while stock is good. The Dyson Air Multiplier is super-cool (in several senses). There are no spinning blades to chop the air ineffectively — or, very effectively, small fingers — and it’s designed to draw in up to 27 litres of air a second, amplify it up to 18 times, and spread it soothingly across your hot, sweat-slick, grumpy self. It comes in two shapes, a round version - great for tabletop and, for larger spaces, an oblong version, shown above with My Close Personal Friend James Dyson (well, not really, but I have met Sir James, who is a delightful cross between your cool uncle and a mad genius.)  Both versions are  gorgeous. Last summer, these babies flew off the shelves and were sold out in no time. Govern yourself accordingly. Prices for the line, available at major retailers, start at about $380. Pricey? Yes. But so worth it if you get years and years of summer cooling out of it.

More on breadmakers

 

 

Spent the better part of the last two weeks testing bread machines. So forgive me if I seem a bit fuzzy — I think I may have overdone the carbs!

Because I had one or two blips with these machines, I thought this would be a good time to “test” the company’s customer service lines. I also wanted to compare notes on warranties offered on these products. Here’s what I found. (Machines are shown above in order mentioned.)

Hamilton Beach announced earlier this year that it would offer what I believe is the only five-year warranty in Canada on small appliances. The move was prompted in part by research done by the company indicating that an overwhelming majority of consumers feel that durability, reliability and warranty are extremely important or somewhat important when making a purchase decision. No Duh!

 The HB warranty applies to products purchased only in Canada, and covers defects in material and workmanship. If the item goes on the fritz, the machine will be repaired or replaced — the choice of which belongs to Hamilton Beach — and the cost of retuning defective product or receiving replacement product falls on the consumer.

Hamilton Beach also has a consumer help line, which offers the option of leaving a message requesting a return call rather than waiting on hold. Over the course of a week, I left two messages; neither was returned. There is a Q and A section on the Hamilton Beach website, but breadmakers were not listed as a category. On the plus side, if you lose an instruction book, you can find it easily online here and download it.

Breville offers a one year warranty on defects in material or workmanship. The recipe/instruction booklet for the Breville breadmaker I tested this week directed me to a 1-866 customer line. Unfortunately, it was fully automated, and did not offer the option of getting information on this particular item. So I went to the website and sent in an email query. The response directed me to the nearest retailers that handle and repair Breville products, but did not answer my query directly. However, I realized later that the issue I was having with the fruit and nut dispenser was answered in the troubleshooting section of the instruction booklet and was quickly fixed. Which just goes to show — it pays to read instruction booklets all the way through and to hang on to them.

Finally, I called the line for the  Breadman  machine with a bogus question. There’s lots of options to choose from that will direct your call, although if you’re not aware that Breadman is a Black and Decker product, you may get confused. When I did get through to a customer service rep, however, I did get the information I supposedly needed — from a very patience and polite young man with a charming Southern accent. Breadman offers a standard two-year warranty against defects in material or workmanship.

Hot outdoor looks for cool evenings

Face it – no matter how summery is still feels, evenings are cooling off. You can still enjoy them outdoors though, with the help of firebox (check your municipal by-laws for what’s allowed). Or you can opt for a heater, quickly becoming the de rigeur outdoor accessory for the cool kids. Napoleon’s  new Outdoor Torch (shown above – top) is a fully enclosed single flame in a sexy stainless steel mounting. It doesn’t require venting. There are two on/off switches, one for the burner and another for optional accent light for the base, which is filled with decorative glass embers. It sells for, gulp, around $2400. If that hasn’t made you faint, you might also consider the Kindle heater (also shown above), which I wrote about for this week’s Hot Home Products column. It’s available at Andrew Richard Designs  in a similar snack bracket.

New curated series kicks off at HomeSav

Since launching earlier this year, HomeSav.com has been quickly picking up speed, rapidly attracting both consumer and media attention. The members-only shopping club offers brand-name home décor, furniture and accessories at up to 80 per cent off, with new sales starting every day at 10 a.m. Items, (such as the Crescent Chair above) are available for three days in limited quantities. To become a member, shoppers must register. It's easy to do - and free.

Since learning about HomeSav, I have frequently found items on it I'd like to include in my Hot Home Products column. I tend not to, though, because I feel sure the stuff will be gone by the time I go to print.

Now HomeSav is launching a Designers Picks series; monthly sales featuring products and brands selected by well-known interior designers, artists, and experts. Each will focus on a specific theme or room. The first event begins Thursday, August 25th, and will be curated by Karl Lohnes. Metro newspaper’s national décor columnist, and Home and Decor expert for CTV’s Canada AM.

Karl has lovely taste, and I’m excited to see what he’s chosen for his signature look. And I'm dying to know who else has signed up for the series. I'll keep you posted.

Loving the DeLonghi

Cooking healthy meals is often a huge challenge for student living on their own or time-crunched singletons. One way to help the kids discover their inner gourmet is to give them a counter-top appliance that’s versatile and easy to use. My kids use our Breville Smart Oven all the time and over the years, have begun to make (slightly!) more sophisticated meals with it.

It sounds like De’Longhi’s new Toaster Oven and Panini Press/Contact Grill (shown above) fits the bill, too. It does all the good stuff a traditional toaster oven does, but there’s also an integrated Panini grill. Pressed sandwiches are high on my go-to week-night menu; I tend to grill extra veg — onion, zucchini, pepper, mushrooms — and leave them in the fridge. My veggie-loving daughter can then use them, along with a slice of cheese or meat to make a quick bagged lunch for work or school (see healthy meals above!). Recently, I've noticed that the kids have been adding globs of President’s Choice Smokin’ Stampede Mayo, which does add a nice flavour to paninis.

The cavity for this oven can fit 12-inch pizzas, six slices of toast, an entrée and, I’ll bet, a small chicken. About $220.

I also like the de’Longhi hand-held mixer from I tested this week. Great for salad dressings, quick chopping, whisking eggs, whipping cream, and blending sauces. It comes with a wire whisk and blender attachment, a chopper bowl and blade, as well as a beaker. The bowl lids are good-quality and fit nicely, so you can easily store what you’ve made. That means there’s really no reason EVER to buy bottled salad dressing again. If you’re unsure, start simply; plop some mustard in the beaker, add the vinegar and oil of your choice in a 1/3 ratio, toss in some herbs, garlic, or shallots and blend. Sometimes I use lemon juice instead of vinegar. This baby would also be great for making home-made mayonnaise. 

There are five speed settings, plus a “turbo” setting for hard-core blending. A little tip – if you do buy this item, hang onto the little plastic blade covers that come with it. Using them will help you avoid cutting your fingers accidentally when you reach into the cupboard to fetch it.

I looked into the future and saw...more laundry

While researching a Hot Home Products column about laundry appliances, I learned some cool things that I just didn’t have room for in my piece. For instance, Philippe Meyersohn, general manager for GE Appliances Canada, told me that the future will belong to smart appliances, which will be able to do fancy stuff like adjust the water temperature of the washer based on electricity prices. This generation of machines will require shape-changing municipal infrastructure, but GE has already tested the technology with good results in Vancouver. Meyersohn also said that while there are currently no Energy Star regulations for dryers, the company expects to see something in place by 2015.

“These changes will come about as people more concerned about environment, and because water and energy costs will keep going up,” says Meyersohn.

I also chatted to Steve Preiner, director of marketing for Bosch Appliances, about his company’s decision not to introduce steam,  which  is a hot (get it?!) feature on many lines, into its laundry products.

According to Preiner, steam adds cost to the machines and may not actually add that much functionality. “If you get a high enough temp in the wash, you don’t really need steam,” he says. “As for the dryer, you can get the same effect by spritzing a garment with water and using a gentle cycle.”

It’s a good tip, one I’ve frequently used. In fact, even with older or basic machines, good laundry “habits” can produce cleaner clothes. For example, do you:

• Shake clothes out before you put them in the wash, and turn them right side out?
• Make sure you’re not overloading the drum?
• Add detergent to the water before adding clothes, rather than loading the machine and pouring detergent on top?
• Treats spots and stains as soon as they happen, rather than letting them dry?
• Sort clothes appropriately, separating, for example, natural from synthetic fibres?

   

  Don’t forget that this hot, dry weather is perfect for line-drying clothes. At these temps, they’re ready in a snap, and the sun helps to bleach and sanitize whites.   Pic courtesy of Bosch
  For more laundry tips and advice, check out Clorox’s Dr. Laundry site.

   

  Pic courtesy of Bosch
  

A well-designed laundry room (and some good tunes) makes the job just a little easier

The efficient laundry room requires more than just good appliances. Perhaps that’s why Whirlpool enlisted the help of Clare Kumar, professional organizer, to design what it calls an "intuitive” laundry room (see example above).

Here are a few tips from Kumar:

Create an efficient layout with enough counter space to have a prep station for laundry products, and to serve as a folding surface when needed.

Use under-counter space to store hampers, and add shelves or baskets for supplies

Paint the walls a fun colour, and keep a radio or I-Pod nearby to listen to music while  working. My current fave song for folding laundry is by Fitz and the Tantrums 

Whirlpool Duet laundry pair (see pic below) also has some features that will save you time and trouble, including a “sixth sense” technology that measures the size of each load to determine how much water and detergent is needed, a built-in fan that  tumbles wet clothing for up to 16 hours, and an anti-vibration/noise feature. The set comes in white, red and silver. Prices start at about $2,500.

 

 

Phone it in

Kohler Canada has just launched  a free mobile application for IPhone and I-Pod Touch users that it’s touting as a hardworking resource for designers and homeowners alike. Features include the ability to access product images (like the gorgeous toilet and shower head shown above) and instructional videos, a database of KOHLER retailers, and a product catalogue.