The amount of light given out or produced by an electric lamp — bulb, striplight or fluorescent tube — depends on the type of lamp and its wattage. The light produced is measured in lumens and a bulb or tube of a given wattage produces an average output of so many lumens. This will continue throughout most of its life.
Equally important is the number of lumens produced for each watt consumed, so it is usual to say, when comparing types, that a bulb or tube produces so many lumens per watt. The more the lumens per watt, the higher the efficiency of the lamp. Read the rest of this entry »
Although the primary purpose of a lighting fitting is to provide light, a fitting is exposed to view throughout the hours of daylight and it is, therefore, equally important that it is pleasing to look at when not alight. Before buying a fitting decide whether you would prefer a ceiling fitting or wall lights. If you decide on a ceiling fitting choose between a pendant or a close- mounted ceiling fitting.
Also, decide on the position of the fitting as this will also affect the choice. When choosing in the shop or department store try and visualise how a fitting would appear in your home. This is not easy when the shop has a forest of fittings, some alight and others unlit. Read the rest of this entry »
There are two main types of shavers: fully portable (powered by batteries, either dry cell or nickel cadmium rechargeable), and mains powered which usually incorporate a variable voltage option switch (110-130 volts or 210-240 volts). Correct maintenance is essential if they are to work efficiently and have a long and useful life while simple care and cleaning will greatly improve their smooth operation and reduce the likelihood of recurrent breakdowns. Read the rest of this entry »
Three main types of domestic, free-standing, portable electric heaters are widely used: radiant, convector and fan heaters. Some appliances combine different heater types, such as a convector plus a radiant bar.
Heat is produced by an element that glows red-hot when power is supplied to it. The heat generated by this action is directed by a highly polished reflector through an open front protected by a metal grill. The element can be externally wound on a ceramic mount or internally mounted in a heat-resistant silica glass tube. Simple switching of the element/s is included and faults can easily be traced. Read the rest of this entry »
The brush roll is supported on bearings at each end so the barrel rotates freely. Types of bearings, barrels and brushes differ from model to model as well as between manufacturers. Some manufacturers supply individual parts for the brush roll, such as brush strips, bearings and barrel; others supply only complete assemblies. The brush roll on some models may have removable brush strips, whereas others may be a solid brush roll of wood or plastic with fixed brushes. A small selection is shown here to highlight the differences. Read the rest of this entry »
The domestic vacuum cleaner has been with us now for some 90 years, during which time it has become the most popular labour-saving appliance in the home. The basic principle of operation is quite simple. An electric motor drives fans to create a fast-moving air flow. At one end, a vacuum (suction) of air is created, while at the opposite end the air is exhausted. If the air is moved quickly enough at the inlet end, it will carry with it any debris that enters the airflow. A means of removing the debris from the airflow is required to prevent its redistribution as the air is expelled. Read the rest of this entry »
