Leaf blowers terminology

Leaf blowers are a very important garden tool. All homeowners understand its important role in ensuring that one’s lawn and driveway area stays in the best possible shape. However, not many people know that there is actually a whole language that one needs to understand in order to get the best leaf blower for your needs.

Leaf blowers are commonly examined through the strength and power levels. There are specific ways to measure these aspects of the machine. One needs to pay close attention to the blower’s CFM, MPH, and CC. Aside from that, it would also be helpful if you have an idea of the different engine types used in these machines.

This article delves into the meaning behind these terms. It tries to explain the concepts in the simplest way possible so that the readers can easily understand it.

Engine Types

Once you start shopping for a leaf blower, you will probably notice that there are two kinds of engines, namely, the 2-cycle and 4-cycle engines. The differences between these two are pretty simple. First, the 2-cycle engines have the potential to be more powerful than their 4-cycle counterparts if you are able to maximize its power and weight ratio.  It is also lighter and easier to clean. On the other hand, 4-cycle engines are more fuel efficient.

Important Terms to Remember

The terms listed below are commonly used by blower manufacturers to describe their products. Make sure to keep these in mind as you look at the different leaf blowers available on the market today.

  • CC – The term CC is actually a unit of measurement. It indicates exactly how large the engine of your leaf blower should be.
  • MPH – MPH, or miles per hour, refers to the wind’s speed as it travels to the end of the nozzle.
  • CFM – CFM, on the other hand, is short for cubic feet per minute. It refers to the volume of air that is pushed out of the end of the nozzle. Keep in mind that this is probably the best way to measure the actual power of your leaf blower, as opposed to its CC or its MPH.

It is vital that readers understand the importance of these three terms. It would be ill-advised to take these elements separately. Rather, it is important that you understand the interplay between these units as power, speed, and engine capacity will all have a lasting impact on the way your leaf blower works.

A full understanding of these terms could certainly serve you well as you search for your next blower. That being said, it is vital that you examine the different leaf blowers in the market by these standards.

This article delves into the language used by the leaf blower companies. We are, of course, referring to the terminology used by the manufacturers of the machines. As consumers, it is vital that you understand what each of these terms means. This is the only way to guarantee that you get the leaf blower that is perfect for you.

Find more info here http://www.bentham-open.org/understanding-different-types-leaf-blowers/

Best Backpack Leaf Blower

Homeowners with a big yard should seriously consider getting a backpack leaf blower. It is vital if you have a lot of yard debris and trash to get rid of. This is because they have a lot more power in their engines, compared to the handheld leaf blowers.

However, with the sheer number of products out there right now, you might have a hard time finding one that will prove to be a worthy investment. This article seeks to help readers with that by providing a brief introduction to the best backpack leaf blower options available in the market today.

Husqvarna 560BTS 65.6cc 2-Stroke X-Torq Gas Powered 232 MPH Backpack Blower

By taking a quick look at the Husqvarna 560BTS 65.6cc 2-Stroke X-Torq Gas Powered 232 MPH Backpack Blower’s specifications, one can quickly surmise that it packs a lot of power. However, this should come as no surprise considering that it is actually a commercial-grade model leaf blower. Yet, it has also been made accessible to regular consumers. If that does not interest you, we do not know what will.

One of the best things about this particular model is the amazing X-Torq engine. This particular engine not only ensures better fuel efficiency but it also drastically reduces the level of emissions excreted by the engine. Needless to say, this leaf blower is more environmentally friendly compared to other models available in the market today.

It is also worth noting here that this leaf blower is very ergonomic in its design. It feels extraordinarily comfortable in your hands. This is because the handles ensure that your hand does not tire in spite of prolonged use.

Makita BBX7600N 75.6 CC 4-Stroke Backpack Leaf Blower

The Makita BBX7600N 75.6 CC 4-Stroke Backpack Blower is another one that deserves your attention. Similar to the previous leaf blower presented in this article, this is actually a powerful commercial model that has been introduced to the mainstream market.

We highly recommend that you give this a try if you a huge yard to clear. Otherwise, all that power would be wasted on smaller tasks.

Husqvarna 350BT 50.2cc 2-Cycle X-Torq Gas Powered 180 MPH Midsize Backpack Leaf Blower

One of the first things you will notice about this particular model is how light it is. The importance of this cannot be overstated, especially if you plan on using the machine for extended periods of time. This is no easy feat as the leaf blower has a powerful 2-cycle engine to its name. The fact that it is so lightweight should serve as proof of how well-designed this leaf blower is.

Another thing we love about this gas model is its fuel efficiency. This means that the money you spend on gas should last longer than with other leaf blowers. This is all thanks to its X-Torq engine.

This article presented some of the best backpack leaf blowers available in the market today. After all, we understand that navigating the best leaf blower market can be quite a challenge, especially if you have no idea what to look for. We hope that the information provided here would be of assistance.

Off Season Storage Guide for your Leaf Blower

As autumn draws to a close and you finish another busy season of cleaning the yard, you need to ensure that you pack everything up correctly. After all, your leaf blower is still a piece of equipment that needs to be properly handled. Needless to say, you need to take the necessary precautions and store your leaf blowers correctly. Failure to do so can create problems down the road.

This article teaches readers everything they need to know about proper off-season storage for leaf blowers.

Materials Needed

Before anything else, it is vital that you prepare all the materials you will need as you. Here is a list of everything you need to have:

  • Detergent
  • Clean water
  • Old towels
  • Used motor oil receptacle
  • Fresh motor oil
  • Spark plug wrench
  • Funnel
  • Gas can

Draining and Replacing the Oil

For 4-cycle engines, you will need to drain the oil. This is so that the engine crankcase is properly protected and insulated from prolonged exposure to oxygen which can be rather detrimental. As you probably know, 2-cycle leaf blower engines do not have a crankcase as the gas and oil are mixed together.

To do this, you will need to start the engine and let it warm up for a while. This is vital as the heat will make the liquid flow out easier. A 10 to 15-minute interval should be enough for that. Afterwards, you can proceed to drain the oil from the crankcase.

Once that is done, refill it with some fresh engine oil.

Cleaning the Air Filter

Over time and extended use, the small engines of your leaf blower will get clogged with dust. It is vital that you perform preventive maintenance at the end of the season. To do this, simply remove the air filter and give it a good washing. Make sure that you rinse it with a warm water and dish detergent solution.

Draining the Gas Tank

First, you will need to drain the gas tank completely into your gas can. Then, once that is finished, turn on the engine and let the engine run itself dry.  It is vital that readers understand the importance of this step. By draining the engine of fuel, you are essentially preventing any chances of gas evaporating and varnishing the insides of your carburetor.

As any expert would tell you, a carburetor with gas residue in it could lead to severe problems. You may even have a hard time starting the engine altogether.

Remove the Spark Plug

To remove the spark plug, make sure that you have a spark plug wrench. Once that is done, put a bit of oil directly into the spark plug socket. Then, slowly pull on the engine’s starter cord a few times. This should help prevent rust from building up inside as the oil that you just applied over the valves will have been spread.

Once that is done, you can put the spark plug back or replace it, if necessary.

These are the steps that everyone needs to follow in order to ensure the safety of their leaf blowers during the off-season. Make sure that you keep them in mind the next time you put your blower away.

Things to Look for When Buying a Leaf Blower

Most people think that shopping for the best leaf blower is pretty straightforward. However, like with all other products, not all leaf blowers are made the same. The fact of the matter is that there are a lot of things one has to look into.

Type

Not all leaf blowers are made the same. In fact, they can be categorized into two distinct categories. First, there is the handheld type. This is perfect if you only have a small area to work in. While not as powerful as its counterpart, it can certainly get the job done.

The second type is the backpack leaf blower. With enough power to generate winds with a speed of 250mph, it is considered to be a tool for more serious tasks. Consider getting one if you have to work in an area larger than 1 acre.

Engine

Most people do not realize that they actually have a choice between Two-Cycle and Four-Cycle Engines for their leaf blower. To make things simpler, here is a quick explanation of what to expect from each of these engine types.

  • 2-Cycle Engine – These engines require a mixture of gas and oil in the fuel tank to work properly. As to be expected, this type of engine is lighter. It is also much easier to maintain. If you are looking to purchase a leaf blower with this type of engine, consider making the most of the power-to-weight ratio
  • 4-cycle Engine – Essentially, these engines have a lot in common with engines found in your car, with gas and oil going into separate containers. The best thing about is that these engines are significantly more fuel efficient. This means the money you spend on every tank of gas is able to last longer. Additionally, these engines are capable of producing more overall power.

Ergonomic Design

The way your leaf blower is designed is of utmost importance. Ideally, it should be so that you can put on the equipment without any trouble. It should also be adaptable to the way you move. These are vital if you wish to avoid repetitive stress injuries.

As a basic rule of thumb, when looking at a backpack leaf blower, you need to ensure that it has a full tension support system. This is necessary because you will want it to distribute the weight evenly across your back. By doing so, your shoulders should be relieved of any undue pain as it prevents the onset of fatigue from extended use.

Additionally, you need to pay close attention to how the throttle controls on the blowers are designed. Ideally, they should be designed in such a way that it keeps your hand and wrist in their natural positions, thus reducing the level of stress and exhaustion.

This article briefly discusses the different aspects of a leaf blower that a prospective buyer needs to pay attention to when looking for the best leaf blower. Keep in mind that you have to take all of these things into consideration if you want to get the right product for your needs. This website has some great products, visit https://thebestleafblowers.com

what-to-do-when-your-child-has-a-mild-headache

When your child complains about a headache, your natural instinct tells you to call the doctor immediately.  However, there will be instances when you can’t get professional help right away and so the best course of action is to deal with it first at home while a physician can’t be reached or is unavailable at the moment.

There are many ways of providing relief to a child who’s complaining about a headache.

Talk to your child reassuringly.  A headache can definitely upset a young child because he doesn’t know what to do.  All he knows is that he is in pain and just wants it to go away.  Tell him you are there to make him feel better.  If he tells you he doesn’t want to miss a day in school, try to listen.  Understand why he says so and tries to talk him into staying at home to rest.

Once you have contacted your family physician or pediatrician, describe to him the nature of your child’s headache.  He will ask questions about your child so be as detailed and accurate as possible with your answers.   By doing so, you will be helping your doctor make an accurate diagnosis and thus select the best relief for your child.

The following treatments offer relief for a mild headache among children:

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen

There are many over-the-counter pain relievers available for kids nowadays.  Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are two of the commonly used pain and headache medicines.  But follow the doctor’s advice regarding which headache medicine to buy and the exact dosage to administer.

Cold packs

Dip a clean cloth in cold water.   Wring it dry and apply it on his head where it hurts.  You may also take a clean cloth, wrap ice in it, and apply it on his head.  If you keep a gel pack in the freezer, wrap it in a thin cloth and apply on the head to ease the pain.  Use only cold packs as heat can aggravate a headache.

Rest and sleep

Bring your child to his room or a quiet place.  Turn the lights off, keeping the room dark and comfortably cool.  Mild to moderate headaches will subside once your child is rested.  Keep gadgets away from him so he won’t be tempted to use them in case he feels a little better

Hydration

Give him plenty of liquids.  Water is the best but if he likes to drink fresh fruit juice, you may offer it to him too.  Just remember not to give him any food or drink that contains caffeine as this will only aggravate the situation.

Watch out for other symptoms

Has he developed a high fever?  Is he feeling weaker or has he suddenly developed vision problems?  Does he appear disoriented?  Be on the lookout for these other signs as these could point to more serious health issues.  Call your doctor when any of these occurs and follow his advice.

Find more info here http://www.bentham-open.org/types-of-headaches/

finding-relief-for-headaches-through-acupressure

Headaches are quite a common complaint among many people,  young or old.  Headaches can run from the very subtle or extremely painful and throbbing.  It can be short-lived as in the case of mild headaches or may last for days as it is with a migraine.

For generations, acupressure has helped a good number of patients suffering from a migraine.  Pain above the neck area is usually triggered by too much tension in the muscles and vascular imbalance.  Pain can be managed efficiently via acupressure inasmuch as the pain points are quite palpable and so even the slightest application of pressure on these points could bring instant relief.  Acupressure enables to the body to give off endorphin – a known pain killer naturally produced by the body.

Which regions in the body should you apply pressure to in order to stop a pounding headache?

The face and head region

Pressure points on the face are teeming with energy.  This energy when activated flows down from the head and face.  The third eye is found in the gap between your eyebrows and considered still a part of your forehead.  When you apply pressure on this area for a minimum of one minute, you will soon feel some relief from a headache and even eye strain.  As a bonus, it also aids in concentration.

Meanwhile, pressure points on the temple area start slightly above the ear and about four more points down, following the curve of your ear.  For great results, apply pressure on these five points simultaneously.   This offers relief for tension-type headaches as well as headaches caused by dental conditions.

Let’s go to the nostril area where two more pressure points are found. These points are found on each side of your nostrils.  When you have a tension headache or sinuses, applying pressure on these is the best route.

The neck and shoulder region

Now, let’s proceed to the neck and shoulder regions.  Do you know that there are two important pressure points found in these areas?    At the back of your neck, you will find the “wind pool”.  Feel the back of your neck near its base.  Find the two spots between your spine and your left and right ear.  Applying pressure on these two areas simultaneously will help ease migraines and can even unblock congestion in the nasal passages.  Let’s move down to your shoulders.  Feel that point between each shoulder and the back of your neck.  Once found, apply some pressure.  This will relieve a headache that is caused by neck stiffness.

Acupressure, a good alternative

A headache is experienced by many people and while it is a common occurrence, it shouldn’t be ignored.  While there are a lot of pain killers available over the counter, acupressure can be used as an alternative to treating migraine or a headache.   It is inexpensive and you don’t have to visit your physician because you can do it right in the comforts of your home.

can-cannabis-provide-relief-for-annoying-headaches

Millions of people around the world suffer from all types of headaches, and migraine is just one of the top complaints among headache sufferers.  What is so bad about a migraine is that it can be extremely bothersome.  You can’t work.  You can’t even go through your usual daily routine.

Are you suffering from a migraine attack?  If so, you may have taken medications just to ease the pain despite the known side effects.   While effective as a treatment for headaches, some drugs can cause sleepiness, general weakness, dry mouth, and dizziness.  Some drugs may even cause weight gain, over time.

Study on cannabis and migraine sufferers

There are more and more studies revealing that cannabis can be reliable for migraine and headache cures, apart from other ailments.

One study explained why cannabis works effectively against a migraine.  Cannabinoids found in cannabis effectively binds with the body’s endocannabinoids.   These receptors are predominant in the human brain but persons with a migraine have limited levels of these receptors, making them more prone to pain and enlargement of blood vessels.   Studies conducted on lab animals reveal that whenever there is a high level of endocannabinoid activity in the brain, pain signals from the brain are fewer.

A prestigious university specializing in Pharmacy studied cannabis and the healing it can offer to people with a migraine.  More than a hundred participants who suffered from migraine attacks were given cannabis through ingestion and inhalation.  The results were promising.

About 40 percent of the subjects who have a migraine said they have felt better after taking cannabis.  Also, the incidence of migraine attacks went down to around 5 as against 10, when cannabis was still out of the picture.  In addition, more than 80% of the participants claimed that each passing month of taking cannabis, migraine attacks have declined.   Their capacity to work and function as an individual has improved.

It is interesting to note that inhaled cannabis (according to participants) delivered the fastest relief for a migraine versus those taken orally.

Inhaled vs ingested cannabis

Inhaled cannabis is taken through smoking or vaping.  Ingesting edible cannabis, while also effective, may not offer faster relief.  Moreover, oral cannabis may induce vomiting among migraine sufferers.  Even if you smoke or vape cannabis and then throw up eventually, you have already absorbed cannabinoids, components of cannabis that’s critical to migraine treatment.   Migraine sufferers who have gastric issues will also fare better with inhaled cannabis.

Dosage   

The dosage will vary of course depending on your age, weight, and severity of a migraine but professionals advice to take a very low dosage initially, gradually increasing until you feel relieved.  Take note of your symptoms and the point at which they have improved.  If your migraine is more of the chronic type, then a higher dosage may offer quick relief.

While cannabis proves to bring relief to migraine sufferers, they also have side effects, as it is with many drugs in the market.

beating-headaches-before-they-beat-you

There are many ways of beating the enemy when your enemy is an impending headache.  One way to beat a foe is to disable him outright.  Find out how to beat headaches before they beat you.

Drugs that arrest an impending migraine

One way to tame or disable a migraine is to take medications that will stop a migraine from happening at all.  These drugs work before your migraine even starts because they stop blood vessels from becoming inflamed.

When taking drugs, take it at a time when you feel you are most vulnerable.  Finding out when the enemy will show its ugly face is the best time to take non-migraine drugs.  It’s like arming yourself with a weapon so a migraine won’t do you any harm, and pain.   Drugs that combine naproxen sodium with a triptan, which stops dilation of blood vessels have been formulated for use of migraine sufferers.   The goal is to arrest triggers of a migraine.

Another drug has been formulated to stop the production of a type of protein called CGRP which is unusually high among migraine sufferers.

Taking non-migraine drugs                  

There are drugs used for the treatment of illnesses that are not related to migraines but are a big boon to migraine sufferers.  This is because these drugs help suppress certain activities in the brain that could trigger a migraine.   Beta-blockers, anti-seizure drugs, NSAIDs, calcium-channel blockers, and tricyclic antidepressants are some examples of such drugs that aren’t intended for migraines but do contain properties that help prevent migraines from taking place.

While some of these drugs have known side-effects such as weight loss, weight gain, or even cognitive impairment, the trick is to choose which side-effect you can handle.

Supplements as a preventive

People who are averse to medication or have issues with taking one could also turn to supplements to stop a migraine.  A US neurologist reported that coenzyme Q10, magnesium, and vitamin B-2, can help control migraines.

Pregnant women will do well with supplements instead of taking drugs to relieve headaches.  Even children can safely take magnesium but under the supervision of a physician or a parent.  Give it three months or more to feel the healing effect.  While entirely safe when taken at the right dosages, it may, however, cause diarrhea for some people who are predisposed to it.  For patients who are prone to diarrhea, then vitamin B-2 is a good substitute to magnesium.

Drug timing

Instead of taking medications on a regular basis, taking them at the opportune time may work for those who don’t want to take drugs every day.  So when is the right time?  Of course, it will vary depending on what triggers your headache.

For instance, if your headache is triggered by the onset of a menstrual cycle, then take it before the cycle starts.  If your headache is triggered by changes in altitude, then take your prescribed drug a few days before you go on a hiking expedition.

headache-remedies-lying-around-in-your-own-kitchen

There are many factors that bring on a dull, throbbing headache.  Tension from the workplace, arguments, and even the traffic situation can give you a full-blown headache.

But don’t worry.  These headaches are your body’s natural reaction to stress.  Tension triggers a contraction in the muscles near your head and down to your neck, resulting in a tension headache.  Constricted blood vessels that become dilated could result to migraines.  Throbbing headaches may result from a sinus condition.

But do you know that these types of headaches can be relieved by items that may be lying around in your own kitchen?

Let’s take a closer look.

Oil of thyme and rosemary

Take a few drops of oil from herbs like rosemary or thyme and gently rub on your forehead repeatedly.  Rubbing on both temples will also offer relief.   Stay calm and sit in a quiet place in your home while letting the oil do its job.  About seven years ago, a study revealed that carvacrol, an essential component of rosemary and thyme, acts as an inflammatory.

Butterbur extracts

Migraine relief can be obtained from butterbur, a well-known herb.  Even doctors who are experts in the treatment of a migraine admit to recommending it to many of their patients with headaches.  Petadolex is chiefly made of extracts of butterbur and is available over-the-counter.   Three separate studies have shown that the herb does lessen the incidence of migraine attacks.  If you have a headache, take butterbur twice a daily.  Initially, start with a two 75-mg dosage every day and continue doing so for a month.  Afterwards, you may reduce intake to two 50 mg of the herb daily.

Ginger root tea

Do you know that the common ginger in your pantry can also help alleviate your migraine?  Ginger can prevent prostaglandin synthesis.  This miracle root can even arrest feelings of nausea which migraine sufferers also complain of.

Make a tea out of ginger by putting slices of ginger in two cups of water.  Simmer in a covered pan for about half an hour or more.  Cool and sip the ginger tea.   Relax and enjoy this wonderful tea.

Chamomile

Chamomile is a relaxing tea that can easily calm and offer relief for tension headaches.  Chamomile tea bags are found in almost all stores.  Pour boiled water into a cup and dip the tea bag for about 10 to 15 minutes.  If you wish, you could add raw honey to make an enjoyable drink.

Peppermint essential oils

Many naturopaths claim that peppermint foot baths offer some remedy to headaches.  It works by drawing blood from your head to your feet thus lessening pressure on blood vessels near the head.

The aroma given-off by peppermint oils also has a soothing and calming effect.

Sometimes, the best cures for headaches are just lying around your house.  Your kitchen may have a wealth of herbs that can help ease that headache.  Try looking around your pantry before going to your drugstore.

Also visit https://treatheadaches.com for more helpful information.

the-effects-of-media-on-the-development-of-eating-disorders

Psychological disorders can be lethal. The mind is probably the trickiest part of the human anatomy because however, it functions, it will always have a significant effect on the rest of the body which can either be beneficial or destructive. Among the many different psychological disorders known, eating disorders probably are the greatest threat to humans. Eating disorders are highly destructive to both emotional and physical well-being suffering from it. People with eating disorders may suffer from a lot of symptoms that may vary from individual to individual. The effect of these eating disorders are so dramatic and can be deadly for others especially for some who do have poor mental health.

In today’s modern world where media hold great influence to almost all aspect of society, most specifically in the field of lifestyle and beauty, people have now become more conscious about how they can fit in. With the high standard that is set by trends that are highlighted through social media sites and other forms of media, people are trying their best to join the bandwagon. Unfortunately, double standards are inevitable. Everyone is trying to make themselves like others for them to belong. Today, media is the most powerful tool to spread influence in the present time.

In this modern society, body figures have now become a huge deal that a lot of people most especially women are very much concerned about how they can keep up with the standards in the society they live in. It is as if acceptance is dictated by how you appear in social media and in public and it’s as if the way others see other people is the way to see themselves. It is no wonder why other people have resorted to changing themselves, some even go to extreme measures. Some have gone to extreme diets that tend to lead to self- starvation, and some even go as far as plastic surgery.

People look up to what they see on media –  on TV, social media sites, on the Internet and magazines. Media has since been in our lives wherever we go. It plays an integral role in spreading ideas, trends, style and other information to people. Media has a way of highlighting what seems to be good in this world. On TV, we see models and celebrities and how they seem to be liked by many people because they look almost perfect. People try to be perfect and it is human nature to strive for perfection. However, there is always fault in the system. Gaining weight has become a concern for some people. For some people, it can become a mild concern but for some, it can develop into fear which can result to people developing a health disorder.

People with eating disorders obsess about their food intake. People who suffer such conditions often are intimidated by what they see on media and so they try to be like the image they see on media. They tend to develop low self-esteem that leads them to do things excessively even when not needed. Health disorders are serious illnesses that should be treated right away as it affects not only the emotional well-being of the person but on physical health as well where it is most impacted.

Find more info here http://www.bentham-open.org/help-with-eating-disorders/