http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for conventional boiler Copyright 2008 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 02:39:59 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/conventional+boiler http://www.artwoo.com/article/choosing-the-right-boiler-for-your-home http://www.artwoo.com/article/choosing-the-right-boiler-for-your-home#comments Fri, 03 Nov 2006 14:27:08 +0000 conventional boilersystem boilerhot water systemhot water on demandsystem boilersholding tankstaps http://www.artwoo.com/article/choosing-the-right-boiler-for-your-home
The types of units you should become familiar with are Combination, Conventional or System boilers.

A Combination unit supplies hot water on demand. This being the case there is no need for holding tanks or extra pipe work. It usually costs less then a conventional boiler and normally you don't lose a lot of water pressure for showers. Some drawbacks are that the water can take between 30 and 45 seconds to heat up. Also because of the way the system works, only one tap can receive hot water at any given time.

A Conventional unit is the type of hot water system most people are familiar with.

The hot water is stored in a large holding tank for later use. A conventional boiler can also be used for heating a home if water is piped through a radiator system. This system allows for several taps to receive hot water at the same time and depending on the tanks capacity most people will not andquot;run outandquot; of hot water under normal usage. Drawbacks include increased installation expenses and higher energy consumption.

A System boiler is basically the same as a conventional boiler but it is a much simpler set up. The major difference is that with a system boiler, the heating element is contained inside the storage tank. System boilers give more consistent temperatures and flow rates. On the other hand, its increased installation expense and higher cost mean that it may not be for everyone.

Some questions that should be asked are what kind of fixtures do you have in your home? How many bathrooms more specifically, how many faucets or outlets are going to be used to dispense hot water at any one time? How much available space do you have? Make sure that you know the answers to these questions ahead of time and have a good idea of what kind of boiler system is right for your home. Jon Kilminster writes for http://www.boilerplanet.com, a website packed with information on biomass boilers and corn boilers ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/building-your-own-still-the-perfect-science-fair-project http://www.artwoo.com/article/building-your-own-still-the-perfect-science-fair-project#comments Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:22:15 +0000 copper elbowcopper coilscopper sheetingliquid mixtureselbow jointcopper pipeglass thermometer http://www.artwoo.com/article/building-your-own-still-the-perfect-science-fair-project liquid mixtures by boiling since different liquids have different boiling points.

Before starting with the construction, it is important to note that building a still may lead one to run-ins with the law which makes it important for one to be knowledgeable of the regulations in one's area and to devote the project entirely for scientific and educational purposes.

To start the construction process of the still: the following materials are needed: a 4-gallon size copper boiler, a copper sheeting that is 18" in diameter, a copper pipe that is 36" long and 2" in diameter, a 24-inch copper tubing that is 1" in diameter, lead-free solder, glass thermometer, milk can made out of stainless steel, two reducing coupler that have the following dimensions: 1" x 1-1/2" and the other 1-1/2" x 2", an elbow joint that has a 1" diameter, a 3" nipple, 1" x 2-1/2" nipple, a large copper tub, 1-1/2" copper elbow pipe, copper coils, standard spigot faucet, any container that can be easily sealed, a siphon, an airlock, a rubber stopper, flour and water (a silicon kit can be used as an alternative), a connecting ring, yeast, a large amount of cold water, and the mixture to be fermented.

For the tools, one would need a holder gun, a drill, a saw, and a heat source.

To assemble the boiler, one would have to saw the copper boiler in half and lay on its open end the copper sheeting. Cut a piece from the sheeting that is 1 centimeter larger in diameter than the copper boiler's open end. Solder then the sheeting to the open end of the copper boiler. After this, place the boiler flat side down and drill a 2" hole on the boiler's top. Solder a connecting ring directly on top of this hole.

To construct the still's column, bore a hole on the top of the elbow connector that will be big enough for it to be soldered to the 3"-sized nipple. Soldering is also done to the 2" pipe to fasten it to the ring on top of the boiler. The elbow connector is in turn soldered to top of the pipe with the help of the 1 x 1-1/2" reducing coupler. Solder then the nipple in place after which the thermometer is inserted there and secured into place with the use of the silicon kit or flour and water. The elbow pipe is then soldered to the other coupler. The 1" elbow joint is then fastened with the end of the pipe in a way that makes the elbow point downward. This end is then soldered with the smaller nipple. The nipple is then soldered to the coiled copper tubing and the spigot is soldered into the drilled hole present on the side of the metal container. The heat source is then placed below the boiler.

Put the yeast and the fermented mixture in the container, which will be drilled with a hole just enough for a rubber stopper to make it sealed air-tight.

You are now ready to use the still. Constructing it may be a bit laborious but with the proper materials and a thorough adherence to the right steps of building it, the still is just the thing for that science fair competition.John Grant is a the author for a how to site where he is writing articles about how to build a still.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/natural-gas-heaters http://www.artwoo.com/article/natural-gas-heaters#comments Tue, 16 Sep 2008 15:57:26 +0000 natural gas heatersadvantages of natural gasinfrared modelsdisadvantages of natural gasair modelspropane gasblue flame http://www.artwoo.com/article/natural-gas-heaters Natural gas heaters are a great heat sources for warming garages and take up very little space.

The single gas heaters can warm up to 550 square feet or 2 car garage. They offer clean and efficient source of heat. They are compact, lightweight and space saving units. They are ceiling or wall mounted with thermostat or manual control.

They can operate even during power failures. They are easy to install devices. Most of them do require ventilation or a chimney. They come in models of 25,000 BTU/hour to 40,000 BTU/hour. They get fuel from the natural line of gas at home like LP.

They come in two types: forced air and the infrared ray. Forced air models use blue flame to warm the garage. It is similar to blowing air like a conventional furnace. The downside of this is they stir up sawdust. It usually takes longer to reheat these models. It requires 45,000 BTU to heat a two- to 2-1/2 car garage, and 60,000 for a three-car garage.

It can be installed in the corner, near a gas line and an electrical outlet (needed to power the blower). They are less expensive compared to infrared models.

On the other hand, infrared ray models warm the floor and objects first before heating air. The objects heat the air. These are low intensity infrared heaters. It can heat a two- to 2-1/2 car garage with 30,000 BTU, and for a three-car garage, 50,000 BTU is suggested.

Infrared heaters should be installed a minimum of 7 ft. above the floor. It should also hang down a minimum of 4 in. from the ceiling. Infrared models are more expensive than forced air types.

Advantages of Natural Gas Garage Heaters

•They are self contained heat producers and need no boiler.
•There is abundant fuel supply.
•There is no need for electricity supply.

Disadvantages of Natural Gas Heaters

•When using propane gas or natural gas, it gives off a byproduct from the fossil fuels.
•It is risky if it is a DIY installation wherein a chance of gas leak is there.
•These heaters are not portable. They remain where they are installed.
•The effect of the natural gas price instability

Hot water heaters

They are also known as steam unit heaters. They transfer heat from the hot water to the air. It is more efficient when it is forced by a fan. The hot water flows thru a radiator coil blown by the fan. Heat is absorbed by the air and warms the temperature.

They come in two models: the vertical and horizontal type. Vertical units placed in the ceiling blows warm air down space. They are usually used in larger spaces. Horizontal units are placed along walls and blow air. They are usually used in smaller spaces like garages.

Benefits of fan forced hot water unit heaters in garages or workshops:

•There are no odors and no byproducts of combustion.
•Easy to maintain.
•Horizontal units have adjustable louvers to help direct warm air
•Durable with corrosion resistant paints
•Compact and lightweight for simple installation.
•The fan is an air circulator during summer.

Drawbacks of fan forced hot water unit heaters in garages:

•If there's failure, water can freeze in the garage.
•A home boiler system is mandatory.
•Hot water piping is required to make water flow from boiler to heater.
•More complex controls because of heater and boiler
•Fan forced units move large volumes of air which can kick up dust.For more information on garage heaters please visit our website.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/some-interesting-facts-about-central-heating http://www.artwoo.com/article/some-interesting-facts-about-central-heating#comments Tue, 19 Aug 2008 08:29:26 +0000 geothermal heat pumpscentral heating systemscapturing solar energyalternatives to fossil fuelscentral heating systeminternal climateairing cupboard http://www.artwoo.com/article/some-interesting-facts-about-central-heating central heating system is part of a larger and more comprehensive HVAC system (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning). Such HVAC systems are used to control not just temperature, but the actual internal climate of the building. Indeed, some buildings have automatic systems to control light levels too. Venetian blinds located inside sealed double glazing systems will automatically open and close throughout the day to adjust the amount of light coming in through the windows.

With central heating, the heat is generated in one central place and then distributed throughout the building. This methodology therefore differs from local heating where heating units in each room are used. A typical system for central heating involves burning fuel such as heating oil, gas or coal in a boiler or furnace. In a domestic house this boiler will often be located in the kitchen or in an airing cupboard. In a larger building like an office or public building such as a library or museum, the furnace or boiler will be in a dedicated boiler room. Electrical central heating systems do exist, but they are not as common as those run on fossil fuels. This is because such systems are only feasible where low cost electricity supplies, or geothermal heat pumps, are available. There are also environmentally geared central heating systems which are becoming popular with people who care about their impact on the environment. These use alternatives to fossil fuels such as solar power.

The heat generated in the boiler, either from the combustion of heating oil or by capturing solar energy, is then distributed throughout the building. There are various methods for doing this. One method is to pump air through duct work which runs throughout the structure of the building. Another method involves heating water in the boiler and then circulating steam, or more usually hot water, through pipes around the building. The pipes will lead to radiators which are mounted on the walls. Each radiator around the building will usually has its own controls so that the heat can be regulated in each room.

This is the usual type of system that is used in many homes across northern regions of the world such as Russia and northern Europe. Here, because of the temperate climate, most homes will have a central heating system built in. Air conditioning systems are not commonly seen in these regions because of the cooler climate, where air conditioning is seldom or never needed. Conversely, homes in warmer parts of the world such as south America, Africa and south east Asia will have air conditioning systems but no central heating.

Some people may think that central heating is a relatively new development. In fact, the Romans started to introduce central heating in the year 100 AD when they were occupying many regions of northern Europe, including Germany and Britain. Here, they constructed buildings heated by air which was warmed in furnaces and ducted through the buildings using pipes in the walls and spaces under the floors.To explore our range of Central Heating services, please visit our website at http://www.northerngasheating.com]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/chocolate-fondue-fountain-buying-chocolate http://www.artwoo.com/article/chocolate-fondue-fountain-buying-chocolate#comments Sat, 15 Jul 2006 06:27:09 +0000 chocolate fondue fountaincouverture chocolatechocolate fountainchocolate chipschocolate couverturegourmet chocolateregular chocolate http://www.artwoo.com/article/chocolate-fondue-fountain-buying-chocolate chocolate fondue fountain. Perhaps they have a few bags of chocolate chips on hand or they'll even buy some of those brick sized chocolate bars. Sure this will work fine and the whole fountain concept will still impress your party guests. But true chocolate aficionados use gourmet chocolate in their fountains and you can definitely taste the difference.

Melting regular supermarket chocolate chips is not an option in the most popular home versions of the chocolate fondue fountain. The chocolate will be too thick and if it can actually be pumped to the top of the fountain, you won't get that cascading waterfall effect that these machines are famous for. Plain chocolate will just drip if you're lucky. If you're unlucky, it will clog your fountain, leaving you with a few pounds of chocolate that needs to be melted with hot water before you can use your fountain again. When using regular chocolate, you will need to add a significant amount of vegetable oil in order for the chocolate to be fluid enough for the fountain to work.

The best way to melt supermarket chocolate is with a double boiler. For every two pounds of chocolate, you should slowly add one cup of vegetable oil while stirring. If you can handle your double boiler and an electric mixer at once, then the mixing won't be too hard. You probably won't need the entire cup of oil so add it slowly and stop when you think the chocolate looks right. But don't forget that you can't add more oil when the chocolate is already in the fountain. So if you are in doubt, add more oil.

The easiest way to set up your chocolate fondue fountain is to use couverture chocolate. Couverture is a French word that means to cover. Courverture chocolate is usually used for making candies or for dipping so it's perfect for a chocolate fountain. It's made with a higher percentage of cocoa butter than normal chocolate and melts to a smoother texture. Couverture chocolate will give you that elegant looking waterfall effect without any additional oil or mixing required. The only drawback is that it's very expensive when compared to supermarket chocolate.

Melting couverture chocolate is the same as regular chocolate. Either use a double boiler or a microwave. Since you won't be adding any additional oil or using the electric mixer, the microwave can work great. Set the microwave for a minute at a time and stir in between.

Whoever decided that turning a chocolate fondue fountain into a home appliance should be given a medal. Why save the chocolate fountain for weddings and other large parties when you can now set it up every weekend. If you are having a birthday party or a barbeque, why not add some pizzazz to the event with a chocolate fondue fountain. Whether you choose expensive couverture chocolate or regular supermarket chocolate chips, it's sure to taste delicious. Anthony Tripodi is the webmaster of http://GoFondue.com. For more information using a Chocolate Fondue Fountain visit http://www.gofondue.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-significant-energy-and-cost-savings-of-micro-chp-systems http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-significant-energy-and-cost-savings-of-micro-chp-systems#comments Sat, 12 Apr 2008 09:20:01 +0000 carbon dioxide emissionsmicro chpchp systemschp systemconventional boilerexcess electricityoil and gas prices http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-significant-energy-and-cost-savings-of-micro-chp-systems Micro CHP systems are an exciting home energy-producing technology currently used mostly in the UK and Europe. It is a popular and growing way to heat homes, and is seen as a way to meet progressive government objectives while saving the consumer money. It is likely that Micro CHP systems will also become more popular in the US soon because of their many benefits. In fact, given current oil and gas prices, there are currently companies studying the possibility of bringing this technology in a widespread way to the US.

CHP (combined heat and power) is an extremely efficient technology for generating electricity and heat simultaneously. This process is often referred to as "cogeneration". Micro CHP systems can use a variety of generation technologies, including fuel cells, Stirling engines, or conventional means like gas and oil. Simply put, the heat generated in the process of creating electricity is recovered in a manner than allows it to be used to heat the home.

Micro CHP systems are very simple to install and can take the place of a conventional boiler or furnace. A micro CHP system can be as much as 90% energy efficient. Most who use domestic CHP report having a lower energy bill. In addition, in this age of Global Warming, micro CHP reduces the carbon "footprint" of homes that use it, reducing carbon dioxide emissions significantly.

One of the more exciting aspects of micro chp systems is their potential to allow people to actually sell the excess electricity produced when heating the home back to the electrical company - often called "on the grid" micro CHP. This could mean that you'd heat your house, and get a check from the electrical company!

MicroCHP is extremely easy to install. The challenge might be to find a qualified installer, particularly if you are in the United States. Some existing conventional systems can remain intact, with just retrofits and added parts installed. However others may need to be completely replaced. Depending on your current system, you should be able to recoup the cost of installation in anywhere from one to five years.

Recent predictions suggest that the use of "combined heat and power" (CHP) on a large scale by utilities could be a multi-billion dollar industry across the globe in just a few years. Many new houses are built with the systems installed, and the cost involved in adding micro CHP to existing homes is coming down dramatically. You could tap into this exciting new technology yourself for your own home, save money on your utility bills, and reduce your carbon "footprint" in the process. For more information about micro chp systems, stirling engines, and other high efficiency low emission home heating systems please go to http://www.microchpsystems.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/central-gas-heating-and-other-residential-heating-methods http://www.artwoo.com/article/central-gas-heating-and-other-residential-heating-methods#comments Sun, 09 Nov 2008 18:50:29 +0000 central heating systemshot water heatingsteam systemwater circulationplastic pipesconcrete slabhydronic system http://www.artwoo.com/article/central-gas-heating-and-other-residential-heating-methods
Defining Central Heating

Central heating, in simple terms, means heating from one central source. Its objective is to provide warmth to the interiors of an entire house or building. It can also be available to just a room in a building, usually originating from one point. Central heating should not be confused with local heating. There are different types of central heating systems, and you can tailor the system to what suits your needs the best. If everything is working correctly, it should be able to turn itself on and off automatically, use no more fuel than necessary, and have the house at the ideal temperature.

Central Heating Methods

In most of Northern Europe, where people seldom use air-conditioning systems due to the cold climate, houses come with central heating installed. They normally use water circulation, hydronic, steam and gas heating systems.

Water circulation heating involves the use of a boiler that heats water in a confined water
container, a pump that circulates water in the closed system and radiators to release heat into the rooms. In the UK and in other parts of Europe, engineers combine the needs of room heating and hot water heating and storage.

Hydronic and steam system.

A hydronic system uses a boiler to heat up hot water and a pump to circulate hot water through plastic pipes installed in a concrete slab. The steam system follows the same principle, except that steam is used instead of water.

Central gas heating.

Gas heating uses a device to heat an area by burning natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas. With this system, there is really no need for any refilling, the gas company directly supplies fuel into residential houses or commercial buildings.

One of the most common types of gas heating is the use of natural gas. Natural gas, used in major central gas heating systems, is one of the cheapest forms of energy available to the residential consumer. High efficiency natural gas furnaces and boilers provide more useable heat than conventional heating equipment. For example, the latest natural gas heaters can heat twice as much water per hour than electric models. Also, recovery rates are three times faster, so they can handle extremely high loads. This means more hot water in less time, using less energy. Natural gas has grown to such levels of popularity because of the tremendous amount of energy savings and instant convenience that it can provide to residential and commercial consumers.Flogas supplies LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas) to those looking to use central gas heating in their homes. LPG is an affordable and economical source of energy for you to save money.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/convection-vs-conventional-ovens-whats-the http://www.artwoo.com/article/convection-vs-conventional-ovens-whats-the#comments Tue, 09 May 2006 00:32:03 +0000 convection ovensconvection ovencook foodcooking foodconventional ovensconventional oventemperature http://www.artwoo.com/article/convection-vs-conventional-ovens-whats-the cooking food in either fashion depending on the set mode. The difference in these two types of ovens is the way in which the heat in the oven is dispersed during the cooking process.

Convection ovens

A convection oven uses a fan which is usually located on the back side of the oven. The purpose of the fan is to force the heated air inside of the oven and circulate it around the item being cooked. The heated air is constantly pushed over and around the food, and therefore a convection oven cooks food much faster than a conventional oven.

Not only does a convection oven cook food more quickly than a conventional oven, but it can also thoroughly cook food at lower temperatures. The average amount of time saved when cooking with a convection oven is about 20 percent of the food's normal cooking time. The temperature a convection oven uses to cook food is also about 20 percent lower than a recipe's suggested cooking temperature.

Typically, convection ovens are known for their popularity in the restaurant industry as well as in commercial cooking facilities. However, it is becoming more popular for individuals to own convection ovens in their homes... or at least a conventional oven that can switch to a convection mode upon request.

Convection ovens are speedier and more efficient than conventional ovens, and therefore may be more expensive. However, professional chefs from around the world swear by them and rely on them for delicious tasting food. Also, since the air circulation in a convention oven is the same throughout, food will cook at the same rate no matter where it is placed in the oven... on the top or bottom rack or near the front or back.

Conventional Ovens

Traditionally, most personal residences in the United States come equipped with a modern conventional ovens. These are the most common types of household ovens, and are used every day by men and women to cook all sorts of meals, desserts, breads, and many other types of food.

Conventional ovens are similar to convection ovens in that they both cook food using heat. They both have the ability to use either gas or electricity, depending on the hook-up in a home. Some may have the versatility to use either gas or electricity simply depending on what is plugged in to them, and some are made to be either gas specific or electricity specific.

The most obvious difference between a conventional oven and a convection oven is the fact that in a conventional oven, air is not forced throughout the oven on a constant basis with the aid of a fan, as it is in a convection oven.

In a conventional oven, the heat circulation in the oven can become blocked by pots and pans inside of the oven. The blocking of the heat can cause uneven cooking. Uneven cooking is especially noticeable when both the bottom and top racks in the oven are being used at the same time. The items on top will cook faster because heat rises to the tops of conventional ovens and when there is a lot in the oven, the heat gets trapped there.

There are pros and cons to both conventional and convection ovens. Conventional ovens have been serving people for years and years and food has been cooked successfully in them for many decades. Convection ovens have many followers and fans, but these types of ovens can be hard to get used to... especially for novice cooks. This article has been provided courtesy of Kitchen Junkie, http://www.kitchenjunkie.com . ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/subprime-mortgage-lenders-differences-between-subprime-and-other-lenders http://www.artwoo.com/article/subprime-mortgage-lenders-differences-between-subprime-and-other-lenders#comments Mon, 12 Nov 2007 18:24:59 +0000 subprime mortgage lenderssubprime mortgagesmatter what typesubprime lendersrisk loanssubprime lenderconventional loans http://www.artwoo.com/article/subprime-mortgage-lenders-differences-between-subprime-and-other-lenders Subprime mortgage lenders specialize in offering financing to people with poor credit or riskier loans. Conventional lenders focus on low-risk loans and borrowers. While you will find better rates with conventional lenders, suprime companies offer more flexibility in requirements and loan terms.

Easier To Qualify For

Subprime mortgages are easier to qualify for than traditional loans. Since these lenders are willing to accept a higher level of risk, they offer a variety of packages. For example, someone with bad credit can still find a zero-down 30 year mortgage. You may also opt for a lower rate with an ARM or fixed-rate home loan.

For jumbo or unconventional loans, you may have to work with a subprime lender. Since these types of loans are harder to sell to the secondary market, some conventional lenders won't handle them.

Higher Rates

For the increased level of risk, subprime lenders charge a higher rate, usually a couple points more than a conventional loan. You may also find more fees or points, especially if you want to waive early payment fees.

Conventional lenders offer the best rates and reasonable fees. However, there is a wide range in rates and fees between lenders.

No matter what type of financing you choose, request quotes from dozens of lenders. This protects you from scams and unscrupulous companies, while ensuring you get the best package. Finding a low rate is one of the easiest and biggest ways of saving yourself money.

No Worries Over PMI

Subprime lenders don't require private mortgage insurance (PMI), unlike traditional lenders. PMI can add over a hundred dollars on your monthly payment.

It is required for conventional loans when the down payment is less than 20%. You can get around this requirement with conventional lenders by taking out two mortgages from separate companies. Another option is to put 20% down on your conventional loan, but take out a home equity loan after the deal closes to access your cash.

Just to make things more confusing, more and more conventional lenders are entering the subprime market. If you do need subprime financing, still request quotes from traditional lenders since you may still qualify. View our recommended lenders for http://www.abcloanguide.com/lessthanperfectcredit.shtml. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-home-emergency-cover-can-assist-the-needs-of-the-over-60s http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-home-emergency-cover-can-assist-the-needs-of-the-over-60s#comments Sat, 08 Jul 2006 06:27:07 +0000 insurance policyhot water boilerbeneficialwindow panesbuildings insuranceinsurance companyleak water http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-home-emergency-cover-can-assist-the-needs-of-the-over-60s hot water boiler bursts and floods your home. Who are you going to call at such a late hour on a Sunday night? With a home emergency insurance policy in place, all you need to be doing is picking up the phone and calling your insurance company.

Although it would be fair to say that a number of the benefits of a home emergency insurance policy can be found elsewhere, such as in your home buildings insurance policy, with a home buildings insurance policy there may not necessarily be a guaranteed responses time. As such, your Sunday night accident may have to wait to Monday morning to have someone come and fix it. However, with a home emergency insurance policy, the response time should be immediate, to meet the needs of your emergency.

Benefits of a home emergency insurance over include:

- 24-hour call out for a locksmith in case you lose your house keys - repair man to come and check that you do not have a gas leak - water repairs if you have a burst boiler, pipe, drain - roofer, should you have any problems with your roof; such as loose, dangerous titles or a leak - someone to come and fix your toilets if they should block - a repairman to come and fix any window panes that may be broken

Indeed, the level of emergency service can be arranged to fit the needs of the person arranging the insurance. As such, this type of insurance is specially beneficial to the aged during the cold winter months in the UK when a number of unforeseen events can occur and when they are ill-equipped to handle the problem.

Two factors you will need to keep in mind with home emergency insurance however:

- firstly, there shouldn't be any excess payment, otherwise this negates part of the reason for having the insurance;

- second, because there is no excess payment, the insurance company will try to cap their maximum liability under the insurance (in most case to between £500 and £750). Here, you need to ensure that the cost of calling the local emergency repair man and for the materials he needs to complete the job will not significantly impact on this threshold limit. Joe Kenny writes for the UK personal finance sites http://www.ukpersonalloanstore.co.uk and also http://www.cardguide.co.uk ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/jumbo-mortgage-loans-things-you-should-know http://www.artwoo.com/article/jumbo-mortgage-loans-things-you-should-know#comments Mon, 19 Mar 2007 19:14:01 +0000 jumbo loan amountsjumbo loan amountjumbo loansjumbo mortgagejumbo mortgagesfreddie macfannie mae http://www.artwoo.com/article/jumbo-mortgage-loans-things-you-should-know Jumbo Mortgage" is a mortgage loan whose total amount is higher than the standard conventional limits. Jumbo loans are simply mortgages for higher-than-normal loan amounts. The gold standard of "normal" in the lending industry is what is called a "conforming, conventional" loan; that is, a loan that conforms to the secondary market agencies' conventional underwriting requirements regarding credit, income/asset verification, property features, etc.

As of February 20th, 2007, the maximum amount for this "conforming" loan is $417,000 for a single unit property, $533,850 for a 2-unit property, $645,300 for a 3-unit property and $801,950 for a 4-unit property. The conventional limit for second loans is $208,500 and all loan limits are 50% higher for properties in Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These limits change periodically with the real estate market.

Most lenders are willing to lend over and above these conforming amounts, but the larger jumbo loan amount translates into a larger risk for the lender should you default on the loan. Simply stated, the more the bank lends, the more it stands to lose if something goes wrong and they need to foreclose on that property.

Because the lender is taking an increase in risk with the size of the loan, they will typically charge a higher interest rate than they would on a loan that is within the "conventional" loan limits. All lenders vary in the premium they add for jumbo loans, but a good rule of thumb is to expect to pay an interest rate about 0.5% higher than you would for an otherwise identical conforming loan.

With conventional lenders, these jumbo loan amounts are set in stone, particularly if they are backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. In other words, a mortgage for $417,000 from one lender at 6% will almost always be about 6.5% for a loan of $417,001 from the same lender. http://mortgagesanity.com/2007/02/17/what-you-need-to-know-about-jumbo-mortgages/ ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-you-should-choose-baby-clothes-made-from-organic-cotton http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-you-should-choose-baby-clothes-made-from-organic-cotton#comments Tue, 29 Jan 2008 21:25:00 +0000 chlorine bleachscary statisticcotton farmingcotton cropsconventional cottonbreathable clothingpesticides and herbicides http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-you-should-choose-baby-clothes-made-from-organic-cotton conventional cotton. Read on to discover the major differences between conventional cotton and organic cotton.

Conventional cotton is the one of the most pesticide laden crops in the world. Only coffee surpasses cotton in the amount of pesticides used. Conventional cotton farming involves the use of very heavy spraying of pesticides and herbicides, but it doesn't stop there. Once the cotton is turned into fabric, chlorine bleach is used to give it a clean white color. Then formaldehyde is applied as a finisher. Here is a scary statistic: Approximately 1/3 of a pound of chemicals is used to grow and produce just one t-shirt. So as you can see, conventional cotton is harmful to the environment and to the people that wear the clothing made from conventional cotton.

The process of growing organic cotton is totally different. There are no chemicals used to grow organic cotton. The fields are fertilized naturally and the weeds are removed with hoes, tractors or by hand. Pests are controlled by the use of specific pest eating insects. Organic cotton crops have earned the label of organic by using soil that has been free of pesticides for three consecutive years. Organic cotton farming will use chili, garlic, tree tea oil and other natural substances in their farming process.

Another great benefit of organic cotton compared to conventional cotton is that organically grown cotton has the ability to "breathe" a lot better. This will allow for moisture to evaporate. Baby clothing or bedding that has been manufactured with conventional cotton fabric will trap moisture next to baby's skin which can cause a rash. Many babies have sensitive skin so providing them with more breathable clothing is a simple and effective way for parents to minimize skin irritation.

Clothing made from organic cotton will last much longer than clothing made from conventional cotton. The fibers of organic cotton are much stronger and thicker than the conventional cotton. Conventional cotton fibers have been weakened by the chemicals and bleaching process.

Organic cotton baby clothes can be found in various baby boutiques across the country. As the popularity of organic clothing increases, organic baby clothes will become easier to find. But if you do not have a baby boutique in your area that sells clothes made from organic cotton, do a search online. You will be able to find a ton of places that sell organic baby clothes.

Most parents want the best for their babies. The clothes we choose are part of that. If you are wanting the best for your baby, consider buying baby clothes made from organic cotton. You'll feel better knowing that you're not only doing the best for your baby but for the environment as well, all by making this one simple change. To get more tips for moms and babies and to learn where to find the best natural baby clothes visit Amanda's website http://www.nobellah.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/steam-cleaners-the-purest-way-to-clean http://www.artwoo.com/article/steam-cleaners-the-purest-way-to-clean#comments Tue, 18 Jul 2006 14:27:07 +0000 steam cleanerdry steamvapor steam cleanersdust miteshot waternozzle waterbrushes http://www.artwoo.com/article/steam-cleaners-the-purest-way-to-clean Steam cleaners are machines that clean surfaces using steam or hot water. Steam cleaners are usually used to kill allergens, dust mites, bacteria, mold, fungus etc on the surface being cleaned. Steam cleaners are used in hospitals, hotels, bakeries, restaurants, pharmacies, etc. Household steam cleaners are used to cleanse kitchens, bathrooms, carpets etc. Steam cleaners can be used to clean almost any surface like floors, curtains, furniture, and almost any surface which is heat resistant. There are two types of steam cleaners, traditional steam cleaners and vapor steam cleaners.

A traditional steam cleaner uses hot water to clean the surface. The traditional steam cleaner consists of a boiler, a collecting tank, a hose and brushes. Hot water is sprayed under pressure on the surface being cleaned. Then rotating brushes scrub the surface and the dirty water is suction extracted into the container. Some traditional steam cleaners also use cleaning agents to clean, while most rely on steam and brushes to do the job. Cleaning agents help to remove spots and grime on the surface. The use of traditional steam cleaners is usually restricted to floors only.

A vapor steam cleaner consists of a water container with a heater attachment (collectively known as boiler), a hose and a nozzle. Water is boiled in the container under pressure to produce super heated steam or dry steam. Dry steam is a steam which is heated to more than 100 degrees Celsius. This dry steam is then passed through a hose to the nozzle and onto the surface being cleaned under pressure. This loosens the dirt and grime on the surface being cleaned. Then a vacuum cleaner is used to clean the surface.

The steam generated in a vapor steam cleaner has very low moisture content, usually up to 5 percent. So when a surface is cleaned by steam it becomes dry within few minutes. They generally do not have continuous water supply hence are more convenient to use. Vapor steam cleaners can be used to clean any heat resistant surface like vehicle interiors, windows, bathrooms, etc with proper attachments. Vapor steam cleaners are generally used by people suffering from allergies or who do not want cleaning by chemicals.

There are specialized steam cleaners for carpets called carpet cleaners. They do not use steam but use hot water to clean the carpet. After wetting the carpet, the area is scrubbed with brushes and then the dirty water is sucked back into the receptacle. The carpet is left to dry. Switching on the Air Conditioner in a room dries the carpet quickly as it removes humidity from the air. Once the carpet is dry, it should be vacuumed to clean it thoroughly.

Steam cleaners can have an independent water container or continuous water supply. Continuous water supply is more convenient as the tank need not be refilled repeatedly. The dirty water is expelled after cleaning.

There are many models available in the market. The cost ranges from $100 for residential models to $2000 for commercial models. Before buying the buyer should look for boiler capacity, the attachments, mobility, warranty, user manual, demo CDs etc. Tyson J Stevenson writes on a wide variety of "every day" subjects, always with valuable news and reviews. Expect to see his name often. A related resource is http://best-steam-cleaner.info Further information can be found at http://www.hubbuh.info or http://news2reviews.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/history-of-the-espresso http://www.artwoo.com/article/history-of-the-espresso#comments Wed, 29 Nov 2006 22:27:07 +0000 top espressocoffee typescoffee beveragecoffee machinescoffee machineimmenselybasically http://www.artwoo.com/article/history-of-the-espresso coffee types across the globe. Well, since we started talking about espresso, why not take a brief sneak peek into its history and what exactly it is. What do you say?

Basically espresso is a flavorful and strong coffee beverage prepared when hot water is forced under a high pressure and made to pass through finely ground coffee beans. The color of the coffee is typically dark brown with brown/red colored foam on the top. Espresso is commonly served in small portions.

Unlike other drip-brewed coffees, espresso is identified with its robust flavor and thick consistency. Following its potency, straight espresso or espresso served without milk or sweetener is generally considered to be an acquired taste. In the United States, this espresso is served in small amounts known as shots. Many avid coffee fanatics even order single or double espressos along with a glass of water to void the taste.

Espresso was basically originated in Italy in the 20th century. Indeed Espresso is an Italian word that means fast. A gentleman named Luigi Bezzera made a coffee machine that had four divisions and a boiler in 1901. He even got the machine patented. This machine used to force boiling water and steam via coffee into the container or cup. This very machine is regarded as the inception of espresso.

In 1903, Desiderio Pavoni purchased the patent from Luigi Bezzera and the Pavoni Compnay started developing coffee machines in 1905 which were based on Luigi's patent. The machines produced by the company came to be known as the "La Pavona" and became famous immensely. These machines even reached the America in 1927.

The flaws in these early machines soon came forward. The boiling water and the steam that was forced via machine gave coffee a certain kind of burn flavor. So, Cremonesi in 1938 built a piston pump that forced hot water rather than boiling water through the coffee. Moreover, this design was also incorporated in Achille Gaggia's coffee bar. During the World War II the Gaggia's small quantity of machines were destroyed by a bomb and any further developments of espresso machines got hindered.

As the war came to the end, Gaggia began manufacturing a viable piston pump. As the machine used the spring lever, it was considered very innovative. Following the use of the spring lever, the coffee could be pressurized which was entirely independent of the boiler. These earlier machines used to employ the force of the boiler pressure to force water through the coffee. The coffee that was produced from this machine characterized a Creama which became the hallmark of espresso coffee. In true terms, this was a major inception of espresso machines.

Further in 1961, M Faema made an improvement in the Gaggia's machine. Faema developed machine that consisted of an electric pump. This pump used to force water through the coffee. This machine underlined the inception of pump driven machines which paved way for the modern espresso machines. Author: June Mala © 2006 http://www.homewebpage.net ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/making-heavenly-vanilla-soap-using-the-melt-and-pour-process http://www.artwoo.com/article/making-heavenly-vanilla-soap-using-the-melt-and-pour-process#comments Fri, 01 Dec 2006 22:27:09 +0000 double boilerdisturbedmeasuring spoonsmicrowaveabsolutely gorgeousjugmold http://www.artwoo.com/article/making-heavenly-vanilla-soap-using-the-melt-and-pour-process absolutely gorgeous hand-made soap and thought to yourself, "I wish I could do something like this"? Well, the good news is that you can, with the right tools, know-how and imagination.

So why should you make your own soap? Not only is it fun and exciting, but you get to put exactly what you want in it, design it how you like and choose the colors and fragrance as well. Some store-bought soaps can be full of chemicals that can be harmful to the skin, but if you make your own you know exactly what is in it.

What is the melt and pour process? The melt and pour process is exactly how it sounds. You use ready-made blocks of soap that are uncolored and unscented and you melt the soap blocks. Then you add your own colors, fragrances and/or other additives, pour it in a mold and wait until it's set. Melt and pour soap bases are available from online soap suppliers or craft stores. One of the advantages of using the melt and pour process to make soap is that you don't have to deal with potentially dangerous lye.

The equipment you will need will depend entirely on the soap that you are creating. You'll need either a double boiler or sturdy heat resistant microwave bowl or jug to melt the soap in and a base or mold for the shape of the soap. Also, a couple of whisks or spoons and a set of measuring spoons for additives. These are the basic tools you'll need and then you can add absolutely anything you want from there on.

Before you start, it is good to bear in mind that the soap can be extremely hot when it has been melted, so it is best to be very careful. If you're using the microwave, make sure you wear protective gloves and use a sturdy potholder to take out the microwave bowl or jug containing the hot melted soap. It's also a good idea to wear gloves if you're melting it in a double boiler, in case you accidentally splash. And make sure you're not disturbed by children or pets.

Now let's try out a basic melt and pour soap recipe called Heavenly Vanilla.

In order to make this you're going to need the following equipment:

Clean cutting board Double boiler or sturdy heat resistant microwave bowl or jug, eg Pyrex Scales (to measure soap) 4 oz or 113 grams of good quality white melt and pour soap base Vanilla fragrance suitable for soap making Clean metal whisk or spoon Clean measuring spoons Clean 3-4 oz basic soap mold Rubbing alcohol in spray bottle Protective gloves Safety goggles Protective clothes Protective shoes

Now you have everything you need, so let's move on to the exciting part, making your own soap!

After you've put on the safety goggles, protective gloves, clothes and shoes, you can first measure the fragrance and set it aside. Start off using 0.25 ounce of fragrance per pound of soap; you can make it stronger or weaker from there. So for this recipe you would use 1.9 ml or 0.06 oz or 1/4 +1/8 US teaspoons of fragrance.

Next, weigh the soap base and melt 4 oz in either a double boiler or in the microwave. If melting it in the microwave, cover the container with Saran wrap to stop the soap from drying out. Melt the soap in one minute increments in the microwave. Stir after every minute while being careful of the hot soap base.

Once it's totally melted, it's time to add the vanilla fragrance that you've already measured and set aside. Add it slowly and stir carefully and gently. If you get bubbles at this stage it means you've stirred it too hard.

Now you're ready to pour it into the mold. Pour it very slowly and gently. Avoid splashing. If you get bubbles pouring it into the mold, spritz the surface of the soap in the mold lightly with rubbing alcohol.

Now put the mold in a safe place and leave it for a few hours. If you're in a hurry, you can put it in the refrigerator (not the freezer) for about an hour until it's set.

Once the soap is set (hardened), it's time to unmold it. Unmolding soap is just like unmolding a cake from a cake tin. Gently tap the mold then see if the soap pops out. If it doesn't it may need a further tap. If the soap is really stubborn, trying running some warm water over the bottom of the mold.

You can now use your Heavenly Vanilla soap right away!

Making soap can be good fun and the satisfaction that comes afterwards is great. So why not make your own soap today? Jennifer Christine is a Super Soap Making Enthusiast! Grab your FREE exclusive mini report, Secret Online Soap Making Supplies when you visit http://www.MakeYourOwnSoapToday.com and discover how you can make your own hand made soap today! ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/central-gas-heating http://www.artwoo.com/article/central-gas-heating#comments Sun, 09 Nov 2008 04:22:26 +0000 condensing boilersgas boilerscentral heating systemcombi systemcondensing boilerair circulationaccurate temperature http://www.artwoo.com/article/central-gas-heating central heating system is very convenient. The system turns on and off automatically, and maintains a uniform and accurate temperature at all times. It also provides you with hot water.

Central gas heating mostly uses Gas Boilers and Condensing Boilers for heating purposes, and uses natural gas or LPG. Other than these, the boilers that use natural gas are Combi's, and back boilers. The greatest advantage of a gas heating system is that you don't run out of gas as you can do with heating systems that use fuel and oil.

The most efficient system for central gas heating is the condensing Combi system, which is very reliable and saves your heating costs. The boilers of this system work at 96% efficiency, as they recover lost heat and feed it back into the system. That is why it is known as a 'High Efficiency' or 'Condensing boiler'. It also provides you with hot water at all times.

Before making a decision about getting a gas central heating system, there are some important things that you need to consider. First, you have to think about which kind of fuel is the most suitable for you, and then choose the boiler accordingly. The two options for Central Gas heating are natural gas and LPG.

The next thing to consider is in relation to the areas of your house you want heated: what is the size of these areas and for how long you want to heat these areas. You also have to consider the climate of your local area, and the temperatures in various seasons. You should weigh the pros and cons of the different types of heating systems in relation to your heating needs.

The other things that need to be considered are the interior of your house, and the ventilation and air circulation. This will help you in determining the best way to contain the heat inside your house. After determining all of these factors, you have to evaluate what the initial cost would be, and what it would cost to maintain the heating system.

In addition to considering all these things, it is also important to discuss your options with experts in the field of the fitting of central gas heating systems. The right people would be architects, insulation experts, heating specialists and gas experts.

After you are sure about what you want to do, you can easily get quotes by providing your specifications related to boilers, radiators and other fittings and controls.

You can also install a central gas heating system yourself, but after fitting everything, you would need to consult a Corgi registered installer for making the gas supply connection.

Before getting a central gas heating system, always do your homework, so that you don't end up getting something that is unsuitable. You can also compare the various heating systems, by asking those you know about the performance of their systems before making any decisions.Flogas is a supplier of LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas) which is an effective energy source used for central heating in homes.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/types-and-uses-of-steam-cleaners http://www.artwoo.com/article/types-and-uses-of-steam-cleaners#comments Fri, 15 Sep 2006 00:27:18 +0000 steam cleanerdry steamvapor steam cleanerscarpetbrusheshot waterwarm water http://www.artwoo.com/article/types-and-uses-of-steam-cleaners hot water are called steam cleaners. Steam cleaners are used to kill allergens, bacteria, mold, and fungus on surfaces. Steam cleaners are mostly used in homes, inns and restaurants, etc. Home steam cleaners are used to clean surfaces such as in the bathroom, or the carpet and so on. A steam cleaner can be used to clean any surface which is heat resistant.

There are two types of steam cleaners; traditional steam cleaners, and vapor steam cleaners. The traditional steam cleaners include a boiler, container, hose and brushes, and use warm water to make the surface clean. They are used to clean floors only. The warm water is spread on the dirty surface, and then the revolving brushes scrub the surface and collect the dirty water into a container. Some cleaners need cleaning agents to remove stains, but mostly rely on steam and brushes to perform this process.

Vapor steam cleaners include a container with a heater, a hose and a nozzle. Water is boiled in the tank to produce dry steam. This dry steam is thrown onto the dirty surface via a hose and nozzle. The steam helps in loosening the dirt and stains on the surface. The surface is then cleaned with the help of a vacuum cleaner.

Moisture content is only 6% in the vapor steam cleaner, so the surface will dry as soon as it is cleaned. Any heat resistant surface can be washed by a vapor steam cleaner. It is generally used by people who are allergic to chemicals.

Then there are steam cleaners made specifically to clean carpets. Instead of using steam, they use hot water to clean the carpet. After wetting the carpet, brushes in the steamer scrub it, and unclean water is sucked back into the container. The use of an air conditioner at the same time is good, as it eliminates humidity from the air, and the carpet gets dried quickly. Once the carpet is dry, make sure that it is then vacuumed so it is cleaned properly.

Steam cleaners can have an inbuilt water container or they can have a constant water supply. The latter is more convenient, as you will not need to fill the tank again and again.

You can get various models of steam cleaners. Before purchasing, you should look for boiler capacity, its attachments, warranty and user manual etc. It is also important that you go through all the manufacture instructions before using your stream cleaner. Stefan Rockhaus provides tips on various home and family topics. For further information on http://www.compare-steam-cleaners.info/sitemap.php visit http://www.compare-steam-cleaners.info/ ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-do-hybrids-need-low-maintenance http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-do-hybrids-need-low-maintenance#comments Fri, 29 Dec 2006 10:27:11 +0000 hybrid carshybrid carhybrid engineair conditioning systemconventional carmaximum efficiencyvalve adjustments http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-do-hybrids-need-low-maintenance
Firstly, they have fewer parts than a conventional car and hence, fewer parts to wear out. It's the way they are built. There's no regular starter and this technology means that there is one part less that needs to be replaced. No starter also means there is no chance of accidentally grinding the flywheel. The battery and the motor too do not require too much maintenance. The engine lasts longer than a conventional engine and requires as much maintenance perhaps as a conventional one. A hybrid does not need any valve adjustments done and even if there are valves, they do not get worn out because the engine does not run constantly. And the injectors do not need regular cleaning, in fact maybe they never need to be cleaned because there is hardly any deposit on them.

The hybrid car uses electricity to run the air-conditioning system unlike the conventional ones that use a traditional pulley that is driven off a gas motor. So this means there is no air-conditioning belt to wear out. There is also no belt used for the steering because it is not hydraulic but electric. So it has very little kickback even when driving over rough, uneven roads.

The hybrid car's generator can multi-task. The generator is an important part of the hybrid car and there is a separate gas engine that powers it. A hybrid engine is really very small, maybe 10 to 20 horsepower and it is so designed that it gets maximum efficiency if it runs at one speed. Because the generator does many tasks, there is less wear and tear of the other parts and when braking or coasting, the car can recapture the energy. So there is no wastage of the battery and the battery does not need to be replaced very often. With the generator handling a lot of the braking -- in fact 80% - it means that extends the life of the brakes too. There is also less chance of the rotors getting warped. Thanks to less of a heat build up, the life of the brake fluid is extended too and the brake pads last longer.

Hybrid cars also have warranties that are much longer. Most of the Toyota and Honda cars have much longer warranties on their hybrids than on the conventional ones. There's an 8 year or an 80,000 mile warranty on the Honda Insight while for the Toyota Prius, you'll get a 100,000 mile warranty or 8 years on the hybrid system and the battery. These longer warranties make the hybrid an attractive buy.

If you are making up your mind between a conventional car and a hybrid one, look at all the long-term advantages. Hybrids are built so they last longer and they don't need as much looking after as a conventional car. Add to that the fact that they don't guzzle as much gas and have fewer parts, therefore less maintenance and you'll see why it makes good sense to decide in favor of the hybrid. Jackson Porter is a staff writer at http://www.environmental-central.com and is an occasional contributor to several other websites, including http://www.automobileenthusiast.com. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/environmental-or-conventional-dentistry-its-your-choice http://www.artwoo.com/article/environmental-or-conventional-dentistry-its-your-choice#comments Wed, 26 Jul 2006 20:27:05 +0000 dentistryamalgam fillingsdentistsroot canalsstainless steeloral functionoral cavity http://www.artwoo.com/article/environmental-or-conventional-dentistry-its-your-choice dentists' practice help many people enjoy excellent dental and oral function for years. Conventional dentistry's stature throws dentists practicing alternative dentistry methods into obscurity. Lina Garcia, DMD, a so-called environmental dentist clears up several issues regarding the untraditional means that they practice. She also exposes several ways how conventional dentistry procedures harm patients and the environment.

Environmental dentistry does not differ widely from conventional practices. But they do uphold a principle: the mouth as an integrated member of a person's body and must be treated using this perspective. The primary objective of environmental dental and dentists' practice is to treat dental and oral problems without causing harm and adverse effects on the body. Environmental dentists claim that conventional dental procedures often use methods that are harmful to the body over time.

Environmental dentistry's recent findings indicate that some of the most basic services of conventional dentists are hazardous for the patients and their environment. Garcia identifies these problems as the common and basic services patients often ask from their dentists. Amalgam fillings, root canals, cavitations, implants, surgery, and the use of stainless steel in the oral cavity are cited in a report by Garcia. According to her, amalgam fillings are still 50% mercury which make them dangerous and toxic when ingested. Root canals also cause more mouth problems because they encourage the growth of bacteria; it is also the same with cavitations. Environmental dentistry also abhors the use of implants without bio-compatibility testing. They claim that it aggravates the immuno-defense system and often start allergies and negative reactions. They also cite the results of studies that indicate that use of stainless steel in any open body part is a cause of cancer.

The critiques from environmental dentistry are many but the conventional dentistry explains these as nuisance. Conventional dentists assert that the mercury in amalgam filling is converted to a non-toxic substance once it reacts with the oral fluids and bacteria. They also cite lack of evidence and proof to support the environmental practice's claim on the relation of dental care to other major diseases like heart disease and cancer. Conventional dental and dentists' service providers encourage patients to consult only dentists who advocate scientific treatment. What they termed andquot;holisticandquot; practices such as environmental dentistry, are often unsafe and poses serious health risks.

Both camps have their cards on the table. I think that it is up to you, as patients to decide in which practice you feel comfortable with: a andquot;holisticandquot; environmental practice or scientific and clinical dentistry? I strongly advise research and making informed choices when it comes to health matters. For more valuable information on Dental and Dentists, please visit http://www.dental-health-group.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/credit-unions-what-you-need-to-know http://www.artwoo.com/article/credit-unions-what-you-need-to-know#comments Thu, 27 Jul 2006 14:27:10 +0000 navy federal credit unionfederal credit unionnational credit unioncredit unionsncuamembersconventional bank http://www.artwoo.com/article/credit-unions-what-you-need-to-know credit unions.

First of all, what is a credit union? It is a not for profit financial institution that is owned and governed by its members, through a board of directors.

The primary difference between a credit union and a conventional bank is ownership and control. Specifically, the fact that credit unions are owned and controlled by their members, whereas conventional banks are usually owned by stockholders.

Since credit unions are run not for profit and owned by their members, they have historically offered better interest rates to their members -- all profit can be re-invested to the members, rather than raising stock prices, as a conventional bank would do. So, often times you can get better interest rates on savings accounts and lower interest rates on loans through a credit union, when compared to a conventional bank.

Not everyone qualifies to join every credit union, though. Regulations require that a credit union restrict its members to a specific demographic group. For example, a credit union might service only people who work at a particular company, or are members of a specific organization. However, most credit unions will allow a member to always remain a member, even if they no longer qualify for a membership.

In the United States, a credit union may be chartered through the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) or in some cases, under the authority of the state. Unions chartered through the NCUA will have Federal Credit Union in their name, and are insured through the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF). Credit Unions chartered under the state government may be insured through the NCUSIF or through a private insurer.

Credit Unions are actually used most in Canada, where over one third of the population is a member of one. Learn about the Navy Federal Credit Union at http://usacreditunions.com/NAVY-FEDERAL-CREDIT-UNION ]]>