skimmer

skimmer http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for skimmer Copyright 2008 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 05:35:05 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/skimmer Solar Power And You Pool Hot Tub http://www.artwoo.com/article/solar-power-and-you-pool-hot-tub http://www.artwoo.com/article/solar-power-and-you-pool-hot-tub#comments Sat, 16 Jun 2007 22:25:00 +0000 automatic pool cleanerpool waterpool supplyusing solar powersunspoolselectricity http://www.artwoo.com/article/solar-power-and-you-pool-hot-tub using solar power for heat whether it simply be setting out in the sun and warming up or today's high tech devices that convert the suns energy into electricity. Over the past 100 years our dependence on solar power has diminished as we used the natural resources such as gas and coal to heat our homes and create electricity for our ever whim. History has a way of repeating itself just like when the automobile was fist introduced their was a divergence on how to power it many companies produced electric cars even steam cars were made for a short time but it was not until the advent of cheap gasoline that the manufactures concentrated their efforts on the gas power internal combustion engine. Today the car manufactures are looking to alternative fuels again they are looking at electricity for a car power source just like they were some 100 years ago.

The same thing is happening with the pool and hot tub industry at one time the only way to heat water was with the sun today pool supply companies are again looking at using the free solar energy being supplied by the sun to heat our pools. We have all sent the standard black panels surrounding pools that have pool water pumped through them and the suns energy is transferred to the pool water. This solar heating of the water results in a better user experience in pool or hot tub usage the water is warmer and will remain warmer in the fall and will heat up quicker in the spring allowing a longer swim season.

Today's new solar panels are much more efficient than the panels of old the new technology has been imported from Europe where the cost of energy is much higher so the development of alternative energy has been accelerated.

Today pool manufactures are looking closer at utilizing the suns energy to help reduce the amount of fossil fuels our pools consume each year. A new item on the market is a solar powered skimmer this skimmer is an automatic pool cleaner that runs completely on solar energy no wire no hoses, I just swims through the water collecting debris, the manufacture claims that with the new solar skimmer you can reduce the operating time of your pump by two thirds! The solar skimmer also acts as a chlorine distributor it will dispense chlorine as it does its job. The manufacture is looking at adding some other features such as a remote control and a pool alarm to the skimmer. Jake Plumer is an author for http://www.a1hottub.com ]]> Easy Ways To Properly Set Up A Saltwater Aquarium http://www.artwoo.com/article/easy-ways-to-properly-set-up-a-saltwater-aquarium http://www.artwoo.com/article/easy-ways-to-properly-set-up-a-saltwater-aquarium#comments Tue, 30 Sep 2008 15:22:20 +0000 setting up a saltwater aquarium5 gallon bucketssalt water aquariumsetting up a salt water aquariumstarting a saltwater aquariumaquarium thermometeraquarium substrate http://www.artwoo.com/article/easy-ways-to-properly-set-up-a-saltwater-aquarium salt water aquarium just entails a little effort and more knowledge on how it works. There are also factors you need to consider before you set up one.

Starting a saltwater aquarium is not so difficult. It only needs effort and knowledge in order to have a saltwater set-up.

Before starting to set up an aquarium with salt water, it is better to plan first. Research the different system designs you can choose from as well as the needed equipment supplies. Learn essential factors before buying anything like:
� Selecting the tank style
� Type of material
� The best size, location, way to display the aquarium
� Pieces of equipment needed to run it and
� Others

Once you consider the system, put them all together and set it up.
In setting up your saltwater aquarium, you will need the following equipments:
� Aquarium
� Aquarium Photo Background or Painted background
� Aquarium substrate like live sand or crushed coral
� Live Rock
� Saltwater mix
� Saltwater Hydrometer or refractometer
� Aquarium filter
� Replacement filter media such as filter floss and activated carbon
� 2 or 3 Multiple Powerheads
� Heater
� Protein Skimmer
� Saltwater test kits
� Saltwater fish food
� Aquarium vacuum
� Fish net
� Rubber gloves
� Aquarium Glass Scrubber or Algae Scraper
� 2 clean unused 5-gallon buckets
� Aquarium Thermometer
� Brush with plastic bristles
� Quarantine Tank
� Power Strip
� Reverse Osmosis or RO/Deionization filter

You need to work hard to become successful in setting-up a saltwater aquarium. You need to feed your saltwater fish also. You also need to monitor the water parameters and other aquarium equipment on your set-up. Aside from this, you need to do aquarium maintenance at least once a week or once a month.

Setting up a saltwater aquarium is very expensive. You will get overwhelmed with the prices of those listed equipments. You will realize that freshwater aquarium set up is even cheaper. It also takes time to set it up. It takes 4 to 8 weeks before you can safely add new marine fish to your aquarium.

Aquarium Size and Location
Before deciding to buy an aquarium, know the kind of saltwater fish you want first. Learn about the different types of marine fish through research. There are marine fishes that grow up to a few inches only. Others can grow up to 18 inches. Knowing this will help you decide about the size of the aquarium you will buy. Be aware that a smaller tank will give more challenge. It will force you to maintain and test the water more frequently.

Place your aquarium in a place where light and temperature won't affect the tank. Place it also on a stand that will hold its weight. Remember that the total weight of the full aquarium is 10 pounds per gallon of water.
Example: A 70-gallon tank will weigh about 700 pounds when filled with water alone.

Aquarium and Equipment
This time you can decide on the filtration type you want to use. You can also decide on the protein skimmer type. An under gravel filter is not recommended. It is not needed and it will cause you headaches. It is better to use live rock as biological filter. For the mechanical and chemical filtration, you only need a modest filter.

The next most important piece of equipment is a protein skimmer. Here are lists of skimmers:
� AquaC Remora Protein Skimmer
� Tunze Nano Protein Skimmer
� Red Sea Prizm Protein Skimmer
� Fission Nano Protein Skimmer
� Visi-Jet PS Protein Skimmer

You need to buy a proficient heater also for your aquarium, allowing it to fit.

Then, get 1 to 2 pounds of live rocks for each gallon of water. Place this inside the aquarium.

As a rule, to about 1 pound of sand for each gallon of water is needed. Sandboxes or playground sands are inappropriate. They might possess unknown particles that can be harmful to your fish. Make use of live sand, aragonite-based sand or crushed coral.For more information on Saltwater Aquarium Live Rocks please visit our website.]]> Must Have Accessories For Your Fish Tank http://www.artwoo.com/article/must-have-accessories-for-your-fish-tank http://www.artwoo.com/article/must-have-accessories-for-your-fish-tank#comments Thu, 30 Nov 2006 06:27:08 +0000 fish tank accessoriesprotein skimmerscourse fishprotein skimmeraquarium chillerstank inhabitantswater temperature http://www.artwoo.com/article/must-have-accessories-for-your-fish-tank fish tank accessories, decorations are often the first thing that comes to mind. Of course, fish tank decorations are ideal, especially if your fish tank is prominently displayed in your home or in your office, but fish tank d�cor is not all that fish tank accessories include. In fact, there are a few fish tank accessories that may end up being vital the survival of your fish or other fish tank inhabitants. Those accessories include protein skimmers and aquarium chillers.

If you own fish now or have in the past, you likely already know how easy it is for the tank water to change. Unfortunately, that change isn't always good. Overtime, nitrate buildup can occur. That buildup makes it difficult for the fish inside your tank to breathe. It does so by eliminating the amount of oxygen that the water inside your tank receives. Oxygen is important to all fish, including other marine animals. That is why, if you don't already have a protein skimmer for your fish tank, you are advised to purchase one, as soon as possible.

While it is important to know what a protein skimmer is and how it can help you and your fish, you may be wondering more about them. Protein skimmers, like a number of other fish tank accessories, come in a number of different sizes and styles. How your protein skimmer works will all depend on the make and model that you decide to purchase. Despite a variation among protein skimmers, you will find that most either hang on the side of the tank or have a sump hook-up. In fact, a large number of protein skimmers allow you to do either. Collection cups and water level adjustment dials also come standard with many protein skimmers.

As previously mentioned, aquarium chillers are another fish tank accessory that you should purchase, if you don't already have one. There are a large number of fish and other fish tank inhabitants that need to have a specific water temperature. In fact, this water temperature may be vital to their survival. Unfortunately, it is impossible to accurately control your fish tank's water temperature without the right equipment. That is why it is advised that consider purchasing an aquarium chiller.

Although you might assume that your fish tank's water temperature is too cold, you may be wrong. Actually, the problem, in most cases, is that the water temperature gets too high. With fish tank lightening, often high intensity lighting, it is relatively easy for the water inside your fish tank to heat up to an uncomfortable level. That is where an aquarium chiller may come in and help. Aquarium chillers are often compared to kitchen refrigerators, with the way that they help to keep the water cool. With most aquarium chillers having a low noise output or no output at all, you may not even notice that they are there.

If you do not have, but you would like to purchase an aquarium chiller or a protein skimmer, you will need to find a place to make your purchase from. Although your first thought may be to head down to your local pet store or pet supply store, you may want to save yourself a trip. A large number of pet stores or pet supply stores are limited on the types of products that they carry. This means that one of your local pet stores may not even have aquarium chillers or protein skimmers in stock. If they do have them in stock, there is a good chance that the available selection would be relatively small. That is why you may want to think about doing your fish tank accessory shopping online, with a company such as FishTanksDirect.com.

With FishTanksDirect.com, you will find a relatively large selection of protein skimmers and aquarium chillers to choose from. Even if you are shopping on a budget, you should be able to find exactly what you need for your fish tank. For example, FishTankDirect.com has aquarium chillers that start selling around four hundred dollars. As for protein skimmers, they tend to start retailing at around one hundred dollars each. Essentially, this means that no matter what your budget is, you should be able to purchase the fish tank accessories that may make your fish tank the perfect home for your underwater friends. http://www.fishtanksdirect.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATSandCategory=8 is a great filtration option for your saltwater fish tank. An http://www.fishtanksdirect.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATSandCategory=16 can also reduce fish stress. ]]> Maintain Your Pool Sheltered With A Pool Cover http://www.artwoo.com/article/maintain-your-pool-sheltered-with-a-pool-cover http://www.artwoo.com/article/maintain-your-pool-sheltered-with-a-pool-cover#comments Tue, 13 Nov 2007 01:15:01 +0000 swimming pool coverswimming pool coverspool maintenancebits and piecesfortuitousdead insectsanchor http://www.artwoo.com/article/maintain-your-pool-sheltered-with-a-pool-cover swimming pool cover that is strapping and brawny. The cover should not only maintain your swimming pool unsoiled, it should append wellbeing as well for humans and animals identical. It should avert fortuitous drowning grime and wreckage from entering the pool. Make sure the pool cover has an excellent have regular uniqueness length. You should buy a size that is a little larger than your pool. This will enable you to steadily anchor the swimming pool cover without having to agonize about not being able to cover your pool completely. Make confident the swimming pool cover comes with an adequate amount of parts to securely anchor the cover without be bothered of slippage. Larger swimming pool covers come with a strap or anchor for each four feet of cover. You unquestionably want a good quantity of anchoring so the cover will prolong to be sheltered every time you employ it.

Continuance Of Pool Devoid of A pool Cover Is Not Potential:

A plastic pool cover can be incredibly effective in shielding the pool from different objects lessening into the water, and from the elements. Some purchase a strapping plastic cover to prevent children or pets from accidentally falling into the pool. Retain information that background up the pool cover is a lot of work, requires some time and effort. This is basic pool maintenance. Every swimming pool has a skimmer that is worn to collect dead leaves, branches, insects and other wreckage from the water surface. A skimmer is a scrape that is used to heave out bits and pieces from the water, indisputably you learn by heart the life guard in the summer under your own steam around the pool and fishing out all the dead insects, leaves and such from the swimming pool. Pool maintenance and cleaning should be in direct correlation to how much it is used, and if you plan to use your pool frequently, you will need to use a good skimmer, so try and put some money into a quality one, you will get to use it a lot.

Pool covers come in quite a lot of different choices, such as net, mesh, vinyl, etc. Mesh pool covers are awfully popular, because they provide a tight fitting barrier which helps to keep your pool free of rubble, reduce maintenance and evaporation, and keep your pool from unauthorized access. Vinyl pool covers tender a remarkable source of security. These pool covers operate by means of key, and help to keep rubble out of your pool. They are also improbable for insulating and retaining heat, together with reducing any slaughter of chemicals. Vinyl is an extremely popular type of pool cover, being used by hundreds of thousands of people. If you live in a warm climate area, all you need is a basic plastic cover for your pool, which will keep it clean and protected. You can also find more info on http://www.poolcleaners-help.com/category/aquabot-pool-cleaner on Aquabot Pool Cleaner and http://www.poolcleaners-help.com/category/automatic-pool-cleaner on Automatic Pool Cleaner. http://Poolcleaners-help.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Swimming Pool Cleaning ]]> Splish-Splash! Ways To Get That Pool In Tip Top Shape! http://www.artwoo.com/article/splish-splash-ways-to-get-that-pool-in-tip-top-shape http://www.artwoo.com/article/splish-splash-ways-to-get-that-pool-in-tip-top-shape#comments Sun, 09 Jul 2006 16:27:09 +0000 pool systempool backph testhomeostasisaccordinglyskimmerchlorine http://www.artwoo.com/article/splish-splash-ways-to-get-that-pool-in-tip-top-shape
Start with the pool in your quest for the ultimate backyard retreat. Now is the perfect time to remove all the dirt and grime from the winter months. A healthy pool system should take water from the pool into the half open box or hole that is embedded into the walls of the pool and should go into the skimmer. From there the water will be pumped out of the skimmer by the pump to the filter where particulates and dirt are trapped and then shot back out into the pool by the pool return valves. If you've plugged them up for winter, you'll want to remove the plugs from the skimmers and the returns. Be sure to store them in a place that will keep them together and safe from possible dings. Now, check and make sure that the water level is sufficient. Due to possible evaporation, loss of water may occur and you may have to add a little extra water to fill your pool back up to par.

Next, be sure to check the chemical balances of pH, alkalinity, and chlorine. The pH test will enable you to keep your water at a perfect pH for swimming and should range from 7.2-7.8. Perfect neutrality is 7.0 so you will want your water to be just slightly on the basic side of neutral. The Alkyl test should be anywhere from 120-180 and the chlorine should be values ranging from 1-5 to keep your pool in optimum conditions. Testing should be done once a week or after a heavy rainfall.

Check the temperature and adjust heaters accordingly, comfortable swimming temperatures should be around 75-85 degrees for summer.

Vacuuming your pool is important to ensure the maintenance of homeostasis of your pool system as well as protecting it from clogs, algae and to maintain cleanliness. Push handle vacuum systems are easy to use but require daily time to use. A wonderful new invention is the Aquabot pool cleaner. An Aquabot pool cleaner is a self-mobile cleaning system that will enable your pool to be clean and ready any time you want to use it.

Getting your pool in tip-top shape is a wonderful way to achieve an oasis retreat in your back yard and with technology of today, it has never been easier. Preparing for those dog days of summer by opening your pool is just the first step to an oasis to relaxation! This article was written by The Elite Home team. http://www.thelitehome.com/ offers the highest quality indoor and outdoor appliances such as the Aquabot Pool Cleaner. Reproductions of this article must include a link pointing to http://www.thelitehome.com/. ]]> Basic Pool Maintenance Tips http://www.artwoo.com/article/basic-pool-maintenance-tips http://www.artwoo.com/article/basic-pool-maintenance-tips#comments Mon, 17 Apr 2006 09:50:13 +0000 pool coverswimming pool maintenancedolphin pool cleanerpool filtrationpool waterdiatomaceous earthdead insects http://www.artwoo.com/article/basic-pool-maintenance-tips Dolphin pool cleaner, there are a few basic things you should know about pool maintenance.

After getting a swimming pool, the next thing you really need for your pool maintenance is a pool cover. The pool cover will help you cover the swimming pool when out of the house for long periods of time, or when the pool is not in use (like long winters or trips).

A plastic pool cover can be very effective in protecting the pool from different objects falling into the water, and from the elements. Some purchase a strong plastic cover to prevent children or pets from accidentally falling into the pool. Remember that setting up the pool cover is a lot of work, requires some time and effort. This is basic pool maintenance.

Every swimming pool has a skimmer that is used to collect dead leaves, branches, insects and other debris from the water surface. A skimmer is a rake that is used to pull out objects from the water, surely you remember the life guard in the summer walking around the pool and fishing out all the dead insects, leaves and such from the swimming pool. Pool maintenance and cleaning should be in direct correlation to how much it is used, and if you plan to use your pool frequently, you will need to use a good skimmer, so try and put some money into a quality one, you will get to use it a lot.

One of the most important things in swimming pool maintenance is the filtration, keeping the water clean and circulating them is important in any pool. There are several types of filters available for swimming pool water. Sand and gravel, diatomaceous earth, anthracite, and cartridge types are the filter mediums most commonly employed. Swimming pool filtration system use the same basic principle of passing water through tiny passageways, thus filtering it. Particles larger than these passages are trapped and thereby separated from the main body of the water. This process continues until all of these passageways are blocked. The filter must then be cleaned and the cycle repeated.

Sediment and suspended matter usually find their way to the bottom of the pool and will need to be removed by vacuuming, since swimming pool filtration varies in quality, and is subject to the frequency of maintenance and quality, you will need to consider vacuuming as a general pool maintenance tool for your swimming pool cleaning.

The swimming pool vacuum operates in a similar manner to the common household unit except it draws water through the vacuum head instead of air. There are two ways in which this may be accomplished. One method employs a jet of water supplied by a garden hose to power the suction which draws the dirt into the head to be trapped in a cloth bag. The other method uses the suction power supplied by the filter which draws the sediment and dirt from the pool floor for removal through the filter. When there is a considerable amount of sediment to be removed the filter valves should be adjusted so that the vacuumed water will bypass the filter and run to waste.

Chemicals are used in pool maintenance on regular basis to keep water safe and clean. The most common chemical used is chlorine. Again, asking you to try and remember you childhood and that a fresh swimming pool usually had an unpleasant side effect of irritated skin or eyes, this is the danger and the cons of using chlorine in your pool. If used in large quantities, or if not maintained properly, chlorine may irritate the eyes and skin of swimmers. A swimming pool owner should also be aware of the proper maintenance instructions for the chemicals and follow the manufacturers instructions when applying the chemical to the pool.

Use common sense when thinking of pool maintenance and pool cleaning, your swimming pool is there for you to enjoy it, but it does come with a few simple responsibilities. Cleaning your swimming pool regularly will allow you to enjoy a clean and healthy swimming pool for a long time. David Evermon has been involved in many swimming pool construction and maintenance projects, David writes articles about pool maintenance http://poolcleaning.zupatips.com/ for ZupaTips.com ]]> Easy Pond And Water Garden Construction http://www.artwoo.com/article/easy-pond-and-water-garden-construction http://www.artwoo.com/article/easy-pond-and-water-garden-construction#comments Sat, 20 Jan 2007 22:27:06 +0000 fish plantsfish wastebacteriafiltration plantspond ecosystemrocks and gravelmove rocks http://www.artwoo.com/article/easy-pond-and-water-garden-construction bacteria keeping the water clear. The type of pond I'm talking about is self-contained (not fed by a spring or stream) and between 100-900 sq ft; a backyard water garden that is easy to maintain and adds value to your lifestyle and property. 20 years ago the typical do-it-yourself water garden was a muck-filled cesspool waiting to happen, while the successful koi pond required deep water and unattractive out of the pond filtering equipment. Thanks to a better understanding of the pond ecosystem and some equipment ideas borrowed from the pool equipment industry, anyone with the ability to dig, make things level, and move rocks and dirt around can create a beautiful living water garden if they use proven equipment and methods.

Now I will admit that there are other ways that can work; But none of the other pond construction methods have the successful track record I've seen with pond installs using this system.

The basic elements for this system are underlayment, liner, rocks and gravel, skimmer, fill valve, pump, plumbing, biological filtration, plants, fish, and bacteria.

Here's a simplified explanation of how this works as an ecosystem. Fish eat insects and plants and then the fish waste spreads through the system . The skimmer draws water off the top layer of the pond helping with circulation and aeration while trapping floating debris in a net. The pump is situated under the net in the skimmer and pumps up to a bio-filter. The bio-filter is often designed to be incorporated into a waterfall. The water enters the bio filter and rises up through filter media that is colonized by bacteria. The bacteria converts the waste into forms less harmful to the fish and less conducive to excessive algae growth. The waterfall or stream add more aeration that the bacteria and fish need. The plants uptake more of the nitrogen and some oxygenate the water. The rocks and gravel provide more area for bacteria and protect the liner from UV rays.

Sheesh! Every time I set out to give a simple explanation of a pond ecosystem it still takes 10 sentences. Suffice it to say that all the parts work together to make your pondkeeping easy!

I use the word easy as a relative term. Compared to the work and rebuilding you may experience with other methods this is the easiest way I know. But there is still a good deal of work in pond construction. Obviously you need to dig and shape a hole in the ground and move some heavy items around. A well trained crew with everything needed on-site can install a pond in a day. It may take a few weekends for a homeowner to do the job himself, depending on their ability, time, and conditions.

Some key points:

Size: It's best to have it at least 6 ft across. Bigger is better. 16 x 11 is a good medium size. Generally people regret not making the pond larger when they are done with their first one.

Location: There is a tendency to put ponds in a place where water already collects in the yard. This isn't always the best idea. Groundwater running into the pond can create problems. If possible bring it right up near the patio where you can enjoy the fish and flowing water everyday.

Electric and plumbing: Don't overlook the need for a GFI outlet near the pump and a water source to keep the pond topped off. Most kits for some reason don't include a fill valve, but it really is important since on a windy day a pond can easily lose an inch of water. Left unattended this can lead to the pump running dry in the skimmer for a long period causing possible damage. The ponds level of course won't drop below the skimmer opening.

Lets go over the basic steps for installing this type of pond system.

Decide the size of the pond and order a kit with all the necessary components. Layout the shape of the pond with something like a garden hose. Leave it out there for a while, move it, think about where the falls and different plants will be. If you are building a stream do the layout for it too. Level ground isn't a problem since you will be excavating enough soil to buildup around your waterfall filter. Paint an outline with orange marking spray paint.

Make arrangements for getting the variety of rock and gravel you will be using.

Position your skimmer and BioFilter. The skimmer should be on the opposite side from the falls or stream to create circulation. Then lay the flexible PVC, or kink-free pipe between the skimmer and waterfall filter. This is so it can be covered during excavation instead of trenching it in.

Establish a firm compacted and level base for the Waterfall filter, perhaps leaning slightly forward, depending on it's design. If you have help they can be working on digging the pond while you get this right, or vice versa.

Hook up the plumbing to the filter and backfill around it. It's a good idea to have someone stand in the filter while it is being backfilled to prevent it from shifting out of position on the base.

Examine any slope of the land and establish where the water level will be; usually a couple inches below grade. Finish digging the pond relative to the water level. A rotating laser level is the ultimate tool for this, though they are expensive to rent. Patiently checking string levels in all directions can get the job done also. Include shelves for marginal plants and keep the sides and shelves level. The deep part of the pond should be around 2 ft or a little less.

Any deeper and most towns swimming pool codes kick in with fence requirements. Unless you intend to keep a great number of koi this will be plenty deep for your fish. Planting pockets for water lilies can also be dug now. These pockets create a plantable depression in you liner for later. You can either plant directly in these pockets or hide your planters in them covering with gravel creating a more natural looking pond.

Excavate the position for the skimmer so it will be on a firm level base that gets it into correct position relative to the water level. Recheck everything. All the measurements and levels. Make sure the pond is free of sharp objects and unfold the underlayment into it. Start in the deep area pushing the underlayment into all the shelves and pockets. The EPDM rubber liner is then installed in the same way, making sure that it extends far past the waterline (settling will occur) and above the openings on your skimmer, filter, stream etc.

Add rock and gravel. Pre-washing the stones can help with a clean install or you can hose them down in the pond while pumping out the dirty water. Use larger stones at the base of each wall that forms a shelf, building up with smaller ones. Cover flat areas with 1"-2" gravel...absolutely no more than that. If you have extra gravel don't be tempted to just use more in the bottom of your pond. This is for biological reasons I won't go into now. The rock should have your liner pretty well pulled into position now so you can make final adjustments on your skimmer and attach the liner to it according to the manufacturers instructions.

Start filling the pond. Now the fun of building the waterfall and stream. Make sure you have plenty of slack running up to the falls opening before you attach it and make any cuts. Also take care to avoid folds in the liner as you twist downstream. Folds in the stream liner are a common source of leaks and why a very wide liner for a stream is recommended. Dry stack stones as in a wall up the front of the waterfall filter. Using black waterfall foam or some other type of expanding foam to seal the space between the rocks. This makes the water flow over the rocks instead of disappearing into the cracks between. Black waterfall foam is nice for blending in with the rocks. The basic outline of the stream should have been established with excavated soil from the pond, but some digging of different catch pools may be necessary and you may need to build up more of a berm at the waterfall. Rock in the sides of the stream and cover the bottom with gravel as in the pond. Use the waterfall foam to seal in rocks wherever a cascading effect is wanted, using flat rock to form the lip of falls and sealing under them.

Install the pump, install the overflow plumbing and fill valve in the skimmer. When water level is high enough and all the waterfall foam is dry, (you can assume your hands will be covered with the stuff, but try to avoid it because it is very difficult to clean off!) try out the pump. You will then need to refill the pond as it will take a large volume of water to fill the plumbing, falls and stream. Once you are happy everything is as it should be, cut the excess liner away. Leave several inches of liner for settling and possible adjustments.

There are plenty more nuances to building a pond but this should give you a decent feel for what a water garden project entails. The kits we sell include a decent installation manual and I'm happy to answer any questions as are many other pond enthusiasts. Sure you have to dig a hole, wheelbarrow dirt, lug rocks around all day...but other than that, building a beautiful water garden and waterfall is easy! Find streaming and downloadable garden talk shows at http://www.gardentalkonline.com ]]> Cooking With the Basic Wok Accessories http://www.artwoo.com/article/cooking-with-the-basic-wok-accessories http://www.artwoo.com/article/cooking-with-the-basic-wok-accessories#comments Fri, 07 Nov 2008 04:29:27 +0000 metal basketsdome topsbamboo basketselectric stovesgas stoveswooden spoonflat tops http://www.artwoo.com/article/cooking-with-the-basic-wok-accessories
Woks evolved centuries ago as a result of fuel shortages. It is commonly used in stir-frying which can withstand high temperatures while cooking. Buying the right accessories for your wok will not only bring out a good cooking experience for you, but will also make cooking more fun. Here is a list of accessories that comply with cooking using your wok.

1. Wok Lid/Cover -- A wok lid or cover comes in dome tops or flat tops. Some would even have deep or shallow types. Lids should be able to fit the rim of the wok. Aside from this, it should be high enough to cover the whole chicken underneath.

2. Spatula -- A spatula is basically used in stir frying, for stirring, tossing and the shifting food inside the wok. It is a long-handed utensil that has a flared, wide and slightly curved metal blade. The wok spatula is especially designed so to avoid wok scratching. A wooden spoon can also be another option. This is without harming the nonstick surfaces.

3. Steaming Basket -- This is a round basket that holds the food over steaming water. The steam allows the food to become cooked. There are 2 types of steaming baskets, the bamboo baskets and metal baskets. Bamboo baskets are tightly woven wooden bamboo strips. It is much better than metal because it absorbs the moisture, allowing the steam to circulate inside. Metal baskets can spoil the taste of the food because of the dripping water. This can be avoided by wrapping the metal steamer with a thin towel. Steaming baskets comes in various sizes and are stackable.

4. Wok Ring -- A wok ring is used so as to stabilize the weight of the round-bottom wok on the stove. Two kinds of wok rings would include the open and close sided, along with a series of holes venting around the ring. Open-sided rings are best suited for gas stoves while closed sided rings are suited for electric stoves.

5. Wok Skimmer -- A wok skimmer is a wire mesh strainer that has a long bamboo handle (also comes with metal handles). It is used for taking out wantons, noodles, dumplings and deep-fried foods from boiling water. Aside from this, it is ideal for serving mussels, clams and vegetables. The wire mesh allows the "dripping-off" of the oil from the food.

6. Wok Ladle -- A ladle is the most commonly used utensil of most Chinese chefs. This is used in adding water stock and other seasonings while cooking. It is also used in scooping ingredients, instead of using a measuring device.

7. Bamboo Brush or Cleaning Whisk-- A bamboo brush is especially used for cleaning woks. Other cleaning alternatives are nylon or plastic scrubbers.

8. Wok Rack -- A wok rack is a semi-circular rack which is used for hanging one side of such woks. It also works when draining water or oil while preparing other dishes. It can also keep the food warm.

9. Wire Steamer Rack -- Wire steamer racks fit in woks, for steaming purposes. Examples would be braising and smoking.

10. Tongs -- Tongs are used in removing and maneuvering hot food from woks. It comes in different styles, materials and length.

11. Deep-fry Thermometer -- A deep-fry thermometer is used in deep frying. Its purpose is to assure the right temperature while cooking. Hence, the bulb of the thermometer should not touch the bottom part of the wok so as to achieve the most accurate reading.

12. Chopsticks -- Two-thin sticks are used in cooking or mixing of ingredients inside a wok.

Other accessories would include the portable gas stove, clay pot, perforated ladle, paella pan, wok trolley, etc.

Woks are considered as one of the world's multifaced cookware pieces. This is along with the necessary accessories that can help one cook with ease. These custom utensils are made as a part of wok cooking.For more information on Cooking Wok Accessories and Steaming With a Wok please visit our website.]]> Jacuzzi Types and Styles http://www.artwoo.com/article/jacuzzi-types-and-styles http://www.artwoo.com/article/jacuzzi-types-and-styles#comments Thu, 21 Aug 2008 06:01:40 +0000 jacuzzi spawhirlpool spasteam roomcolor televisionmany other typesbathroom designbath tubs http://www.artwoo.com/article/jacuzzi-types-and-styles
There are bathtub, portable, steam room, hot tub, whirlpool, and who knows how many other types of Jacuzzis. The best thing to do before you run out and buy one is to decide which type and where you are going to put the Jacuzzi.

If you are planning to opt for the bathtub type, make sure that the one you set your sights on will fit in your bathroom. There are various types that range from oversize to regular size. There are designer bath tubs with built in whirlpool and massage and some even have underwater lighting. This is guaranteed to give your bathroom a whole new look.

If you decide you would rather have the portable type, you are going to have to make sure you have a spot outside for this one. Or at least on a screened in or closed in room. Many people prefer to put these in a garden area to add to the ambiance. They are completely portable and you can take them with you when you go camping or anywhere else on vacation that you would be able to set it up. There are types of this portable Jacuzzi spa that have a cover and the power works on your standard electrical outlet.

Have you been considering the steam room sauna Jacuzzi? If so, be prepared to spend a little money on this one but it will certainly make you feel luxurious. Do not worry about choosing one that fits with your bathroom. Design your bathroom around it. The two person is one type you may choose and these are available with a built in color television. How much better could it get? Not only will your bathroom be the most heavily traveled area of your home, but everyone will come out feeling great after a steam in the Jacuzzi.

Have you ever seen a shower bath whirlpool spa Jacuzzi? If not, here is your chance. This may be the one you choose. This type has 14 jets; 3 side, 2 foot, 3 neck, and 6 body. An FM radio so you can jam while you are on your spa date. Lighting will enhance the Jacuzzi experience and the front has a shower. This type is probably one of the handiest type for showering if you do not want to have a soak in the Jacuzzi just yet.

If when you said you wanted a Jacuzzi, you really meant Jacuzzi, this one is the grandfather of them all. With seating for 6 to 7 people, this Jacuzzi will be one amazing experience. In total it has 65 jets. They range from small water jets to big water jets. Jets for the neck, jets for the shoulders, a headrest, changing colored lights, and a skimmer filter. Why would you ever get out?Ed Terran is the pen name for the editor of My Furniture shop and house fitting listings]]> Items Needed For A Successful Reef http://www.artwoo.com/article/items-needed-for-a-successful-reef http://www.artwoo.com/article/items-needed-for-a-successful-reef#comments Thu, 13 Mar 2008 14:34:59 +0000 natural filtrationoverflow systemfiltration systemdelightful hobbysmall tanknew tanktank size http://www.artwoo.com/article/items-needed-for-a-successful-reef delightful hobby, especially if you have the right balance of coral and fish to create a truly beautiful aquarium. You can go and buy a small tank to start off, but that is not always the best move. You might as well go and get the largest tank that will fit in the space you have available, so that you don't need to bother with upgrades. If you go small at first and then decide to go larger later, you will need to make changes in your lights, filtration system, everything really. So the cost for upgrading to a larger tank will be much more than just acquiring the larger tank later.

And your fish will need room to swim and to grow. If you get a small tank you will have small fish that aren't happy because they have no room. This may lead to aggression between your fish and that doesn't make for a good situation at all.

Once you have decided on your tank size, you will need to consider your filtration system, which is where bacteria live. You want bacteria because it breaks down waste. While you can go with mechanical filters, you could instead use a sand bed to mimic how it works in the ocean. This will cost less and work better, so it's a wise choice. Use three to four inches of a fine sand grain and then top it off with one to two inches of heavier sand to keep the lighter sand down.

Next are your rock formations. You will want to start off with figi because of its combination of shape and price, then you can select other rocks based on aesthetics. Between the sand bed and the rock formations, you will actually have created a natural filtration system which all of the critters you place in your tank will like and so will the bacteria you need.

Note that if you are starting with a new tank, you want uncured rock to help cycle your tank, but if adding to an established tank, make sure you used cured rock, so that your cycle is not interfered with.

The next thing to consider is your overflow system including your water pump, sump, and return tubing. You want to use an overflow box set, and a mag drive is a quality pump choice and you can use a tote for the sump. For the tubing you can just use PVC pipe, it's effective.

You need to have a water conditioning system to keep the water fresh for your livestock and to help prevent algae. The right ingredients include a protein skimmer, an RO TFC water filter, and an RO float valve kit.

Your lighting system is also important. You want a mix of two kinds of bulb: 10,000K white and 460 Actinic (blue) bulbs, and put them on a timer because you only want to keep your tank lit for ten hours a day in order to avoid rapid algae growth.

Now that you have your setup, you can go ahead and add your coral and fish, and enjoy your reef tank! Salty Supply offers the most premium aquarium supplies on the net. Visit Us at http://www.saltysupply.com ]]> Is An Automatic Pool Hot Tub Cleaner Worth The Money? http://www.artwoo.com/article/is-an-automatic-pool-hot-tub-cleaner-worth-the-money http://www.artwoo.com/article/is-an-automatic-pool-hot-tub-cleaner-worth-the-money#comments Mon, 18 Jun 2007 19:34:58 +0000 robotic pool cleanersautomatic pool cleanerspool filtrationpool supply storepool filterpool skimmerpool cleaner http://www.artwoo.com/article/is-an-automatic-pool-hot-tub-cleaner-worth-the-money automatic pool cleaners at the pool supply store and wondered do these really work? How about time will it save me time in the long run? Is it really worth the money? We will try and explain some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding these automatic pool cleaners so you can make an informed decision before you buy.

There are several types of pool cleaners on the market today e will start with the suction side cleaners. They connect to the pool filter via a hose usually attached to a special fitting or directly into the pool skimmer he pools pump supplies the vacuum to operate the cleaner and provide filtration.

Pressure side cleaners fall into one of two categories the first type connects again via a hose to the pools return line this returning water pressure supplies power to the cleaner that usually swims around at the surface of the pool and has a long tail that directs water and thus debris into a bag this is one benefit the debris is filtered out prior to entering the filter system. The other pressure side cleaner uses a booster pump to supply power to the cleaner this type also utilizes a tail that whips around the pool causing the debris and other fine particles to float up so they can be sucked up by t he main filter system.

There are also two different kinds of robotic pool cleaners these both use self contained motors. The first type has a motor that drives the wheels or tracks this enables the bot to crawl around the poll it contains a second motor that vacuums up dirt and stores it in a bag or filter much like a self propelled home vacuum cleaner. The second type of robot uses one motor that simply drives the bot around the pool using jets of water to stir up the pool and allow the dirt to be taken away by the pool filtration system. There is also a hand held rechargeable vacuum on the market today that hooks on a pole and allows the user to spot clean any area that is needed.

The final type of pool cleaner is also the most expensive to install but is almost maintenance free and works very well if it is planned out and installed properly it is the in floor system. The in floor system has many small pop up jets similar to a sprinkler system the jets pop up in a certain pattern and direct the dirt and debris towards the main drain to be caught by the filter. This system is usually incorporated into new pool construction. Jake Plumer writes for http://www.a1hottub.com ]]> Swimming Pool Pump Facts http://www.artwoo.com/article/swimming-pool-pump-facts http://www.artwoo.com/article/swimming-pool-pump-facts#comments Mon, 11 Jun 2007 03:20:02 +0000 pool pumpswimming poolground poolshimmering poolpool equipmentimported from italycrucial http://www.artwoo.com/article/swimming-pool-pump-facts imported from Italy or painted with cool designs, floating rafts and fed by a gushing fountain, but without one specific piece of equipment, that shimmering pool can turn into a duck pond in about a week flat. What's that vital piece of equipment? A swimming pool pump is a crucial piece of mechanics that works hard to keep your pool clean.

A swimming pool pump comes in a variety of sizes, shapes and models. Bigger is not always better, however, so knowing something about pumps and what they do will stand you in good stead as you either build your pool or are in the process of replacing old, battered parts. The size and type of swimming pool you own has a lot to do with the type of pool pump you buy, for manufactures make pumps for above ground and in ground pool needs.

Why is a pool pump so important? Because it works with your pool's filtration system to keep the pool clean of debris. The pump pulls water out of the pool through a skimmer basket and then through the filtering system, and back into the pool. Without the pump, nothing works.

Most types of pumps will state their capacity, so always know what size your pool is before looking for pool equipment. You should know the basic area of your pool as well as how many gallons it holds. Most pumps will designate how much water they can pump either hourly or by the minute.

In most cases, people run a swimming pool pump for six to eight hours a day, especially in the summertime and when the pool is being used. If your pool is small and stays relatively clean, you can cut back that running time in fall and winter months to save electricity.

All pumps should come with some type of straining basket that is designed to catch leaves, sticks, and toys, or whatever else manages to end up in your pool. These baskets can be oblong, square, open or closed, but as long as they keep debris from entering your filtering system, the shape doesn't matter.

When selecting any particular swimming pool pump model, check the energy efficiency of the unit to make sure you're getting the best model to suit your needs. Be prepared to spend anywhere from $100 to $700 for a swimming pool pump. Because it is hard to determine how many hours a day you will need to run your pump, it pays to get a good model, which may be more than you want to spend initially. However, the more efficient the pump, the less electricity will be wasted, so it's up to you where you want to save your money.

When looking for a swimming pool pump, also take into consideration the age of your filtering system. An old system may not be very efficient in filtering water no matter how powerful the pump is, so don't throw good money after bad. A pump moves the water, it doesn't clean it. That's for your filtering system. Carefully watching chemical levels and water clarity, combined with good water circulation, is the best way to achieve good results with your pool. For more swimming pool information please visit http://www.swimmingpoolbasics.com - a popular pool website that provides tips, advice and swimming pool resources.

Don't forget to check out our page on swimming pool pump. ]]> How to Handle Resume Flaws http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-handle-resume-flaws http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-handle-resume-flaws#comments Sat, 12 Jul 2008 10:01:24 +0000 exact jobdominant focusunnecessary detailacademic degreesimportant wordsjob titlespersonal characteristics http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-handle-resume-flaws
1. Lack of Focus -- An Unorganized Resume: Most resumes one comes across have a never-ending list of everything the person has done in his or her career. There are also endless lists of skills, personal characteristics and accomplishments, verbs, and unnecessary detail. What you need to do instead of making everything on your resume stand out as equally important, is to point out a dominant focus, a clear sense of purpose and direction. This will help you getting the exact job that you are looking for.

2. Too Much Detail - Not Written for a "Skimmer": Potential employers do not read resumes in detail at first. They just 'skim' it, usually taking perhaps only 15 to 30 seconds to see if it is worth reading in detail. When your reader is skimming, his or her eye will naturally start at the top center, and then quickly scan down the left side of the page. The left side of the page is where the battle for your reader's attention is fought. And, by trying to make everything 'stand out', you lose control over your reader's eye. Therefore, you should put the most important words, items, and information on that left side.

3. Fails to Ask the Two Fundamental Questions: The two most important questions in deciding what to emphasize in your resume are: 1) What does the employer want to see first? 2) What do you want the reader to see first? In answer to the first question, what most employers want to see first in a resume can vary. Most of them are looking for key factors like academic degrees, certification and licensing, job titles, or key skills related to the job. Others may look first for gaps in employment, school activities, recent training, or other factors. So keep these details handy when making your resume. Secondly, emphasize what you want your employer to see first. Make sure your prospective employer can find all of these 'firsts' without having to read in detail.

4. Not 'Tailored' for the Type of Position Being Sought: Even if your resume makes it clear what type of job you are applying for, most resumes do not emphasize in the body of the resume the factors that relate to that job title. While it is necessary to emphasize your technical knowledge and experience, you also need to emphasize those responsibilities and accomplishments in your career that would be of value in the job that you are seeking. A potential employer should be able to tell immediately what you are interested in and where your skills would yield the maximum productivity.

5. Unique Strengths Not Marked Out: No two people are alike. Each one of you has your unique strengths, a distinctive combination of experiences, an individual career path, or even specialized knowledge and expertise. Most of you do not emphasize what is unique about your background in a resume. But very often, this is what determines whether your resume will be thrown out or you will be asked in for an interview. Which is why, you should place these unique qualities prominently in your resume.

The most simple solutions to all these resume flaws lie in recognizing your strengths and weaknesses while understanding what a prospective employer is looking for. Only by doing that will you ensure that your resume is in the 'less than five percent' that are not immediately discarded.
to go too low.Jason Kay recommends you read resume service reviews before choosing a resume writing service. Learn more resume and cover letter tips from JobGoRound.com.]]> Internet Marketing And Viral Marketing http://www.artwoo.com/article/internet-marketing-and-viral-marketing http://www.artwoo.com/article/internet-marketing-and-viral-marketing#comments Sun, 23 Mar 2008 16:15:01 +0000 flavor of the month clubviral marketingflavor of the monthsecondary sourcesskimmerfaucetseveral thousand http://www.artwoo.com/article/internet-marketing-and-viral-marketing Viral marketing is a unique tool designed to create so much buzz about the article itself that even the largest sites will want to publish it.

Those who use this technique have seen incredible spikes in their site visitation simply because viral marketing can provide a quick boost in traffic.

In a campaign where viral marketing is successful traffic can go from a few hundred visitors to several thousand.

How does it work?

The idea is to create content that is so compelling that when you offer it free of charge you will find the content being used by large websites. Because you have links in your free-to-use article you will find readers who are interested in your writing coming to your website to see what you offer.

This has the effect of turning on a faucet. The traffic comes pouring in, but like most things in life it won't last. Attention will soon focus on other new articles. Viral marketing can be a bit like the "flavor of the month club".

So do I keep trying to create a buzz with new content?

Well, you can, but you also need to hope that other secondary sources will continue to carry and archive your viral articles.

Think of viral marketing like the spread of a virus. The hope is that your content will spread all over the Internet providing positive back linking opportunities for your website that will last much longer.

What sets viral marketing apart?

Viral marketing is often negative and controversial. It thrives on either raising the blood pressure of the reader or jarring the reader into considering something they have never considered before.

The articles need to be cleverly written with titles that grab the attention of the skimmer. These are individuals who scan until something catches their eye. In this case it could be a viral marketing article.

Why don't more people use viral marketing?

In my estimation there are three reasons people don't use viral marketing.

1) They don't know what it is. They may have heard about it before, but most have no real idea of what it is or how it works.

2) They don't know how to write a viral marketing piece. There really is an art form to the process of writing this type of article. It's a skill that can be learned, but many don't take the time to learn it.

3) The don't feel it represents their business well. The truth is the negative feel of viral marketing and the controversial nature of much of the content can make the use of viral marketing problematic for some business owners.

Viral marketing is a strategy that seeks to grab a share in the proverbial fifteen minutes of fame by rolling out a dynamic article that can improve traffic to your website for an extended period of time. The positive residual effect is in multiplied backlinks from sites that will carry your article long-term. The reason this is a positive for business owners is that a growth in backlinks is generally viewed as improved trust by search engines and they will reward your business site with enhanced rankings. The best result would be better overall sales.

Perhaps the primary consideration for using viral marketing would be whether or not the article is a positive reflection on you and your business interests. If not then viral marketing may not be a perfect fit. Scott Lindsay is a web developer and entrepreneur. Make your own website in just 5 minutes with HighPowerSites at: http://www.highpowersites.com or Build A Website at: http://www.buildagreatsite.com. Start your own ebook business with BooksWealth at: http://www.bookswealth.com ]]> Saltwater Aquariums http://www.artwoo.com/article/saltwater-aquariums http://www.artwoo.com/article/saltwater-aquariums#comments Thu, 24 Jan 2008 01:25:01 +0000 salt water aquariumsfresh water aquariumssalt water fishessalt water aquariumstarting a salt water aquariumclown fishreef system http://www.artwoo.com/article/saltwater-aquariums salt water aquariums. The salt water aquariums are difficult to maintain than the fresh water aquariums as the ecology of the salt water aquarium differs and needs to be handled and taken care of with proper knowledge.

Salt water aquarium looks more beautiful, appealing and colorful for the simple reason it can have wide range of fishes and mammals, live corals, anemones, crustaceans or jelly fish. You can also keep some extravagantly colored reef fishes to enhance the beauty of the aquarium and the movement inside the aquarium looks vibrant and colorful. Some popular salt water fishes are Comical blenny, Angelfish, Clown fish, Blue lined triggerfish and Damsels and can be kept in salt water aquariums.

Some skilled and advanced aquarists keep squids and octopuses which creates an exact replica of the marine life at your desired place. The variety of fishes and marine life which can chosen to make the aquarium more vivacious and full of life is the main reason of its popularity

Before going for a salt water aquarium it is always better to study and research the ecosystem of salt water fishes, their food habits, the environment and surroundings conducive for their growth and development and the water temperature required for their survival. The extra time devoted for the study and research and knowing the exact requirement will prove beneficial in the long run as starting a salt water aquarium will definitely prove to be a gratifying experience.

To start with you will require a fish tank, Substrates, Filtration System, Heater or Thermometer, power head, protein skimmer, air pump and water pump. Whereas you can chose any one of the basic forms of salt water aquarium. Either you can go for the fish only, Fish with Live Rock or Reef system.

Salt water Aquarium Dos and Don't

=95 The aquarium should be at least of 200litres as smaller one will have a problem of maintaining water quality and balance.

=95 The material of the aquarium should to be either in glass or acrylic.

=95 The location should not be in too much or too little sunlight. Excess sunlight will result in the growth of algae and too little sunlight will also be harmful. Always maintain a constant temperature.

=95 Make sure that the decoration kept, in the aquarium is salt proof otherwise it may poison your aquarium.

=95 Filter the aquarium whenever required. The filtration processes are mechanical filtration, biological filtration and chemical filtration.

=95 Don't use ordinary salt water in your aquarium. Always use aquarium salt water available in fish store and mix in water following the proper instruction.

=95 The cleaning should never be done with detergent and soap as they pollute the water and harm the ecosystem. A capful of pure bleach added to 10 gallons of water will do the needful. Then clean it with fresh water afterwards.

=95 To maintain balance between the salts and water levels it is very essential to use a hydrometer. The water from the aquarium keeps evaporating buy the level of salt remains the same. To compensate the level of evaporated water salt water is not required. But to know the exact salinity of water Hydrometer is very helpful and will help you to add water as per requirement. Looking for more information on Saltwater Aquariums visit http://www.SALTWATER-AQUARIUMS.NET ]]> Debit Cards And Identity Theft: Four Easy Ways To Protect Yourself http://www.artwoo.com/article/debit-cards-and-identity-theft-four-easy-ways-to-protect-yourself http://www.artwoo.com/article/debit-cards-and-identity-theft-four-easy-ways-to-protect-yourself#comments Sun, 11 Nov 2007 10:25:00 +0000 debit card numberdebit cardsreport fraudtrash containercredit cardsthievesreceipts http://www.artwoo.com/article/debit-cards-and-identity-theft-four-easy-ways-to-protect-yourself
As more and more people use credit cards and debit cards to shop or pay bills, it's getting easier for thieves to steal sensitive information as well as completely assuming someone's identity. Here are four simple ways to protect your identity and your hard earned money.

1. Use common sense.

Never give out your debit card number over the telephone, especially if you weren't the one who initiated the call, unless you are dealing with a trusted company that you are familiar and comfortable with.

Limit the amount of cards you carry with you, and keep all of your receipts in a safe place. Never throw any type of receipts in the trash near the ATM machine or a public trash container.

2. Sign up for online banking.

Enroll in your bank's online banking program so that you have easy and immediate access to your accounts at all times. The sooner you're able to report fraud to your financial institution, the quicker you'll be able to put a freeze on your accounts and stop them from doing more damage with your debit card.

3. Use caution shopping online.

While there are thousands and thousands of reputable merchants doing business online, there's still need for caution when using your debit card to shop on the internet. Of course, it's just as important to be careful anytime you use your debit card, not just while shopping on the web.

Disreputable store owners and dishonest clerks have been known to use a device called a "skimmer" which reads the information stored on your debit card's magnetic strip. Your account's information is then downloaded to a computer while the thieves then create new accounts in your name and go shopping with your money.

4. Check your credit report yearly.

Under federal law you are entitled to one free credit report a year from each of the three credit bureaus, which are Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. If you suspect your identity has been compromised as the result of your debit or credit cards being stolen, your credit report is very helpful as it will show detailed information including accounts that weren't opened by you, or charges and inquiries that you never authorized.

Checking your credit report regularly make it easier for you to take care of any potential problems and watch for fraudulent activity. And subscribe to helpful blogs that focus on identity theft news so that you can keep up with the latest alerts and news to be safe and stay safe.

Help others you know online as well. Share helpful articles and send links to helpful sites and blogs. Help each other be on the alert and watch each other's backs. Be safe and stay safe. It's all about identity theft protection. Author and internet entrepreneur Bernard Pragides offers expert advice and tips regarding identity theft. Learn more about identity theft and fraud by visiting his blog at: http://www.identity4life-blog.com and his website at: http://www.IdentityProtek.com for more helpful info. ]]> Aquarium Supplies: Buying Your Supplies Online http://www.artwoo.com/article/aquarium-supplies-buying-your-supplies-online http://www.artwoo.com/article/aquarium-supplies-buying-your-supplies-online#comments Tue, 16 Jan 2007 02:27:07 +0000 aquarium suppliesaquarium chilleraquarium supply storeonline auctionfish tankauction websitesauction website http://www.artwoo.com/article/aquarium-supplies-buying-your-supplies-online Aquarium supplies not only include aquarium d�cor, but they also include important pieces of equipment; equipment that may have a direct impact on the survival of your new fish. That is why it is important that you thoroughly examine your fish tank, the fish that you have or will have inside of it, as well as the supplies that you may need.

Once you have determined exactly what aquarium supplies you will need to purchase, like an aquarium chiller, a filtration system, or a protein skimmer, you will need to start shopping. Unfortunately, this is where many first-time fish owners make a mistake. Many automatically head to their local pet supply store or fish tank supply store. While you may be able to purchase aquarium supplies from these establishments, did you know that you have a number of other options? These options involve the internet.

When it comes to shopping online, there are many individuals who automatically think of online auction websites. It seems as if online auction websites have skyrocketed in popularity over the past few years. In fact, when shopping online, many shoppers check out a number of well-known online auction websites before they even examine any other websites. Of course, you can buy your aquarium supplies from an online auction website if you want to, but you need to be cautious when doing so. Unfortunately, in today's society you need to be on the lookout for online auction website scams. In addition to paying for an item that you may never receive, there are no guarantees. That is why, if at all possible, you may want to explore your other options.

One of your other options, when shopping for aquarium supplies online is to do business with a well-known and reliable fish tank supply store, which is also often referred to as an aquarium supply store. These are actually online retail stores, which have their own online addresses; they are completely different than online auction websites. In fact, buying your aquarium supplies from an online fish tank supply store is considered the most recommended way to go about buying your aquarium supplies. This is because, as you will soon learn, there are a number of benefits to doing so.

Just one of the many benefits to buying your aquarium supplies from a well-known fish tank supply store is service. When you are buying something from an online auction website, you are working with a seller, whose real name you probably will never even know. This is not how an online fish tank supplier works. Not only will you have access to an actual store name, but you may also be able to find the name of the business owner, with little or no research. For many consumers, this creates a level of comfort, which in turn makes online shopping a feasible option. It is also important to note that most online fish tank supply stores have a trained and experienced staff. This means that if you need help choosing a particular product or if you would like product review information, you should be able to get it, often immediately!

Another reason why you should think about buying your aquarium supplies online from an online fish tank supply store is because of quality. Many fish tank suppliers fully stand behind their products. In fact, that is why many offer warranties on their aquarium supply products. These same warranties can often be found in your local fish tank supply stores, but they are rarely found on online auction websites. If this is your first-time purchasing aquarium supplies, a warranty may give you a little bit more confidence when making your purchase.

As you can see, there are a number of benefits to purchasing your aquarium supplies online and from an online fish tank supply store. In fact, the above mentioned benefits are just a few of the many that exist, most of which give you a feeling of safety and security when making your purchases. Although there are a number of different locations where you can purchase your aquarium supplies from, you are urged to examine FishTanksDirect.com. With a trained and experienced staff and a large selection of aquarium supplies, you are sure to find exactly what you need, as well as exactly what you want. Acrylic Fish Tanks are a great addition to any home. Spend hours looking at your fish swim about their own private space. Our http://www.fishtanksdirect.com Acrylic Aquariums are manufacture direct meaning that you save about 30% off retail. ]]> Swimming Pool Equipment Starters Kit http://www.artwoo.com/article/swimming-pool-equipment-starters-kit http://www.artwoo.com/article/swimming-pool-equipment-starters-kit#comments Thu, 06 Jul 2006 06:27:08 +0000 swimming pool coverabove ground poolsolar pool coverpool cleaningpool ownerswimming poolsfiltration system http://www.artwoo.com/article/swimming-pool-equipment-starters-kit above ground pool, large or small. Maintenance is an important key to having a swimming pool and this article is going to explain to you exactly what every new pool owner must know about maintaining a pool cleaning routine.

When you purchase a swimming pool, the dealer will likely tell you what you need to get started. There are several things you absolutely must have when you own a swimming pool, these things will help you keep your pool safe and clean for your swimmers, which of course is top priority. Here is a handy list of some essential equipment you need to maintain a regular cleaning routine:

� Filtration System -- ensure that you have a filtration system with your swimming pool that is large enough to handle the capacity of your pool. This system will aid in removing bacteria and small partials from the water.

� Vacuum -- By purchasing and using a vacuum specific for swimming pools you will be able to clear the pool of many different items that do not belong in there. This is especially useful for debris that has settled on the bottom of the pool.

� Strainer or Skimmer Basket -- This can be in conjunction with the filtration system and vacuum. The basket will catch large debris and particles such as leaves or bugs that enter the water of your swimming pool.

� Pool Cover -- This handy cover protects your swimming pool in a variety of ways, as well as your loved ones and neighbors. A swimming pool cover works to keep debris out of your pool. A solar pool cover will help in heating the pool water with the suns heat. Additionally, a pool cover will prevent any unwanted visitors (of the animal or human sort) from entering your pool and protect them from any dangers. Lastly, a pool cover works to protect your swimming pool from climatic differences such as the winter months.

� Maintenance Chart -- This will allow you to keep track of the maintenance you perform on your pool and the levels of chemicals you put in each time, as well as the chemical readings from test performed.

Chemicals

Chemicals play a large part in balancing your pool water to obtain and maintain a healthy and safe environment for all swimmers. Some things that need to be balanced include the pH level and water hardness. Here is a list of all chemical equipment you will need to keep up with regular maintenance of your swimming pool:

Chlorine -- This is available in Tablet (for larger pools) and granules (for smaller pools) and is used to kill bacteria and other harmful things that can occur within a swimming pool.

pH Minus -- This is used when the pH levels have gotten to high within the swimming pool.

pH plus -- To add pH to your pool as needed.

TA plus and Minus -- To add or remove acids found needed to keep pool healthy. Hardness Plus -- To increase the amount of Calcium Choloride.

Algaecides -- To prevent growth of harmful bacteria

Clarifier -- This comes in concentrate, granular, and tablet forms.

Shock -- To maintain the clarity of your pool and prevent cloudy water.

Testing Kits -- These come in Strip or bottle form and are essential to understanding the levels of the different chemicals that are contained within the swimming pool water. These are essential to the proper cleaning routine of any swimming pool and the water must be tested regularly. David Evermon has been involved in many swimming pool construction and maintenance projects, David writes articles about pool maintenance for http://poolcleaning.zupatips.com/ ]]> Controlling Algae In Your Aquarium http://www.artwoo.com/article/controlling-algae-in-your-aquarium http://www.artwoo.com/article/controlling-algae-in-your-aquarium#comments Sun, 27 Apr 2008 06:14:39 +0000 algae controltank cleanerplant populationliving organismsspecies of fishpreventive measurespleco http://www.artwoo.com/article/controlling-algae-in-your-aquarium preventive measures, the amount of algae can quite certainly be kept to a minimum limit.

First, let us see the factors that promote the growth of algae.

1.Sunlight =96 Just like for any other plant life, sunlight is absolutely essential for the growth of algae too. Though sunlight looks very good for the water of the aquarium, the same sunlight can cause algae to grow, which could be hazardous to the other living organisms. Not just direct sunlight, but any form of artificial aquarium light too would promote algal growth if it is kept on continuously for more than 10 hours per day.

2.Nutrient levels =96 Algae will grow faster if there is an overabundance of nutrients in your aquarium. All plants require nitrates, phosphates and silicates for their better growth. When you introduce nutrients into the aquarium, the levels of these nutrients might go higher, which would facilitate algal growth.

3.Plant population =96 Algae will grow faster in a tank if there are very few plants in the tank to compete with, because then they can get all the resources present in the tank.

Now that we know what the major factors promoting the growth of algae in aquatic tanks are, we can try to understand the methods that can be employed in order to check the growth of algae. The following are some algae control methods that can be employed even by amateur aquarium owners:-

1.There are some species of fish that eat algae. These fish are called as tank cleaner fishes. Some of the cheaply and popularly available tank cleaner fishes are the otos or dwarf suckermouth catfish, Siamese algae eater, bushy-nosed pleco, twig catfish and even the Japanese algae eating shrimp. You can introduce one of these fishes into the tank once it begins to show an algal infiltration. You can also include a hermit crab or a snail, since they feed on algae too.

2.Using a protein skimmer could be a very good option too. Protein skimmers are devices that remove the unwanted proteins from the tank environment. They will remove the dissolved organic compounds from the tank, which would otherwise promote the growth of algae. They bring the nutrient level down. Protein skimmers also reduce the concentration of carbon dioxide from the tank, which the algae, being plants, need for food preparation through photosynthesis.

3.Reduce the amount of actinic lighting in your aquarium setup. The actinic lighting is the blue light, and it helps to promote the growth of algae if used in excess. The ideal situation would be use 50% of actinic light mixed with 50% of white spectrum (daytime) light. Also, the light sources must be replaced periodically. All VHO (Very High Output) fluorescent lights need replacement after every eight months. Metal halide lamps will do with an annual replacement. It must also be remembered not to keep the artificial light source continuously on for more than 10 hours in a day.

4.Carbon dioxide is directly responsible for the growth of algae because, after all, they are plants. If your carbon dioxide filter has choked up, then there is a possibility that the level of carbon dioxide in the tank will be high. Using a pump in the aquarium to allow the water to circulate continuously is way of reducing on the amount of carbon dioxide in the tank. You can find out when the carbon dioxide level in the aquarium is going up by checking the alkalinity and pH value of the water within the tank. If these levels show an abnormal dip, then it is time to do something about increased carbon dioxide levels within the tank. Salty Supply is your premier store for saltwater aquarium supplies. Visit us at http://www.saltysupply.com ]]> All You Ever Wanted to Know About Pantyhose http://www.artwoo.com/article/all-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-pantyhose http://www.artwoo.com/article/all-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-pantyhose#comments Wed, 19 Nov 2008 21:29:32 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/article/all-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-pantyhose Pantyhose were discovered by Allen Gant Senior and its first version appeared in 1959. Pantyhose are a combination of stockings and underpants. Needless to say, pantyhose emphasize the attractiveness of a woman. It makes legs look smooth, silky and extremely sexy. On the more human side, pantyhose make it easier to wear and take off shoes. It lends slenderness and shine to an otherwise blemished skin. During winter, pantyhose provide much needed warmth and coziness. The uniform pressure applied on all parts of the leg enhances blood circulation too.

Nylon is the preferred material used in the making of pantyhose. Importance is given to maintain a high degree of excellence in strength, elasticity and shine while manufacturing pantyhose. Weightlessness is another alluring feature of good pantyhose. And no compromises are made to see that the product is as durable as possible. Nylon is able to provide all these features besides being crease-free. Another material used as an alternative to nylon is spandex.

Denier is the unit with which the thickness of nylon is measured. The sheerness of pantyhose can vary from 3-80 deniers, a higher value denoting a thicker garment. The design of the pantyhose is normally the same with a few variations thrown in for elegance and style. Since most women are conscious of their protruding bellies, a broader elastic band is provided near the waist, in some pantyhose, to disguise this. The crotch is made of cotton to enhance comfort. The heel and toes are doubled in strength to avoid wear and tear and improve durability. Darker shades of pantyhose are normally preferred in winter.

Uses of pantyhose:

The uses of pantyhose are manifold. New pantyhose serve the purpose of giving confidence in the mind of the user. They make the wearer look alluring and seductive. They also provide warmth and comfort. But the utility of old pantyhose can be mind-boggling!

Old pantyhose can be used to clean up a fish-tank or a garden pond. A debris-skimmer can be created by folding a clothes hanger into a circle and covering it with pantyhose. All the debris can then be removed like magic!

Pantyhose are priceless as far as kitchen utility is concerned. They serve as wonderful scrubbers for utensils, especially non-stick ones. Pantyhose can be rolled into a ball to serve as a floor shiner. Wet flour can be prevented from sticking onto a rolling pin by covering it with a tube of pantyhose. A garbage liner can be secured with the help of the elastic band of the pantyhose.

A garden cannot do without pantyhose as well. Ripe onions and potatoes can be stored and tomato vines can be secured with pantyhose. Flower bulbs can be stored in the same way. Pots can be lined with pantyhose before being filled with mud and planted with houseplants. This will prevent the soil from being washed away.

A wonderful loofah can be crafted out of pantyhose by just cutting off the legs, filling the remainder with left-behind pieces of soap and then tying the ends. It can be placed beside the sink to wash hands regularly.

The best use of old pantyhose is perhaps to ferret out lost objects from the carpet. A leg from old pantyhose can be cut out and tied around the nozzle of a vacuum cleaner. In no time the lost object will be found sticking to the pantyhose in the nozzle!

Mothballs can be kept inside pantyhose to protect clothes in a closet. A similar variation can be done by using scent instead of mothballs.

Conclusion:

The uses of pantyhose are thus endless. Be it new or old, pantyhose is an accessory that no one can do without.Roberto Sedycias works as IT consultant for www.polomercantil.com.br]]>