Best Vacuum Sealer/Food Saver – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
by David Wright |
A lot of people don’t really care about the likes of odd products such as food vacuum sealer. But let me say that almost everyone requires food saver for more than one reasons. Why do you need to consider these products?
Well, the answer might come as a shock to you, but most of us need a vacuum sealer because we’re throwing away $2,000 per household on average. Yes, statistics have shown that every year something between 30% and 40% of the food supply in the United States ends up in the garbage. These percentages translate to up to $2,000 wasted in each house.
It’s a lot of money, and all we’ve got to do is start planning our meals better and purchase a machine that in general costs less than a hundred dollars.
If you don’t have the time to read the whole article right now, then I’d recommend you the NESCO VS-02 vacuum sealer as our best pick. It’s pretty easy to use: you just put the bag in, drop the lid, lock it in place, press the sealing button, wait, and then release the lock.
Now for those that stayed, keep on reading to take a look at the other products we’re recommending, find out a bit more about how vacuum sealers work, what you should look out for, and what you should get according to what you want to do. Below is the list of our top 5 vacuum sealers.
This model is without a doubt the best vacuum sealer for home use because it combines the two products mentioned below in this post. The NESCO VS-02 offers the best of both worlds.
From the FoodSaver model, you’ll have the sweet and quite handy features like the roll holder, the cutter, an area in which to store the cable. Also, Nesco VS-02 has some special sealing settings for different types of food, as well as the possibility to attach a canister sealing accessory.
From the Seal-a-Meal, you’ll have its relatively small body, only 18 inches long and 11 inches wide, and the lighter weight, about 7 pounds. All this at an accessible prize.
The NESCO VS-02 has a reasonable price, can seal relatively big items, and includes a guide that explains everything you’ll need to know. It comes with a washable drip tray, a bag cutter and a place to store the roll of bags. It’s the best deal you’ll get no matter how you look at it.
Pros and Cons
Seals big, bulky products with ease The starter kit includes two rolls of bags of different sizes Just press a button to begin sealing Automatic shut off Many useful features
Could be considered big Needs to cool down for 2 minutes after sealing
The Seal-a-Meal might not be the cheapest out there, but it offers the low cost as well as power and convenience. When I talk about power, I mean that this vacuum sealer is pretty small, yet you can seal medium-sized objects without a problem. And what I mean by small is that it weighs a measly 4 pounds and is 17 inches long times 9 inches wide.
The size makes it pretty easy to store and perfect for small kitchens. The only quirky, maybe slightly troublesome, feature this appliance has is that the user needs to press down firmly on the lid, with both hands, for the sealing process to start.
Pros and Cons
Small, convenient size Works perfectly with small to medium products Comes with a few 1-quart vacuum seal bags Compatible with Seal-a-Meal or FoodSaver vacuum sealer bags and rolls Includes a 1-year warranty
The bags sometimes can seal incorrectly if the user doesn’t press them firmly No added modes or features Some people claim about big objects not sealing correctly
This vacuum sealer packs a lot of power, and you can seal somewhat bulky products with ease and without worries. It’s pretty easy to use, comes with a manual, and includes self-explanatory buttons as well as a led display that will take you through the whole process. You’ll have complete and total control over what’s happening.
You can stop the vacuuming whenever you want and start the sealing, or not vacuum at all and just seal, or whatever you want to do. This FoodSaver vacuum sealer comes in only one color but is made of stainless steel, which makes it very durable and sturdy.
Pros and Cons
Includes a retractable handheld vacuum sealer Comes with a few bags so you can start to use it immediately Automatically detects the bag and begins the vacuuming and sealing process A jar sealing accessory may be added to the appliance Has a 5-year warranty
Big, bulky, and heavy Cost a lot more than your regular model
In case you didn’t guess it, this model is also made by FoodSaver. However, rest assured the price is not only accessible but relatively cheap. Which is what makes it the best option for the Average Joe that doesn’t want to spend too much money on something they’re not sure they’ll use.
The FreshSaver is quite small and light because it’s meant to be portable and easy to store. Begin the sealing process by merely pressing a button and then stop it by letting go. It’s rechargeable and cordless which again makes it convenient for walking around with it.
And in case you needed a little extra to be convinced, the bags are completely reusable – you can wash it, and resealable – once sealed, you open the plastic zipper, close it and reseal.
Pros and Cons
Light and small Rechargeable Packs a lot of power Quite easy to use Can be adapted to seal canisters
You should consider this model only if you’re going to make a living out of it: if you’re a chef and need your food to be perfectly sealed, if you like gourmet-looking-and-tasting food and you need the best sealer for sous to vide, or if you own a store and sell your vacuum sealed goods.
The VacMaster is truly big, bulky and heavy. But you can seal several bags at once, you can seal jars without an added accessory, you can personalize your settings -how long it takes to seal, how strong should the vacuum seal be- and many other features.
Pros and Cons
Very easy to use, the user manual explains it all Led display that indicates the amount of time left Several controls give you control over the sealing process You can seal soups, jars, bags, fruits, marinades, etc. No overheating from constant usage
Expensive Big and heavy
How to Choose Your Best Food Saver (Buyer’s guide)
Now when the list is done and you’ve read some about the range of products, let’s explain it all in depth. That way you’ll know which one is the best sealer for you.
First things first: in case you haven’t figured it out yet, vacuum sealers suck or push out the air in your bags. That air is what causes the food to suffer oxidation or freezer burn, to decompose, spoil, become moldy, and what makes bacteria grow and multiply. Without that air, the food should last a lot longer because the bacteria can’t grow as quickly.
Attention: the food that requires it still needs to be frozen or refrigerated. Plus, don’t think it’ll be fresh and good forever, it’ll still have an expiration date – you’re just pushing it back.
As you might’ve guessed from reading the guide, there are three different types of vacuum sealers that fit more or less a spectrum of needs:
Handheld Vacuum Sealers
These models are very light and small. The handheld sealers are typically easy to use. All you need to do is line the nozzle of the appliance with the circle on the bag and press the button.
Also, these sealers are easy to store, and relatively cheap. You should be able to buy a good, durable, quality product for around $20-30. They are perfect for sealing fragile and delicate things, like snacks, cereals, or cookies, that can be crushed. You control the sealing process with a button.
You’ll need to buy a particular type of vacuum sealing bags that come with a zipper, but they should be fairly convenient. In case you get sick of vacuum sealing stuff, zippered bags are always useful. In case you become consistent and maybe upgrade to another type of vacuum sealer later, you’ll still be able to seal the crushable things through this process. Most come with rechargeable batteries or with a charging cord, making them completely portable and wireless.
There are some limits or issues of course. Mostly due to using handheld food vacuum sealers for things they aren’t designed to do. The first of the problems is that it takes a little longer to suck the air out of the bag if one of two, the bag has too much air, or the bag is too big.
Customers have reported that you need to try to push most of the air out by hand and then use the vacuum sealer to finish. If your issue is that you’re trying to seal bigger bags and the appliance is not sucking the air out correctly, then you probably should update to the next type of food vacuum sealers. Also, beware of sealing wet food, because though most have a washable little drip tray on the nozzle, it’s got a limit.
External Vacuum Sealers
If the handheld vacuum sealers aren’t enough to make your dreams come true, then it’s time to level up and get the external model. These appliances are a sort of middle ground in which you can seal more significant bulkier things as well as be careful with your delicate food all for a relatively accessible price, from $40 to $60.
The features on these devices change a lot from one model to the next, but in general, they all should come with a button or way in which to begin the sealing process, as well as a switch or levers which you press to release the bag once it’s sealed. They should also offer a button to seal only, for the cases in which you don’t want to vacuum seal and just preserve the freshness.
There are a lot of extra features as well. The common ones are roll-storage, cancelling button to stop the vacuuming and pass onto the hot sealing, automated or one-touch operation sealing process. Some don’t have it, but most come with a drip tray to catch liquid, which should be washable.
Others have different modes that should be used according to the type of food you’ll be sealing. Among these modes, there is a mode for wet food, for marinades, and other forms of food or mixtures that might cause issues. Some have the added benefit of working with a canister or jar sealer, and some have a cutter for the rolls of bags.
In general, the rule is that these food vacuum sealers work fast, need to cool after sealing, and, if used repeatedly, they might overheat. You’ve got two options, you either start cutting and separating your foods according to the biggest bag size and product size it can seal correctly, or, once more, you upgrade.
Chamber Vacuum Sealers
Beware, only purchase these models if you’re completely and absolutely certain that this is the type of sealer for you. And even then, keep in mind that they are very expensive – usually cost several hundreds of dollars. How do you know if you need one of these beasts?
Well, first you need to seriously analyze whether an external vacuum sealer will be two sizes too small for what you want or need. Will you use the external model for over an hour or longer? Do you find the waiting between sealing procedures time to consume and annoying?
Are you going to purchase several pounds of meat and food that should last you for about a month or two? Do you buy things in bulk? Will you need the seal to be perfect?
If the answer to all the questions above is yes, then you should probably investigate further about chamber vacuum sealers and consider purchasing one.
For those that are certain that they need a chamber vacuum sealer then I’ll let you know that you’re a process of analysis still isn’t finished. Chamber sealers can seal several bags or jars at the same time. They use pressure to push the air out of the bag at the same time.
So, there should be no issue with sealing liquids because there is no time for the fluid to be pushed or sucked in any direction. This procedure happens with the help of a pump. And this is where you need to look carefully and with a critical eye.
You’ll need to look for a fairly durable, well made, and easy to maintain pump if you want the chamber vacuum sealer for commercial use. Also, take care of buying your product from a good company that will take care of you.
Vacuum Sealer Bags
Now when we’ve covered all the different types of vacuum sealers, you need to consider the next important step – the bags. While you’re deciding on which model to purchase, be sure to check which size of bags work on the appliance. You might find that the bags are expensive and that you’ll end up spending more money on buying the bags.
You might also find out that they’re not sold on the stores near your home and that you’d need to buy them online or buy them somewhere far from your house. Also, they only work with a certain brand or type of vacuum sealer bag. In general, when you’re investigating about a food vacuum sealer look up the following things:
How much will you be spending on each bag?
What brands or brand of bags is it compatible with?
Can you find them easily? Or will it be difficult?
How many bags do you think you’ll need or use?
Can the bags be reused or resealed?
How You Can Use a Food Saver
Conclusion
If you can’t afford the food vacuum sealers but still want to stop wasting money and food, then I’ll let you know that these appliances aren’t obligatory. Don’t get me wrong, they’ll help you out a ton and save you lots of effort. But you can still put in the effort on your own.
It might sound like nothing, but it would make a world of difference if you just plan your meals better. Buy what you’re really going to cook or eat, be honest with yourself. If you still find you need to buy a little extra and don’t want it to go bad, then you can go on the internet and learn different ways to preserve fruits and vegetables with vinegar and other natural methods.
Best Electric Bike Conversion Kit in 2019 (E-Bike Made Easy) – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
by David Wright |
Electric bicycle conversion kits first appeared a long time ago. But they are now a very popular choice because of the increased awareness toward climatic change. All around the world people are adding bikes to their lifestyle to contribute to a green environment, save money from gasoline, and other practical reasons.
Many people already had a bike and don’t want to buy a new one. A cheap e-bike conversion kit came to solve this problem in a very efficient way. Recent models of e-bikes kits are easy to install, budget and are compatible with many traditional bikes.
Nowadays, it is possible to go almost everywhere with your bicycle (especially with mountain bikes). This is why it is very important to select an electric bike kit that allows you to keep the best features of your traditional bicycle while adding power and comfort.
Our best pick
After analyzing some of the top options, we found out that the AW Rear Wheel Kit is the best electric bike conversion kit we can recommend. It offers awesome traction as it is a rear wheel kit that also includes the full set of reinforced 32mm rim + 40mm tire.
You can reach up to 45 km/h and the pedal assistance allows you to keep cycling the electric bike. The 26-inch tire keeps you comfy as it adds extra cushion and its dual-mode controller with hall effect and non-hall effect extends the life of the bike. The LCD display provides all the information you need to drive safely. But if you are looking for something that better matches your lifestyle, below you’ll find a full list of 5 e-bike conversion kits that will help you make the right decision.
The AW Rear Wheel electric bike kit is a perfect choice for those who take the road and also like to get some action through the mountains as it offers a powerful motor of 48V/1000W. You can easily take long rides as it also provides great power and its LCD display gives you accurate readings of speed and battery level to make sure you can get back home.
The LCD features a promising display notifying time, mileage, speed, battery power, and gears. In addition, the installation of the kit is super easy. As far as the speed is concerned, it reaches up to 45 kilometers an hour.
Pros and Cons
Includes Pedal Assistant System (PAS) to use it in electric mode while still pedaling It brings a full set of 26-inch rear wheel and tire Includes electric controller with a 600D Oxford cloth carrying bag with a zippered main compartment
It doesn’t include battery It might be hard to get the top speed of 45 KPH The motor could be a little noisy
Key Features
› 1000W 48V Motor › Pedal Assistance System › Max Speed: ~ 45kph › LCD Display
With this conversion kit 700c, you will be able to get more fender clearance. It includes a complete set with LED display, motor/wheel, throttle, brake levers, pedal assist, torque arm, front and rear all-purpose lights, and cable ties. You can choose among 8 styles of Front/Thumb/Led according to your budget.
Brake-Levers set, and the safety cutoff switches are included in the bike kit. You can choose between LED and LCD display. Technical support is available from the manufacturer. You can either select twist or thumb throttle, whatever pleases you. Pros and Cons
3 months warranty on the motor and the wheel Includes Pedal Assist Sensor (PAS) which allows riding without throttle response The hub motor is 14mm diameter and 500W It is water resistant Installation hardware and cable ties are included
Battery and tire are not included Brake levers don’t work on hydraulic systems Installation can take longer than expected
Key Features
› 500W 36V Motor › Pedal Assistance System › Brake levers › LCD/LED Display
Although it is not a cheap electric bike kit, its numerous features and advantages make it worthy to pay the price. It speeds up to 16MPH but it operates quietly, and the power lasts for a long time. It is perfect for long rides and distances.
GoPlus’ great innovation relies on its App that gives you feedback on cycling speed, driving mileage, electric power, and more. As it is an e-bike conversion kit with battery, wheel, and charger, you can install it as soon as you receive it.
The drive system ensures the provision of a smooth and friction-free motion. This kit includes the wheel, charger, battery, frame, and tire. Pros and Cons
The thumb throttle with 3 LED indicators level can display battery level The motor is a hub brushless Easy to convert An integrated App provides crucial information such as electric power, cycling speed and mileage, among others Cell phone bracket is included with the USB charging function Disc brakes
Top speed is only 16 MPH The motor is only 36V / 240W Charge time of the battery is 2 hours
Key Features
› 240W 36V Motor › Thumb throttle › Max Speed: ~ 16 mph › Smartphone APP
What makes this stand out is its intelligent motor controller. It allows you to determine the causes why your motor stops working properly by just using a single white switch. The Jaxpety has also a dual controller that guarantees that you can ride your motorized bike when the signal source is disabled.
Nylon has been used for the tires. The alloy double wall helps the rim to be more resistant. The brake levers are quite safe and reliable. Extra power is generated by the electric motor thanks to the metal-magnates. A user manual is available, so it becomes super-easy to get along without any complication. Pros and Cons
Twist throttle includes battery level display and power-cut off button The controller offers big current supply as it is made of aluminum alloy The package contains 2 handle grips, 1 controller carrying bag, cable ties, and plastic coil Wheel size is 26-inch x 1.57-inch
The battery is not included Maximum weight capacity is limited to 330 Lbs
Key Features
› 500W 36V Motor › Crank speed sensor › Max Speed: ~ 19.8 mph › Twist throttle
Electric motor power of 48V / 1000 / 470rpm makes this the fastest bike kit. It also includes everything to install it (except the battery). You will be able to reach up to 48 KMH without worrying about annoying noises because of its gearless hub motor.
This motor also offers 80% efficiency with a 9.6-inch diameter. The kit includes a whole set of wheel and tire, and the installation takes up to an hour. Another good news is that with MegaBrand bike kit you’re also getting a small bonus, which is a controller bag.w Pros and Cons
Brushless gearless hub motor works quietly Front wheel size is 26-inch x 1.75-inch The Thumb throttle includes 3 LED indicator lights
Battery and charger are not included It doesn’t bring a tube liner to help protect the wheel The manual of instructions is not written in proper English
Key Features
› 1000W 48V Motor › Speed throttle › Max Speed: ~ 48 kph › Brake lever
Specification
Brand › MegaBrand Weight › 13.2 kg Type › Front Wheel
BAFANG 8FUN mid-drive is one of the best electric bike conversion kits available on the market today. It is called mid-drive because once installed, the motor sits in the central part of your bicycle. This kit makes your biking experience exhilarating thanks to the excellent features it exhibits.
It is suitable for use especially if you don’t prefer the rear wheel kit. What makes this kit perfect is that it features waterproof components. This is great as it allows you to use in any type of weather condition. What’s more, it features a motor that operates on 1000W and 48V. It also uses a lithium battery which powers the motor to ensure comfortable cycling.
The motor has 120 rpm rating which ensures quality performance on any bicycle. Unlike most motors found in other kits, this one operates quietly and features a motor controller to keep you posted on internal actions. The controller monitors the motor to make sure you are having the best experience you can ever get from cycling. What’s more, it includes an online tracking system that enables you to know the whereabouts of your electric bike.
All the accessories that come with BAFANG 8FUN have a good design that is appealing to the eye. It comes in black to match most of the bikes you use it on. Pros and Cons
It is lightweight Easy installation Includes a battery Operates quietly and efficiently Beautiful design
There is also this electric bike conversion kit by Voilamart with excellent features. The Voilamart is a rear wheel electric bike conversion kit only presenting 48V 1000W powerful brushless gearless motor. This motor offers a maximum speed of 28 miles per hour which is okay for most users.
It comes with a function that allows you to switch from 1000W to 750W. That interferes with the maximum speed up to 24 miles per hour. It features a pedal assistant system to enable you to have fun while riding your bike.
One of the attributes that’s worth mentioning is that it presents a maximum load capacity of 200KG.
Voilamart comes with an LCD monitor with speed throttle to help in a number of things. It displays the status of the battery as well as pedal assistant settings. You can also set the speedometer to display either miles per hour or kilometers per hour depending on your preference.
The twist throttle features a rubber construction to provide a decent grip. What’s more, the electric brake levers have a cut off power supply to ensure maximum safety to the rider. Installing this kit is quite simple with the clear instructions it comes with.
Voilamart 26″ kit includes everything you need to fully convert your bicycle except for the battery that is sold separately. In addition, it comes with a water-resistant carrying case to hold the items securely in place. Pros and Cons
Affordable Low battery power consumption LCD display Simple and fast installation
Lacks a battery It is difficult to read on the LCD display in broad daylight
Key Features
› 1000W 48V Motor › Pedal Assistance System › Max Speed: ~ 45 kph › Brake levers
Specification
Brand › Voilamart Weight › 10 kg Type › Rear Wheel
Tongsheng is a Chinese company known for manufacturing plug and play motor engines. The TSDZ2 conversion kit easily transforms any type of bicycle into an electric bike. It features torque sensors that are responsible for measuring the force applied on the pedals.
The force ranges from Eco(x2) to Turbo(x15). It presents a maximum speed of 40Kmh and is limited to 25kmh with torque sensor. If you are looking to have mild exercise sessions, then the torque sensors are a perfect fit. It also uses the same power applied when pushing the bike to let riders pass through tough terrains with ease.
You will also have a nice experience when riding on highways with the torque sensor.
The Tongsheng uses a 250W motor that operates quietly and smoothly. Also, the pedal assist system allows you to choose from the four-level settings (ECO, TOUR, SPEED, and TURBO) for easy maneuverability.
There is an XH 18 LCD display on the kit that shows the running speed, battery level, mileage, etc. That allows you to select the power mode and also does presetting on various parameters. The motor operates through a number of gears and uses a single front chainring (42T) to rotate the rear wheel.
Installation of this motor is easy for an experienced mechanic. It also comes with all the components you need to get you started. Pros and Cons
Low battery power consumption Safe for long riding Automatic current cutoff when pedaling stops
Complicated installation for a beginner
Key Features
› 350W 36V Motor › Torque Sensor › Max Speed: ~ 40 kph › No Throttle
Specification
Brand › TSDZ Weight › 3.6 kg Type › Mid-Drive Motor
If you are looking to enjoy having an electric bike, then the AW front wheel is your ideal conversion kit. It features a 48V 1000W powerful brushless hub motor with 80%+ high motor efficiency that sets it apart from ordinary kits.
The kit presents a dual mode controller on the motor to work under Hall effect and non-hall effect. This is a great feature that extends the durability of your transformed electric bike. It features a strengthened 32mm rim for maximum durability and 40mm tire which make the bike perfect for all terrain riding. In addition, the kit comes with the whole wheel of 26″ x 1.75″ dimensions.
Like other kits on this entry, the AW front wheel kit also includes LCD display. On the monitor, it displays the battery level, speed, time, mileage and gears. You can clearly see the speeds you are working with or when you need to recharge the kit for perfect convenience.
There is also a pedal assistance system that allows an easy and enjoyable experience while riding on the electric bike. The best part about this kit is that it includes all the accessories you need to successfully use it without spending extra cash. What’s more, installation is also quite simple with a set of instructions in the user manual. Lastly, it includes a durable 600D Oxford fabric carrying bag that comes with a zipper closure on the controller compartment. Pros and Cons
Powerful motor High-quality build Durable LCD display Quiet motor operation Comfortable
Doesn’t provide reliable brake handles No battery and charger in the package
Key Features
› 1000W 48V Motor › LCD Display › Dual Mode Controller › Pedal Assistance System
Clean Republic electric conversion kit is the best and simple way to convert your conventional bicycle into an e-bike. It is a lightweight unit that weighs only 6 pounds and features a 250W brushless e-bike motor. The motor provides sufficient power for you to race with any rider with ease.
The motor is closed, rain- and mudproof to prevent possible damages on it. The kit provides a maximum speed of 15 miles per hour using the 26″ version. Also, it has two choices of batteries; one for 12 miles and the other for 20-mile lithium-ion battery. It is compatible with most bike wheels of 20, 24, 26, and 29 inches and is also disc-brake compatible.
The Clean Republic kit presents a resilient and weatherproof design that allows it to last long. And like all the trusted products on the market, this one comes with a one-year warranty. It includes a class 2 e-bike throttle kit to reduce your commute time.
You can easily use it to make hills flat for a smoother ride or pedal for extensive exercise experience. It is simple and fast to install the kit with all parts included. Pros and Cons
Powerful performance Easy to install Lightweight and compact Durable Fits plenty of wheel sizes
It operates noisily Doesn’t come with a battery holder that connects to the bike
Key Features
› 250W 24V Motor › Lithium Battery in the package › Throttle
Specification
Brand › Clean Republic Weight › 8.6 kg Type › Front Wheel
The BAFANG BBS02B Mid-drive is another perfect solution to transform your bicycle into an electric bike. It uses advanced technology to provide high power performance on your bike. In addition, it is popular on the market right now for its massive power.
The high power of BBS02B makes it perfect for use with trail, road or cargo bike. You will need quite a bit of time to install this kit. In addition, a few tools will get the job done and with very little effort.
The motor on this BAFANG mid-drive will mount onto a bottom bracket frame of 68-73 mm wide. With a power output of 1000W, this is massive enough and also features a top speed of 28 mph. The kit comes with 9 pedal assist levels as well as throttle-only modes for your preference.
The color LCD display is a useful feature as it shows you all the important information. It displays the speed, battery status, an odometer, and you can select one of the pedal assist levels, etc.
With this kit, you will no longer need a chain, cranks, and chainrings. That’s because it comes with one chainring to reduce the trouble. In addition, the kit comes with everything to start you off (well, except a battery). Those features make installation a breeze. Pros and Cons
High power for effective performance Intuitive features that are extremely helpful Easy installation LCD display
Doesn’t include a battery Can’t mount on a frame with more than 73 mm width
Key Features
› 750W 48V Motor › Brake levers › Two riding modes › Pedal Assist
Specification
Brand › BAFANG Type › Mid-Drive
What to know before converting your cycle into e-bike
If you want to transform your normal bicycle into a functioning electric bike, then there are factors you should consider. That is because electric conversion kits come in different designs and types. It’s up to you to determine how you want your electric bike to function after converting it. And this will depend on what you choose.
Read through the following buying guide to understand the necessary factors to consider if you want to enjoy your rides.
Choosing the right kit
An e-bike conversion kit is a great investment. And there are several ways to maximize it.
Firstly, it is important to find out the use you will give to it. Will it be only to commute? Will you ride in the hills?
What distance will you travel with it? All these questions are answered with the technical features of the electric conversion kits.
Types of Electric Bike Conversion Kits
There are simple ways to transform your bicycle into an e-bike for you to enjoy the thrilling rides on hills and other places. That means that not all bicycles will have the same transformation.
There are different types of electric conversion kits available on the market for your preference. You can choose from the wide range of options; the front and rear wheel e-bike, mid-drive, friction drive, concealed or folding conversion kits. Here are more details about each of those types.
1. Front wheel
E-bike wheels are the most popular ways to transform your bicycle into an electric bike. The front wheel conversion kit means that you replace the anterior wheel with another wheel that has a special gear or hub. The rest of the bicycle remains the same as it was before.
Here, the battery is mounted at a different spot in order to distribute weight evenly across the bike. If you place the battery in the same spot as the motor, you will struggle with all the weight sitting on the front wheel. Therefore, it is ideal to mount the battery centrally or at the rear position of the e-bike. The kit includes a front wheel featuring a hub motor, speed controller, battery, electric brakes, a throttle, and LCD display panel. Some models may also include a pedal assist sensor.
The front wheel motor has less traction because there is little weight on the front wheel. This means that it can be difficult having control over traction. A 36V hub motor on a 26-inch wheel size will provide decent traction.
What’s more, front wheel e-bike rarely gets flat tires. This is because they will kick off sharp objects on the way to prevent punctures. It is worth noting that this type of e-bike is the simplest to install.
2. Rear wheel
If you are planning on riding up the hills or off-roading, then a rear wheel e-bike is the most ideal solution. This is because of the excellent traction control the rear wheel e-bike provides when pushing on the throttle. It features a rear wheel including a hub motor which is hard to notice as it resembles a large conventional bike hub.
In addition, there is a battery, electric brakes, speed monitor, LCD display panel, throttle, and a pedal assist. Also, you have the option of mounting the battery to the frame. Built-in batteries on the wheel or those that mount on a rear rack exert a lot of weight onto the back wheel. This, in turn, causes sudden wheelies when you put on too much power.
However, the rear wheel kit limits the selection of pedaling gears. You only have to work with derailleur gears and not the integrated hub gears.
Since the rear wheel and spokes are exposed to massive stress, it becomes quite difficult for the rear wheel to last longer than that of a conventional bicycle hub. Therefore, you are required to spend extra on high-quality components in order to prevent such occurrences. That means that the rear wheel least suits those who are on a budget since it requires a lot of maintenance.
3. Mid-drive
Photo source: LectricCycles
This is another popular type of electric bike conversion kit that looks similar to the original e-bike design. In the mid-drive kits, the battery and motor mount to the frame. The motor is usually attached to the bottom bracket.
In addition, the kit has its weight down on the low to ensure a stable and smooth ride. But the motor is often susceptible to damage since it is exposed and closer to the ground when off-roading.
With mid-drive, the rear wheel is used to drive which means it provides excellent traction control. This makes it perfect for touring with your electric bicycle.
The mid-drive differs from the rear wheel kit in that the spokes on the rear wheels don’t get much stress. This is due to the fact that the weight of the motor is evenly distributed throughout the bike and it doesn’t have an effect on the wheel build.
You can enjoy your rides up steep hills thanks to the geared motor. This means that you can easily lower the riding speed when going up sharp hills.
However, the mid-drive also has a few downsides. It is a very costly electric conversion kit and is quite complicated. There is so much weight applied on the drive chain meaning the chain, rear hub and gear require frequent maintenance and sometimes replacement.
4. Friction drive
Photo source: alizetibikes.com
Friction drive is an e-bike system that rotates the roller which is compelled by the bicycle tire. This was first invented in 1899 and is gradually gaining popularity among the best e-bike conversion units.
The motor and roller are located on the rear wheel and uses friction to propel the bike. Since the builds are attached to the seating area, it becomes quite easy to install and remove the seat and drive without using tools. Since it is also compact and lightweight, it is ideal for those who wish to leave their bicycles outside.
However, the power applied to a friction drive has its restrictions. That is because acceleration is determined by the contact between the roller and the tire. If you increase the drive’s peak power, then the roller might spin out leaving you frustrated.
You should know that the starting torque of the motor is responsible for swinging and taking hold of the tire. The rolling shell will pull in deeper into the tread the moment it is in contact with the motor.
If there is nothing powering the motor, then it doesn’t gain contact with the tire to eliminate drag when pedaling. This allows you to use your bicycle in its regular state.
5. Concealed kits
Photo source: Bikeradar.com
As the name suggests, concealed kits are units that hide inside your regular bicycle to transform it into an e-bike. This type is ideal for those people who want to retain the appearance of their conventional bicycles but still enjoy the thrills of an e-bike.
Here, a motor and battery are placed inside the tube of the seat and drives on the bottom bracket. This is the latest design of electric bike conversion that is also quite expensive.
The concealed kit lets your bike ride quite the distance without other road users knowing that it is actually an electric bike. They will just be amazed at the speeds of your bicycle, not unless you tell them that it contains the kit.
To fully conceal something means that it is compact enough to stay low key. For that reason, both the motor and battery of this kit have a compact and lightweight design. Don’t let the size of the motor and battery fool you because they are quite effective and that’s why the concealed kits are that costly.
6. Folding Conversion Kits
Photo source: DAHON North America
Folding conversion kits are a great way of converting your folding bicycle into an electric bike. The kits feature a powered hub located in the front wheel. Also, it includes a battery in a bag that is fixed at the front area of your bicycle.
The motor is usually lightweight and you also have a choice to either use a twist grip throttle or a thumb throttle. In addition, they provide high speeds to make your riding exciting. Like the front wheel kits, installation is quite simple and require very little tools.
Front or rear hub/wheel – which is better for an electric bike?
Initially, there is not a significant difference that both systems offer except for the highest traction that rear wheel may deliver. If you are planning to use your bike to climb hills or your commuting route includes many ups and downs, then perhaps a rear model would be better for you. Besides, you should check your bike in order to verify which option fits better to it.
Key Specifications
E-bike power
A motor is what powers any electric bike and allows it to function the way it does. Therefore, you need to pay close attention to the motor of the conversion kit you are buying. The kits come with different sizes of motors whereby performance is determined by the size.
Larger motors are more powerful compared to smaller motors in conversion kits. This means that they have great speeds and are efficient. When choosing what motor size, you should first know what you will be using the e-bike for. You require a more powerful motor if you are planning on taking long rides on roads in the countryside. This will also provide you with massive speeds when racing with friends.
However, if you will be using the e-bike in busy streets, then a less powerful motor is most ideal. The number of watts and volts on a motor determine how powerful the unit is. The higher the watt-rating, the more powerful it is.
Also, the rpm rating also determines how powerful the motor is. If it has a high rpm, then it powerful.
Motor efficiency
Although motor efficiency is showed in percentage, the best way to measure the efficiency is by checking the maximum speed you can reach. As you get the higher speed, you will have more efficiency. Recent models may reach up to 45-46 KMH, but those with 25 and above would be enough to take you anywhere you want.
Another way to verify the efficiency is the number of watts of the motor. When they reach between 500W and 1000W, they guarantee high power. Anything below 500W is only suitable for flat roads and short rides.
Battery capacity
The battery in a conversion kit provides energy for the motor. Therefore, it is another key factor you should prioritize when looking for a kit. Just make sure you choose a battery that is able to handle the current of your motor controller.
If the battery has a low current rating and works on a high rating motor controller, then the circuit will automatically shut off at full throttle. That also causes stress to the battery hence reducing its lifespan. The vice versa is also true.
Go for a kit offering sufficient battery capacity to cover your trip successfully. This is determined by both the watt-hour capacity and energy needed per kilometer. For instance, if your bike consumes 10 W*h/km from the battery and you have 720 Watt-hour battery, then you will cover a distance of 72km. In other words, the more energy is exerted, the lesser the mileage.
Brake Levers
Brake levers are also an important factor as they determine safety while riding on your e-bike. When braking, the motor goes off first. This happens because there is an integrated sensor in the lever that spots when you pull the brake cable.
It then sends a signal directly to the motor controller for it to switch off the motor. The brake levers are placed onto the handlebar of your bike for quick and easy access.
Pedal Assistance System
Pedal assistance system in an e-bike is useful in controlling its speed. It operates with a sensor attached on a pedal crank or bottom bracket and detects pedal torque or cadence. This then passes information to the controller in order to accelerate.
When the pedal crank turns, the sensor gets the rate at which you are pedaling. If the pedal cadence is fast, then the controller will ensure the motor spins as fast. Electric bikes come with a given number of pedal assist settings and the most common are these three; low, medium and high.
Low pedal assist provides more pedal power for intense workouts. Medium provides great balance on the pedal power and motor power. High pedal assist lets you get to your destination fast using minimal effort.
Torque sensor pedal assist is the latest system offering advanced features. With this, the amount of torque applied is directly proportional to the power needed when pedaling (acceleration, hill climbing, steady and more). This proves that it is the best compared to the traditional systems.
What’s more, a pedal assistance system also helps those people who are looking to exercise with an electric bike. It ensures that you never stop pedaling in order to keep moving with your bike.
Throttle
The throttle is also another method used in an e-bike to control its speed. The throttles in an electric bike resemble those found in a conventional motorcycle as they are fixed on the handlebar. To operate them, you either use the twist or thumb action.
Price
The price is one of the main reasons that attract buyers to get ebike conversion kits. Most of them are very competitive. An e-bike conversion kit with a battery may increase the price, but it will give you the benefit of installing the kit at the moment you receive it.
It also guarantees that you comply with the specifications of the manufacturer. It doesn’t make any sense to buy a cheap electric bike conversion kit if you have to buy all the missing parts for a higher price. So, be smart and verify the total cost.
Ebike conversion kits vs electric bikes
Electric bikes are gaining popularity all around the world but their price makes them unaffordable to many. That is why the common method is getting an electric bike conversion kit to transform your regular bicycle into an e-bike. This works best for people who already have good bikes that they don’t want to get rid of.
Instead of spending a large sum of money to get an e-bike, you can use a conversion kit on a regular bicycle. Conversion kits are significantly cheaper than purchasing electric bikes. Also, you get to mould an electric bike to your specification depending on how you want to use it.
With an electric bike, that option is not available. You get what you get. What’s more, you can change the conversion kit or use it with other bikes.
On the other hand, converting a bicycle into an electric bike requires a certain mechanical knowledge. This adds a point to an electric bike option as it comes ready to use. You can also experience some problems with batteries, pedal sensors, controllers and other significant components of a conversion kit (however, sometimes it’s also true for ready ebikes).
Making an electric bike from old bicycle
Conclusion
Electric bike conversion kits are a great alternative to ready-made electric bicycles, especially when you already own a regular bike. These kits are very precious tools to commute, travel and have a lot of fun. The newest technology provides them with incredible features to make them comfy, affordable, and easy to install and ride.
Remember, there is no universal best electric bike conversion kit that would suit everyone simultaneously. You just have to pick the right one depending on your individual needs. However, you can be sure that all the models mentioned in this article are great candidates for purchasing.
Best Humidifier for Singers in 2019 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
by David Wright |
You’re probably wondering why a humidifier would be so important to a singer? Well, vocal cords happen to be the most valuable assets to a musician for obvious reasons and they, together with the mucosal tissues, are targeted by less humid air in the surrounding. There’s a scientific explanation for this phenomenon.
Therefore, whether you are a professional singer or you are singing just for the fun of it, you need to monitor the humidity in your immediate environment to ensure that your vocal cords are well hydrated.
Getting the best humidifier for singers would be a major step in the right direction towards ensuring your vocal cords are in tip-top condition as far as hydration is concerned. This is where this article comes in. We are providing you with the most professionally analyzed review of the best humidifiers for singers so that you don’t have to go through all the hassle.
Our review is comprised of five carefully selected humidifiers that fit the criteria for being the best for singers. But if you’re in a hurry, you can check out our best pick right away: Honeywell HE360A
The Honeywell HE360A is an ideal humidifier that is designed in a way that makes it suitable for the whole house. It is the right choice if you intend to install in a large room of up to 4200 square feet and the flow-through style means that the number of times you need to clean and maintain is greatly minimized. What is more, it does not have a water reservoir, which makes it even better because it does not promote the growth of mold.
Apart from that, the Honeywell HE360A also uses a filter pad and it is fan powered. What this means is that, even though it humidifies the entire house, it does not consume a lot of electric power. The Honeywell HE360A is also a great humidifier for allergic and asthmatic people because its built-in humidistat works well with the furnace in the house to ensure that a healthy range of humidity is maintained in the entire house.
Pros and Cons
Lightweight with only 0,64 ounces It is highly energy efficient Compact in size and easy to install making it ideal for a wide range of applications The best humidifier for singers
Being a flow-through humidifier means that the Honeywell HE360A uses a lot of water
There are five things that make the Everlasting Comfort humidifier stand out in the crowd of best humidifiers for singers. First and foremost is its large capacity and high output. The Everlasting Comfort features a 6L water reservoir with an outstanding output of 270ml/hr. which gives it the capability of humidifying rooms of up to 400 square feet.
With all these specs, the Everlasting Comfort can still manage to perform silently thanks to the ultrasonic technology.
Secondly, this humidifier comes with a separate essential oils tray thus eliminating the need to mix the oils with water in the tank which could damage the humidifier. The third feature of this humidifier is its ability to reduce airborne bacteria and viruses. This is made possible by the 360-degree rotating nozzles and the mist & steam output knob that is fully adjustable thus making it possible to lower the risk of illnesses in the house by controlling the humidity levels.
The fourth feature is the auto shutoff function, which turns the humidifier off as soon as the tank runs out of water. The benefit of such a feature is that it enhances the safety of using the Everlasting Comfort humidifier while at the same time minimizing the possibility of a mechanical damage.
Finally, the Everlasting Comfort humidifier is filterless. What this means is that the maintenance cost is greatly reduced since you do not have a filter to replace every couple of months.
Pros and Cons
Separate essential oils tray makes it the best humidifier for diffusing essential oils Includes a built-in humidistat Maintenance cost is low since it is filterless
The water reservoir is hard to refill It is not portable due to lack of a handle
Just like the Everlasting comfort, the Levoit Warm and Cool Mist humidifier also has large capacity water reservoir except its output is way larger and with a lengthy running time. This humidifier can defuse warm and cool mist at the rate of 500ml/hr. for a continuous running time of 20 to 36 hours. This is quite impressive, right?
Well, that’s not enough, it also features a touch control and remote control for extra convenience. What is more, the Levoit Warm and Cool Mist is not an ordinary ultrasonic humidifier. It comes with three different levels that enhance the user experience by about 25%.
In addition to that, it is also pretty quiet producing less than 36dB thus making it easy for you to focus on things that matter the most. You can rest assured that the Levoit Warm and Cool Mist will serve you the longest giving you the value for your money. This is because its construction comprises the best quality materials and it is CE & ETL certified.
Pros and Cons
High diffusion output of up to 500ml/hr. Large 6L capacity and long running time of 20 to 36 hours Easy to operate Features both warm and cool mist diffusion
Maintenance costs may be higher than most of the alternatives
The Bizond Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier is one of the healthiest humidifiers you can find on the market and this is because of the purification system. 300 million cleansing ions are released every minute this humidifier is running to help in sterilizing disease-causing bacteria in the surrounding. What is more, it runs for a long period of up to 24 hours continuously while consuming a small amount of energy thus making it energy efficient and economical.
Being a healthy humidifier means that with the Bizond Warm and Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier, you can say goodbye to complications such as headaches, symptoms of cold and dry skin among others. Also with the embedded essential oils diffuser, you get to enjoy a soothing fragrance and aroma. It is capable of regulating the humidity levels of rooms as large as 430-485 square feet.
Pros and Cons
Great for fighting disease-causing bacteria It is safe and easy to operate thanks to the auto-shutdown mode Supports long continuous operation
The PowerPure 5000 closely rivals the Bizond in the healthy humidifiers’ category. It combines convenience, safety and efficiency in one unit thus giving you a competitive choice that brings you the best value for your money. When it comes to performance, the PowerPure 5000 is able to humidify rooms as large as 700 square feet emitting close to 3 gallons of moisture in a day.
As if that is not enough, this humidifier is quite easy to use and this is because of the remote control that allows you to switch from one setting to another from across the room.
Just like the Bizond Ultrasonic humidifier, the PowerPure 5000 is also good at relieving illnesses like headaches, flu and the cold. Also, since it is an ultrasonic humidifier, expect to get a near-silent operation. It comes with a unique ceramic filter which does a good job of softening the water in the water reservoir.
Pros and Cons
Features both warm and cool mist options Ultrasonic near-silent operation Great healthy humidifier
Maintenance cost is high
Buyer’s Guide
Buying a humidifier for singers may not involve much and it is likely for you to think that any choice would do the job for you. However, that is not entirely true as there are certain things that you need to put into consideration in order to get the best there is for your vocal cords. Here are the factors that you need to consider:
The type of humidifier
The most common types of humidifiers in the market are cool mist, warm mist, and combination and flow-through humidifiers. For a humidifier that suits the hydration needs of a singer, it should reduce the possibility of the growth of mold.
Size of the Room
The size of the room is usually measured in square feet. The best humidifier is one that can sufficiently humidify the entire room. We have those that are capable of humidifying the entire house whereas other can only humidify a single room. It is always a good idea to choose one that can humidify a large number of square feet.
Presence of the Filter
The filter serves the purpose of purifying the mist being emitted by the humidifier but this comes at an extra cost because the filter has to be replaced from time to time. However, the presence of a filter should not be a hindrance when choosing your preferred humidifier because, despite the cost, it is sometimes worth the while.
Portability
Humidifiers come in a wide range of sizes. It is always a good idea to consider the portability aspect of the humidifier especially if you have a small single room. The good thing about a portable humidifier is that you can take it with you anywhere including the office, plane, car and hotel rooms.
Cost
The cost of the humidifier is an important consideration that cannot be overlooked when it comes to buying a humidifier. Although you want to get the best humidifier for singers, it should not blow your budget out of proportion. There are lots of alternatives available in the market and with a little bit of effort in your search, you can land yourself a good deal.
Why does humidity make you feel hotter?
Conclusion
Hydration is very important to a singer and it can be quite inconvenient if you have to depend solely on drinking water to hydrate your vocal cords. The best humidifiers for singers can be great alternatives for singers who always feel the need to drink water in the course of a singing session because of the dehydrated vocal cords. Reading our detailed reviews and buying guide can help you come up with a great choice of the best humidifier for singers.
E-bike wheels are the most popular ways to transform your bicycle into an electric bike. The front wheel conversion kit means that you replace the anterior wheel with another wheel that has a special gear or hub. The rest of the bicycle remains the same as it was before.
If you are planning on riding up the hills or off-roading, then a rear wheel e-bike is the most ideal solution. This is because of the excellent traction control the rear wheel e-bike provides when pushing on the throttle. It features a rear wheel including a hub motor which is hard to notice as it resembles a large conventional bike hub.
The battery in a conversion kit provides energy for the motor. Therefore, it is another key factor you should prioritize when looking for a kit. Just make sure you choose a battery that is able to handle the current of your motor controller.
Pedal assistance system in an e-bike is useful in controlling its speed. It operates with a sensor attached on a pedal crank or bottom bracket and detects pedal torque or cadence. This then passes information to the controller in order to accelerate.
