Home Appliances

Guide to Creating a DIY Cold Plunge at Home Using a Chest Freezer

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A simple step by step guide to converting a 500ltr chest freezer to an ice bath tub for cold plunge.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to create or modify a chest freezer into an ice bath for your home. While we understand the appeal of a purpose-built ice bath tub equipped with advanced features like a temperature-controlled chiller unit, UV sanitation, and ozone filtration, we acknowledge that not everyone has the financial means for such luxuries.

Fortunately, with just a few straightforward procedures, you can effortlessly convert a regular household chest freezer into a fully operational cold plunge tub. This DIY project allows you to have complete control over the temperature, set timers, waterproof the freezer, and ensure maximum safety during your ice bathing sessions.

If you have been contemplating the idea of constructing your own ice bath due to the numerous benefits associated with cold water exposure, you have two options. You can either dip your toes into the water by starting with a more affordable inflatable ice bath, or you can dive right into the steps for converting your chest freezer.

When purchasing the appropriate chest freezer for an ice bath, it is essential to ensure that you select the right size to avoid discomfort. The Westinghouse 500L and the Haier 319L chest freezers are two excellent options for ice bath conversions that I have identified.

Key factors to consider when selecting a chest freezer for an ice bath conversion include:

  1. Capacity in Litres
  2. Functionality of the Chest Freezer Lid
  3. Price

Selecting the correct capacity for the chest freezer is crucial, as I have learned from personal experience of purchasing one that was too small. A chest freezer with a capacity of 300L or more is recommended for creating an ice bath, but it is important not to choose one that is too large, making it difficult to find a comfortable position for the cold plunge.

A chest freezer with a capacity between 320L and 500L is ideal. Keep in mind that even a 320L chest freezer may be too small if you are over 180cm tall, so opt for a slightly larger size if you are taller or prefer more space to stretch out. If unsure, refer to the product specifications for the overall dimensions of the chest freezer.

When selecting a chest freezer with the appropriate lid configuration, it is essential to ensure that the lid can stay open without needing to be held. While most chest freezers have lids that remain open, it is crucial to verify this feature. This is important because if the lid accidentally closes while you are in the ice bath, you must be able to open it from the inside. Therefore, opt for a chest freezer that does not have a self-locking mechanism on the lid.

In addition to lid configuration, budget is a key factor to consider when searching for the ideal chest freezer for an ice bath conversion. There are high-priced chest freezers available, with the size, brand, and chiller unit power influencing the cost. However, it is possible to find a suitable chest freezer for cold plunges priced under $1200 for members. The recommended chest freezer typically ranges from $600 to $1500, depending on the brand and size.

Step By Step Guide on How to Build a Chest Freezer Ice Bath.

The process of converting a chest freezer into an ice bath involves mainly connecting the purchased equipment and ensuring they are safe from water. It is important to note that modifying the chest freezer will void any associated warranty and may pose risks due to not using the product for its intended purpose. Please be cautious as mixing electricity with water can be dangerous and may result in health risks for which we are not liable.

  1. The first step involves sealing the edge seams.

As previously stated, a significant portion of the process of converting a chest freezer into an ice bath involves connecting the different components to the adapter and filling the ice bath. The most time-consuming aspect of transforming a chest freezer into an ice bath is ensuring that the edges or seams are properly sealed with a waterproof sealant.

Contrary to popular belief, a freezer is not entirely waterproof, and filling it with water without sealing the edges is a surefire way to ruin your chest freezer. By sealing the internal edges of the freezer, you are effectively preventing any water leakage that could potentially harm the electrical components, while also enhancing the safety of the conversion. The more effectively you can contain the water within the tub, the safer the ice bath will be.

Our recommended product for this task is JB Water Weld, although you can also achieve similar results using bathroom silicone. It is worth noting that if you opt for the JB Water Weld product, you may need approximately 30 tubes to seal the perimeter of the chest freezer, whereas you would only require about 2 tubes of silicone from Bunnings to achieve a similar outcome.

To seal the edges, mix the JB Water Weld and apply a strip along the internal joints of the chest freezer, ensuring to seal the drainage hole if the ice bath is equipped with one. If you are using silicone, we suggest applying a thick line of silicone along one edge, spraying it with soapy water, and then smoothing it out with a rubber silicone edging tool. For a detailed demonstration, we recommend consulting Youtube for the most effective technique, as this process can become messy quickly. Once you have successfully sealed one edge, proceed to the next until all edges of the chest freezer are properly sealed.

2. Install Digital Temperature Control.

It is likely that you will prefer to regulate the temperature of your ice bath, especially if you are new to cold plunges. It is not ideal to have a solid block of ice on the surface that you need to break in order to enter the bath. Many individuals wonder, “What should be the ideal temperature for an ice bath?”. It is recommended to gradually acclimate yourself to cold water exposure, starting at a temperature that is uncomfortable yet safe for you.

By installing a digital temperature control, you can easily set your desired temperature on the device. The sensor placed in the water will automatically turn off the ice bath once it reaches your chosen cold plunge temperature.

To set this up correctly, simply plug the power cord of the chest freezer directly into the digital temperature control unit and place the sensor in the water. This will function as a thermostat, regulating the ice bath chiller unit to maintain a suitable temperature for your needs.

1. Step 3 involves the establishment of water filtration systems.

One of the key methods to maintain the efficiency of your chest freezer ice bath is through effective water filtration. Installing a water filtration system in your chest freezer is a straightforward process that guarantees a consistently clean ice bath, always prepared for a cold plunge.

Even though it is recommended to clean your feet and rinse your body before entering the chest freezer ice bath, you will be surprised by the accumulation of debris, skin, and hair in the water. To address this issue, we utilize a water filter. The water filter not only helps in removing impurities but also ensures proper circulation of water in the ice bath, which aids in breaking the thermal layer of the skin and maximizing the benefits of exposure to cold water.

To incorporate a water filtration unit similar to the one we suggest, position the water filter in an area prone to debris accumulation, and extend the cable to a suitable location, connecting it to a digital temperature gauge for organization – zip ties can be useful for this purpose.

IMPORTANT: For utmost safety, remember to either switch off the filter or remove it from the ice bath while in use to prevent any risk of electrocution.

Step 4 – Ozone Sanitisation Device

In order to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of your ice bath, it is essential to use some form of water sanitation. Failure to do so can lead to the formation of a slimy film on the surfaces of the ice bath, which will eventually progress into unwanted algae. One effective method of sanitation is using an ozone generator, which introduces a small amount of gas into the water, providing a strong sanitizing effect. However, it is important to note that using chemical or salts for sanitation can impact the performance of your water filter and alter the desired crispness of the ice bath. There are various ozone generators available, each designed to service different volumes of water. The recommended ozone generator should be sufficient to keep your chest freezer ice bath water clean and pure. If you notice the water becoming dirty, it is advisable to empty and refill it. Similar to the ice bath and water filter, the ozone generator can also be connected to a timer switch. We suggest running the ozone filter for a few hours each day, in addition to the 24-hour operation of the water filter (except when using the ice bath). To incorporate the ozone generator into your ice bath, simply set up the unit outside the chest freezer and run the tube into the water alongside the water filter cable, ensuring that the ozone is removed when you take out the filter.

Step 5 involves ensuring the Chest Freezer is properly leveled.

The first step involves positioning your chest freezer ice bath in a manner that maximizes the structural integrity of the base, as most chest freezers are not designed to support the weight of a human. Many chest freezers are equipped with wheels or adjustable corners. If your chest freezer has wheels, it is advisable to remove them in order to minimize the gap between the bottom of the freezer and the surface on which the ice bath is placed. Ideally, the base of the chest freezer should be in direct contact with the floor to prevent pressure marks from forming when entering or exiting the ice bath. If removing the wheels is not an option, an alternative approach is to place old tiles or timber blocks under the base of the chest freezer to ensure even support across the entire surface.

Cars

The Benefits of Selling Your Car Quickly

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What do most people look for when purchasing a pre-owned vehicle, of course, the car itself, but also a discounted used cars price is always the main attraction when selling your car privately, then the make, or model the buyer is looking to buy? Colour and options that they want? How many kilometres has the vehicle done? Once a potential buyer is happy with what the seller is offering only then will they try to make contact.

There are things like dings dents scratches and wheel scuffs that some people may care about, and others may not—especially on a car that is older, with higher kilometres on the clock. It may be worth taking some small measures to address some of these things (e.g., putting some touch-up paint on any chips or scratches, you would be surprised what a little polish can do.)

If you’re selling a newer or more expensive car, it may be worth going a little further to make it closer to pristine. If it’s in excellent overall condition, but there are one or two small dents, it might be beneficial to spend a few hundred dollars to have a body shop fix those. Buyers will often pay more if the vehicle is in excellent condition.

Whatever the year or the price of your car, one thing that always helps increase the chances of someone buying it is a good cleaning vehicle. If it’s spotless, inside and out, it looks its best. A clean car gives the impression that it’s been well cared for, which is of course very important to most buyers.

selling my car quickly
Polishing My Car

Recommendations

It would be a great idea to make sure your vehicle is mechanically sound and up-to-date on services check for oil changes, chips on the windscreen and any other service the manufacturer recommends. It’s also useful to know about things that may need replacing soon, like tyres. You certainly don’t need to put new tyres on a car you’re about to sell, but you should be ready to discuss it with your potential buyers. You may want to tell them that you’ve priced the car a little lower to account for the fact it will need new tyres soon, or to have a counteroffer amount in mind in case they make an offer below your asking price based on the need for new tyres.

There’s nothing more frustrating than listing your car for sale and then hearing nothing for days. You’re ready to sell it because you’re moving, or you need the money pay bills, or you have your eye on another car that you’re eager to bring home. If you’re not getting the interest, you think your vehicle deserves, and if it’s taking a long time to sell, the price is the most likely culprit.

Otherwise, holding out for that ideal price might mean many extra weeks on the market. Those are weeks you spend waiting. Maybe you don’t hear from any interested buyers. Alternatively, perhaps you do, but you spend much time showing your car to people whom all end up offering considerably less than your asking price. Better to merely price it a little lower and attract a lot more buyers right away which also increases the chances that someone is going to buy it at asking price, without trying to negotiate down.

Sometimes even a relatively small reduction in price can suddenly open up a lot more potential buyers; if you have your budget car listed at $15,400, for example, and you drop the price to $15,000, it may put you within more buyers’ price range. Because many people use search filters, and if they’ve set a maximum price of $15,000, even if your car set at $15,100, they’ll never see it. So whatever amount you list your car at, keep in mind that reducing it by just a few hundred dollars will likely make it show up in a lot more buyers’ searches. Also, will mean selling it faster, so you can buy your next car!

Selling Your Car

Our team can help members with practical advice and the best possible solution for the sale of your vehicle, with a full dealers licence our team will provide their skills to gain the best possible solution, negotiate with dealer networks and ensure the best outcome for the procurement our your pre-loved vehicle. You have nothing to worry about by using our services and everything to benefit. Why not experience our stress-free car buying service and save your self-money and your precious time.

Cars

5 Tips To Take Care Of Your Windscreen & Know How To Repair

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Your motor vehicle is one of your most valuable investments, and it is essential to maintain it regularly as well as ensuring the safety of yourself and other passengers you may have traveling in your vehicle. Servicing your car on a regular basis is common sense, but when it comes to the windscreen, it is quite remarkable how many people tend to neglect to take the care required.

The clarity and condition of your windscreen are vital to the safety of yourself and other road users.  The things you can not see influence your ability to drive as the view from your windshield is what determines how you operate.

Statistics show that annual tests performed on vehicles in the United Kingdom fail due to broken and damaged windscreens. Although such tests are not a necessity in Australia, it would be impressive to see how many vehicles, in fact, have chipped windshields. Especially those undertaking Australia-wide road trips on gravel roads / rough terrain.

Looking after your windscreen can be quite simple if you follow five simple steps:

  • Firstly, if you notice any chips in your windshield, act quickly. If you have them repaired as soon as possible, it means the damage will not spread.
  • Ideally, you should be cleaning your windscreen on a daily basis. Giving it a quick wipe over is generally all you need to keep it sparkling. Occasionally you may require a cleaning product specially formulated for glass when it comes to more stubborn stains or a quick wash with a scrubbing brush and plenty of water.
  • Not only is the exterior of your windscreen important, but you also need to ensure you wipe over the interior at least once a week. It’s straightforward to leave the inside of a window cloudy with smears, fingerprints and grease build-up. It is essential for the clarity of your windscreen and also applies to all other windows in your car.
  • Many people clean their front windscreen and tend to neglect the back, which is equally important when it comes to your driving experience. It is quite evident when the sun is shining and even more so at sunset when the light reflects at certain angles, making it exceptionally difficult to see clearly.
  • For tinted glass, ensure you use a mild detergent and follow the guidelines recommended by the manufacturer to avoid any damage to the tinting. Your guarantee can become void if you have not followed the highlighted instructions, meaning it will cost you more to fix the problems that could occur.
  • Slow down when driving past large delivery trucks and lorries to avoid any flying debris that may cause chips.
  • When a road has been surfaced recently, try to drive a little slower to avoid any stones hitting your windscreen as this can be very damaging.

As with all mundane tasks, we can put this off, but once you are in the habit of taking care of/cleaning your windscreen correctly, you will begin to take pride in your vehicle. Although many companies offer cost-effective windscreen repairs and replacements, hopefully, you do not receive a hefty bill with your next service.

Following improper care of your windscreen, you may need to fix yours. Here is a Beginner’s guide to doing so:

Upon noticing a chip, it’s nearly always more comfortable to do a simple repair than it so repairs the whole windscreen. A quick search on the Internet can offer many results for windscreen repairs with utmost quality. The companies will often come to your home and inspect the damage then take the following steps:

  • Clean the chip and area surrounding to remove any dirt from the impact site to make sure the chip completely clean.
  • Insert resin into the damaged area using specialised tools.
  • Treat the resin with a UV lamp

Chip repair usually takes approximately 30 minutes and is performed in dry weather for the best results. It is possible to repair a chip in rainy conditions with a canopy that extends from the repair van though – this will take slightly longer as the air is moist.  After the repair is complete, you can drive straight away with confidence.

It isn’t always possible to notice a chip, which leads to the inevitable cracked windscreen, which can also be caused by a substantial impact. If this is the problem you find yourself with, ensure you take action and have it repaired as soon as possible as it can pose a high risk to yourself and any passengers you may have.

Never try to replace a cracked windscreen by yourself, leave it to a professional who will follow these four simple steps:

  • Protect the bodywork of the vehicle and inspect it before removing the glass.
  • Apply a bonding product to hold your new windscreen in place.
  • Fit the replacement.
  • Clean away any dirt.
Home Appliances

Kitchen Appliances: A Necessity of Every Modern Home

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The most important aspects to modern living are luxury, peace and comfort and the ability to combine all three under one roof.

Smart kitchen appliances provide a home with comfort and ease in the areas such as air conditioning, laundry and cooking delicious, healthy foods much faster. This allows homeowners to complete their daily tasks in record times and enjoy more of the things they like to do! The ability to buy kitchen appliances online takes away the mundane task of having to shop around in many stores.

There are a variety of innovative kitchen appliances in the market today with interactive functionality. These cutting-edge kitchen appliances are custom designed to provide one of the busiest rooms in the entire house with brighter and sharper decor, functionality, ease and comfort.

Every house built and lived in since early 20th century has been prone to technological advancements in home appliances. Home appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, ovens and dishwashers have replaced hefty fatigued hours of work endured by housewives, husbands and children with luxury of time for other chores or even some leisure time. There are large varieties of top-notch and excellent brands available online and in the market, there are also appliances for a variety of functionalities as well as one product which may well be suitable for many tasks. They are durable; make things faster, tastier and are repairable in most electronic stores. Smart home appliances are electrical devices that can assist with laundry, cooking, humidifying, and cleaning the houses without much ado.

No house is complete without a large amount of appliances these days. They are essential to all households and although they do not necessarily add to the beauty of a home, they have become a necessity and are needed by most families to have a hassle-free life. With so many different types of appliance and brands available on the market, choosing one can become quite difficult especially when you wish to purchase home appliances online at unbelievable prices.

Home appliances have become one of the most important aspects of a comfortable life that allow people of all age, gender and class to meet their deadlines, complete daily chores, fulfill responsibilities and eat healthy. In every home, an all round refrigerator, electric freezer, microwave, dishwasher, thermostat and washing machine are some of the necessary aids to leading a balanced and healthy life. Today, we have a series of interactive kitchen appliances that aid in creating delicious foods in a matter of minutes – examples being air fryers and slow cookers. There are many cost effective and multi-functional appliances that serve to reduce the daily grind and exhaustion of an average person. There is a surplus of kitchen appliances and smart household appliances available online which are designed, to cook, clean and wash at a house without little or less labour. These can be any appliance from robotic vacuum cleaners to dishwashers, and washing machines to refrigerators with built-in ice and water. Whatever you are looking for, there is generally some kind of appliance to help make your life easier!

If you’re looking to purchase big-ticket items, there are a few tips, which you can use.

First and foremost, know what you’re requirements are and what you’re looking for. Once you know the specifics, the search can be narrowed down and you can readily find the products available. Always keep the measurements you need in mind as that can limit the models available to you also. For example, if looking for washing machines, you should have a clear idea if you are looking for semi automatic or fully automatic as well as the measurements and the capacity it holds. Energy and water consumption play a huge part in today’s society so always look for appliances with excellent ratings. This will save you money whilst thinking of the environment.

Another tip would be to consider the retailer whom you are purchasing appliances from. The retailer of the popular kitchen appliances should not only be in the list of top sellers but also be the retailer who provides you appliances of a mid-range value. This gives customers the satisfaction that the product is being purchased from a reputable source. The other factors that should be considered are the installation, warranty, delivery date and the customer service they provide. Before making the purchase the product reviews should be read carefully as this helps you to understand the quality of the product. Purchasing online appliances is as reputable as buying it from physical retailers as they make sure they provide you the same service at the best price.

The purchase of home appliances online can be a lot more convenient than dedicating a whole day to looking around various stores. You can have the appliances delivered to your doorstep without any hassle at all.

Insurance

When and Why Should Women Need Life Insurance – 5 Reasons

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Understanding life insurance in today’s scenario requires you to look at a number of things together. Firstly, we have improved life expectancy, medical conditions, nutrition and a lot of other things which not only narrate the blessings of science and technology but also throw light on how our lifestyles have improved. Secondly, we have those advertisements and heartbreaking stories in which women lost equity or bank balance to overcome expenses because their husbands had not taken out insurance. Thirdly, there are improved or degraded financial conditions.

Let’s resolve the case. Improvement of lifestyles has not reduced the number of emergencies.  Secondly, if your husband has not taken out insurance because you are financially stable or any other reason, yet you still have the right to take out insurance. Whether you are independent, a single parent, or never married someone, there are countless reasons that make insurance a must-have. Here are the most important reasons to save bucks even if he disagrees.

1. Retirement Planning

No matter if you are single, married or a single parent, you would definitely want to live your golden period without depending on anyone and without the fear of failing to pay your medical bills or living on green belts. Retirement planning is basically a combination plan which defines how you will manage your old age expenses. It includes finance resource to pay off mortgage and resources provided by the federation to make your retirement period securer and stress-free. The latter includes medical retirement plans, housing plans, business plans, security plans, pension, social security, death coverage and others.

Tip: There is a good variety of whole life insurance plans available online. If you want to save big money on life insurance then choose whole life old age insurance plan instead of individual plans.

2. Working Women – Dependent and Independent

For independent women, there are enough reasons to take out insurance. But the list is long enough for dependent women as well. A majority of families have both partner working for bread and butter. No matter if you are a dependent woman supporting your partner or an independent woman with dependants or kids to support, you will need insurance plans to save your family from derailing.

Tip: Ideal insurance plans for women working as employees include medical and study insurance plan. For businesswomen, it is important to get business and finance insurance plans along with life insurance. If you don’t work and stay at home then you can help your partner to find and get online life insurance.

3. Marriage or Study

Marriage is a bond which not only defines your mutual understanding but also the ability of you two to keep your financial commitments. Starting a new life is exciting but starting a new and insured life brings peace of mind and excitement both. For newlywed couples, there are a number of insurance plans in the market. You can also get online range of life insurance products or ask people around you for references and ideas.

Tip: Don’t hesitate discussing the financial matters, your concerns and liabilities with your partner-to-be. Our tip is to prepare your life insurance plan before marriage and sign the documents as soon as possible for stress-free years ahead.

Another important reason for women to take life insurance is when starting a new degree or resuming your studies. Many women continue their studies after marriage as well. Even if you are an independent woman, taking out life insurance will definitely save you and your family a fortune.

Tip: Before taking out insurance, apply for scholarships to help you cover the maximum of your educational expenses.

4. Before Having Kids

Unfortunately, with dropping global economy and trembling GDP, kids have become more of responsibility than of charm and excitement. Life insurance plans can repave the path of this responsibility by bringing you peace of mind. As a couple, you are already financially dependent on each other and independent as an individual. After having kids, automatically you both will have someone completely dependent on you. Life insurance will save your partner from doubled responsibilities in worst case of death of one partner. Secondly, life insurance becomes the stress-partner if circumstances become worst and go against increased life expectancy at birth.

Tip: Most of the life insurance plans are available as jubilee and premium insurance. Plan your family and calculate the difference in your finances after 10 years. After making all calculations, pick life insurance plan which ideally suits you to pay periodically.

5. A Gift After You

People struggle throughout their lives to help their families live their dreams. But your life insurance is something that can help them even when you are not among them. Life insurance money is a lasting legacy which can be used to pay the college fee of your kids abroad, for starting a new business or going on world tour. You can also suggest using this money for charity and other divine purposes after your life.

Tip: You can add many zeros to your life insurance money by starting it at early age. The earlier you start, the bigger would be insurance money.

True to its name, life insurance is not just a saving plan for unfortunate events but it is also a lifesaver and income resource for your family even after your life. It is a package that lives for long and this is the most important reason to get life insurance sooner than planned.