Compact Refrigerators Save You Space

September is usually the month when students go back to school. Getting a compact refrigerator is oftentimes crucial for college students who spend most of their time studying and partying. Compact refrigerators are convenient and can help students eat healthier foods compared to the usual ramen or cup noodles. These smaller-sized refrigerators are also useful for people with small apartments or offices who don't have any extra room.

The Sunpentown RF-320W white compact refrigerator is a popular choice when it comes to apartments and college dorms. This compact refrigerator stands only 34 inches tall and features a separate compartment for a freezer! The wire shelves can slide out for convenience, and the freezer can actually reach an amazing 0° F! What makes this compact refrigerator stand out the most, of course, is the fact that it costs approximately $29 per year to operate. For those who have to pay a lot in electricity bills, this is a huge relief.

Some ice makers can also be used as compact refrigerators; these are a lot smaller and more compact. The NewAir AI-200SS portable ice maker is a great compact refrigerator that is only 16 inches long and 14 inches wide! Not only does this unit make ice, but it is also cold enough to function as a refrigerator. Unfortunately, this ice maker is not an ice freezer, so it can't store anything frozen for a long period of time.

Another compact refrigerator that can fit in small spaces is the extremely compact Sunpentown RF-400W refrigerator. This compact refrigerator, like the RF-320W, features a freezer and a refrigerator. However, this refrigerator features a little bit more cubic space (it has 4 cubic feet of space) for those who need a little more room. This compact refrigerator also comes with slide-out wire shelves, a transparent vegetable drawer with glass shelf, an ice cube tray and a can dispenser and tall bottle rack on the door! With an adjustable thermostat, you can even configure how cold you want the refrigerator to be. The RF-400W only costs about $31 per year and uses less than 1,000 watts per day!

If your home or office is running out of room, start using a compact refrigerator to save yourself some space, money and energy!

Air & Water: Now on Video!

According to Google, the number of streams per day on Google/YouTube is above 1 billion per day worldwide. This means that nearly everyone on the internet (on average) is watching one YouTube video per day. To acknowledge this trend, Air & Water has started releasing videos for your viewing pleasure.

The latest video we've released features reasons to purchase from Air & Water.

These include:

-A diverse selection of products including portable ice makers, portable air conditioners, heaters and vacuum cleaners.

-Excellent customer service including customer service specialists that are available via chat, e-mail or telephone. We also provide will call services to customers local to the Santa Ana, CA area.

-Informative product guides and unbiased product reviews are available on our websites to keep you completely informed about all of the products we offer.

The other videos we've posted include:

-Our recently concluded Summer Fan Contest. Congratulations Mark Ellis Harmon! Everyone who entered the contest received a free fan and Mark will be receiving a brand new NewAir AF-350 Swamp Cooler as our big winner.

-The NewAir AF-350 Portable Swamp Cooler: An inexpensive way to provide cooling when the weather heats up.

-The Dirt Devil 0105 Purpose for Pets Handheld Vacuum Review: A great vacuum cleaner for pet owners and allergy sufferers.

-A silent film about summer cooling: That's right. We've made a silent film that displays all the different products we offer to provide great cooling. As a result of popular demand, we've decided to shoot a silent film series. Look out for more silent films from Air & Water in the future.

Hopefully we can be one of the videos you view today!

Having a Summer Party? Make Perfect Iced Drinks with the NewAir AI-210SS Portable Icemaker!

Summer's here, and there’s no better time to celebrate the warmer months with cool cocktails in the comfort of your home. Whether you're having an after-work happy hour or a weekend soiree, serving perfectly chilled cocktails will definitely let you toast to a season of fun.

When planning a summer cocktail party, keep in mind that drinks are often the most important focal points. Don’t just serve wine or beer; consider the base of the drinks you’re going to serve, and don’t limit yourself to single spirit drinks. For example, it’s always a good idea to have a rum-based drink, vodka-based drink, and of course, a fruity, frozen summer concoction.

With that in mind, cool drinks require ice, and this is especially important in on-the-rocks beverages, as ice is a major factor in constructing the perfect Tom Collins or Whiskey Sour. The best quality and tasting ice either makes or breaks a great drink, and cubes should be shaped in such a way that it does not take up much surface area because this prevents the drink from “watering down.”

Therefore, if you’re throwing a summer cocktail party, don’t forget to have ample amounts of ice. While your refrigerator’s icemaker can provide enough ice for a few glasses of water or ice tea, you may have to seek other methods of obtaining larger amounts of ice. Many people purchase ice from the supermarket or even from ice companies. These companies use state-of-the-art ice making equipment with a reverse-osmosis purification process, and the resulting ice is bagged and made available to customers.

This type of ice most often comes in the form of dry ice, glacier block ice, and cubed ice. Dry ice is carbon dioxide in a frozen state and is ideal for keeping perishables frozen for long periods of time. Because dry ice doesn’t melt into water but turns into a gas, they are not used directly in beverages. Glacier block ice comes in large blocks and perfect for camping on ice chests. Cubed ice, on the other hand, is what most people use in their drinks, and these can be purchased in various sized bags and quantities.

However, if you don’t want to deal with the issue of buying cubed ice from an ice company, a portable ice maker may be just the solution. These types of units are compact, good for countertop placement, and usually produce ice in minutes without needing to be directly connected to a water line. Instead, bottled or tap water can be poured directly into the icemaker. Furthermore, many portable ice makers can produce ice in different sizes and cube shapes.

Our product team has spent the majority of the summer months testing and reviewing some of the most popular portable ice makers on the market today. Well-known icemaker manufacturers include Franklin Chef, Amcor, Avanti, and Sunpentown, but when NewAir, a company primarily known for its air conditioners and heaters, offered to supply us with their NewAir AI-210SS portable ice maker to try, we were excited to see how it measured up in terms of features when compared to competing units. Here’s what we found:

Design:
When we received the AI-210SS icemaker, we really liked its sleek and stylish design. It featured a silver body with black accents that looked great sitting on our kitchen counter. Although it weighed approximately 46 pounds, we could tell it was constructed of heavy duty materials and built to last. This 115 volt icemaker easily plugged into a household outlet, and the front door was easy to open and close. Also included was a removable bin and ice scoop. The LCD screen was bright and easy to read, and we were able to have the unit up and running after just a few minutes. We also appreciated the fact that it even had a “Self-Clean” function.

Ice Making Capabilities:
According to NewAir, the AI-210SS portable ice maker produces ice in as little as six minutes, and we found this to be true. Twelve pieces of ice per cycle were made in our choice of three different sizes (small, medium, and large), and instead of having to deal with a water line, we simply poured bottled water into the reservoir. In terms of maintenance, when we were done using the AI-210SS, we simply emptied the unused water via the side mounted drain.

Overall Thoughts:
Overall, we feel the NewAir AI-210SS is the best choice for homeowners that need a compact ice maker. It makes a large amount of ice in a short amount of time and is actually more affordable than other units with similar ice making abilities.

Get Ice in Minutes with the Sleek and Stylish NewAir AI-200SS Portable Ice Maker!

Summer is already here, and besides sitting in an air conditioned room or in front of a fan at full blast, blistering days are usually tamed by icy chilled drinks. Our refrigerator ice makers can be one of our best friends in the sweltering summer, but like many home appliances, freezer ice makers are prone to malfunctions. Problems can arise from plugged water filters, kinks in the water line, or even expanding/contracting coils, and when such issues occur, we’re usually forced to run to the supermarket to fetch heavy bags of ice. This scenario is especially frustrating during a party or gathering. Thankfully, home ice makers can solve this problem.

Most restaurants use huge commercial-sized ice makers that produce hundreds of pounds of ice per day, but this isn't necessary if you simply want to enjoy a cold drink or need to fill an ice cooler. Instead, a portable countertop ice maker can do the job. Portable ice makers are nothing like commercial icemakers because they’re compact, easy to use, and usually don’t require permanent installation or any type of direct line connection. Water is simply poured into the unit’s tank and ice is made within minutes.

With that in mind, there are several different portable icemaker manufacturers on the market today, and some of the most popular brands are Amcor and Franklin Chef. Our product team has been busy testing some of the newest portable icemakers on the market, and we recently came across the NewAir AI-200SS countertop icemaker.

Perfect for home, RV, or boats; and ideal for parties and get-togethers, the NewAir AI-200SS is affordable and boasts a handful of advanced features as well. Here is what we especially liked about this value-priced portable ice maker:

Design and Style:
The first thing we noticed about the AI-200SS ice maker was its appearance. Constructed of heavy-duty stainless steel, this unit was sleek, stylish, and looked great in our kitchen. Although it weighed about 46 pounds, its unique cubic shape made it idea for countertop use. We liked the fact that it only required a standard household outlet and did not need to be continually drained or hooked up to a direct water line. Instead, we simply filled the water reservoir with one gallon of bottled water, placed the ice basket back into the unit, and closed the cover. Furthermore, the soft touch controls made the AI-200SS incredibly easy to operate.

Ice Making Abilities:
After filling up the water tank, we were now ready to have a constant and ample supply of ice. Ice was produced in only 10 minutes (12 pieces per cycle), and we were even able to select from three ice cube sizes: large, medium, and small. Each ice making cycle lasted anywhere from 7 to 13 minutes, depending on the ice cube size, and the internal bin was able to hold 2.5 pounds of ice at a time. Over the course of one day, we were able to get approximately 35 pounds of ice from the AI-200SS.

Overall, we really enjoyed the NewAir AI-200SS portable ice maker. In fact, once we began to use it, we wondered how we ever got along without it. Also, at under $250, it was definitely more affordable (and effective) than some of the other models we tested.

Spruce Up Your Home with a Stylish Small Appliance

Many home appliance manufacturers are creating their products with design considerations in mind. Color is everywhere, and metal finishes, brushed aluminum, and warm copper are especially popular, as many consumers are now looking for both form and function in a home appliance. The influence of sophisticated and contemporary European design can be found in many modern home appliances, particularly in kitchen appliances such as portable icemakers, refrigerators, and espresso machines. Here are some examples of appliances which can compliment any décor:

Home Icemakers
An icemaker is essential in industries such as grocery, lodging, and food service, but these appliances also make great additions for anyone who enjoys entertaining or filling a cooler on the go. Portable icemakers can typically produce several pounds of ice in a short period of time and will allow you to enjoy icy, refreshing drinks any time.

In terms of looks, the NewAir AI-200SS ($199.95) portable ice maker has been completely redesigned and is now constructed of commercial-grade stainless steel. By producing three types of ice cubes in as little as six minutes, and with the capability of delivering up to 35 pounds of ice per day, this sleek icemaker is a welcome addition to any kitchen.

Compact Refrigerators
Small studio apartments, dorm rooms, or offices may not be large enough to accommodate standard refrigerators, and in those situations, a compact refrigerator is an ideal solution. While compact refrigerators used to be simple and generic, most have come a long way, with many modern units being constructed of stainless steel and including large, separate freezers.

For those who want a sleek and stylish compact refrigerator, the Sunpentown RF-320S ($213.95) comes to mind. Featuring separate fridge and freezer compartments with double doors, an adjustable thermostat, and fresh food section, the RF-320S costs only $29 a year to run. As well, the unit is housed in a stylish black case with stainless steel doors to compliment most interiors.

Espresso Machines
Espresso consumption in the United States has grown tremendously in the last decade, and in many large metropolitan cities, it’s impossible to walk more than a couple of blocks without seeing some kind of café or espresso cart, as they’re often located in bookstores, grocery stores, and even gas stations. Although commercial espresso machines can cost thousands of dollars, experts say that a quality home machine can be had in the $300 to $600 range.

The DeLonghi EC701 ($329.95) espresso machine was designed and engineer in Italy, and the European design influence is quite apparent, as the unit is constructed of high-grade stainless steel. This unit also features two separate thermostats for controlling water and steam pressure, pod holder, frother, and patented “Sempre Crema” filter holder to produce a perfect crema with every cup.

Air Purifiers
We roughly inhale 10,000 quarts of air every day, and this brings not only oxygen into our lungs, but also harmful pollutants. In addition, because we spend up to 90 percent indoors, we are highly susceptible to indoor particulates such as dust, dirt, dander, gases, chemicals, and even biological contaminants. With an air purifier, however, you can filter out these contaminants, become healthier, and alleviate respiratory problems.

However, the only problem with many air purifiers is that they are often large, clunky, and somewhat of an eyesore, but with Blueair’s Airpod ($99.95), you can breathe in crystal-clear air wherever you go. In addition to its compact size and state-of-the-art HEPA filter, the Airpod is available in multiple patterns to allow the unit to fit into any décor.

Space Heaters
In instances where central heating is inadequate or too costly to install and operate, a portable space heater can provide warm comfort during the cooler months. In many cases, space heaters can be much less expensive to run if heating only one room or as a supplemental heating source. They can also effectively boost the temperature of rooms used by individuals sensitive to cold without overheating your entire home.

Electric fireplaces are the ideal solution when you need heat but wish to add to the décor of your surroundings. Models such as the NewAir AH-500 ($179.99) bring quiet, instant heat in a classic design that is sure to complement any room of your home. This electric fireplace provides the warm, fire-like glow of a real fireplace without any smoke or fumes, and costs just pennies to run a day.

Water Dispenser Review: New Air AI-300S

Water is the elixir of life and the substance that makes the earth habitable and human life possible, and with a water dispenser, you can easily increase your water intake to the recommended 8 glasses a day. Here are some other reasons why purchasing a water dispenser is a good idea:

- Water is healthier and less expensive than sugary sodas or juices.

- Studies have shown that adults tend to drink more water when they can dispense it and this is also true for young children.

- With a water dispenser, water is always available, therefore eliminating the need to run to the tap every time you need a new glass

- By purchasing your own water dispenser, you avoid having to pay rental fees to a water company

- Some water dispensers also dispense both hot and cold water; therefore allowing you to make a cup of tea or hot chocolate if the need arises

While there are many brands and styles of water dispensers available, you should consider how much water your and your family consume on a daily basis, what other functions you need in a water dispenser (ice maker, both hot and cold settings, etc) and whether you have room for either a countertop water dispenser or a floor standing water dispenser.

Floor water dispensers such as the New Air AI-400SB provide water via bottles or a building’s water mains. Although using a bottled water dispenser may be more costly than ones that use plumbed in water, you can always be sure that your floor standing water dispenser is providing a reliably clean water supply.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a small countertop model, the New Air AI-300S water dispenser is a great choice. This versatile water dispenser boasts many advanced features not found in many other water dispensers on the market such as a built-in icemaker (1.1 pounds per hour), ice crusher, and self-cleaning function. It also gives you the flexibility of either connecting it to your home line water supply or using bottled water, thus allowing you to enjoy iced or cold drinks anytime.

Water Dispensers - Renting Vs. Buying - AI-400SB Review

Studies have shown that perhaps 80% of Americans are walking around dehydrated. Many of us drink too many caffeinated sodas, coffee, or energy drinks, and these often cause our bodies to lose water. This is a cause for concern because water is necessary for our bodies to digest and absorb vitamins and nutrients. As well, water helps detoxify the liver and kidneys, and also carries waste away from the body.

There are also countless other benefits to keeping your body well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and a steady dose of 8 glasses a day (or ½ your body weight in ounces of water) can increase your mental clarity, improve your energy, keep your skin healthy, and even allow for proper digestion. In addition, for those trying to lose weight, water has been shown to be a natural appetite suppressant, and many doctors note that people often mistake hunger for thirst.

With that in mind, we should all strive to increase our water intake. Bottled water is a great way to ensure proper hydration, but over time, this may prove to be expensive, and for homes or offices, renting or purchasing a water cooler may be a more economical way to quench your thirst.

Renting a Water Cooler
In the past, traditional water coolers were wall-mounted and provided non-filtered water from a municipal water source. However, modern water coolers now feature purified water that is often delivered to a location on a regular basis, with empty bottles being taken away. This water is then dispensed through a free-standing water cooling, and rental fees can cost anywhere from $5 to $20 a month, depending on how much water you receive and what type of dispenser you choose.

The obvious benefit of renting a water cooler is having fresh water regularly delivered to you, and many water companies also offer cooler maintenance. Therefore, if your cooler happens to malfunction, the company distributing your water and cooler will most likely perform repairs for you. If you choose this method of acquiring your water and water cooler, be sure to inquire about what’s included with the monthly fee, as well as the following questions:

1. What is the charge for water delivery beyond the regular amount?
2. Are damages included and will the cooler be replaced at no charge?
3. Is there a fee associated with cancelling service?
4. Does the company offer a discount for supplying your own water cooler stand and just have the water delivered?

Purchasing a Water Cooler
For those who wish to purchase their own water cooler instead of renting one, many options are available, ranging from the most basic models which simply dispense room temperature water to models with advanced features such as ice makers. One such model is the New Air AI-400SB. This sleek and compact appliance not only features hot and cold water dispensing, but it also has the ability to produce up to 28 pounds of ice per day. No water lines or drains are needed, as this water dispenser can fit your choice of 3 or 5 gallon water bottles which can either be purchased from a retail store or delivered from a water company as noted above.

In addition to its convenient ice-making capability, the AI-400SB can also dispense hot or room temperature water, and its hot water safety guard prevents young children from getting burned. LED indicator lights make using this unit easy, and a low-water safety device ensures proper use. Although this unit retails for $329.95, by comparing rental costs and the different features this unit has to offer, over time, it is well worth the price.