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Advantages of New V-120 XP3 Hornet Deer Repeller for Cars and Motorcycles Over Older Models

by Barbara 2. August 2010 08:44

Question about the New XP3 Hornet, Model V-120

Q: "I have an older model of the Hornet electronic deer repeller. I just got a new car. I'd like to know how this model differs so I know if I should buy a new unit or re-install the old one. Thanks. Jack."

Answer: Protection against car deer accidents is easier with the new model. The new Hornet V Models utilize the latest and most reliable electronic technology: you do not have to ground the new unit to the vehicle chassis. The V series Hornets come with a 4' pigtail and a 3.5mm plug that connects via a new weather tight connector to a new wiring harness. The easy mount bracket lets you mount the unit to the license plate bracket. The new automotive wiring harness is 10 feet long and comes complete with an inline fuse. You do not have to drill a hole in the firewall for the control switch as you did with the older version. The combined total length of the new 10' automotive wiring harness and the 4' pigtail wire connected to the V series is 14 feet which makes installation easier.  The most unique feature of the automotive V series Hornets is that the wiring harness does not carry power. The automotive V series switches the ground so a short circuit can never occur. This means you can wrap the wiring harness around and through the door jam without the possiblity of a short circuit. The V series motorcycle harness also has the new weather tight 3.5mm plug and a redesigned switch housing for easy installation.

XP3 Hornet V-120 Black or Chrome Deer Accident Avoidance Features:

  • Sound Pressure Level: 120dB (A.S.)
  • Operating Base Frequency: 4.8 ± 0.5 kHz
  • WV Ultrasonic Wave: 18,000 to 21,000 Hz
  • Wave Carrying Length: 1,600 Ft. ±
  • Effective Range: 700 Ft.
  • Operating Voltage Range: 8-16 VDC
  • Current Consumption: 10mA (max.) at 12 VDC
  • The chrome model is very popular with motorcycle owners and those with more expensive sporty cars.

    The Hornet has a 90 day limited warranty and a lifetime service policy by the manufacturer.

    Thank you for your question.

    Sincerely, Barbara

    K9 Heat Alarm Keeps Pets or Police Dogs Safer from Heat or Cold in Car or RV

    by Barbara 16. July 2010 12:24

    Question about the K9 Heat Alarm.

    Q: "I have a motorhome and travel with my pets. Would the K9 heat alarm work in my situation? I am afraid the power may go off with the air conditioning or the motorhome will stall when we are shopping for groceries." Thanks. Steve.

    Answer: My first sale for this product was for a motorhome owner just like you. He had been looking for a unit that would sound the horn if the temperature rose inside.

    Although more typically sold to protect police dogs, this heat alarm made in the USA also works to protect pets or other animals from heat stroke or cold temperatures. This is a 12Volt system and includes the window drop module. Other options include a beeper/pager, dual window drop module (Included with this unit), light bar and/or fan system.

    The fan system has 8 blades. Note: Install grills on rear vehicle windows to prevent pets from exiting an unattended vehicle. Use this car ventilation fan with or without the window drop feature. Mount fan carefully to avoid interfering with the window drop and to avoid causing a hazard to the dog.

    Ventilation Fan Specifications: Construction: Black high impact plastic. Physical size” 13 7/8 inches in diameter and 2.75 inches thick. Typical Airflow: 675-800 CFM, dependent upon grill type used. Power: 12V fused, 10 Amps. Note: Professional installation may be required. Fans can be mounted on the inside or outside of the window grill guard. Fan motors vary in shape. Grill may need some minor cutting to allow for motor on inside mount. Fan tap is mounted to a battery hot fuse. One year limited manufacturer's warranty.

    In order to make sure you get the best installation information, we will need the vehicle make, model and year

    The K9 Heat Alarm unit uses temperature sensors along with a microprocessor control system that blows the vehicle horn when an alarm condition is detected. Optional pager has about a one mile range. Backlit alphanumeric display. Microprocessor monitors both temperature sensors and the vehicle's battery. Software based features allow for future upgrades.

    Optional Remote Pager and Beeper Module (SM-HA-RBM-D) for K9 Car Alarm: Two part sophisticated paging system includes trigger, timing circuitry and matching receiver (the "beeper"). Alerts when K9 Heat Alarm is activated by high temperatures or low temperatures. Transmitter: maximum output power of 4 watts as allowed by the FCC. Efficient low-loss sensitive pager/receiver senses transmitted signal up to one mile away. Actual range may vary depending upon environment, installation and/or antenna used. Receiver can be programmed to receive page signals from 3 separate vehicles

    K9 Car Alarm Features:

    • Temperature monitoring system for use in a canine vehicle.
    • Horn Activation Module. Pulsed outputs for the Ace K9 is a distinctive S.O.S. horn honk that makes the vehicle horn sound like no other.
    • Dual Remote Temperature Sensors with extended 15' cables. Place each sensor where you choose. Most Accurate K9 Car Alarm Temperature Sensors on the market with accuracy better than 0.5° F
    • Dual real-time resolution 0.1° F
    • Full Alphanumeric LCD Display.
    • Comprehensive status reports with easy setup.
    • Modular Design allows addition of options such as beeper, pager, dual window drop module, light bar and/or fan system.
    • Non-volatile Memory for temperature alarm setting. Temperature alarm setting is permanent until user reprograms.
    • Monitors and Displays Vehicle Battery Voltage. Alarm sounds before battery or alternator failure.
    • Complete Self-diagnostics of both control head and temperature sensors. Warns if problem with one temperature sensor and sets off alarm if both sensors fail.
    • Software Upgrades. Allows for new features and easy customization for your unique requirements.
    • All outputs are open collector negative signal with internal over current protection of 300 mA.
    • Keypad enables easy access and control of all features. Keypad Size: 4 3/8" W X 3 3/4" H x 1 1/2" D.
    • Warranty: Two Year Limited Manufacturer's Warranty.
    • Outputs provided for options : Remote Siren Beeper Pager Module, Light Bar and Fan System.

    We hope this unit will meet your needs.

    Sincerely, Barbara

    Safe-T-Alert STA-35-742, STA-30-441 or STA-30-442 Replace CCI 7770 and 7773 Series RV Propane Alarms

    by Barbara 29. March 2010 07:37

    Question about the Safe-T-Alert RV Propane Gas Alarms, Models 35-742, 30-441, 30-442 and 70-742

    Question: "The CCI propane alarm in my RV needs replaced. I've just learned CCI is no longer in business. What are my options? Thanks, Tony."

    Answer:  CCI closed down in February 2009.

    To determine which unit you need, you need first to answer this question: Do you have a unit that shuts off the propane gas valve if there is a leak or is yours a propane gas alarm without an automatic gas valve shut-off.

    For a unit that has a gas valve shut off, you need a 70-742-R Kit which is available in white, brown or almond. This kit includes the solenoid valve. Do not connect the Safe-T-Alert to any other valve or you risk a fire. These units replace the 7719.04 and 7719.7.

    For a recessed or flush mount propane alarm only, the recessed propane gas alarm model 30-442 in brown, white or almond fits the CCI LP Gas Alarm Cut Out (7770 series) for Flush Mount Models. These can be mounted vertically or horizontally.

    For a recessed or flush mount propane alarm only, you can add a carbon monoxide alarm and propane gas combination unit, the recessed 35-442 in brown, white or almond fits the CCI LP Gas Alarm Cut Out (7770 series) for Flush Mount Models. These can be mounted vertically or horizontally.

    For a surface mount propane alarm only, the 30-441 in brown, white or almond replaces the CCI LP Gas Alarm 7770 surface mount series These can be mounted vertically or horizontally.

    Note: Some CCI units in Fleetwood or Winnebago RV's have two power leads, i.e. three wires. The Safe-T-Alert 30 and 35 series units have only one power lead. Connect the red power lead to the coach power supply and cap or remove the other power lead. Use butt connectors to replace any unit with spade connections.

    I hope this helps.

    Thanks for your question.

    Sincerely, Barbara

     

    Replacement Propane Alarm and Automatic Shut Off Valve for CCI Controls Propane Alarm

    by Barbara 2. February 2010 04:28

    Question about the Safe-T-Alert 12V Propane Gas Alarm Series 70 for Motorhome and RV Use.

    Q: "I use my RV for occasional trips. I tried resetting my CCI 7719 gas alarm with automatic shut-off valve a dozen times before I could get it to open today. I need to replace the unit but CCI controls shut down in 2009.  Do you have a replacement unit? The CCI unit is mounted vertically." Thanks. Don from Arizona.

    Answer: Don, you are in luck. Safe-T-Alert just announced a new unit that replaces the CCI Controls propane unit with valve shut-off. The unit is called the 70-742-R. Included is a combination carbon monoxide and propane gas monitor, a relay to connect to the gas shut off valve and an automatic shut off valve. This valve is for 1/4 inch lines but includes an adapter for 3/8 inch gas lines. It is very important that you replace both your current valve and the malfunctioning CCI unit. The manufacturer warns that otherwise there is danger of a fire. The Safe-T-Alert comes in brown, almond and white. The bonus is that you also get a UL listed carbon monoxide alarm as well as the propane alarm and automatic shut off valve. The unit can be mounted vertically or horizontally.

    Dual Propane/LP and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Features Include:

    • Meets 1/1/05 requirements set by RVIA for new RV's requiring both Propane detectors and CO alarms.
    • Also detects Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)/Methane.
    • Operational Temperature: -40 degrees F to +150 degrees F.
    • Relative Humidity: 15 per cent to 95 per cent
    • Audible Output: 85dB at 10 feet
    • Gas Alarm Trigger: Less than 25 percent of the lower explosive level of propane and methane.
    • Gas Level Confirmation: 8 Seconds.
    • CO Alarm Trigger: Less than 15 minutes at 400 parts per million.
    • Test/Reset Button - Tests all detector functions with one touch. Resets and Mutes alarm while safety and corrective actions are taken.
    • Alarm is fully operational during mute cycle and will re-alarm if hazardous conditions reoccur.
    • Two Indicator Lights: Red CO LED flashes with 4 beeps and 5 seconds silence if CO level is over 70 ppm. Red Gas LED flashes and alarm sounds steady tone when dangerous propane or natural gas level is detected.
    • RV 12 Volt Hard Wired Model. Prevents accidental disconnection during alarm.
    • Includes a 1/4 inch gas valve with an threaded adapter for 3/8 inch lines. Replace current valve with this unit to prevent fires.
    • Built for the extreme RV environment.
    • One Year Limited Warranty.
    70 Series Operating Specifications:
    • UL Listing Propane/Natural Gas - UL 1484 RV Gas Detectors.
    • UL Listing Carbon Monoxide UL 2034 RV Carbon Monoxide Alarms.
    • ULC Listing & CSA 6.19-01.
    • Power Supply and Current Draw 12 vDC 132 mA. Relay 12 vDC - 3 amp is included.
    • Operational Voltage: 12 Volt +/- 15%.
    • Low voltage power warning alarm @ 7 volts
    • Front Case Dimensions: 70-742 - 6.375"W x 3.5"H x 1.385"D
    • Patent Number: US 7,248,156 B2
    • Colors: White, Almond or Brown.
    • Recessed Case Dimensions: approximately 1.5 inches deep x 5 inches long by 3 inches wide.


    LP Gas Detectors are required on RVs . . .

    ANSI A119.2 - Fire & Life Safety
    3-4.8 LP Gas Detectors

    "An LP gas detector must be installed in any RV that contains an LP gas appliance and an electrical system. The LP gas detector must be listed as suitable for use in recreational vehicles under the requirements of UL 1484 Residential Gas Detectors, and be installed according to the terms of its listing.
    ­ RVIA Effective Date 9/96, Revised 9/99."

    Thanks for your question.

    Sincerely,

    Barbara

     

    Using Portable AC Power Supplies (PowerPacks) to Power a TV at Tailgate Parties

    by Barbara 19. September 2009 13:27

    Question about operating a TV from a portable power pack.

    Q: "We want to buy a portable power supply to use when we tail-gate at football games. We like to watch other football games while partying and waiting to enter the stadium. Which unit or units do you recommend? Thanks." Pete

    Answer: First, learn the watts you'll need both to turn on your portable TV set and to keep it powered until the game. Next, how many hours do you plan to operate the TV? Do you plan to operate other AC appliances as well? For example, a 400 watt power pack typically is advertised to operate a 5" Color TV (20 Watts) for about 8 Hours.Or is this a 12V TV?

    Most customers are purchasing the 600 watt power packs such as the Duracell or the Duracell XPower Powerpack 1500 Watt Inverter. If you camp a lot or lose power often and have lots of sunshine, add the Go-Power 80 Watt Solar Kit with Digital Regulator to keep the unit charged. A digital regulator is necessary or you may overcharge the unit and ruin the battery.

    Thank you for your question. Feel free to contact us once you know the wattage requirements of your TV set.

    Sincerely, Barbara

    Deer Accident Prevention with the Electronic XP3 Hornet for Cars, Trucks and Motorcycles.

    by Barbara 13. September 2009 06:00

    Question about the XP3 Electronic Deer Hornet.

    Q: "What makes this deer repeller device better than the less expensive "deer horns" you can install on your front bumper? Could I install this myself? I have a motorcycle plus two cars. Some of my friends recommend this device, especially in the fall during rutting season. Please advise." Thanks. Joe.

    Answer: Joe, I will list some basic reasons that this unit is superior over the plastic whistle devices you can fix to your car.

    1. Power: Hornet: Electric sound generator versus vehicle speed pushing air through plastic tubes.
    2. Mounting Angle: Hornet sound generator, 45 degree angle to road. Plastic whistles: aim straight ahead.
    3. Secure Mount versus glue or tape: Hornet won't be pulled off or broken off in a car wash.
    4. Variable Mounting Height: Hornet: mount 3 inches to 6 feet above the road surface; plastic mount on front
    5. Mounting Damage to Car: With EZ Mount Bracket, the Hornet can be mounted to the license plate holder without drilling a single hole.
    6. Intensity of Sound: Hornet's is the same at any speed. Precision tuned sonic generator produces a high pitched, directional sonic wave that reflects off the road surface of a moving vehicle and produces a virtual sonic echo effect.
    7. Deer and Other Animals Get Advance Warning: Due to intensity of sound. Deer are skittish. More likely to bolt in the other direction if they approach this sound.

    70% less likely to have a deer accident if you install this unit on your vehicle and keep your eyes open.

    Yes, you can install this unit yourself. There is a motorcycle wiring harness kit available which allows installation without any holes being drilled. Most of our motorcycle customers buy the XP3 Hornet in Chrome. The inventor developed this unit after a friend was killed on a motorcycle after hitting a deer and then he himself hit a deer with his car the next week. These units are also installed on train engines particularly in the Northeast and Japan (our sales).

    For motorhomes, RV's and freight trucks, the larger dual horn Interstate Hornet is a better choice as it has an effective range of about 1000 feet. Several large trucking companies are regular customers. In rural areas, especially on interstate highways, these are much superior to the smaller units.

    Thanks for your question. Safe Roads to you from Safe Home Products.

    Sincerely, Barbara

     

     

    RV Propane Gas Detector Product Review

    by Barbara 24. August 2009 22:25

    In this video, Barbara reviews the Safe-T-Alert 30 and 40 series Gas Alarms for RV's and Campers. These flush mount, 12V propane detectors are made in the USA and can alert you to propane dangers.

    Tags:

    12V products | emergency preparedness | RV products | video reviews

    Replacing 12V Propane Gas Alarms in an RV or Trailer

    by Barbara 20. June 2009 11:46

    Question about replacement 12 volt propane gas alarms for a motorhome.

    Q:" How do I choose the correct 12 volt propane alarm for my motor home? The brand that was in my motorhome is no longer available?" Thanks. Joe


    Answer: Currently, we are selling Safe-T-Alert propane alarms, USA manufactured, that meet all RV standards. Unfortunately, we are unable to locate a manufacturer that sells a unit with the third wire, that one that closes the propane gas valve if a leak if detected.

    Choose a unit by answering these questions:

    Is the current propane alarm mounted flush with the wall? If so, measure the opening. The units we sell are:
    • 30-442 (Flush Mount)Case Dimensions:6.375"W x 2.875"H x 1"D
    • 40-442RV Flush Mount Gas Alarm: Case Dimensions Recessed portion = 3"H x 4"W. Depth = 1 1/8". Flush mount portion = 4"H x 4 7/8"W. Screw Holes = centered, 4 1/2" apart.
    Is the current propane alarm surfaced mounted, ie. not flush with the wall?
    • 30-441 (Slim Line Surface Mount): Case Dimensions: 6"W x 1.875"H x 1.5"D
    • 40-441RV Case Dimensions: Bottom (where mounted) = 3"H x 5 3/8"W. Top = 3"H x 5"W. Depth = 1 3/8". Screw holes = centered, approx. 5" apart.
    Do you want a brown unit?
    • 40-442A-BR is chocolate brown and a flush mount. The 40-441A-BR is the corresponding surface mount unit.
    • The 30-441A=BR is the chocolate brown surface mount propane alarm and the 30-442A-BR is the chocolate brown flush mount model.
    What is the maximum amp draw you want?
    • Both the 40-441 and 40-442 draw 46 milliamp (0.046 amp.)
    • The 30-441 and 30-442 draw 76 mA. This 30-442 can replace the CCI-7770 Propane Alarm that is discontinued.
    The warranties are longer on the 40 series units. If you are interested in the product manuals, we have them listed below the pictures of each product.

    I hope this helps answer your question. We do recommend that you test your propane alarms and your RV carbon monoxide alarms at least once per month.

    Sincerely, Barbara

    Using Power Inverters Connected to a Lead Acid Battery to Run Appliances.

    by Barbara 20. June 2009 05:15

    Question about the Cobra Cpi 2575 - DC to Ac power inverter - 2.5 kW or the Go Power 2500 watt inverter.

    Q: "hi, i am interested on your Cobra Cpi 2575 - DC to Ac power inverter - 2.5 kW Item Code WTCPI2575 or a similar model by Go Power. i was wondering if it can run amicrowave, a tv and two fluorescent bulbs connecting it to a lead acid battery, and for how long it can provide light to my mountain house, since i have no electricity. i would also like you to recommend me if you know a product for my needs, thank u"

    Answer: The power inverters we typically sell convert 12V DC to 120VAC. Your email address indicates that you live in the United Kingdom where power is typically 240VAC. The first unit you refer to has this description: This inverter provides household power on the go! It converts battery power to 120 V AC household power, allowing you to power up multiple loads such office equipment and major household appliances from your vehicle. This unit is ideal for microwave ovens, mini fridges, coffeemakers, laptops, TV sets, video games, CD players, DVD players, cellular phone chargers and much more!

    What you missed is that you have to have a vehicle with the engine running in order to power the inverter. If you attach the inverter to a charged 12 volt battery, you will quickly drain the battery of its charge. Remember that watts equals volts times amps. I am not an expert on power inverters. What I do know is that most microwave ovens here in the USA are 1000 watts. This power inverter could power most smaller microwaves if it were connected to an operating vehicle but not to a battery.

    A gasoline generator would power your appliances. Another option would be solar panels.

    Thanks for your question.
    Sincerely, Barbara

    Tags:

    12V products | emergency preparedness | power inverters

    Maintaining an Amaircare Roomaid HEPA Air Purifier

    by Barbara 12. June 2009 09:25

    Question about the Roomaid Air Purifier.

    Q: "I am interested in purchasing the Roomaid since I understand the unit can be operated both in a motor home or car on a 12VDC power adapterand also on standard AC power. My concern is maintaining the unit. What is involved with that? Do you have any personal experience with the unit? Thanks. Mary

    Answer: The Roomaid is made in Canada by Amaircare. I've run a "white" ( it is really cream colored) Roomaid in my home office continuously (except for when I wash the prefilters) for over 9 years. I've changed the HEPA once and the pre-filter maybe 4 times. By the way, I have allergies and have run an Amaircare 3000 continuously in our bedroom for 9 years as well. Original motors still purr along quietly. (German motors.)

    Both units are especially needed since Buddy the Siamese cat joined the family a year ago. Since Buddy likes to sleep in his cat bed right next to my monitor, the Roomaid prefilter does pick up a lot of cat hair over the course of a month (don't believe everything you read about Siamese shedding very little). The annual filter kit includes both pre and post filters There is also an optional VOC carbon filter if you are sensitive to formaldehyde or other volatile organic compounds.

    To maintain the unit, turn the unit off and wash the prefilters in soapy water, rinse thoroughly and allow to dry. Remember that HEPA filters can become a source of mold or bacterial growth if air does not move through them nearly continuously. Never have an air purifier with a HEPA filter sit idle for more than 3 or 4 days or you need to replace the HEPA.

    To change the snap on HEPA replacement filter you just jank a bit (or maybe use a knife for leverage) and pull off the entire top of the unit which is the HEPA. There are 4 or 5 little peg inserts that snap into the bottom of the Roomaid where the motor is. Then push the new unit on and put on the new prefilter. The post filter sits in the middle of the HEPA unit.

    You could add a scent to the top of the HEPA unit. There is a little round container for scent. I choose not to since I am allergic to begin with.

    For use in the car, there is a seat belt clip included with the optional 12volt power adapter.

    In my opinion, there is not a sturdier unit available in this price range. And certainly maintenance is simple as well.

    Thanks for your question.

    Sincerely, Barbara