Carbon Monoxide Alarm
| Carbon monoxide earned its nickname as “the silent killer” because it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. RVers can protect themselves with a carbon monoxide alarm, such as Dometic’s Carbon Monoxide – Digital Alarm. It sounds a warning when the device’s electrochemical sensor detects the gas.
The device has a lifespan of 10 years and has a low sensitivity to humidity and “false” gases, according to the product description. It features a digital display and can be mounted on an RV ceiling. The alarm requires three AA batteries, which are included. The body color is white. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $85. Dometic |
Electrical Tester
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A noncontact voltage tester, such as the pocket-size Fluke 1AC II VoltAlert Electrical Tester, will detect the presence of voltage on any conductor in any receptacle. It can test for reverse polarity — a potentially dangerous situation in which the hot and neutral connections at an electrical receptacle are wired backward. Just touch the tester’s tip to an outlet; the tip glows red and beeps when voltage is present. The device also can test for a hot-skin condition on a motorhome by touching the tip of the tester to the coach frame.
The 1AC II VoltAlert has an on/off button and a sensitivity range of 90 volts AC to 1,000 volts AC. Batteries are included. The device runs a continuous self-test so you know it’s working. The suggested price is $29.99. Fluke Corporation |
Flexible Funnel
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When you pour a liquid, there’s the potential for spillage. Oil? Yep, that can be messy. The Funnel King Flex Spout Funnel, from Wirthco, helps prevent spills, drips, and splatters.
The funnel attaches to gallon, quart, and pint containers that have openings of 38mm, 28mm, or 22mm. The funnel is made from thermoplastic elastomer, which has the properties of rubber. As such, bending the spout with one finger allows you to control the flow of liquid. An airtight closure cap is included. The suggested retail price is $1.99. WirthCo Engineering |
Gaffer Tape
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Everybody knows duct tape has 1,001 uses. But it’s a pain to remove, and it leaves a sticky residue. That’s why for temporary applications, people often turn to gaffer tape, which has similar properties but leaves little or no stickiness when it must come off. The tape has long been popular among TV/film lighting technicians, known as gaffers, which is how it got its name.
Gaffer Power sells a heavy-duty, pressure-sensitive, cotton-cloth gaffer tape that, like duct tape, is easy to rip and tear. It’s also water-resistant. The company’s best seller is the 2-inch-by-30-foot roll of Black Gaffer Tape, which costs $16.88. Other colors and sizes are available. Discounts are offered on purchases of multiple rolls. Gaffer Power |
Odor Absorber
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Your nose knows an unpleasant smell when it sniffs one. One way of tackling odors is with Remodeez, a nontoxic, odorless, hypoallergenic product that contains activated charcoal derived from coconut husks. It also is said to absorb moisture and hinder mildew growth.
Remodeez products can be used in various places in an RV, such as drawers, hampers, and pet areas. They also can be placed in footwear, gym bags, luggage, camping gear, backpacks, and cars. According to product literature, Remodeez lasts up to one year; it regains strength when placed under direct sunlight for about an hour. The suggested retail price is $9.99 (for one or two Remodeez, depending on size). Remodeez |
Shade Restring Kit
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Normally, the color beige does not generate much excitement. But every beige is beautiful, in its own way. Consider: For several years, Dicor’s United Shade division has offered its First Aid Restring Kit for RV window shades in white only. A kit with beige replacement cord now is available.
The First Aid Restring Kit is designed for pleated shades. The kit includes cord to repair up to five shades, depending on size, as well as springs, grommets, cord retainers, and instructions. An instructional video for restringing shades is on the United Shade website. The kit’s suggested retail price is $22.25. United Shade |
Pivoting Light
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The rechargeable Blade Multi Light, from Mychanic, shines light into tight spaces, such as the crevices of engine compartments. The plastic body pivots 270 degrees, and its head spins 360 degrees. Its LEDs produce 250 lumens of light.
A retractable metal hook and magnets on the back of the Blade Multi Light allow for hands-free use. The light has four settings: high, low, and two emergency flashers. The portion of the Blade containing LEDs is 7 inches long, 11/2 inches across, and 5/8-inch thick; when folded for storage, the device is 10 inches long, 2 inches across, and 21/4 inches thick. A micro USB AC charging adapter is included. The price is $34.99. Mychanic |
Pet Temperature Monitor
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Sometimes you can’t avoid leaving Fido or Fluffy alone in a motorhome, house, or car. The Nimble Pet Temperature Monitor — from RV PetSafety, a division of Nimble Wireless — lets pet owners keep tabs on an indoor environment so the pooch or kitty stays safe.
The portable device measures the inside temperature, which pet owners can view using a smartphone app (Android or iOS). If the temperature reaches a pre-established high or low limit, the device, which comes enabled with cellular coverage, immediately sends email and text alerts to as many as five contacts. A rechargeable battery powers the device, which can run for one to two days on a single charge. Through September 2017, the price for the device is $149 when using coupon code SIM30. The cost of the monitoring subscription is $19.99 per month for a pay-as-you-go plan, or $16.66 per month for an annual plan. RV PetSafety |
Ride Enhancement Kit
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If your gas-powered Type A motorhome is built on a Ford F-53 chassis and the ride is not as smooth as you’d like, perhaps you should consider an F-53 Ride Enhancement Kit from Ultra RV Products. The kit reduces steering effort, eliminate sway and wander, and make for safer travel.
The kit includes Roadmaster front and rear antisway bars, which add stability and vehicle control; an UltraTrac Rear Trac Bar, which reduces “push” caused by passing vehicles and side winds; a Safe-T-Plus Steering Control unit, which stabilizes steering and adds safety in the event of a tire blowout or severe side wind; and Koni FSD shock absorbers, for improved ride comfort and control. The price is $2,850 (shipping and handling included) when using the package coupon code F53RIDE1. Ultra RV Products |