Biofuel Burners

It’s hard to not see the appeal of having a real fire in your front room. Cosy, inviting, warming; a log fire is full of atavistic charm. Bioethanol fuel can be an efficient and cheap way to heat your home and can make for the ideal choice for those atmospheric nights around a real flame-experience fire.

Not only that they are fuss-free, with no waste needing to be removed and cleaned out afterward, what’s more, bioethanol fuels are virtually aroma-free too, and can even be scented, with aromas, such as ‘light pine’ being available from some manufacturers.

Another plus-point on the list for biofuel burners is that there’s no chimney required, no flue to install, no cables to connect and no mains power needed. Many burners are even portable and semi-portable, so can be moved from room to room, or from outside to inside as your mood (and the weather) takes you.

This lovely Ledbury bioethanol fireplace features a ceramic ‘log set’ built into the design, for that authentic-looking, homely feel.

Visit imaginfires.co.uk

Globus Biofuel Heater

This cool-looking Globus heater would make for a great focal point in any room. Its functional simplicity means that it can be easily moved from room to room or positioned for best effect in moments. Its contemporary curves house a centre section shielded by two sections of 6mm tempered stay-clear safety glass and its smokeless burn means there are no connections, flues, or chimneys required.

Its one-litre fuel capacity means it can burn for up to three and a half hours and deliver a heat output of approximately 2kw – a bit less than an electric heater on a medium setting.

Visit imaginfires.co.uk

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats allow you to connect your central heating to your smart devices, such as mobile phones, tablets and computers, so the temperature can be controlled from anywhere you might be. Smart thermostats can help reduce your heating costs by programming in exactly when you might be home or away, and at what times, so that you only use the energy you need.

The top-line smart thermostats also use AI to adjust your heating and cooling schedule based on how long it takes your home to heat up or cool down, further adding to the energy you’re saving. Some of the most hi-tech even have ‘open window detection’ – so you don’t waste energy by heating your home if a window is left open by accident.

Nest Learning Thermostat

One of the most futuristic thermostats on the market at the moment, this hi-tech gadget learns from your behaviours, preferences and surroundings through a combination of algorithms, sensors, machine learning, and cloud computing to precisely keep your home perfectly comfortable and to conserve energy while you’re away.

It automatically programs itself to learn your preferred settings, temperatures and schedule over time, so there’s no need to fiddle around adjusting the thermostat settings when you are away or at home with an irregular schedule, or the seasons change.

Super simple to use, this gadget saves you money, saves energy and looks pretty cool too.

Visit cityplumbing.co.uk

Honeywell evohome

evohome is a sophisticated heating system that allows you to create and individually control the heating in up to 12 rooms in your home.

evohome’s ‘zoning’ ability means that programs can be designed for even the simplest of property layouts, and is suitable for controlling individual room temperatures in larger properties such as luxury apartments and large family homes.

With multiple temperature sensing devices and touchscreen control, the user can quickly gain control of exactly where and when the property should be heated, with remote access available via a tablet or smart phone, and each rooms’ individual temperatures, cleanly and simply displayed.

Visit honeywellhome.com

Smart Fans and Circulators

Air purifiers and air cleaners are more important than ever before, especially in urban environments. Factor in hot and cold weather and you are looking for a very specific piece of kit to fulfil your needs.

Heating or cooling a room while simultaneously removing contaminants from the air to improve indoor air quality means you can benefit from the comfort of a temperature-controlled environment. All while reducing allergens, pollutants, eliminating second-hand tobacco smoke and even the household chemicals that can be found in textiles and upholstery.

DYSON Hot+Cool Formaldehyde HP09 Smart Air Purifier

A bit of a mouthful its name might be, but when you do it all, you need to let people know! This top-of-the-range bit of kit from renowned maker, Dyson, is a space-age-looking gadget that captures dust, allergens and bacteria. It has been designed to remove 99.95% of ultrafine particles from the air, purifing the whole room to a HEPA H13 standard.

This Dyson purifier automatically senses and removes contaminants and pollutants with its three sensors constantly analysing the air – its unique algorithm cross-checks data every second to precisely monitor, display and reacts to your air quality.

Suitable for room size up to 27m², it even creates air quality reports that you can view in real-time on the LCD screen, or have them sent directly to your phone or tablet using the Dyson Link app.

Visit currys.co.uk

Meaco Air Circulator

At the budget end of the range is this super-effective air circulator from meaco. This great looking gadget works by displacing all the air in the entire room – circulating a huge 1,056 cubic metres of air per hour – to keep warm stagnant air moving and to keep you cool.

Even though it boasts such a high volume of air movement, it’s 12-speed settings are virtually silent, so there’s no harsh fan sound or strong fan ‘blast’ that can leave you feeling chilly after long periods.

Its almost 360-degrees of air circulation mean that you can place it out of the way against a wall or other flat surface and its vertical and horizontal oscillation means it will still function as it should to ensure the whole room feels fresh and clear.

Visit meaco.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Gadgets that are perfect for improving your home environment appeared first on Checklists.

Tech can help make life a little bit easier, from charging your laptop on the go to making sure your pets are safe; so have a look at these 10 of the best gadgets for the whole family.

1. Planet Buddies Headphones

Looking for a sustainable company that will help educate and entertain your children? Look no further than Planet Buddies.

Their range of wireless headphones, speakers and gadgets are perfectly suited for the younger members of the family to keep up with their technological needs and keep them learning about the environment. Each of their products comes with a character designed to inform your kids about endangered species.

Find out more at planetbuddies.com

2. Juice Wireless Chargers

Say hello to the Juice Grip-It Wireless Universal Charging Cable. The Grip-It is a super simple way to Wireless Charge your devices – plug the USB port into a charger or computer, then just attach the suction pad to the central area on the back of your phone, and away you go.

Remember when everyone needed a different phone charger? The 3-in-1 cables were handy, but this is the new 3-in-1 – leave the Grip-It on the kitchen worktop, desk or any table really, and allow all phone users to wirelessly charge.

Find out more at juice.co.uk

3. The Apple Watch Action Sleeve

Know someone that loves their exercise but can’t get their fitness tracker to keep up with their workout?

ActionSleeve is a fabric armband that allows an Apple Watch to be worn on the upper arm or bicep. It’s ideal for sports like kickboxing, weightlifting and crossfit training where protective sports gear and full wrist mobility is often needed, ruling out the use of the Apple Watch on the wrist. 

Whether cycling, playing golf, doing yoga or weights, users will be able to move more naturally without the Apple Watch getting in the way of their workout.

Find out more at twelvesouth.com

4. Stealth Gaming Station for Xbox and Playstation

Declutter the little gamer’s room and give them a gift they’ll use all the time with Stealth’s Gaming Stations.

They are perfect gifts for gamers of all ages, providing a one-box solution to keep their gaming space neat and tidy. This includes a premium headset, headset stand and charging base; everything you need to complement your setup.

Find out more at smythstoys.com

5. PitPat pet activity monitor

It wouldn’t be fair to be handing out gifts to the whole family without getting something for our four-legged family too. PitPat is an activity monitor designed to keep an eye on your dog’s exercise, heart rate, calorie intake and weight.

It’s more important than ever to maintain awareness of your pet’s health in order to predict and detect any health problems as early as possible for their safety and your vet bills.

The app also recommends tailored exercise goals and feeding recommendations based on your dog’s breed, age, weight, and activity levels. The tiny, waterproof, and robust device is made to withstand all your dog’s adventures.

Find out more at pitpat.com

6. Nintendo Switch Travel kit

Perfect for the Nintendo gamer in the family and to keep them from a shocking outburst when they drop their precious device, comes the protective and convenient Switch travel kit.

This travel kit includes everything gamers need for playing Nintendo Switch on the go. This bundle includes a protective Switch case with game cartridge slots in Switch’s classic red, blue and black colour scheme, matching headset with comfortable ear cups and integrated mic and a charging cable. 

Find out more at argos.co.uk

7. PictoScanner

PictoScanner is a simple, smart and user-friendly way to scan and share your old film negatives and 35mmslides using your smartphone and the PictoScanner app. All it takes is knowing how to take a photo on your smartphone.

To scan a photo, place your film negative in the slider, open the app, shoot the negative. The scanned photo opens on your smartphone screen as a positive. You can edit it as you wish.

Manufactured in a high grade cardboard box, easy to set up, PictoScanner uses an LED back light and the eye of your camera to get the scanning job done.

Find out more at pictoscanner.com

8. Airpod Pro Stand Case

Personalise your family’s sound systems with Atom Studios eco-friendly Airpods cases. The flat base also means this case can stand upright on your desk or night stand. 

This silicone back allows you to wirelessly charge your AirPods Pro without removing them from the case. Just place your AirPods Pro, inside their case, on top of a wireless charger.  The charge indicator light is clearly visible when in use so you can easily check that it’s charging.

Find out more at atomstudios.com

9. Crosley Bluetooth Turntable

Vinyl is making a massive comeback in recent years. There’s bound to be an audiophile in the house, whether it’s the younger generation discovering the joy of vinyl or adults looking for a blast from the past.

The Crosley is perfect for those looking to get into vinyl, as an affordable and compact record player. It also has Bluetooth capability so you can stream albums in case you haven’t built up your record collection as quickly as you would like. Perfect for throwing on some tunes as a group with the family or with friends over.

Find out more at hmv.com

10. PowerPic Wireless Charger

The convenience of wireless chargers and tablet stands is hard to argue with. But, often they stand out against the rest of your home decor. Twelve South have found a way to sneakily slip in a functional decoration that will wow your guests.

Meet PowerPic, the picture frame that wirelessly charges your phone. Just set any compatible phone inside the frame to begin charging. It can even serve as a stand for sneaky selfies or video calls from home.

Find out more at twelvesouth.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Ten gadgets the whole family will love – including your pets appeared first on Checklists.

1. HoMedic

We’ve all had a lot to deal with this year, and the ongoing disruption to our daily lives can leave a lot of us feeling increasingly stressed. Finding time to unwind is key to our wellbeing, and neglecting to do this can cause our bodies to absorb a lot of stress, leading to tension in our muscles. However, making the most of downtime is easier than you think, particularly when you can enjoy a massage with a HoMedics Massager.

From massage chairs and hand-held devices, to massagers for your feet and neck, there is a vast selection of different tools on offer which can help you ease sore muscles and achieve ultimate relaxation.

Each massager can help you achieve deep-kneading shiatsu, invigorating vibration, muscle-relieving percussion or even gentle yoga massage in the comfort of your own home, making it easier than ever to truly unwind and destress after a long day.

Find out more at homedics.co.uk

2. Ibeani

The award-winning iBeani tablet cushion will securely hold any size iPad, tablet, eReader or book on any surface. The viewing angle is fully adjustable to provide hands-free comfort. Being ultra-lightweight and with five-star reviews, the iBeani tablet cushion will help make learning a breeze.

Thanks to its unique design, you can position your iPad, Tablet, eReader or book at any viewing angle on any surface. Great on your lap, on the sofa, in bed or for holding recipes in the kitchen; offering a stable and comfortable experience wherever you require a tablet device holder.

Designed in the UK and with many great benefits, iBeani is simply the best quality and most useful iPad stand and tablet bean bag cushion you can buy.

Available in a range of designs to suit all, iBeani tablet cushions will complement any room in the home.

Find out more at ibeani.co.uk

3. Vodafone GPS Curve

Never has it meant more to stay connected with the people and things we love, so keep them in sight with the Vodafone Curve, available on Amazon. Smart and compact, the smart GPS tracker designed and connected by Vodafone, makes it easy to stay in touch with family and possessions – all through the Vodafone Smart App.

Curve is different to Bluetooth-only trackers, which mostly require phone proximity to work. With a built-in smart SIM* connecting the device to the internet via Vodafone’s global network, it also uses four different tracking technologies: GPS, Wi-Fi, Cellular and Bluetooth for reliable connection no matter the location.

Not only is Curve as light as a house key; its handy keyring accessory allows you to attach it to almost anything, meaning it’s always with you. With its smart technology, versatility and long-lasting battery, Curve fits into your life, however you live it.

Find out more at vodafone.com

4. Stealth gaming headset

If you’ve got kids or grandkids who love playing video games, then already be aware that there are some top new games out there ready to purchase for Christmas. Why not treat them to some premium accessory products, to get the best out of their gaming exploits this coming festive season.

British gaming accessory brand STEALTH offer a wide range of accessories, from stylish high-performance headsets to console cases to powerful charging solutions for XBOX Series X, PlayStation 5 and the Nintendo Switch.

Plus, they’re currently the only gaming accessory company to use 100 per cent plastic-free packaging with all of their products, so you can be sure that your choice is a sustainable one.

Find out more at stealthgaming.net

5. Olympus Cameras

Just about as hot as you can get in photography at the moment is this pro-spec marvel from Olympus.

The brand new OM-D E-M1X incorporates all the benefits of the Micro Four-Thirds system and some seriously useful advanced features for sports and action photographers.

It enjoys intuitive design with an integrated vertical grip for superb ergonomic control in horizontal and vertical modes. Camera-shake is a thing of the past, it has the world’s best image stabilisation, with up to 7.5 EV steps of compensation for incredible hand-held performance, through the 5-axis IS system.

Plus it has a re-developed autofocus system with a variety of AF target modes and settings, plus the ultimate game-changer for sports and action photographers: intelligent subject tracking. All this is crammed into a super portable dust-, splash- and freeze-proof all-weather body.

Find out more at olympus.co.uk

6. Smeg home appliances

Looking to gear up your kitchen ahead of the imminent party season? Cue Smeg, the iconic Italian appliance manufacturer.

There’s a present idea to suit even the trickiest of recipients. For that budding star baker, it’s got to be a stand mixer or hand blender, while for the coffee connoisseur, an espresso coffee machine in a choice of colours. Fitness enthusiasts will adore Smeg’s citrus juicer or blender complete with Smeg’s bottle-to-go for smoothies on the run.

On the large appliance front, if you’re considering a change to your kitchen there’s a Smeg product to suit, from state-of-the-art touch-controlled built-in ovens, microwaves and hobs through to wine coolers, sous vide systems and blast chillers. Smeg’s collection of range cookers and hoods are also worth considering, should you be seeking out a focal point and extra oven capacity in your kitchen.

Find out more at smegukcom

7. Celestron telescopes

Celestron’s range of AstroMaster telescopes are ideal for those looking to start out on their astronomical journey of exploration. Suitable for all ages and experience, you’ll be ready to observe in minutes thanks to the AstroMasters’ quick and easy no-tool setup.

The AstroMaster 70 AZ gives wonderfully bright, clear images of the Moon, nearest planets, and many more objects for great night-time viewing.

Using additional accessories, this beautiful telescope is also perfect to set up at home for daytime views of distant land or seascapes. What’s more, if you purchase an AstroMaster telescope from either the website, or direct from one of their authorised dealers you will receive extra accessories including a smartphone adaptor to take images through the telescope.

Find out more at celestron.com

8. Mixx Charge headphones

The JX2 wireless headphones from MIXX Audio are available in black, space grey and rose gold. Not only do they look stunning but they sound great too, thanks to their dynamic stereo providing a refined listening experience. 

The JX2 headphones boast an impressive 14-hour battery life, making them ideal for commuters looking to immerse themselves in their favourite music or movie. If the juice does start to run low, simply plug in the 3.5mm audio cable to ensure the entertainment doesn’t stop.

With integrated headphone controls, calls can be picked up hands-free and songs skipped, paused or the volume can be turned up or down. The JX2 is designed with extra soft faux leather earpads that tilt to fit the contours of the head, users can experience the ultimate snug fit and noise isolation.

Find out more at mixxaudio.com

9. Power Plate

Using Power Plate is an innovative, time-saving and results-driven way to improve health and fitness at home. Power Plate’s vibration technology is safe, effective and trusted around the world by professional sports teams, fitness pioneers and wellness advocates.

Power Plate delivers accelerated health and wellness results, whatever the fitness level or training style. Power Plate’s whole-body vibration products help users prepare faster, perform better and recover quicker by stimulating natural reflexes and helping with muscle activation.

With easy-to-follow exercises, on-demand workouts and coaching tips on the free Power Plate app, there has never been a better time to take control of your fitness.

Power Plate’s targeted vibration products deliver therapeutic relief directly to the areas that need it most. Perfect before and after a workout or to provide relief for tight and sore muscles.

Find out more at powerplate.co.uk

10. JLL Fitness equipment

If you are looking to build your very own home gym, so you can work out in the comfort of your own home, look no further. JLL Fitness offers a great range of cardio equipment, treadmills, rowing machines, indoor cycling bikes, and more.

Their in-home premium 500 Series is designed to be stylish and easy to store within your own home. The 500 Series is built with you in mind. Thanks to the ergonomic design, you can always work out in full comfort. The 500 Series monitor helps you keep track of your speed, distance, calorie, time, and pulse while you are working out, and so helps you stay focused on your goals.

Their T350 Folding Treadmill is perfect for in-home use. The running deck has a 16-point cushion system which reduces the impact on your joints when running.

Find out more at jllfitness.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post The 10 top gadgets and tech to make the most of your downtime appeared first on Checklists.