Male hand holding TV remote control. Smart TV.

The World of Smart TVs: A Step-by-Step Buying Guide

Male hand holding TV remote control. Smart TV.

When shopping for a new smart TV, you would think it would be as simple as going to an electronics store to buy it. However, things are not always as simple as they seem. Thanks to the latest advances in technology, you have many different options, configurations, screen types, and other options to choose from when selecting a new smart TV.

Fortunately, you do not have to waste countless hours researching every little detail and pro and con of every smart TV on the market. Our step-by-step buying guide covers every essential detail of what to look for when buying a TV. So, you will be armed with the knowledge you need to select the best smart TV to suit your needs.

Step 1: TV Placement

The first step is to determine where the TV will be placed. Do you intend to mount it on the wall? What is the spacing in between the studs on the wall? Knowing the stud placement is essential to ensure you get a TV wall mounting kit that will line up directly with the studs, so your new smart TV can be secured to the wall correctly.

If you are not going to put it on the wall, what is the size of the TV stand or entertainment center? You need to know these dimensions to avoid buying a TV that is too big.

Most importantly, it would be best to base the placement on how you intend to use the TV. For example, if you plan on connecting it to an antenna, cable, or satellite, you want to ensure the TV is near the box where you need to connect the cable.

However, if you will be strictly using streaming services, you just need to ensure a strong enough Wi-Fi connection or a nearby router box to connect the network cable.

Step 2: Screen Size

The screen size of the TV should relate to the distance between its placement and where you will sit and view it. Ideally, you want the TV to take up between 30 and 40 percent of the available viewing distance for the best viewing experience.

For example, if there are six feet between your sofa and the TV, you would want a TV between 45 inches and 60 inches to be within the 30 to 40 percent guideline. Any bigger than this, you would be too close to the TV. As such, some people become nauseous from the movement on the TV because they are too close.

Keeping this in mind, smart TVs range in size from 32 inches to 85 inches, with 65 inches being the most popular size. Yet, there are TVs bigger than 85 inches, and a few manufacturers now offer 100-inch TVs.

So, if you have an eight-foot space between you and the TV, you would want an 85-inch TV to be within the 40 percent viewing area. You would only need a 100-inch TV if the distance were 10 feet or more.

Step 3: Cost

Interior shot of Fortress store in Elements shopping mall.

The cost of smart TVs varies depending on the brand, features, etc. Another thing you will notice is smaller TVs tend to cost more than larger TVs. For example, you can get a decent-quality LED HD smart TV for around $200. Yet, you can find 55-inch TVs starting around $300 and 65-inch TVs starting around $400.

Cost becomes a consideration when you start to get to 75-inch and 85-inch TVs with the latest technologies. You could easily spend over $2,000. The most expensive TVs are the 100-inch models that start around $15,000!

Step 4: Features

What features do you want in your new smart TV? Do you want it to have built-in Wi-Fi or the ability to wire it directly to a router box or both? Some of the most important features to consider include:

  • Number of Inputs – Inputs determine how many devices you can connect to the TV. For instance, you may need to connect a streaming device, cable box, video game console, and Blu-ray player. You need to verify the TV has enough inputs for all your devices.
  • Type of Inputs – The type of inputs is equally important. While most devices use HDMI cable connections, you may still have older devices that require component video cables—the ones with the red, blue, green, yellow, and white connections.
  • Built-in Apps – Smart TVs have an operating system like smartphones and tablets. This allows you to download streaming service apps, gaming apps, music apps, etc. However, not all smart TVs offer an extensive range of apps as others.
  • Streaming Capabilities – Smart TVs connect to your home network wirelessly or directly to a router. When choosing a smart TV, verify the wireless technology is newer for the best wireless speeds.
  • Audio Outputs – Smart TVs do not have the best sound quality. So, you will need a sound bar or surround sound home theater system for superior sound quality. You should review what audio outputs are included on the TV to confirm they will work with a sound bar or your existing surround sound system.
  • Smartphone Compatibility – Some smart TVs are compatible with smartphones where you can transfer content from your smartphone onto the TV screen. Other TVs include a downloadable app where you can control various TV functions and other capabilities through the app, such as using your smartphone headphones to watch TV late at night.
  • Smart Device Compatibility – Another feature available on smart TVs is the ability to connect with and control other smart devices in your home. For example, if you have Amazon-enabled smart devices, then you would want a smart TV that integrates with those devices. On the other hand, if you had Google-enabled smart devices, then you would want a TV with built-in Google features to control those devices directly from the TV, such as a Nest smart thermostat.

Step 5: Viewing Angles

The viewing angles determine how clear the picture will be when watching TV. Lower-end budget smart TVs have blurry viewing when attempting to watch the TV from the side. This can also be an issue when you mount the TV above your field of vision, as above a fireplace. However, smart TVs with OLED display technology have clearer viewing angles that address this issue.

Step 6: Curved or Flat Smart TV?

Curved TVs were an advancement in TV viewing technology that was not widely adopted. Yet, there are still several brands on the market today. The primary benefits of a curved TV are:

  • The viewing field appears to be bigger than a flat screen.
  • You can feel more immersed in movies, games, and television shows.
  • The viewing angle is improved, so the image is not blurry from the sides.
  • The images can appear sharper and more even.
  • It provides a 3D-like experience even though the TV is 2D.
  • The contrast on the screen can be better than flat screens.

However, there are some drawbacks to curved screen TVs, including:

  • The curve does limit the viewing angles because you will only see part of the screen from the sides.
  • The curve can make reflections from lights a problem that washes out the screen and makes it difficult to see.
  • Curved screens do not look good when mounted to the wall.
  • The smallest size curved screen you can purchase is 55 inches.
  • The interest in curved screens seems to be fading out.

Step 7: Resolution – HD or 4K UHD or 8K UHD?

Big modern TV with 4k resolutions and young woman on foreground watching some video

HD TVs were the first advance from analog to digital. Full HD is 1080p and is no longer very popular. The preferred standard is 4K UHD (ultra-high definition), which offers 2160p. 8K UHD TVs are an emerging technology that offers 4320p.

While 8K TVs do have features to upscale 4K TV content, there are very limited advantages of having one. Except, of course, if you must have the latest TV technology.

Step 8: LCD/LED/OLED?

LCD televisions used liquid crystal display technology using a single backlight. However, due to their high energy consumption, they were replaced by LCD-LED technology. So, light-emitting diodes are now used as the backlight on LCD TVs.

LED televisions offer better display quality than traditional LCDs. Essentially, LED TVs are very similar to LCD-LED TVs that use LEDs as the backlight to display the image on the TV. However, LEDs can burn out and leave black spots on the display since the image is no longer backlit.

QLED or quantum-dot light-emitting diode technology is a step up from LEDs. While they output a higher brightness level and eye-catching color than OLEDs, they fall short in response times, making images appear jerky in fast-paced content running over 30 frames per second.

OLED is often thought of as an upgrade to LED technology. However, organic light-emitting diodes are used in place of a backlight. Instead, each light-emitting diode responds to a specific pixelated area on the display on the TV.

Since each “dot” is controlled individually, the image looks better, smoother, and more colorful. Furthermore, OLED TVs do not have viewing angle issues since each pixel is controlled by an individual LED. Additionally, the blackness level of OLED televisions is equally superior compared to LCD-LED, LED, and QLED TVs.

Step 9: Refresh Rates

Refresh rates refer to how frequently the TV screen refreshes the image and influences picture quality. Currently, the two refresh rates are 60Hz and 120Hz. In general, having a 120Hz refresh rate should provide superior motion handling.

For most people, a 60Hz refresh rate is sufficient to view most 4K content, as it refreshes the image 60 times per second. However, if you need higher frame rates, like in video games and live sports, then a 120Hz refresh rate is a better choice because it refreshes the images 120 times per second.

Is there a difference between refresh rates and frames per second (fps)?

Essentially, the refresh rate tells you the number of fps the TV can support. So, for example, a 60Hz TV can support 60 frames per second, and a 120Hz television can support 120 frames per second.

To put this in perspective, movies are usually filmed at a rate of 24 fps. TV shows are typically filmed at 30 fps, and live events are transmitted at up to 60 fps. Newer gaming systems like the Playstation 5 and XBOX Series X have video game content that runs at 120 fps.

Step 10: Remote Control

Man holding two different remote control

One mistake people make when selecting a TV is looking at the remote control. Rather than focus on the other essential aspects of choosing a smart TV, they get caught up in voice-controlled remotes or ones with shortcuts to streaming services.

Do not worry about the remote control that comes with the smart TV. You can upgrade it to a different model later with the features you want on your remote from Replacement Remotes.

Step 11: Warranty Coverage – Do I Need an Extended Warranty?

An extended warranty is unnecessary for most smart TVs because of the cost. However, if you are investing more than $2,000 in a smart TV, having an extended warranty beyond the manufacturer’s warranty can be a good investment just in case something goes wrong. Furthermore, if you are getting one of the newer 100-inch televisions, definitely spend the money on an extended warranty.

The Bottom Line

Deciding what smart television is best really depends on your personal preferences and needs. Make sure to use our buying guide and make a list of the features and options you require. For example, verify the TV has the right number of inputs to support all your devices and that it supports any streaming services you use.

Once you narrow down the models that have exactly what you want, take the time to visit your local electronics store to compare the difference in viewing angles and display quality.

After you get your new smart TV, you can upgrade your remote control at Replacement Remotes to control all of your devices from a single remote. Browse our selections online or contact us at 855-573-6683 for further assistance today.

How to Choose the Best Upright Fan for Your Outdoor Space

Staying cool when you are outside or working in your garage where there is no air conditioning is possible with the right upright fan. When choosing an outdoor floor fan, there are several factors to consider, including:

  • Are you using the fan in an enclosed or partially enclosed space? To maximize cooling, you may want an oscillating fan that moves back and forth. 
  • How much airflow do you desire? A cooling fan should be able to put out enough air to keep you cool and comfortable.
  • Do you want the fan to also include misting features? Some outdoor fans can be connected to your garden hose to create a misting spray to make you feel even cooler.
  • How many speeds are on the fan? You want a fan that has at least three different speeds.
  • How difficult is it to assemble the fan? Some fans require more assembly than others, so it really depends on your DIY abilities.
  • What is the quality of the materials? You want to invest in higher-quality materials if you intend to use the fan a lot and operate it at its highest speed.

The Best Upright Fans

Here are our top picks for the best upright fans for outdoor use, in no particular order.

#1. hOmelabs Remote Controlled Oscillating Tower Fan

The fan features three different wind modes and speeds and is fairly quiet when it runs. In addition, there are different oscillating settings, so it is easy to keep your outdoor space cool. You can also use the remote control and programmable to adjust the fan’s settings.

#2. XPower FC-300 Professional Grade Air Circulator

This floor fan can be used for multiple purposes, including cooling, circulating air, or drying. It does have variable speeds that can create airflow up to 120 feet away. There is also a three-hour time you can activate to turn the fan off automatically.

#3. Lasko 20-inch High-Velocity Outdoor Floor Fan

The Lasko outdoor fan offers versatility and high-velocity output, making it a great fan for outdoor use in uncovered and partially enclosed spaces. It also does not require much assembly. With the enclosed conversion kit, you can mount it on a wall.

#4. Maxx Air Industrial Grade Air Circulator

This is the fan for you if you are looking for a high-power, compact model. The fan only has two settings, but both are high-speed settings. You can also switch between a floor fan, wall fan, or ceiling fan with the enclosed mounting kits.

#5. Mistcooling Outdoor Misting Fan

This outdoor fan is weather resistant, so it can remain outdoors when not in use. It features three different fan speeds with misting capabilities to help cool air temperatures up to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. To use the misting features, you just connect it to your garden hose. It can also be mounted on a wall with the enclosed mounting kit.

Fan Remote Controls

When you have misplaced your outdoor floor fan remote controls, it is easy to find a new one at Replacement Remotes. Find your new remote control online or contact us at 855-573-6683 for further assistance today.

Get Your Partner a Digital Photo Frame for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, but finding that perfect gift for your partner can leave you wondering what to get them. Unless this is the year you will finally propose, then a stunning engagement ring is the gift you will need, along with a romantic dinner.

For the rest of us, one gift that often gets overlooked on Valentine’s Day is a digital photo frame. Digital photo frames are fully customizable, offer a host of features, and fit just about anyone’s budget. Plus, digital picture frames have come a long way over the past decade, so you just might be surprised how much they look like printed pictures in picture frames.

Some of the top reasons why to get your partner a digital picture frame for Valentine’s Day include:

#1. They Are Simple

It is easy to set up a digital photo frame by using a USB port or wireless connection. Some brands even feature an app you can use to set it and configure the photo frame.

#2. They Are Meaningful

You are able to personalize the pictures loaded onto the digital picture frame to make it as meaningful as you want. For example, you could load pictures of special moments, shared experiences, vacations, or romantic getaways.

#3. They Are Timeless

Modern digital photo frames are designed to last a long time. Some models plug directly into an AC outlet and have a built-in battery backup. Other models feature rechargeable batteries with a long battery life that can be recharged numerous times.

#4. They Never Go Out of Style

Unlike trends that change every year with that one must-have gift, digital photo frames never go out of style. You can update photos and videos on them whenever you want to remind your partner of the joy they bring you and how you cherish making memories with them.

#5. They Make a Perfect Long-Distance Gift

If you and your partner have a long-distance relationship for whatever reasons—maybe they are in the armed forces or they travel a lot for work—a digital photo frame can be the perfect Valentine’s Day gift because you can load it with recent pictures to remind your partner of how much you love them. Plus, you can upload new pictures to the photo frame to surprise your loved one.

#6. They Have High Resolution

Modern digital picture frames now offer high-resolution displays. The image quality is so good that you will think you are looking at a printed picture. Plus, you can find digital frames in various screen sizes to provide flexibility where they can be placed, such as on a mantel or end table or hung on the wall.

#7. Some Models Offer Cloud and Wi-Fi Features

You can find wi-fi digital photo frames that are easy to connect to your wireless network or to your smart devices for quick and easy photo and video sharing. Some brands also provide cloud storage and sharing options, so you can upload pictures and videos to the cloud and then download them directly onto your wifi digital photo frame.

#8. Most Models Include Remote Controls

Another new technology feature available with modern wired and battery-operated digital photo frames is being able to turn them on and off using remote controls. The remote controls also have other buttons you can use for changing settings, running a slideshow, or downloading pictures you uploaded to the cloud.

#9. You Get to Customize the Content

First, you get to decide what type and size of digital picture frame to get your loved one. Next, you get to pick what pictures and videos you want to load onto the photo frame, whether you use a USB port or upload photos through the cloud.

As you can see, there are many great reasons why to get a wired or battery digital photo frame for your partner this Valentine’s Day.

Remote Controls for Digital Photo Frames

Should you need new remote controls for an existing digital picture frame or want an extra one for the one you will give your partner this Valentine’s Day, you can find them at Replacement Remotes. Please feel free to contact us at 855-573-6683 if you have further questions or need help choosing the correct remote control for your digital photo frame.

10 Christmas Home Security Tips to Optimize Home Security

Christmas and the holidays are meant to be a joyous and happy time of year. However, for some families, holidays can quickly be ruined when they do not take the time to ensure their home’s security is optimized throughout the holiday season.

Before you head out to do last-minute shopping, traveling, or spending time away from home with your family and friends, review these Christmas home security tips to protect your home and keep it as safe as possible.

#1. Keep presents out of sight.

One of the biggest mistakes is making it easy to see presents under the Christmas tree through the windows on a home. So if you decide to place presents under the tree, either keep windows closed so the presents cannot be seen or avoid stacking presents too high, so they are kept out of sight.

#2. Do not run extension cords for outdoor decorations through an open window.

It can be tempting to run an extension cord outside to power your outdoor Christmas lights, blowups, and other decorations. However, this is just inviting a criminal to break into your home.

Just use the outlets on the exterior of the home, solar-powered decorations, or battery-powered decorations. You could also invest in a generator to produce the electricity needed to power your outdoor lights and decorations.

#3. Test your outdoor security equipment.

Make sure security cameras, security lights, and motion sensors are all working correctly and are pointed in the right direction. Repair or replace any non-working equipment.

#4. Install a smart doorbell.

A smart doorbell includes motion sensors and video features so you can be alerted on your mobile device whenever someone is near your front door. Many smart doorbells also include night vision, making it easy to see who is outside even at night.

#5. Install smart door locks on exterior doors.

Smart door locks eliminate needing a key. They are a great deterrent because you have to use your smartphone and an app to unlock the door. Plus, when you are home, you can unlock the door for guests without having to go to it after verifying who is at the front door through your smart doorbell.

#6. Test your indoor security equipment.

Take the time to verify that door and window sensors, motion sensors, glass-break sensors, video cameras, and other indoor security equipment are working properly. If you have a home security system, there should be a test function you can use. Additionally, test the alarm system to ensure it will go off should someone attempt to break into your home.

#7. Avoid the excessive use of extension cords and power strips for indoor decorating.

It can be tempting to run extension cords and use multiple power strips to power all of your indoor Christmas and holiday decorations. However, this creates fire hazards. Instead, it is better to stick to plugging the cords directly into the outlet to ensure breakers will blow if too much power is drawn.

#8. Don’t leave a key hidden outside your home.

Many people have an extra key hidden somewhere outside like under a planter or in a fake rock. Thieves are familiar with this practice and will look for the spare key to gain entry to your home. Instead, upgrade at least one of your entry doors to a smart lock. Then there is no need for the hidden key.

#9. Use light timers, smart plugs, or smart bulbs.

Since it gets darker earlier in the winter, it is a good idea to use light timers, smart plugs, or smart bulbs and schedule them to turn on before you get home. If you plan on being gone during Christmas, make sure to alternate your schedules to give the impression that someone is home.

#10  Plan ahead if you will be gone over Christmas.

If you will be traveling for your Christmas holiday, let your monitoring service know the dates. This way, if an alarm is triggered, they will know to alert the police before calling you. It also doesn’t hurt to give a spare key to a trusted neighbor to check your home while you are gone, such as when they are feeding your pets.

Replacement Remotes Will Help Keep Your Home Safe

We hope these tips will help keep your home safe this Christmas and holiday season. If you need a replacement remote for your home security system, find the security system remote you need in our online store. Please feel free to contact Replacement Remotes by calling 855-573-6683 today if you cannot find the brand you need, have further questions, or require assistance!

How to Recycle Your Remote Controls

Hoarder or not, nearly every home has them. Yes, we’re talking about dead remote controls. With so many electronic devices around us, you’ll inevitably have a collection of dead remote controls stacked somewhere in your house.

Because they contain so many recyclable parts, you must know how to recycle remote controls.

Why You Should Recycle Your Remote Control

Are remote controls recyclable? Yes, they are, but why should you bother recycling your remote control?

Electronic waste (E-waste) is one of the fastest-growing sectors in waste management, and remotes play a part in that. Recycling your remote helps keep the precious raw materials used from just sitting in a landfill. If not properly disposed of, remote controls can disintegrate, allowing dangerous substances and chemicals to seep into the soil or water.

That’s why you need to know how to recycle your remote controls. How do you do that?

Preparation

A super easy way of recycling your remote controls is by taking them to a recycling center. However, before you do that, there are a few things you must do to prepare them for recycling. One of the first things is to remove the batteries. If you left the remote in its plastic wrapping for protection, you can remove that as well and put it together with other plastics you want to recycle.

How to Recycle Remote Controls – 5 Simple Ways

Recycling remote controls is very easy. One reason is that you have many options to do so. Here are some of those ways:

Allow Children to Use for Creative Play

Just because your remote control isn’t working doesn’t mean it can’t be put to good use. If you have small children, you can give it to them to play with. Kids have very creative minds that can turn anything into an exciting toy.

Look for a Mail-in Program

Not all discarded materials are accepted in curbside recycling programs. Small electronics like remote controls are among them. One of the best ways to circumvent this is by finding an in-mail program. These are recycling programs that collect and recycle materials received by mail. Some programs charge you a fee, while others can even pay for shipping.

Donate to a Local Charity

If your remote is still working, a good way of recycling it is to donate it to your local charity. The fact that you have no use for it doesn’t mean other people don’t. Many less fortunate families might need your remote and would appreciate it.

Find an Electronics Recycling Company

Remote controls contain different types of metals, plastics, and chemicals that need proper disposal. That’s why one of the safest ways of disposing of them is to find an electronics recycling company.

If your community has an electronics recycling drive, you can also take your remote control there.

Repurpose Your Remote Controls

Another way of recycling your remote control is to repurpose it. That means using it for another purpose than for what it was intended. One way to do that is to remove the batteries and use the cavity to hide your money.

Need to Replace Your Dead Remote?

If your remote control has packed upon you, all is not lost. You can easily get a replacement. At Replacement Remotes, we specialize in the supply of universal remotes of all kinds. Browse our inventory for one that suits your needs. Alternatively, give us a call at 855-573-6683, and we’ll help you pick the right one for your home.

Source:

  1. https://earth911.com/home-garden/mail-back-recycling-programs/
Outdoor patio area with candles on the table under the fan

4 Tips on How to Choose a Ceiling Fan for Your Home

Choosing a ceiling fan is enough to make your head spin. That’s because there are so many types of ceiling fans to choose from. There are also many other things to consider. If you’re in the market for a ceiling fan, we’d like to help take the headache out of choosing the right one. So, let’s get to it, shall we?

1.  Size Matters When Choosing a Ceiling Fan

Outdoor patio area with candles on the table under the fan

Your first port of call when choosing a ceiling fan is to pick the right size ceiling fan. This is mainly determined by the size of the room you’re installing the fan in. The ceiling height of your room can also influence the size of your fan. If the fan is too small for your room, it won’t be effective in cooling the room. If it’s too big, it could turn your room into a wind tunnel.

To help you pick the right ceiling fan size, here’s a guideline from the American Lighting Association:

  • Rooms up to 75 square feet need a fan that’s 36 inches wide or smaller.
  • Rooms up to 144 square feet need a fan that’s 36 to 42 inches wide.
  • Rooms about 225 square feet need a fan that’s 50 to 54 inches wide.
  • Rooms larger than 225 square feet require an oversize fan. You may also consider using multiple ceiling fans.

Want to know how to choose a ceiling fan? Start by knowing the right fan size for your home.

2.  Determine Where You Want to Place It

Another factor that you can use to determine which ceiling fan is where you intend to place it. That’s because there are three main types of ceiling fans designed for different areas of your home.

  • Indoor ceiling fans. Indoor ceiling fans are designed only for places safe from the elements.
  • Damp-listed ceiling fans. These are recommended for outdoor areas that are covered but which might experience a bit of moisture.
  • Wet-listed ceiling fans. This type of ceiling fan is designed for places that are uncovered and exposed to water. It’s more of an outdoor ceiling fan.

So, consider those factors as you choose your next ceiling fan.

3.  Consider Ceiling Fan Style and Accessories

Of course, when choosing a ceiling fan, you must consider the style and type you want. A few factors that come into play here include:

  • This is where your personal preference comes into play.
  • Modern ceiling fans come with many additional accessories that enhance their utility. Examples include LED lights, thermostats, and a whole lot more.

Nailing the style and accessories you want in a ceiling fan is the best way to end up with the perfect ceiling fan.

4.  Choose How You Want to Control Your Fan

ceiling fan with lamp

Another important factor when considering how to choose a ceiling fan is how you will control it. Technology has made it possible for ceiling fans to be controlled using various control mechanisms.

Although traditional ceiling pull chains are still an option, you also have the option of wall controls or even handheld remote controls.

Of course, for ease of access and convenience, remote control fans are the best. Don’t worry if you break or lose your remote. You can always get a replacement remote. If that has already happened to you, head over to our selection of ceiling fan remote controls and get yourself a replacement.

Alternatively, give us a call at 855-573-6683. We’ll be more than happy to talk ceiling fans with you.

Hand holding the remote to open the sliding door

Benefits of a Garage Door Opener

Automation is all around us, from the tools we use at work to the toys we play with at home. Yet one of the most important parts of the home that needs to be automated is nearly always the last—the garage door. Upgrade your home by installing a garage door opener.

Hand holding the remote to open the sliding door

Here are 5 reasons why:

1. Convenience

One of the biggest benefits of a garage door opener is the convenience it offers, as you don’t have to get out of your car to open the garage door. This is particularly helpful when the weather is unfavorable.

2. Security

Security is a major issue in today’s world. Your garage is one of the most vulnerable parts of your house. This is where a remote control garage door opener helps. It beefs up your home’s security, as the garage is no longer easily accessible to intruders.

3. Lighting

Automatic garage doors come with extra lighting. Whether you already have lights in your garage or not, these lights offer the convenience of switching them on automatically when the door is opening.

4. Low Energy Use

You might think that automating your garage door will cause your utility bill to shoot up, but that isn’t so. Most garage door openers have been designed with efficiency in mind, meaning they don’t use much electricity.

5. Cost

Most people think a garage door opener will burn a huge hole in their pockets. That’s until they start shopping for one, only to be surprised at how affordable they can be. So, don’t shy away from this important upgrade to your home, especially now that you know just how important it is.

Need a garage door remote control? Browse our selection and take your pick. Alternatively, give us a call at 855-573-6683. We’re more than happy to be of service.

Air conditioner temperature adjustment with remote controller in room at home

What You Should Know When Looking for an AC Remote

With the sweltering heat coming in fast every year, you may want to do everything in your power to get a jump on the season and keep your home as comfortable as possible. One accessory you may need to get ready is your air conditioner remote control. Don’t worry if it’s lost or if it has stopped functioning. You can always get a universal a/c remote.

Types of AC Remotes

Yes, there are different types of a/c remote controls, and you need to know them to get the best experience from your a/c unit. Let’s briefly take a look at the three most common types of a/c remote controls, shall we?

Air conditioner temperature adjustment with remote controller in room at home

1. Standard A/C Remote Controls

These are the remote controls that come with your a/c unit. Depending on the type of air conditioner you have, functions and features may vary.

2. Universal A/C Remote Controls

These are aftermarket a/c remotes that work with almost every type of a/c unit. If you’ve lost your standard a/c remote or it simply stopped working, this is the perfect solution for you.

3. Smart A/C Remote Controls

These are a type of universal a/c remote with one major difference—they use Wi-Fi to connect to your smart a/c unit. These come with a lot of functions you won’t find in other remote types.

A/C Remote Controls – Choose Your Type

So, what type of remote control do you need for your a/c? If your a/c remote control of choice is a universal a/c remote control, we’ve got you covered. Simply browse our catalog or give us a call at 855-573-6683 and we’ll help you get the perfect a/c remote control.

Source:

  1. http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/aftermarket.html
Many remote control devices in in hands

Keep Losing Your Remotes? Check Out These TV Remote Control Storage Ideas

Nothing is more troubling than to go to turn on the big game or sit down to binge-watch your favorite program only to not be able to find the remote control. You start checking down the sides of the sofa and chairs. You get on the floor and try looking under furniture.

As funny as it might sound, you may even look in the refrigerator or bathroom. After searching for what seems like hours—or days—you may get lucky or you might be left having to try to figure out how to turn the TV on without a TV remote control.

Fortunately, there are several great storage ideas to help prevent lost remotes, including:

1. Wall Mount Clips

Wall mount clips are special holders you mount to the wall. You could also mount them to the side of an end table. When you are done using the remote, you just slide it back into the clip.

2. Velcro Strips

Attach some Velcro to the bottom of the remote and the other part to an end table or coffee table within reach. The Velcro will hold the remote in place and prevent it from getting knocked off the table or lost down the sides of the sofa or chairs.

Many remote control devices in in hands

3. Tie a String on It

There are special “cables” you can use to attach one end to the remote and the other to a piece of furniture. All you have to do is follow the cable from one end to the other to find the remote.

4. Sofa/Chair Caddy

There are special caddies that hang off the side of sofas and chairs with pockets in them for storing remotes, magazines, books, and other such essential items you want to keep nearby.

5. Keep a Spare Universal Remote on Hand

Invest in a universal remote control that you keep stored away in a drawer or another location you can use as a backup when you misplace one of your remote controls.

We hope these storage ideas help you stop losing your remotes. To find wall mount clips, universal remotes, and TV remote controls, please feel free to browse online at Replacements Remotes or contact us at 855-573-6683 today!

Young woman switching on air conditioner while sitting in armchair

What AC Features Should I Look For?

Young woman switching on air conditioner while sitting in armchair

Modern air conditioners include many features that impact their performance and usability. While a new remote control is easy to come by on the internet, finding an AC with the features you need is trickier. Here are a few to look for:

  • Remote Control: An air conditioner remote control is a convenient feature that lets you adjust the temperature and fan speed from your couch or bed.
  • Energy-Saver Switch: When you turn this switch on, the air conditioner fan will shut off as soon as the thermostat turns off the unit’s compressor, saving energy.
  • Oscillating Vents: Controlled by an internal motor, oscillating vents automatically shift airflow from side to side to allow for more even cooling.
  • Coil Size: The larger the coil size, the more efficiently the A/C will transfer heat.
  • Noise Control: Noise emissions should be under 50dB; you can find noise level parameters in the unit’s product specifications.
  • Filter Indicator Light: Changing the filter boosts efficiency; an indicator light can let you know when the filter needs to be changed to ensure your AC works properly.
  • Ventilation/Exhaust: These can allow fresh air in from outside. It then circulates in the room while stale air can be exhausted out of your home.
  • Manufacturer’s Warranty: The warranty covers the cost of parts and labor, enabling you to save on repairs; warranties are generally from one to two years (extended warranties may provide up to five years of coverage).

Buy an Air Conditioner Remote Today

Replacement Remotes carries remote controls for nearly every major brand of air conditioner. To receive your air conditioner remote control replacement, place your order online. Call 855-573-6683 to learn more.