Free Green Business Training by Walt Barrett

Free Training

This is the most recent posting for free training at www.waltbarrett.com where there are videos too.

A lesson in recycling.

Well over a month ago a man brought me two giant electric forklift batteries valued at $6800.00 each and asked me if I could restore them. I had him leave them at my inventors workshop, and I performed several tests on them determining that they were badly sulfated due to sitting several years in a warehouse unattended. We added our special formula chemical and put them on a very long slow charging cycle for nearly two weeks. The long story short is that the man called me several days ago and told me the batteries were performing perfectly. We had charged him $300.00 for our time and chemicals to do such large batteries. We saved him $13,300.00 in replacement costs. Now this week he has delivered another large forklift battery for our restoration process.
If you would like to receive free training in our process you can start by watching the free videos on this page. http://www.chinadepot.com/batripod.html

Floating vegetable garden research by Walt Barrett

I’m doing a flash research project to get up to speed on building floating vegetable gardens and their productivity. It seems the process is thousands of years old but forgotten in many parts of the world, yet widely used in South East Asia. I am finding that by using recycled materials like used water bottles, along with other salvaged materials it is possible to develop some very large gardens and I intend to develop the process.

The technology is simple and eliminates the need for irrigation totally. Floating gardens also cut up to two months off the growing cycle of many vegetables. The best data I have found so far is under “Floating Gardens” on a www.youtube.com search search. We need to spread this technology to those that do not have it already. The project can actually be zero cost except for the seeds. It just requires a little ingenuity.

Walt

Free Technology Training From Walt Barrett

Free Training

Walt Barrett’s “Guerrilla Technology” Program

Free Training videos coming soon.

1. Solar electric and solar steam water pumping

2. Solar electric power and lighting systems.

3. Converting computers to solar and 12 volt battery power.

4. Simple Solar water filtering and purification.

5. Building Composting Toilets to stop ground water pollution.

Videos already posted.

6. See Battery reconditioning video here. http://www.youtube.com/user/chinadepot

7. Wiring solar electric modules. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUwx6wDsvrQ

8. Installing a solar diode. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g39jyeD7ZPg

9. Our simple solar lighting system. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPqdKq0L4DM

10. How to build a micro home. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEu_IKRTNF8

11. The Light emitting diode will change the world! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dg1ctPUvm8I

12. The Thermo Siphoning solar hot water heater. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJCe3Ptwdn8

13. More about LED light bulbs. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oChssi5DSyg

Assisting the Third World “Guerrilla Technology” by Walt Barrett

Assisting the Third World “Guerrilla Technology” ”The concept is to train one person, one family , one village at a time, whatever it takes to make conditions better.” – Walt Barrett

We have had a great year this year so far, and people are starting to notice Accomplishments in the task of helping the poor third world people. We have representatives of a group from Haiti visiting today.

1. They have already purchased a solar lighting system that they intend to distribute in Haiti.

2. They will view our completed micro home.

3. They will view our Steam Pump project.

4. They will view our prototype solar steam generator.

5. They will view our Solar/Electric water pumping that we have been selling for years.

6. I will show them my experimental bamboo research program.

I will discuss my program with them for Haiti which I have dubbed “Guerrilla Technology” The concept is to train one person, one family , one village at a time, whatever it takes to make conditions better. Each person we train is expected to pass it forward and keep training others in the technology we have developed to make things better. I will continue to put my mind to the task of developing new products and ideas for the third world.

Things are shaping up quickly now as I have devoted more time and money to the program.

I’ll keep you posted.

Walt

A Free Battery Reconditioning Business For You by Walt Barrett

Simply contact me at wbarrett1@aol.com And receive our full training program and video free by email within 24 hours. We do not charge to put you in the battery reconditioning business. All you need is a few hand tools and a supply of our exclusive 25 year old proven secret chemical formula. A free sample kit is available in the continental USA. The shipping and packing cost is $13.95. It's a great home business for you!

Barrett Solar Steam Pump Wins $72,000 grant in Cambodia

Barrett Solar Steam Pump Wins Prize by Walt Barrett

Hi,

I wanted to share this with you. We hope to save millions of lives with this pump I developed 35 years ago and it was basically ignored by the scientific community. It took a group in Cambodia to get it off the ground. I have given this invention freely to the world.

Walt Barrett

Walt,
I am very happy to let you know that our Organization

(Mekong Green Power) has won a prize at the Lien I3 Competition in Singapore on Friday 23rd, 2009 to implement the Barrett Steam Pump in Cambodia.
Out of 648 projects sent to the competition only 8 projects succeed to be winner - We are one of them.

My objective is to keep you updated on progress and applications we develop under this grant.

We are interested to purchase the solar panels from your Organization soonest we obtain the budget within 60 days and when mechanical workshop is in place.

Guess, the second phase for us is to develop desalination system using Barrett Steam Pump and solar panels. We may add this application in the development phase in 2010 and request more funds.

I will be flying to Washington on Nov 7 and return on Nov 17 to attend the Development Marketplace 2009. Should the time allows I propose we have a social telephone call.

All The Best & Regards.

Yvan

Walt's Weight Loss Diary by Walt Barrett

To those of you whom have written to me about the weight loss diary. I publish to it every day, and several times a day. My home made dist plan is working for me and I am down to 224.5 pounds this morning. Please book mark this link. www.waltbarrett.com

To those of you whom have written to me about the free battery training manual requests I send them out daily. I plan to post the entire manual to www.waltbarrett.com under the heading free training. There is also a link to the training video there. We have battery reconditioning dealers world wide. All training is free. I also discuss new products on that site. Please visit when you have time.

Walt

My Monster - Free Weight Loss Program by Walt Barrett

I have set up a weight loss page on my personal blog www.waltbarrett.com It is absolutely free, and we are not selling diets, or weight loss products either. I made this diet up myself after considerable research on weight loss. It is very simple and will work if you stick to it. Diets are very hard to stick to, I know, but I am sticking to this one because it is so simple. I'm dropping pounds like a rock! There are no pills and no gimmicks.

To learn the diet and follow my daily progress just go to www.waltbarrett.com and book mark the site. This is your free ticket to a longer and healthier life!

I also have a page on facebook http://www.facebook.com/walt.barrett?ref=name

Stay Well!

Walt

Free Training Course With No Purchase Required From Walt Barrett

A 25 year old proven system you can do in your back yard. NO INVESTMENT REQUIRED!

We are offering a free training manual and Video. It is a complete course on Automotive Battery Servicing and Restoration including refilling sealed batteries and repairing sulfated cells. If you need work this is a very profitable business. Contact wbarrett1@aol.com

Our Business In A Box For Only $13.95 by Walt Barrett

Yes, it's true. You can actually start your own business for as little as $13.95 delivered to your door. The business is Battery Reconditioning, a major green business which has become very profitable. Your startup kit includes enough of our secret 25 year old formula to recondition a sulfated battery and also a link to our free training manual and video. You can also write to me with no purchase required and receive our free training program via email.

Order your kit here. http://www.chinadepot.com/batripod.html

We are now world wide

Thanks,

Walt

Maintenance Free Car Battery Failures by Walt Barrett

We have seen several reports, and also have noticed in our own workshop that many of these expensive so called "maintenance free" sealed batteries experience premature failure. The sales gimmick is that because they are sealed and valve regulated they do not require water to be added to them. Well lead acid batteries have to be vented, or the gases generated while charging will build up, and cause problems while charging. In a perfect world this might not happen but it is a fact that many sealed batteries are losing water, and it is not leaking out in most cases. We can only assume that through variances in voltage regulator design that many of these failed batteries suffer to a certain degree from accidental overcharging. Our company offers a kit that allows you to install filler caps in your sealed battery if it is low on water. This kit also then allows you to check the condition of each cell and to do hydrometer tests. You can write to wbarrett1@aol.com for full details. We are seeking dealers for our products.

See a video here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WaAM7tWES0A

In a related story, This week we restored two badly sulfated giant 36 volt forklift batteries with a replacement value of $6,000.00 each. We used our 25 year old proven restoration dry chemical formula. Our customer was very happy to pay $150.00 dollars for each battery and that included our 12 month prorated warranty.

We are currently seeking new dealers world wide wbarrett1@aol.com

SEND FOR A FREE TRAINING MANUAL FROM WALT!

You can make cash money now with us!

Thanks,

Walt

Earn Cash Fast Now! by Walt Barrett

You don't have to be a Rocket Scientist to learn Battery Reconditioning. I have done it full, or part time for most on my life. If you contact me I will send you a free training manual and video with absolutely no purchase necessary. If you follow our marketing plan you will start making money immediately. Please write to me, Walt Barrett at wbarrett1@aol.com

It's a simple business with big rewards.

Sincerely,

Walt Barrett

Kayaking on The Five Mile River With Walt Barrett

Great fun kayaking in Killingly , Connecticut

I'm Not Worried by Walt Barrett

The Sound of Clean by Walt Barrett

The Fluid Separating Composting Toilet by Walt Barrett

Micro Home, Micro Office, Micro Studio, Precut Frame kits And Plans, or Built by Walt Barrett

Contact Walt or John Barrett for all of your Micro Home, Micro Office, or Micro Studio, or free energy needs. Our company is known for low prices, customer service, and excellent quality. We take care ofr our customers and can be reached personally by phone five day a week M -F, 8 PM to 5 PM. 401 725 8141 wbarrett1@aol.com

Manufacturing Composting Toilets, Solar Power Systems, and Battery Recycling Chemicals by Walt Barrett

We have been very busy with orders for our Composting Toilets $195.00 and Solar Power systems $999.00, and battery recycling chemicals $2.99 plus postage. We have developed a urine separator for our composting toilet which is major step in controlling odors generated by mixing the two together, and also the urine can build up rapidly in a small composter and cause problems. The urine separator is a major strep forward for us. We are located in Rhode Island and are shipping our Composting Toilets and Solar Power systems as far away as Seattle, Washington. We have also gone global with our Battery Recycling Chemicals and are enjoying very strong sales of our complete business packages including all tools, equipment and chemicals for only $999.00. Our Battery Recycling Kits start at only $2.99 plus postage to do two 12 volt automobile size batteries. Please write to wbarrett1@aol.com for a free training manual and free video link.

Living off the power grid is finally becoming very popular, and I would encourage all of my friends to consider getting into some form of green related business ASAP. If you need a good supplier you might consider our company. We are known for our low prices and very strong customer service. Our EBay store (china-depot-100) has a 100% customer feedback rating.

Thanks,

Walt

How To Repair A Broken Antique Chair by Walt Barrett

Do You Need To Downsize Now? by Walt Barrett

If you are very well off, and will never have to worry about getting by in the future, then go no further because this article is not for you. But, if you are like me, and have to work very hard for your money, and probably the rest of your life, and if you are very concerned about what is going to happen to you in your final years, then I'm going to share my thoughts with you. Ten years ago I sold my old, stylish three hundred year old inefficient farm house, and moved back to my home town. I built a brand new energy efficient home, and figured that my wife and I would spend a happy retirement there.

Sounds great doesn't it? The only thing is that since I left in 1951 for the Korean war things have changed in my town, and in most of the other towns around here too. In the fifty-eight years since I left, the population went from eleven thousand to nineteen thousand, which in itself is not that bad. But amongst all of those new comers there were a group of people that I like to call "empire builders". When the empire builders take over the poor and the elderly especially, are in serious trouble. The empire builders always go right into politics, and they really can take over and ruin a small town like ours. They ruined our town because they give away so much to build a power base so they could stay in power that it drove the property taxes, and all the other fees right up out of sight! Then the poor and the elderly were forced to sell, or give up their homes as they can no longer afford them. The empire builders are very generous with the taxpayers money. They do not care about what happens to you. Here is an example. It's like being a veteran. You are a hero the day you come home from a war, but the day after that you get in line with the rest of the unfortunates at the VA Hospital.

Not me, I tried it once - never again! Four years ago I stood in line for three hours just to apply for medicine. I'm still waiting, so screw them! It's a big lie.

Here are some local examples. Our town used to have several volunteer fire and rescue departments, and they did an excellent job. We have maybe six house fires a year, no baloney. Now we have six full time fire departments with all of the salaries, medical plans and retirement programs that go with it. Our modest home has a fire tax of over $300.00 a year and the tiny vacant lot next door is just under $300.00 a year. They recently tore down several perfectly good fire stations and rebuilt them. If you don't pay your fire taxes they can seize your home and auction it off! My little home is taxed at over $6000.00 a year including my elderly and veterans exemptions being deducted. It's like they sit up nights thinking of ways to burn the money!

We used to have a police chief and three policemen. Our town is very quiet and we rarely, if ever, have had a serious crime. Now we have a huge police department with a budget of at least three million dollars a year to "protect" the people of our town. That's pretty expensive insurance! We used to have two or three people in a modest town office and now we have a huge new building infested with workers who are busy meddling with and controlling every detail of our lives. And of course, the medical and the Pensions etc. Then we have the school system. We used to pay the nearby city so we could send our high school students to their excelling high schools, where I received my last three years of education and it was fine. But that wouldn't do. Now we have our own high school and all of the problems and expenses that go with it. That of course includes the salaries pensions, and medical for the administration, teachers, and custodial staff whom do not come cheap these days. Well the list goes on and on, and I'm sure you have heard it all before.

All this was brought on by a bunch of empire building politicians (meddling fools) that would not last a month if they had to run a real business! And believe me, running any government is a business. You cannot spend more than you take in, and you cannot say yes to everyone just so you can keep your position as the boss. In a real business if you overspend, you are gone! It's a system designed for a select few whom reap all of the benefit packages while the rest of us, who are paying for it, are on the outside looking in.

So what is my point you might ask. Well my property tax and fire tax bills take a major portion of my pension, and I am not alone, this is happening all over the country. The average American has been systematically sold out by overly ambitious, dishonest politicians at every level of government. So here's the deal. If you fall into the above category, or think you will as you get older, you better start looking around for a new place to live. You cannot stay in a town like mine. Personally, I plan to leave the state, which is just as bad, and find a nice little rural town with a head on its shoulders, and move in. I will of course build a new highly efficient micro home and it Will be totally off the grid. Land without power available is much less expensive to purchase. Land without power is easily found even in this day and age. And so, I personally am looking around for a new location, and hopefully in a warmer place than New England. If you are thinking that you may be in a similar position to me one of these days then I suggest you start planning now before it is to late. Believe me, no one else cares about you, and Washington is far too busy meddling in foreign affairs to ever be of any real help to you. Example, the Russians got their asses kicked in Afghanistan, and were going to do better? Bullshit, All were going to get is a lot of body bags just like in Nam! Don't let these guys wrap themselves in the flag and lie to you -- again!

Don't make me ever have to say "I told you so!" Start preparing for you future now, or you may not have one. You are on your own, always!

Walt

Video Production Offer

Save Fuel Making Hot Water For The Summer With a Simple Furnace Control Adjustment by Walt Barrett

Installing the Solar Diode

How To Install Folding Attic Stairs by Walt Barrett

Our Simple Solar Lighting System by Walt Barrett

Installing the Solar Diode

Stainless Steel Bio Diesel Fuel Tank Prices Are Lower Than Ever by Walt Barrett

Just a quick note to inform you that stainless steel tank prices are currently quite low. Our suppliers are offering us prices on new and slightly used stainless steels tanks that are best I have seen in years. Please contact me at wbarrett1@aol.com if you are interested.

Super Tractor Sale & Solar Electric Module sale by Walt Barrett

For those of you planning to get closer, or back to nature and possibly start farming again, Chinadepot.com is currently having a monster tractor and equipment sale. So if you are looking for a great deal on a 28 horsepower tractor, or a loader or backhoe. China Depot probably has the lowest prices in the USA or Canada right now.

Also, if you have been planning to put solar electricity on your home or summer camp, we are selling Solar Electric Modules Delivered to your city for only $3.90 a watt direct from the factory. Again, that is with shipping included on the solar modules only. So if you want to save a lot of money on farm equipment, or solar energy equipment please contact us now while everything is on sale before the cheaper summer shipping rates go up again forcing us to raise our prices.

Our totally off the power grid solar micro home is finally nearing completion. We have been delayed by a very heavy work schedule and terrible weather for months.

You may contact me at wbarrett1@aol.com if you are interested in our discount tractors or solar power systems.

Thanks,

Walt

http://www.chinadepot.com/jinma1.html

BRAND NEW!
2008 JINMA 28HP, 4WD TRACTOR WITH FRONT LOADER
FULLY ASSEMBLED; READY TO USE!
LOADER HAS 5 FT. BUCKET
ONLY $9,390.00 $8,890.00 $500 OFF

28HP, 4WD, Ag tires; unassembled in crate only $6,595 $6,295. + shipping $300 OFF!

Lost Your Job -- Look At It As An Opportunity by Walt Barrett

If you are one of the millions of people who have lost their job in our most recent financial debacle, I would like to offer you my take on jobs, and working for others. I started working in factories in 1947 as a mill rat, as they used to call us. I was fourteen years old. It actually turned out to be a great lesson for me because I learned early on that there wasn't much of a future working in the old time mills. It was a dead end job. Anyway, as I worked my way up through the ranks over the years and eventually moved up to top management positions etc, I learned that in the eyes of most companies that their employees are just numbers on a balance sheet, and the only real security is in being your own boss. So this is what I think.

Even if you start off making less money, and with less benefits, you are really more secure owning your own business in the long run. Accountants only see the bottom line in big business, and their attitudes in the quest for glory, and more and more profits they have seriously dehumanized the relationship between the employees and their employers. These days, an employee is just a number on a balance sheet for many companies. No one cares what happens to you these days. You are on your own so you had better make the best of it! If you have recently lost your job, you have just been handed a great opportunity Because with the Internet it is totally possible to start a business with virtually no money. You can take a chance that you might never have taken otherwise. I am not referring to all of the "get rich quick" schemes. I am referring to starting off with a nationally known sales vehicle like eBay, Craig's List, or You Tube. Find a product, or products and just start selling them. Do not spend a ton of money on a web site. Use a HTML editor and build your own web pages as you need them. That's what I did in 1996 and I have never looked back.

At age sixty-two in 1995, no one wanted to hire me any more. It is a real trip to sit across from a 28 year old "Human Resources" manager, and have that person tell you that you are "over qualified".
That is code for "you are too old", but they can't say that! I have already had the great satisfaction of watching several companies in my area actually fold because of their short sited policy of dumping older employees, and also employees without degrees. It's very short sighted, and is also academic snobbery. I recently watched a take over in our area where the new management dumped at least fifty key people for the above reasons and replaced them with young recent college graduate friends etc, and in less than two years they have destroyed the company. They had destroyed their whole knowledge base. And to add to the irony of the situation, the competition has snapped up all of people that were laid off including the sales force which has easily grabbed up a huge number of their customers. Can you say stupid! You know, there is an old saying that "When an old person dies, a library dies with them." Many companies have just never learned that and they have paid the price. So, my point again, is that you have absolutely no security whatsoever when you work for someone else.

Think up your own business idea. Do not invest a lot of money. Find a company that will sell you a decent product at a fair price. Maybe they will even drop ship for you. Sell stuff on eBay. Buy interesting things at yard sales, or even pick it up off the curb on trash day. I'm not above it myself. Even if you only make 10% to 20% clear profit, it's better than the bank and safer than the stock market. I never trusted the market so I never lost a dime. I invest my money by purchasing more inventory. I never ask for credit and I never give credit. My philosophy is that "if they can't pay me now, they can't pay me later." Don't buy anything if you can rent it, especially space. Many startups waste their money on unnecessary purchases. That is why there are so many startup failures. You have to be very careful about money. If you are going to bootstrap a business you have to do most of the work yourself, so keep it simple, and also keep books – for sure! We use Quick Books and a CPA.
We avoid problems that way ands we always know the status of our business. Our check book is tied into quick books. It works for us. Also, keep control of all your money and inventory. Unfortunately, employee theft and embezzlement is running rampant these days.


One last thing I want to comment on the “Fear of Failure”. I have seen many a genius idea go down the drain because the people involved were afraid of failure. If you do your homework you should know if your idea is a good one or not. If you do have a job, start off small and grow. ebay is a wonderful test market. Put your product out there and give it a fair shot. It's a great way to determine a price point. Don't be afraid to experiment. If you venture nothing, you gain nothing, and you spend the rest of your life going from job to job and working for the man.
Walt Barrett

Bamboo Groves and Rocket Stoves

Hey, it Rhymes, Bamboo Groves and Rocket Stoves.

You know, one of my jobs is being a mad scientist, so I'm always experimenting with new ideas and trying things. So several years ago I planted a small grove of Bamboo trees that seem to grow quite easily in our cold climate. As a matter of fact, they spread like wildfire! I keep trimming them for tomato stakes and fishing poles for the kids and other stuff like that. Once you dry Bamboo out, it is Strong like iron. As a matter of fact, it's more like carbon fiber than iron.

Well anyway, I got this idea to try dry Bamboo as fuel for my rocket stove. If you don't know what a rocket stove is I'm adding some photos. You know what they say about one picture! Now you can make a rocket stove out of just about anything that will not burn. I literally threw mine together for this experiment in abut ten minutes. Then I stacked some of the dry bamboo in the bottom chamber and lit it. Now I know why they call it a "Rocket Stove!"

My point in this whole exercise is that Bamboo is an excellent renewable fuel because it is really a grass and it grows like hell! Now that's what I call renewable. Besides, it has hundreds of uses. Just Google Bamboo and you will see what I mean. Also google "Rocket Stove" if you haven't already. I'm going to try a Rocket Stove in my micro home. I'll have to build it so it is safe to use indoors so that's a WIGTI project.

I seem to be running out of time these days. Perhaps one of you will pick up on this project. I'm going to add some photos. Also, consider planting Bamboo groves for the future if you can afford the space. Trees are always great anyway. It's a win - win situation.

Thanks,

Walt

We support WWW.KIVA.ORG

Free Battery Reconditioning Video and Training Manual Download by Walt Barrett

We are still offering free training manuals and videos. All you have to do is write to:wbarrett1@aol.com and I will send you a free electronic download. If you require a sample of our products we will send them free, just pay the postage. We can put you in this business with practically no money. You can start off with just a few simple tools and a volt meter. It is a great side line business. We have dealers world-wide. Don’t spend thousands when you can start for a few dollars! Please contact me now. We can also put you in the solar electric business with solar modules in the USA at only $3.90 a watt. We will also train you free. Ask for our free solar lighting video just as a starter to add this exciting field into your battery business. They go hand in hand! We make solar electric systems simple and reasonable!

Thanks,

Walt

I had a little problem so I haven't been writing lately by Walt Barrett

Several weeks ago I went in for my six month physical check up, and they found a nasty looking spot on my back. Well if you guessed it was Cancer, you are absolutely correct. In order to get it all out they had to remove a pretty nasty chunk of my back. I am now recovering and waiting to see the biopsy results to make sure they got it all.

I was born in 1933 and in those days the fashion was to put your babies in the Sun and roast them golden brown. Well we now know that was a huge mistake. Several of my friends are going through this process right now too. So don't get too much Sun!

I'll try to get writing again soon.

Walt

Great New Prices For Solar Electric Modules by Walt Barrett

We now have great new prices for solar electric modules direct from the factory to you for only $3.90 per watt delivered to the USA.

Contact wbarrett1@aol.com for more information

Custom Built Lithium Ion Batteries Direct from Manufacturer by Walt Barrett

Our Company, A to Z Global Marketing Inc. AKA www.chinadepot.com has made a marketing arrangement with a major manufacturer of Li Ion batteries in Asia. These batteries are used in the following equipment.

For the Lithium batteries, we can produce the batteries for the following prdoucts:

Power Tools

Electric Bicycles

Electric Cars

Electric Motorbike

Miner Lamp

Portable Energy

Portable DVD player

So long as you provide us the detailed information, such as the battery will be used on what kind of product, battery box dimension, voltage, capacity, using conditions such as charging current, discharge current (including the pulse charge & discharge current), we can design the battery for you accordingly

For the LifePO4 battery, we produce single cells, for the battery pack, it’s almost all custom-made. We design the battery pack based on the following information:

1> battery box dimension

2> working voltage,

3> capacity,

4> charging current (including normal charge current and max charge current),

5> discharging current (including normal discharge current and pulse charge current),

6> used on what product

7> working temperature ..

If the customer can provide the above information, we can design the battery for them accordingly.

This kind of battery is new type of battery in recent years, its cycle life is very long about 1500~2000 times, and it’s environment-friendly, and it’s very safe compared with other lithium ion batteries. Many car/ EV/electric bicycle, motors companies are developing this kind of battery. So, in the future, this battery should have a good market in the world.

Please contact wbarrett1@aol.com if you are interested

Our 8' X 12' Micro Home Plan Set 42 Detailed Page Drawing E-File Only $99.95 on CD from Walt Barrett

These are very complete drawings that give the DIY user every single saw cut and angle. Also, A complete bill of materials. contact wbarrett1@aol.com to purchase plans by credit card or pay pal. This is sheet 19 of 42 sheets.
Double click on drawing to see full page.

Only $99.95 for complete 42 page set of drawings in an E-File.

CD included

These plans will pay for themselves instantly by saving a lot of wasted lumber due to typical DIY mistakes. They give you every single saw cut and angle. The math is already done for you.

Walt

Solar Lighting Systems For Micro Homes.

We now have solar lighting systems for micro homes starting at $100.00 plus TNT shipping from China.

10W Solar Home Systems
Features:
→ A universal solar power system for family, office, camping events, as well as field works
→ An alternative power solution for areas short of public utility
→ Compact, durable and highly efficient
Applications:
→ A home lighting system driving up to three 12V DC lamps
→ A charger for fixed wireless phones, cell phones and small electronics gadgets
→ A home power system driving 12V DC electrical fans, TVs and radios
→ A camping power system driving small coolers and camping lanterns
→ A handy field power system driving electric screwdrivers, electric drills, and soldering irons
Specifications:
→ 10W solar panel (tempered glass encapsulated)
→ 12V/7Ah sealed maintenance-free lead-acid battery
→ Input: two separate charging outlets for sunlight or regular 110V/220V AC
→ Output: one DC 6V outlet and three DC 12V outlets
Accessories:
→ 2pcs 12V/5W fluorescent lamps and lamp holders included
→ Power cable for cell phone charging included
→ 5 cell phone adapter plugs included (Nokia / Motorola / Samsung / Siemens / Ericsson)
→ Multi-purpose adapter plug for small digital electronics included
→ 110V/220V AC universal charger (optional)
→ 12V/5W DC electrical fan (optional)
The price is USD $100.00 per set Fob china
20W Solar Home Systems
Applications︰
1) A solar compact system driving up to 12V DC lamps (LED lamp/fluorescent lamp)2) A charger for fixed wireless phones, cellphone and small electronic gadgets3) A home power system driving 12V DC electrical fan, TV and radio4) A camping power system driving small cooler and camping lantern5) A handy field power system driving electric screw driver, electric drill, and solderingiron
Specifications︰
1) 20W multi-crystalline silicon (tempered class encapsulated)2) 12V/12Ah sealed maintenance-free lead-acid battery3) Input: sunlight and regular 110V/220V AC4) Output: 4 x DC 12V outlets
Accessories︰
1) 2 x 12V/5W fluorescent lamps, both with lamp holder included2) Power cable for cellphone charging included3) 2 fuses included4) Multi-purpose adapter plug for small digital electronic products (optional)5) 110V/220V AC universal charger (optional)6) DC fan (optional)
Packaging︰
Carton dimensions: 34 x 28 x 16cm (solar panel is packed separately)Carton volume: 0.026m3N.W.: 9kgG.W.: 10kgQty/20' FCL: 1,150pcsQty/40' FCL: 2,300pcs
Features︰
1) A universal solar power system for family, office, camping events, as well as field works2) An alternative power solution for areas short of public utility3) Compact, durable and highly efficient
The price is USD $165.00 per set Fob china


40W Solar Home Systems
The price is USD $275.00 per set Fob china

A Movie From Mark Becker

My Power from Free to Adventure on Vimeo.

Mark Becker is a new friend of ours from South Africa and is very much off the power grid.

Solar energy DOA -- What goes around comes around by Walt Barrett

Solar Energy DOA – What Goes Around Comes Around by Walt Barrett
I have studied solar energy since 1950, and have found that it is a fairly simple and practical science in most cases, like home heating and hot water heating. However, it does get more complicated which translates into expensive when used to make electricity.
I actually went into the solar hot water and heating business in 1973, and hung on until 1983. I would describe the business as only a fair performer, and it took massive income tax credits just to put the business on break even basis. I sold all of my manufacturing equipment and walked away in disgust. We were only one among hundreds of US companies that did exactly the same, and some of them had plenty of money, and could have afforded to hang in. Solar Heating and hot water systems have failed to become a mass market product. We have had thirty-six years to benefit from the lessons of the 1973 energy crisis, but it would appear that we have not learned a thing.
I really made a big mistake by believing that solar was going to be the next big thing when I decided to go into to solar energy business in 1973. I had also considered going into the computer manufacturing business instead. I had been studying electronics since the late nineteen forties, and had both military electronics training, and college courses under my belt. Well I chose solar instead because of all the energy shortages talk and then the actual energy crisis. Well that was a huge mistake, and by 1983, I was totally convinced of that.
If this sounds like sour grapes, it probably is. Oh well, we all make mistakes.
Now why has the solar energy business failed to really take hold in the USA?
I will give you my honest opinion.
CONTINUED AT WWW.WALTBARRETT.COM

Greatly Expanded Green Automotive Service Business Opportunity by Walt Barrett

Apr 25, 2009

Your Big Chance For Low Dollar Business Green Ownership by Walt Barrett

A Complete Green Automotive services program
Last night we came across a young lady whose car refused to start at a lonely parking lot in the city. It appeared that the battery was dead. A quick inspection showed that the battery terminals had not been cleaned in years. Luckily we had some tools with us and after quickly removed the terminals and cleaning them as best we could, we put them back on and easily started the vehicle in spit of the fact that the battery obviously still needed maintenance and a good charging. After inspecting the alternator belt etc. we sent her on her way with an admonition to get the proper maintenance performed on her vehicle. Do you have any idea how many times this happens every day all over the world. The battery it seems is one of the most neglected items on a motor vehicle.This is why you will succeed if you decide to join our new world-wide complete motor vehicle maintenance organization. Please read our proposal to you below.Saturday, April 25, 2009Walt Barrett’s Global Automotive Maintenance Services news letter We have decided to publish the first issue of our news letter on this blog so that we can inform as many people as possible about our impending large scale business expansion. Future issues will be sent to our dealers only because they will contain a great deal of valuable marketing information. I’m trying to get an idea how many people are actually interested in our expanded automotive maintenance services program. We already have a great many users of our battery products world wide The outline of the new expanded automotive services services operation is below.
Welcome to the first issue of our Walt Barrett’s Global Automotive Maintenance Services news letter!You are receiving this news letter because you have purchased battery reconditioning chemicals through our Internet marketing Program. We are going to explain our new expanded services program to you, and we are going show you through these Dealer news letters how to get more customers, and to market your new services to them. We will be using the written word and videos to supply the necessary training.Again, this will only be available to our dealers whom purchase all of their Battery Reconditioning Supplies from our company www.atozglobalmarkerting.com
First of all, I will offer a brief description of some of the services we are going to start off with. We will offer the following through our web sites, and forward the sales leads to our dealers in the particular areas where the sales leads come from.We will cover and train you in all of these services in detail through our newsletters, videos, and photos.Here is a brief outline of our expanded service program First, you must Maintain a detailed service record for each customer including mileage and date of services, fluids added, and filter changes, body damage or body corrosion noted etc.
1. Complete battery inspection and repair services.
2. Tire and brake inspection services including checking for brake fluid leaks at each wheel.
3. Engine Cooling System Inspection including hoses, belts, water pump, and radiator.
4. Air cleaner, gas and oil filter inspection.
5. Brake and power steering fluid check and service.
6. Check and add engine and transmission oil as needed.
7. Complete cleaning of interior and exterior.
8. Engine tune up and electrical service only if you are qualified.
Each service has a separate billing charge.All of these services can be for either private customers,or fleet service customers like truckers, cabs, rental cars,used car dealers delivery fleets, etc.It is very important to realize that each year both private individuals and large fleets spend millions of dollars on unnecessary repairs caused by lack of proper maintenance. (I just gave you your main selling point.) Another selling point is that many of the more simple services can be performed at the customers home or place of business. You can work out a practical work route so that you are not roaming all over the city. You can also offer pick up and delivery.
You will be representing “Walt Barrett’s Global Automotive Maintenance Services”. The name Walt Barrett is wildly branded on the Internet as is A to Z Global Marketing Inc. and www.chinadepot.com . All are known to be an honest and fair operations. This should be a major advantage for you. We will expect you to maintain our reputation. There will be a working agreement between us if you use our branding and training. In order to support the marketing and training programs,videos, and news letters, and gather sales leads etc. we are going to have to charge each dealer a small percentage of their sales which is going to be discussed with each dealer so we can arrive a fair figure for all.Most new dealers usually ask me where they can find customers. I am going to cover that very thoroughly for you. in our private dealer newsletter. Finding customers is easy if you have the right product or service cat the right price. We will show you what to do.We will also be supplying you with as many customers as possible from our web sites.I think this is enough to absorb for today.Please comment back to me and also ask questions, I need to gauge your responses and tailor the program to your needs. wbarrett1@aol.com
Thanks,
Walt Barrett President
A to Z global Marketing Inc We put people in business!

Lost your Job, or about too? Is Selling Farm Tractors, or Reconditioning Lead Acid Batteries The Green Business For You? By Walt Barrett

You know, there's an old saying, one door closes, and another door opens. I am a firm believer in that philosophy. Some people say the best time to start a new business is right after you have lost, or about to lose your job. Based on my experience, I think they are right. We have been very successful since the Mid Nineteen Nineties at selling high quality farm tractors that we import from China. Our only problem has always been that we can never get enough dealers to take the program to a larger scale nationwide. Now most people don't get involved with selling tractors because of the following reasons.

1. 
   

   Not enough money.

2. 
   

   They are afraid to send a hundred thousand dollars to China for inventory.

3. 
   

   They are afraid of the quality.

4. 
   

   They are worried that they cannot supply the parts.

5. 
   

   They lack technical and business savvy support. We can give you this support.

When you buy into a franchise, all of the above is supposed to be taken care of for you. Well we need dealers, but we don't sell franchises, or charge up front fees because I don't believe in them. We do however stock tractors here in the USA along with front loaders, backhoes, and wood chippers etc. I'm going to cut right to the chase here and tell you that if you want to be a tractor and farm equipment dealer for our equipment you should talk to me about it and you won't need any money, or fees either. I have over fifty years of business and manufacturing experience, and I will never steer you wrong.

I am very confident when it comes my products, and their quality and saleability. You can work out of our inventory and pay as you go. I can't offer you any better opportunity than that. If you become a member of the A to Z Global Marketing Inc. / http://www.chinadepot.com/ family of people you will have access to any and all of our popular products with no investment, or up front fees. We have years of experience in the tractor, and Internet marketing business and will give you full technical support just like the major franchises do, with one exception, we wont be charging you fees, and taking a chunk of your business profits every month. We are starting people off in the Tractor business, the Battery Reconditioning Business, the LED light bulb business, the Micro Home business, Solar power and irrigation, solar hot water heaters, The emergency Strobe Flasher, Non destructive window shelf kits, and the World famous bottle UnCapper Business. We are also currently working out the details for a Micro Home construction, and sales dealership. There are a lot of things to consider yet. We are working on it.
With some of these business you may want to order a sample to assist you in your sales, but we do not require it. We can drop ship any product for you, and all you have to do is pay as you go.

Now, if for some reason it turns out that our business program is not for you, you haven't lost a penny!

By the way, our tractor business and our other business are stronger that ever and growing daily.

If you are interested, please talk to me!

wbarrett1@aol.com

401 725 8141

Thanks,

Walt Barrett President

A to Z Global Marketing

http://www.chinadepot.com/

We are currently producing a free video on building a composting toilet by Walt Barrett

For those of you whom are interested in Micro Homes and off the power grid living we are currently working a construction video for the composting toilet that is going into our micro home demonstration model. It is designed to be well ventilated and odorless. Yesterday we completed all of the pieces of the frame work and photographed them. We then assembled them and started to put the skin over the framework. We have to photograph more steps today and may complete the unit. We will then add live video segments and the voice over before we can publish the video. It is a very valuable segment on our micro home project because the material cost is very low, mostly left over lumber scraps from the micro home building project and a $6.00 plastic bin with an airtight cover if needed. Commercial units like this one are sold for hundreds of dollars. I consider this a very worthwhile project.
Time permitting, it will be completed by the weekend. We are very busy these days with our Agro business.

Save Yourself A Lot Of Storm Grief by Walt Barrett

Save Yourself A lot Of Storm Grief by Walt Barrett
Yesterday Nancy and I had to drive from Rhode Island to Northern Vermont to see and old friend that is not doing so well health wise these days. We stopped in Keene, New Hampshire on the way, and met up with one of our four sons, Dave whom has lived there since 1980, and he drove us the rest of the way to Sutton, Vermont. While we were driving up we mentioned to Dave that we could not believe the amount of damage to the trees starting from Worcester, Massachusetts, and going on almost all the way to Keene where he lives. Dave told us that the ice storm that did all of that damage had caused many people in New Hampshire, and Massachusetts to be without power for over six weeks in many cases, and although people were furious about it there was very little that they, or that the power company could do, and there was not a decent generator to bought in site.
Now before Nancy and I built our new home ten years ago in Lincoln, we owned and lived on farms since 1962 and we know what it is to be without power up in the country for weeks at a time. So yesterday's trip got me to thinking. It is time I wrote about owning a good dependable diesel generator.
Now is the time to get your diesel generator. It's way too late when that major storm comes, and then you are out of luck! Also, I read two days ago where there are people sitting up nights trying to figure out computer programs that can totally shut down the US power grid in a matter of minutes. Now that may never happen, but I for one am not going to take any chances. If I lose my power I have no well pump, no boiler, no hot water, and no computers, which means no business – well no thank you!
Now it just so happens that one of our hundreds of products is diesel generators, and we sell our EPA Approved Model 6500S for only $1095.00 plus shipping from our warehouse in RI, or our other Warehouse in The Chicago area. Now I would not be selling this generator, nor would I own one if it was not an excellent piece of equipment. It is a silent fully enclosed electric start, air-cooled model. You can view the photos and specifications here. http://www.chinadepot.com/apollo1.html , and we can get you any spare parts you may ever need from our stock. At our usual discounted price of $1095.00 we are offering you a $500.00 savings on this unit. When you purchase from me, you get a great price and great service. If you have any questions you can email me at wbarrett@aol.com I am the owner of http://www.chinadepot.com/
Thanks,
Walt

Great New Micro Home Directory by Walt Barrett

We have started a great new Micro Home Directory, and a new super blog for your benefit. It is loaded with thousands of photos, videos and ideas with in the pages. We also add to the directory several times a week. The directory is located at www.microsolarhomes.com . We have also added huge amount of data at our new blog site www.waltbarrett.com including a new section of educational videos. This site is also added to several times a week.
Here is an interesting site we found this week. http://www.builditsolar.com/index.htm
Now is the time to get familiar with these subjects. Please do not be fooled by the current lower fuel prices. They are only temporary, believe me!
Thanks,
Walt

Walt Barrett's New Blog

Walt has a new and improved Blog Site
Our New and improved Blog site is at www.waltbarrett.com We cover many subjects there.For the many writings, hundreds of photos on www.picasa.com , and www.youtube.com for many videos by Walt Barrett (chinadepot = YouTube site name) Just Google Walt Barrett, or Walter H. BarrettYou may contact Walter H. Barrett at: wbarrett1@aol.com . He is the President of A to Z Global Marketing Inc. AKA www.chinadepot.com. and www.atozglobalmarketing.com

Lost Your Job – Consider Starting A Business by Walt Barrett

This could be the best time.
Unfortunately, many people have recently lost their jobs, and many more people are about to lose their jobs. My view is that as long as you work for someone else you are never secure. Today you are nothing but a number in the corporate book keeping system. You are seen either as an asset, or a liability, nothing more. There is no future in that. So if you are already out of work anyway, I see it as an opportunity to finally have the time to start a business. So you say, yes, a good idea, but I don't have any money. I say well maybe that's a good thing, and you say “That Barrett guy is nuts!” Well maybe you have to be! It depends on your attitude.
Why do I say not having any money is a good thing? Because I have have seen thousands of start ups that were totally funded fall flat on their Fannie's! Here's one version the scenario. The people get the money through a loan, or relatives, or a combination of both. The first thing they do is run out and rent a fancy string of offices . The second thing they do is to fill the office with a lot of fancy gadgets, and expensive phone lines and people. The third thing they do is run out and spend a mint on fancy cars and trucks. Now that they have spent a major portion of their start up capital, they finally realize that they have spent a ton of money, and have not made a cent yet, and I haven't even mentioned the salaries. This is what I call putting the cart before the horse. Many people will disagree with me, and say I am dead wrong, but I do not agree, because, I have seen it too many times. The cold hard truth is that “Overhead is the monster that eats businesses!” Take a look around you right now. Companies that were loaded with dead wood for fifty years are finally waking up to the “facts of business” that they have long since ignored. Many of these companies have left the scene already, and many more are to follow. Well, enough of that.
Here is my suggestion. First of all we'll assume that you have very little money but you really, and truly want to own a business. Rule number one is that if you have a job, don't give it up unless you are really don't need money to live on, lol. It is always best in my opinion to start off part time, and give your idea a test run because start ups are rarely overnight success stories. Rule number two is that as long as you have a choice, do something that you are positive you will enjoy doing. The idea is that if you are going to do all that work, it better be the kind of work you like. If you have a hobby, or skill that looks like it could be a money maker, then you should give that idea serious consideration. Look for a business that requires as few employees as possible to start out with, or better yet a business that you can do alone at least to get it off the ground. Then, you start off small, and learn the ropes about stretching your money, and keeping the overheard low. Unfortunately, many employees have no idea of the costs involved just to keep the doors open on a business. Home business are the best to start off with, and learn with because they have the lowest overhead of all. You will need a first class accounting system too. We use Quik Books because it is an excellent system, and simple to use it you take the time to learn it. If you have to, get someone who knows the system to help you set it up correctly. That is the secret. If you do not want to keep books, and carry all your money around in your pockets you will surely fail. I have seen it a hundred times. I have seen many a man wine, woman, and song his business into oblivion! I'll bet you have too.
So what really makes a business tick? The short answer is by giving people what they need, and want for the best possible price, best customer service, and by working hard at it. There is no long answer, it's that simple.
You may have to test many ideas before you hit pay dirt. You might have a brand new idea for a product, or service, or you might just copy another successful business. There has always been a lot of that lately, and that is why some businesses are so fragmented, too many fingers in too many pies. I remember when McDonald's first came to our state. Within a year we had at least four copycats. People always need the basics of food, clothing and shelter. In these troubled times, selling them any other product requires a great deal more effort. One thing that I have learned from the Internet business is that the easiest way to reach the most people is through a site like www.ebay.com www.craigslist.org (is free) or www.etsy.com These are all great sites. I do not work for them, and I am not plugging them. eBay is a simple fact of life. If you have a product you want to sell eBay is the least expensive way to reach the most people. eBay is also the best way to do market research on a product. If you want to test a new product, or price structure, put it on eBay. You will get your answer in a big hurry, and eBay also publishes free statistics on what the hot selling items are. So lets just say you are really broke but you want to start a business. eBay may be your answer. You can go out and scrounge around for a few interesting items at garage sales etc.,and sell them on eBay for a very small fee. I say the if you can make even twenty percent over all of your real expenses, you have yourself a business! It's a good way to learn the ropes.
One more idea for today. There is a web site www.etsy.com that is only twenty cents per listing.
There is basically one rule. You may can only list your hand made items, or supplies for craft workers
I have a daughter in law whom is enjoying very steady sales on www.etsy.com . She is also a four time cancer survivor. If she can do it, so can you.
In closing I would like to say that I could not possibly cover all of the business scenario's in this Blog. There are so may more. The bottom line is that you do what you have to do, cut lawns, sell scrap metal, pick up aluminum cans, if you have to, but just do something to get you started learning about running a business! If you have specific business problem, or question please contact me through my new Blog www.waltbarrett.com. We have a money and business section on there, and will answer your question as best we can. I have been running businesses since 1954.
Walt Barrett President
www.chinadepot.com
wbarrett1@aolcom

We Are Expanding Our Green Automotive Services by Walt Barrett

Green/Biz
A Green Business For You By Walt Barrett
We are talking about a green business for motor vehicles. You know, for twenty-five years we have been involved with rejuvenating lead acid automotive batteries, and many of our clients have asked us to expand upon the idea, and come up with more services to enable them to add to their bottom line. They could expand on their own, but many of them prefer us to help them with marketing ideas, and to pull in more customers for them through the power of our web sites. Our new marketing plan is great because it requires very little investment, for some people maybe, no investment. We want to set up our dealers to provide quick and simple little services to fleet owners that will save them millions of dollars in lost tires, batteries, engines etc., and even prevent accidents. We will be expanding on this theme over the next few weeks. and if you would like a business with guidance provided by me and my staff, please contact me so we can discuss it. I am including a copy of the letter that we are sending out about our rapidly developing new program. We want you to participate so please contact me at: wbarrett1@aol.com You can start up with virtually no money!
Thanks,
Walt More at www.waltbarrett.com

A green business for low dollars that you can start by Walt Barrett

Please note: This blog has moved to www.waltbarrett.com and has been improved with more videos, photos, and silliness.

A green business for low dollars that you can start by Walt Barrett
By admin Mar 24, 2009
Green Business Comment
You know, if you have ever lost your job, or are about to, You know that sinking feeling in your stomach when disaster hits. Having been there several times over the years I know exactly how it feels. Even if you have what you feel is a secure job, you should always have an expandable part time back up business. I have always had a part time or full time business since I was nineteen years old, and it has saved the bacon for me many times. Some of the oldest, and most successful businesses were started by folks whom lost their jobs in tough times. Most of us need that kick in the butt to move us towards starting a business. One door closes, another door opens. You know, even if you do not make a ton of money, there is a wonderful sense of security in knowing that you are job secure in that business. No one can ever fire you, or cut your pay, or treat you like just another number in the job lottery. I have been thinking a lot about what our company can do to offer a lifeline to folks that need work, and last night I decided to make the offer below.
I have combined a very successful business that we have operated profitably for twenty-five years with a couple of fresh ideas to bring it into the twenty first century. It requires very little money, for some people maybe less than $100.00. It is a service business that can be full, or part time. In order for me to assess the interest in a low investment green business I need you to write to me at wbarrett1@aol.com, and I will then send you a full explanation of my new program. The business requires practically no investment. If you want to hook up with a company that will provide you with the kind of expertise that will prevent you from screwing up your business because of a lack of business experience, and will be there for you to help with the tough decisions, I can help you. We do not charge our business associates for our advice. Please contact me ASAP if you are interested, or need a way to make extra money.
Thanks,Walt Barrett wbarrett1@aol.com

This Blog Has Moved To www.waltbarrett.com

We have moved this Blog to our own server location. It has been expanded and upgraded. The new expanded topics are:
1. Home
2. About Walt Barrett
3. Photos
4. Video
5. Micro Homes
6. Solar Energy
7. Money & Business
Please visit us there at www.waltbarrett.com

This Blog Has Moved by Walt Barrett

I have moved this blog to www.waltbarrett.com and it has been upgraded into several sections including solar, micro homes, photos and video. I had no choice due to a total lack of technical support form Google.
Please tell your friends and come on over. It's bigger and better!
There is a fresh post this morning March 14, 2009.
Thanks,
Walt

This blog has moved by Walt Barrett

We have completed our new blog site on our own server located a www.waltbarrett.com . We would appreciate it if you continue to read our blogs, and follow us to the new site. We will continue to discuss alternate energy, and the business opportunities involved. We have added videos and photos that relate to the alternate energy and micro home business. We will be following up on our micro home construction project and living totally off the power grid. We will also offer more DIY information, so please join us at www.waltbarrett.com .
Thanks,
Walt

My New Blog Page by Walt Barrett

We have spent the past week building a new Blog page on our own company business server.
I will continue to post to this site, and the new one for a while, but will eventually drop this site. We need a space of our own that we can control properly. We are still working the kinks out of the new site, but hope you will take a peek at: www.waltbarrett.com . And please be patient. This is not an easy task. The new site may be a little rocky for a short time. I will be commenting on many topical subjects.
Thanks,
Walt

Are Minimum Home Size Zoning Codes Discriminatory by Walt Barrett

It's no secret that one of my divisions is building micro homes. We get a lot of mail from people that are very interested in these smaller homes, and one of their big complaints is that their city, or town has what are referred to as minimum home square footage standards, or other words to that effect. Now I can understand that no one wants a bunch of shacks, and yards littered with junk cars etc. in their neighborhood, and I totally agree with that. But those same zoning laws are designed to prevent property from being turned into junk yards and trash piles etc. They also require safe building standards to be followed including proper plumbing, wiring, ventilation, sanitation etc. and that is a very good thing too.
Now this is the part that gets troublesome. By limiting the minimum size of a home the zoning officials are discriminating against people with low incomes, singles, or couples with no children, elderly retirees on low incomes, and people that just want to live greener and save energy by living smaller. I have written to the local office of the American Civil Liberties Union for an opinion on this matter. Why should a person for example be told that they must build a 2000 square foot home when all they want is a 400 square foot home, or whatever size they want?
So I am going on the record as saying that those minimum square footage laws are discriminatory and elitist. Everyone is entitled to own a home, and if they abide by the building and sanitation standard they should be allowed to build it. There are many affordable pieces of land that these smaller homes can be built on and I think it is time that we make the necessary changes to allow it. I feel the same way about micro apartments.
Ask yourself who really has the most to gain by mandating that people build larger energy wasting homes?
Walt

A New Solar Micro Home Page by Walt Barrett

Please visit our new web page that combines Micro Homes and related solar systems and lighting all on one web page.
http://www.chinadepot.com/microhomepage.html

Thanks,
Walt

Smaller Homes and Population Shifts Are Inevitable For Americans by Walt Barrett

There is no question in my mind that in the near future many Americans will be forced to move into smaller homes. This is going to happen despite the fact that energy prices have come down slightly and we are experiencing temporary relief. Many of us in the northern climates will also be relocating to the warmer climates. The energy prices are going to go up again and will continue to rise every year. This is going to make it virtually impossible for the lower income and retired Americans to stay in the colder climates. Let's take a typical retired couple with a paid up mortgage and a combine retirement income of $1500.00 a month. There are many in this bracket in our area of New England. Let's say that they burn 1000 gallons of heating oil in a year. The way oil prices have been the past year this can amount to anywhere from $2, 000.00 to $4,000.00 a year. If you then add that to their property and fire tax bill, that takes the yearly total up to $10,000.00. Now if their pensions only come to $15,000.00 a year, that only leaves them $5000.00 to pay their income taxes, state and federal, buy groceries, pay doctors bills, drive their automobile, and all the other little incidentals in life.
Now if some of you are gasping in disbelief over the above figures, believe it, because New England is loaded with people in that income bracket and even lower incomes, ands it getting worse! Furthermore, many of the cities and towns in our area are grossly mismanaged and are taxing everything in site. So where are we going with this scenario? It's simple, the poor and the elderly that are lucky enough to own a home that they used to be able to afford are going to have to sell it, or lose it. So I predict that there will be a lot of selling home in the north and moving south where you can at least starve to death without freezing to death first. The crime rates will go up dramatically too.
The folks with the pensions will leave first because they have that "portable income" so to speak, and hopefully the cash from the sale of their home they were forced to sell up north. I see this happening with some of my friends already. Now if they play it smart, this is their chance to start over right. By right, I mean that they can take their seed money and build a small energy efficient home. Air conditioning is a major expense in the south, but if you have 25% of the cubic feet than a larger house, and it is well insulated and designed you can cut the air-conditioning costs by 75% easily. If you have Light Emitting Diode light bulbs, they run cold for one thing, and they also save 95% of your lighting bill. Solar hot water heating in the south will save at least 80%. The same goes for your refrigerator and other appliance. Stoves, Dryers and back up water heaters should be gas. Hanging up clothes never killed anyone either, and saves a lot of energy. So what I am really saying is that if you want to survive financially in the future one of the best ways to do it is to start lining a greener life style, if you will. There is no better time than right now for you to start investigating the alternate life styles that will enable you to survive than the present. Be sure to find a town with low taxes that hasn't been taken over by the "Empire Builders" that bring with them the higher taxes caused by bloated town payrolls with their bloated pension and medical plans that the locals are expected to support. The chickens will be coming home to roost on these guys soon now! We are going to talk a lot more about all of this in the future.
Walt

Micro Home Plans from Walt barrett

This is an eight foot by sixteen foot micro home plan. There are a total of 46 pages of drawings , All elevations, foundation plans,saw cutting angles and a complete bill of materials. The whole package on a CD is $495.00 and we can quote larger and smaller sizes.

Any questions,

Contact Walt @ wbarrett1@aol.com

Solar Factory Tour by Walt Barrett

Hurras Solar America is offering solar hot water heating systems starting at $199.00 plus shipping. For full price lists contact wbarrett1@aol.com

www.hurrassolaramerica.com

Your Last Chance To Own An Exclusive Solar Heating And Hot Water Dealership by Walt Barrett

We have just founded Hurras Solar America and we are offering exclusive dealerships in the USA, Mexico, Central and South America and the entire Caribbean. This equipment will never be sold customer direct in any area where we have a distributor. This is a great business opportunity, and a chance to lock into your own exclusive area. Complete system prices start as low as $225.00 plus shipping from factory to dealers for non freezing climates.
We are not gouging like some are. Get in on the leading edge this time!
Anyone wishing more information should contact Walt Barrett at: wbarrett1@aol.com

A New Solar And Green Living Discussion Group by Walt Barrett

We have started a very successful "Solar Living" and "Green Living" discussion group at: http://solarmicrohomes.ning.com/ The group is growing at nearly one new member per hour. We are discussing DIY and all things solar. We invite you to join and participate with both questions and ideas about solar. Several people have already complained about the high cost of solar equipment so I am discussing DIY systems. You may start your own discussion about solar there if you wish.
Although I have recently formed www.hurrassolaramerica.com, I will not be discussing it on the discussion site, and we do not want anyone selling on the site. Also, we have no affiliation whatsoever with the companies advertising in the margins of the discussion pages. The advertising is the price we pay for the free server space. There is no need to pay for solar heating plans as the Internet is loaded with free information. Also, I taught solar classes for many years in the local colleges, and tech schools, and will do my best to answer all questions.
Please consider joining this new site. http://solarmicrohomes.ning.com/
Thanks,
Walt

Living A Greener Life Style by Walt Barrett

It's no secret that Americans use a great deal more energy than other countries do, and that we live in homes that in many cases are much larger than necessary. But then, many people just do not care, and go on like the energy is going to last forever. I recently heard from one of our town workers that in one of our upscale neighborhoods these outstanding pillars of our community are refusing to separate their cans, bottles and paper for the recycle trash pick up. Well my reaction to that was to just leave it sitting on the curb until it rots, and let them sort it out then. Now there's a treat for them!
Things have really changed. When I was a kid we composted the garbage in the garden, and turned most of the in the glass bottles for their two cent and five cent deposits and sold the metal and rags to a scrap dealing old man that came around in a horse an wagon. His little one horse business, BTW, became a monster corporation dealing in scrap metals and recyclables. I'm sure his heirs love him for that! My point being that refuse is worth money, and my Mom really depended on the extra cash she picked up each month from the “rag man” as we used to call him. That was the nineteen thirties and now it's 2009, and we in our infinite wisdom have a better idea. We bury our trash which is just like taking a handful of money and flushing it right down the toilet every day! We also make bottles and bags from plastic which use up a lot of resources that are getting scarce. I'll tell you one thing, anyone that is out of work right now should look into recycling because there is a lot of money to be had if you sell at the market prices. Imagine how much money your city or town would save if there wasn't any trash pick up. It's you tax money paying for it and who isn't tired of high taxes?
Well I just keep thinking that better life styles, recycling, smaller homes, micro homes, energy conservation, solar electric and solar hot water heating are not such a bad way to go. This country has millions of people that are barely scraping by. It's no secret that if you live greener, you can retire greener, if you know what I mean. In the meantime, you can get by on a lot less money if you live the greener life style. Why live in a home that costs a fortune in energy costs when you can just a easily live in a home that is energy autonomous and puts money in your pocket? Well it's easier said than done, but if things start right, they end right.
The answer is build a smaller home and using our modern technology, make it off the power grid. Smaller home initially cost less money to build, and with the solar electric equipment and Led light bulbs you can light your home with just a few solar modules. The old ways of building homes and providing utilities are rapidly becoming obsolete. American ingenuity is rapidly taking over and changing things dramatically.
It's bad enough that we have the number of poor people on welfare and unemployed in this country that we do, and God bless them through no fault of their own in many cases, but the ultimate insult is that many of the poor are actually over weight, and poor because they never learned how to budget their money, grocery shop or eat properly. Just watch them at the cash register. They are the ones at the register with a carriage full of soda, sugar coated cereal, potato chips, Junk food, watered down “fruit drink” and a carton of cigarettes at $60.00 a carton, paying with food vouchers, or food stamps. I do not believe that the food stamps or food vouchers will pay for the cigarettes, at least not in my state. So they really have to earn that cigarette money. The diet of the poor and the cigarette smoking is a guarantee of major health problems down the road. No only can our kids not read write properly today. They have never even learned to eat properly, or budget their money. All this from a school system with a never ending demand for “more money” so our kids can receive a “quality education,” yeah right! How about teaching people to really be able to read and write, do math and keep track of their money, and live a better life style. Is that asking too much?
Think about living a greener life style for the sake of your health and your financial future, and ask yourself, what is my plan to survive when the heating oil and gasoline is ten dollars a gallon? Remember the three little pigs!
Walt

Solar Steam Water Pump Diagram Free by Walt Barrett

I recently commented on an energy news letter I receive from Africa that back in 1973 I had designed and built a solar steam powered shallow well water pump that ran off of a double glazed flat plate solar collector, and that no one was interested at the time, so I put it on the shelf. Well believe it or not, after all these years, I have just received a flood of mail from all over the world. It is so much less expensive to build, and can benefit so many people that I decided a long time ago to give the idea away free to anyone that asked for it. It's very simple and has no moving parts. It's just another way of saying thanks for our continued success in business. Anyone desiring a copy of the file should contact me. I do not want these plans to ever be sold! That is the only condition to the offer. There are several ways to improve the performance too, so please use your imagination. For the free info please write to me at: info@hurrassolaramerica.com
Thanks,
Walt

Hurras Solar America by Walt Barrett

Hurras Solar America, a division of A to Z Global Marketing Inc, is on line as of today. http://www.hurrassolaramerica.com/ . The new solar division will market solar hot water heating, and solar home heating systems to North America, Central America, the Caribbean Islands, and South America.

We will be establishing dealerships for the sales, parts distribution, installation and service of Hurras America Solar Energy Systems.

We are now accepting applications for dealerships.
Please view the web site http://www.hurrassolaramerica.com/ to view this exciting solar energy product line. I personally guarantee our dealers the lowest prices and the highest quality.

Dealer Applicants should contact Walt Barrett At: info@hurrassolaramerica.com

Thanks,

Walt

Payback From A Green Company by Walt Barrett

Many of you already know that we also operate a very successful automotive battery recycling company. We can barley keep up with our chemicals restorer sales and the growth has been astronomical.
Well we really appreciate all that business and think we have found one way to give a little back. We have been donating to www.kiva.org for quite some time now. That was our first attempt at giving some back. Now, in addition to that we have started a brand new web site called www.freeautosales.biz. It's hard to get a web domain name these days, and that is the best we could do. The new site is world-wide and allows anyone to buy or sell any kind of motor vehicle absolutely free. This includes private parities, dealers and manufacturers from all over the world. This will allow all of the above people to save some money. Now who doesn't want to save money?
Right now we have just started the site and it is a small beginning, but these things have a way of growing. The site is fully search able and Photos are allowed. The main thing, like any other free service, is that people have to find out about it. We would really appreciate it if you could tell your friends about our new free service. www.freeautosales.biz
There are no charges ever!
Thanks,
Walt

Solar Hot Water Heating Dealerships Available by Walt Barrett

The above cold climate system is one of our new split solar antifreeze systems.

The above non freezing climate system Batch system is just one of the many systems that we now have dealerships available for. It is a Batch type thermosiphoning type system that does not require any power. It is our smallest system, and it is available in larger sizes. The system shown has a glass tube solar collector, but we also sell the flat plate solar collectors.

We are currently offering these units to people who want to be dealers only because they must be shipped by 20' container loads minimum. There are 12 to 32 systems in a 20' container depending on which systems are ordered. Solar systems must ship by container loads because the staff at the shipping companies where the shipments are on loaded and off loaded are very careless in their handling of loose freight.

Serious dealer requests should be addressed to me at this site. wbarrett1@aol.com Batch systems start at $599.00 delivered to Miami as an example. Batch systems are for non freezing climates only.

I will be posting more photos and specs very soon.

In the 1970's we manufactured, sold, and installed hundreds of solar systems both for hot water and for heating, including water to water and water to air heat pumps. This business flourished for many years until the solar tax credits were abolished under the Reagan administration. We hope to see some new tax incentives to help Americans save energy, and save money.

Thanks,

Walt

Micro Home Plans from A to Z Global Marketing Inc by Walt Barrett

Well we had our big meeting today, and have worked out the details for the sale of plans for the various sized micro homes. Our plans are very thorough and do not leave any room for guess work especially for the inexperienced DIY market. Plus we are offering customer support by email only as with all of our products since 1996 on the Internet. Our decisions etc. are below.

Your comments are invited.

Thanks,

Walt


What you get with our plans.
1. Isometric Drawings
2. Finished Elevations
3. Detailed Frame Elevations
4. Cutting schedule sheets with all cutting angles to set the saw at.
5. Two footing plan choices.
A: Regular footings
B: Slab
6. Window and Door schedule
7. Alternate Gambrel roof design for more head room
8. A full bill of materials
These plans represent many hours of work and consist of approximately 40 pages of professional drawings done on a CAD program by a professional. As usual, we are available by email for technical support for those who need it. These plans will save you a great deal of mistakes and wasted lumber. We even tell you what size nails, screws, nuts and bolts etc to use. If you are not a professional you will REALLY need this information.
They will easily pay for themselves the first two weeks of construction. We know by our own experiences.
If you would like a larger or smaller home based on our off the power grid energy saving home designs please write to us at wbarrett1@aol.com and we will arrange to discuss it with you. Our customer service is the very best. We cater to the DIY market and understand your problems. We make micro home building simple.
We can also offer you pre cut kits and knocked down panelized versions of our homes to reduce shipping costs and make your job even more simple.
The complete detailed set of construction plans for the sixteen foot micro home are $495.00 delivered electronically or on a DVD disk.

Low Cost Micro Homes & Financing by Walt Barrett

Now that I am back from my film expedition to the Florida Everglades, and have tied up a few loose ends I am ready to move forward with the Micro Home Project. We would like to start full production in April so we will spend the next nine weeks try to find customers that are willing to purchase one of our homes. This will be a simple task in the current economy, but there is one thing that might help. I have been reading most of the big time green web sites whom never ever give us a mention by the way, and they are pushing several companies that are offering 80 square foot micro homes for up to $40,000.00, lol! That is $500.00 a square foot. Come on guys, let's get real! The 128 square foot model that we have already built and shown on this web site with a shower composting toilet and solar 120 volt A/C lighting system or 12 volt DC, your choice, will sell for $9995.00 plus shipping. That is $78.00 a square foot and at that price will be easier to finance than an automobile. We may even carry the paper our self if it is legal. The power pack for the LED lighting system will also support a TV, Computer, Cell phone, and radio. We will assembly line produce these units in either Rhode Island, Connecticut, or Massachusetts to begin with depending on tax breaks etc., but will be seeking assemblers in other states if the business picks up. We are also going to build larger sizes that are all energy efficient and off the power grid if the clients desire them. In summary, the entire project is very flexible and really depends on the market place.
I would like to ask that if you know anyone interested in any aspect of this project or if you are yourself, please contact me. We are not asking for investors as I am personally financing the entire project. One of our main goals is to put some Americans back to work.
Any inputs from you would be very helpful.
Thanks,
Walt

Checking The Water Level In Sealed Automotive Batteries by Walt Barrett

In the process of reconditioning failed Sealed Lead Acid automotive batteries we have found that many were very low on water. Most people say that this is due to overcharging, and boiling of the electrolyte. This makes it highly advisable to check the charging rate of your alternator. If a battery is allowed to run low on water it is most likely the finish of that battery unless you catch it before the plates are above the level of the electrolyte. The problem is that sealed batteries have no ports to allow you to check the levels. One way we have found to get around this is to remove the battery and place it on the work bench in a darkened area. If you then hold a bright light behind the battery you can see the partitions, the plates, and the electrolyte levels in each cell. This usually works with black colored batteries also because they are usually only translucent when you inspect them with a bright light in back of them. It's almost like an Xray.
Now ,if you find the levels are too low but the battery is not ruined yet we offer a stop drill to drill service holes in each cell without ramming the plates. We also offer the battery tune up chemical additives, and plastic sealing caps to seal the drill holes which may be opened again for future inspection. Only do this after determining that the battery still is salvageable.
This tip can save you a great deal of money, and who isn't interested in saving money? Don't forget to check the charging rate in case it is what is causing the problem.
Personally, I'm not crazy over sealed batteries and am in the process of gathering consumer information on their failure rates as compared to the more serviceable batteries with inspection and filling caps.
For free Battery service training manuals and video training downloads please contact me at: Wbarrett1@aol.com

Buy or sell Automobiles and Trucks on our new totally free photo classified ads at www.free2advertize.com Sponsored by our battery restoration chemicals division.

World-Wide Free Motor Vehicle Advertising For All by Walt Barrett

A to Z Global Marketing Inc, Web site www.chinadepot.com .
has started a free world-wide motor vehicle classified with photo advertising web site for both dealers and private individuals. This in in appreciation of the massive response to our Automotive Battery Restoration Chemicals from both private individuals, automobile dealers, and truck dealers. We accept both vehicle Wanted and vehicle For Sale ads.

We offer the advantage of listing world-wide with just a single ad. List as many as you like.

The site is fully searchable, and should grow to a considerable size in due time as people find it.

Registration is required, but is totally free. We are offering this service to assist everyone in these troubled financial times. There is a sample ad on the brand new site and the instructions are easy to follow. Please register now and be the first in your area, and please tell your friends. Your comments will be appreciated. The address is: http://www.free2advertize.com/

Motor Vehicles Only, All Others Will Be Removed. We are not affiliated with any of the sellers, and are not responsible for quality, or any financial scams. The usual precautions should be taken to protect yourselves. All email and other information is automatically confidential.

Thanks,
Walt
wbarrett1@aol.com

A to Z Global's Battery Restoration Chemical Business Booming by Walt Barrett

The automotive lead acid battery restoration business is booming!
THE REPEAT BUSINESS IS INCREDIBLE.
Our current daily sales of the restoration chemicals are exceeding last years total sales by 100% of the year's sales every day. This is an unheard of growth rate. We credit the Internet for the current sales explosion of this 25 year old proven product. Our videos on http://www.youtube.com/ and http://www.facebook.com/ are experiencing thousands of views. We also credit our no gimmick approach to the business. Our training video and training manual are free in the form of down loadable files. You may also view the video at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XuZhf2J-NIg&feature=channel_page

Just write to me at wbarrett@aol.com for these downloads. We also offer free samples if you pay the postage.

Our dry chemical formula is totally different than any other product that we have seen on the market. Many people have mentioned EDTA to us, but we do not use EDTA. Our product "unlocks" the potential unused energy in any battery that passes our simple testing methods with out the use of expensive high tech testing instruments. Also you need is a simple old fashioned battery load tester and a volt meter to test your batteries. These units will not make explosive sparks if you always clamp to the positive battery terminal first and remove the positive clip last when finished testing.

Batteries should also be tested in a well ventilated area. You can always aim an electric fan from a few feet away over the battery to be tested if you are concerned about gases.

The bottom line is that thousands of dollars are being saved, or earned by auto battery recycling. We invite you to contact us to get started in this business or just to do your own battery restoration. We will send you enough free chemical to do one battery if you simply pay the shipping costs. Just click here http://www.chinadepot.com/batripod.html#supplies

The FREE kit includes chemicals for two batteries, six plastic caps for sealed batteries, and a free manual. The postage is only $13.95 for the entire package shipping and packing.

When you consider that a new battery can cost up to $125.00 or more, this is a really great offer, and could launch you into a great part of full time business.

REMEMBER-- OUR FORMULA IS A SAFE DRY CHEMICAL FORMULA, AND IS NOT EDTA! IT ONLY WORKS ON BATTERIES THAT PASS OUR CELL TESTING PROGRAM AS SHOWN IN OUR FREE TESTING MANUAL.

You may contact me personally at: wbarrett1@aol.com.

Thanks,

Walt

A to Z Global Marketing is selling Micro Homes, and LED Lighting systems by Walt Barrett

We are now offering LED lighting products for both solar powered and grid powered lighting systems. LED Bulbs are available in 12 volt DC or 120 volt AC versions. We offer 12 volt powered inverters to convert 12 Volts DC to 120 volts A/C so that an off the grid home can power a TV, Computer, and cell phone easily. We can provide complete systems for micro homes, summer cabins, and other off the grid buildings. These smaller systems are very inexpensive compared to the systems required to power the larger energy wasting residences.
We are also seeing clients interested in our micro homes.
Anyone interested in discussing these homes or systems and the various options and costs should contact wbarrett1@aol.com .
Thanks,
Walt

Energy Saving Product Profits To Go To Micro and Autonamous Home R & D and Production. by Walt Barrett

We are announcing today that 100% of the profits from all of our energy saving products and micro home plans will be invested in our Micro and Autonomous Home project with the goal of providing low cost energy, free affordable homes. Here is a little more background, and explanation of our on going project below.
An autonomous home is an energy free home that takes care of you instead of you taking care of it. It powered by solar, wind, or hydro depending on the circumstances.
The light emitting diode (LED) light bulb and Solar Power Systems
One of the most important spin off products as a result of our autonomous micro home research project is the light emitting diode lighting system. These light bulbs are available in 12 volt DC, 120 Volts A/C to 240 volts A/C. The latest models have an energy savings in equivalent light for a 100 watt reading lamp of 96%. This has huge implications to the power industry and to people living "off the power grid." These LED bulbs will drastically reduce the number of solar power modules required on any autonomous home, thus lowering the cost. Now, let's take a look at the general population. Suppose we take 100 million homes and put just one LED 100 watt equivalent bulb in each household. This LED bulb actually draws4 watts of power from the grid to equal 100 watts in Light or lumins. That is a savings of 96%.That is 96 watts X 100 million homes, or 9600 million watts from only one light bulb per home!Imagine if it was twenty of these LED bulbs per home. That is 20 X 9600 million watts. The savings in money and energy are incredible. Now let's just imagine that our 100 million homes have just enough solar electric modules to provide the lighting only. The cost of producing just a few hundred watts a day per residence is less than $1000.00 per home just for lighting.The system consists of one solar electric module with charging regulator, two solar storage batteries, a 120 volt inverter if you use 120 volt bulbs, and there is enough back up powering the batteries to charge a cell phone, and run a computer or TV for reasonable amounts of time. Just imagine, all that from a 100 to 150 watt solar electric module Producing about 1 KW per day average. Now, it is common knowledge that our company, A to Z Global Marketing, AKA http://www.chinadepot.com/, A 100% American owned company has already invested thousands of dollars in autonomous micro home research with the intention of mass producing micro and medium size homes at the lowest possible prices ever. This is possible by using the latest material science research and advanced mass production technology. Our main goals are:
1. To provide the lowest comparable affordable housing costs in history.
2. To save huge amounts of energy.
3. To provide employment locally by building regionalized assembly plants.
4. To be the greenest business possible.With these goals in mind, we are announcing today that 100% or all the profits derived from the sale of LED solar lighting systems, and our solar water pumping and power systems will allocated to our Micro and autonomous solar home project. Our goal is to get into mass production as soon as possible. We will also allocate 100% of the profits from the sale of micro home plans into the micro home R&D and assembly plant program. These homes will vary in size from 128 square feet to 700 square feet.We sincerely hope that our loyal readers will pass this information along to as many people as possible. We need to turn things around in this economy and to help as many of our fellow Americans find employment and housing as soon possible.
Please pass this blog information to your friends as we only have a fraction of the people who can benefit from the information on these blogs. There are micro home details and photos on this blog. We are now offering detailed construction plans for sale.
Walt Barrett President
A to Z global Marketing Inc.
http://www.chinadepot.com/ A 100% owned American Corporation

Micro Home and Related Energy Systems Going Into Production by Walt Barrett

Well I have been enjoying my yearly vacation in Florida, and have finally felt rested enough to do a little writing again.I am looking forward to getting back to work in February and going into production of our micro home and related systems like the continuous composting toilet, Solar 120 volt AC LED lighting system, grey water irrigation disposal system,and the solar hot water heater, and heat storage systems. Our goals are a home that is totally off the power grid, and to create jobs locally in the communities where the home will be produced. Another important goal is to mass produce these homes at prices so low that any working person or family will find then easily affordable. We are currently investigating all of the most modern building materials and building methods that we can find and would appreciate any suggestions from our readership.There is one major bump in the road that we are currently investigating, and that is the minimum square footage requirements found in most local building codes. These codes as currently written virtually force you to waste materials,and energy by setting minimum home sizes. Although minimum home construction standards are required it is my opinion that the minimum size standards tend to be over regulation. Quality, air circulation, sewer, water and safety,are one thing, but for example, two people do not require 1000 square feet of living space in most cases, as compared to sleeping in a shelter or under a bridge. It's time the local governments "get real" on that subject!The systems that we have designed for our micro home will also be the way of the future because they save billions of dollars in wasted energy, water usage, sewerage disposal, and trash disposal. We are currently working on a near zero trash output per home and total recycling of all waste food products within the home. Actually, the technology for all this is simple, but the problem is getting people to use it. We can accomplish this by tying it to both saving and making money.I would like to close today by telling you that I am currently outlining the first book of which I hope will be a series of them,God willing, about new life styles, home, healthier ways of living, risk free saving for retirement, and starting green businesses's, especially those you and do from home. I hope you will follow along with me on this green journey, and perhaps write to me with suggestions and gripes etc. Let's all think about changing the world for the better!
Thanks,
Walt Barrett

Finding A Micro Home Friendly Location by Walt Barrett

Designing and building our new product The Autonomous Micro Home was a relatively simple project. We have even spun off some great green products that we are already selling. Now we have begun phase two and we need your help. It seems that that most cities and towns have minimum sizes for residences. Some popular minimums are 700 to 1000 square feet. Well with homes starting as small as 128 square feet, the micro home is left way out in left field so to speak. Frankly, I don't have time to take on every city and town in America so I am going to do the next best thing which is to ask anyone who reads this blog, and knows of a city or town That does allow micro homes down to 128 square feet in size to be built to please let us know. It could mean a new industry, and new jobs to that community. We have determined that is is less expensive to build micro homes locally in micro factories than to pay the over the road shipping costs. It also allows you to build them more than 8 feet wide, and there's nothing like the advantage of providing jobs for the local workers, many of whom could become customers themselves.
So we are asking that if you do know of micro home friendly zoning codes in any area of the country to please share that information with us, and also consider the possibility of becoming the builder dealer for our totally off the power grid micro homes.
Happy Holidays!
Walt

Green Ice by Walt Barrett

Don't Let the Media Sour You on The Economy, or Life by Walt Barrett

Don't Let the Media Steal Your Dreams

One thing I learned a long time ago is that all media thrives on misery. Without doom and gloom and misery the media would be out of a job. For every story with a happy ending there are hundreds of very sad stories. A good news day for the media is when people are murdered, babies die, airplanes crash, volcano's erupt, buildings blow up, factories explode, thousands of people lose their jobs, or are killed in accidents, and lots of businesses fold, a person's life is ruined, and on, and on, and on! They literally beat on these stories for days on end. The media performs its "duty" to the nth degree, until, you get the urge to throw the TV out the window! Don't ever lose sight of the fact that they, the media, are making huge amounts of money in the process of spreading all of this negativism around the planet. Many young people that I have spoken to tell me that they have given up on the media all together because it is so negative and depressing. Don't fall into the trap! And if you agree with me, avoid buying their sponsors products. That message is loud and clear!

Well I would like to take the time to point out that the world is not coming to an end at this time. Just because certain industries have painted themselves into a corner it doesn't mean that all businesses are going to fail. Actually, some of them are thriving. Many of the businesses that are failing are because of bad management decisions, greed, failure to obey the accepted rules of good business procedure, and in some cases by giving in to excess demands of the labor unions. If you obsess on all of this you are going to get dragged down by it. Just remember that we all got through the thirties, forties, fifties, and seventies in spite of some pretty unsettling economies. Remember, that the media would be very happy to control everything including you, and your government. They would like to decide who is guilty before they are even tried in a court of law, who wins the elections, who stays in business, and who fails, and to influence your thinking in any way they can. All media has it own agenda. Most of all, they like to make money. The media has no conscience in spite of the crocodile tears. They would conduct an interview over your loved one's casket if you let them. We have all seen it. Someone should follow them around and constantly stick cameras in their faces, and invade their homes and neighbors homes. See how they like it! Notice that they rarely drag each other through the mud except for the rag sheet people. The media has its own share of mentally unbalanced control freaks and hypocrites, and they have no need to look around any further to find them.

I think I have made my point, and now I would like to suggest that we all ignore all the doom and gloom and predictions from these so called media experts, and get on with our lives. Take a more positive attitude, and look around you for the opportunities in life, and the good things that happen, not the disasters. We can't change them. Don't let the media steal your dreams! There are now, and always will be great opportunities in this world in spite of what the media says. Remember how they make their living. Media is a business, and if you ignore them, and take control of your own life, you will be a lot better off. They may never go away, but maybe some day they will learn that we all have rights like privacy etc. too, and to just stick to reporting the news and not trying to make, or effect it.

Get positive and stay positive, spend your time on better things like how to improve your own personal situation in life, quit worrying about disasters, and the sex life of movie stars etc. Quit wasting time on the media, and you will have a great and successful 2009.

Walt

Off to the Everglades by Walt Barrett

I just want to take the time to tell you all that I will not be commenting very much, if at all, for the entire month of January. We will be off to the Everglades in Florida for our annual wildlife filming expedition. We take one vacation a year and this is it. Our big treat of the year.

Thank you for reading my blog, and I wish you all Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and a very Happy New year!

Walt

The Economy, Green Energy, and The Micro Home by Walt Barrett

The Barrett Family Mansion in 1933.

I kept this early micro home, and completely refurbished it as a reminder.

It has been upgraded to what my parents always dreamed it would be.

It serves as a reminder as to what can be accomplished in only one life time. I am now very concerned about my children and grand children's future.

We have been receiving a lot of encouragement lately in the form feedback from our readers. I would like to thank everyone for taking the time out to comment back to me. We have a lot of things scheduled for the micro home project in the coming year. We will build a mass producible, continuous composting toilet from mostly recycled plastic and hope to make it a commercial success. We have already developed a successful department in our eBay store selling Light Emitting diode Light bulbs.

These things are going to change the world as they save over 90% of the average lighting bill. Now if we can get the rest of our appliances to do that we'll be in great shape. LED bulbs are more expensive to buy initially, but will operate for at least 50,000 hours and pay for themselves rapidly. We are using a great deal of the profits from our business to develop new energy saving products for our many customers. It's good for them, and it's good for us. We hope in our own small way to make things better for the people of our country.

Now am going to make some comments that may make some of you very unhappy with me, but I have really paid my dues to our county and this is how I feel about the state of things. You may want to stop reading right now. If you are wondering about my politics, I am a very independent voter. This time I felt compelled to vote for Obama.

All businesses and people have an obligation to try and make our country a better place. Personally, I am disgusted at the amount of greed that we are currently seeing here! I am approaching age 76, but I am hoping to stick around long enough to do some little thing to help change this country for the better. Some mornings I receive some pretty heart breaking letters from people that have been on the receiving end of the giant raw deal that many of our fellow citizens have been subjected to lately. The hardest working people seem to be the ones whom are suffering the most in this country.

As a product of the great depression myself, I can tell you that it's no fun to be so poor that you are just praying every day that your hard working Dad will come home from a day labor job with enough money to buy some food and pay the mortgage. It's up to us that have the means to try and make things better. People need to have some kind of productive work, a decent place to live, and food to put on the table. We have the money and the technology to do it. We don't need welfare, we need opportunity. We cannot depend on our government to do it. What we don't have is the proper leadership. Maybe it's time we started taking care of things at home instead of squandering our money all over the world in the name of freedom and security! Those are scare tactics. What about our own citizens that are suffering here? The fact is that we have the power to vaporize a whole mountain range full of terrorists, and get our boys the hell out of there. We should not be wasting money in countries where even the dirt is worn out, they hate us, and all they do is raise and sell drugs that kill our kids, and we don't even destroy their drug crops. Where is the logic in that? You know, it's pretty hard for an enemy to wage a war on us if we show them that the reward for those countries is what it's like to live without food, water, electricity, sewerage treatment, hospitals and all the other trappings of civilization, and then we don't go in their and rebuild their stinking country as a reward for killing our people.

As a veteran of the Korean War myself, I have come to believe that congress could really give a rat's ass about the poor and the veterans in this country. They need to get real! Around here, the VA hospital is a joke where homeless Vets that sleep under bridges stand in line for hours to try and get a bit of relief from a host of ailments that they now suffer from because of what they have seen or done or have been subjected too. Let's tell it how it really is. It's an insult to me for some draft dodging politician or right wing draft dodging loud mouthed, bigoted, radio and TV commentator to stand up and declare us all hero's. What the hell would either of them know about it. Medals don't hack it anyway. Being able to make a living does it much better for me!

I am really upset about the way things are going, and I hope that anyone who feels the same way as I do will put pressure on their politicians at all levels to get their act together and start living in the real world. It's time we started running government at all levels more like a business, and start taking care of our own people for a change! We all have the power to change things if we go after the people that are lying to us, and lining their own pockets, and screwing us over in general. We need to do away with all political contributions. They are just a legal and corrupting form of bribery.

How much longer are people going to put up with this crap! Meddling all over the world is what got us into this mess. Look what happened in Russia, They went broke trying to run the world. When will people ever learn that you have to take care of business at home first.

I intend to spend the rest of my life, in my own way, trying to make things better for all of us. Let's not let these self serving white collar criminals take our great country away from us!

And by the way,

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Walt

The Micro Home, Fuel Prices, and Spin Off Products by Walt Barrett

Well it's been a while since I have had time to write as this is our very busy season. I just want to make a few very important points. At the risk of repeating myself for the tenth time, please do not be fooled by the lower fuel prices again. This is just more of the same old bull that happens when we start to cut down on consumption, and come up with new ways to save energy. How many times are the Americans going to take the bait! Please just pretend we are running out of fuel any minute now, and you will be much better off! Besides, whose against saving money?

There will be a demand for smaller homes in the not too distant future, and I for one intend to be ready. We are getting ready to put the finishing touches to our micro home interior as soon as we have the time. I can't get over the fact that they are getting €45,000 euros for that 8x8x8 cube micro home in Europe! Ours will sell for $9,995.00 with the solar lighting system and the composting toilet. However, we cannot ship it with the gambrel roof as it is too high assembled, and we need the 48" head room, but could include that part as a pre-cut kit, or build a lower ranch type roof, but you lose all of the loft space. We are open to suggestions.
One of the most interesting aspects of building this home is that so far it has spun off two major products for us. We are already selling the LED low watt lighting systems 120 volt A/C bulbs (We can get 12 volt DC for those that need them.), and will soon be building the continuous composting toilets with the composter under the building. No emptying buckets or bags of you know what, lol. The LED products are selling heavily on our eBay store. We now have a LED bulb very close to a 100 watt incandescent bulb and it is selling heavily.
Business is great in spite of all of the recession talk. Tractors and farm equipment are in heavy demand here. Don't believe all you see and hear in the media!
Switch to our 50,000 hour rated 120 volt 3.5 watt LED Light bulbs and watch your electric bill drop like a rock! EBAY store china-depot-100 is the name of the store.
Someone asked about The insulation specs etc. for the micro home. It is best to follow your local building codes, or have your builder go by a copy you send him. Just remember that you need constant fresh air exchanges in any home or you will be living in a smelly swamp! You can get all the info you need from your building inspectors office. I like outside air intakes for your heaters and stoves etc,. and vented stoves and heaters. A CO detector goes a long way too.
Please send us your comments and suggestions!
Thanks,

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Walt

The Energy Game And Your Future Life Style by Walt Barrett

Well it's happening again. We were experiencing extremely high energy costs, and people started looking for alternative energy solutions. They have been enjoying some moderate success, even cutting down a bit on our gasoline and fuel oil consumption. Then, all of a sudden, oil prices started dropping like a rock. Part of it might have had to do with the impending Presidential elections which have now passed. Personally, I am very concerned that people are now going to go back to their same old energy wasting ways. I feel that is a huge mistake, but am powerless to stop it. Common sense tell us that we will see Eight dollar a gallon fuel prices soon enough. People say that it has to do with supply and demand. I noticed that when fuel prices go up the prices at the pump, and the fuel oil dealers go up virtually immediately, but when the price per barrel drop, Fuel prices take much longer to go down. Since no one in our government is really interested in looking after the our, the hapless consumers, interest in these matters, and only give us lip service, I suggest that we move forward on the assumption that the fuel prices are still sky high, and will soon be getting higher. Any other assumption would be reckless, and dangerous on our part.
We have to continue to find every possible avenue to save oil, including developing even less expensive, and more efficient methods for vegetable oil and biomass produced fuels. We need to develop new and inexpensive building materials, and even more energy efficient homes. Perhaps we can use more of the huge waste stream that is going into the landfills etc. People that live in extreme climates either hot or cold are not going to be able to heat or cool the large inefficient homes that they are currently living in. Personally, I like to think that I am already ahead of the curve on the home problem because we have already built a very efficient off the power grid micro home, and plan to build many more. We are running tests on new equipment we have purchased or built just to see how little solar produced electricity a micro home dweller can comfortably get by on. We have decided to focus on smaller homes and off the power grid living to beat the rising costs of energy. We have to face the fact that many of us will not be able to afford our current life styles in our expensive energy future. Also, smaller homes mean smaller tax bills. Smaller homes use less energy, less building materials, and less maintenance. We are studying sizes from 128 square feet to 800 square feet. These sizes can be mass produced dirt cheap compared to what is being built today. The first buyers will be retirees, backwoods camps, and people that already know that a smaller home may to the only way they will ever own a home because they are in a very low income bracket and can't seem to break free to the next level. We have to develop materials and systems that will save money and natural resources. We are also currently engaged in building materials research. We need some simple and inexpensive answers. Solar electric systems should be designed to pay off in about two years of saved electric bills. New light bulbs and new automatic energy saving devices already make this possible. Our micro home will come with such a system. Never pay another electric bill!
Frankly speaking, my main concern is that people are not taking the the energy situation seriously enough. I already know the sad truth that we do not yet have enough interest either locally or nation wide to enable us to set up to mass produce the homes we have developed. I'm not going to let that stop me from building prototypes though. I am using the current models as a platform to further develop solar heating and storage units, solar hot water heating, solar cooling, Solar water pumping, an efficient and odorless composting toilet, and advanced building material research, just to name a few. We have developed may of these items already. Just think about living in a compact little home that takes care of you for a change instead of you having to taking care of it. Now that's a home!
We would like to hear from you. Is anyone paying attention?
Thanks,
Walt

Free Battery Reconditioning Course by Walt Barrett

Your free training program.The free battery reconditioning manual.
http://www.chinadepot.com/batmanual.html

The free training video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XuZhf2J-NIg

The incredible business offer
.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbOOcktvmLI

Walt Barrett President
http://www.chinadepot.com/

401 725 8141

Micro Home Exterior Photos by Walt Barrett

The exterior is 99% complete in these shots. The interior is wired. We are ready to insulate, panel the interior walls and install the Pergo floors.
The unit is designed for living on the first floor which is 8' X 8' , and Sleeping and clothing storage in the second story loft which is 8'X 8' X 4' high and very roomy. The unit is designed for two people maximum and is available for both off the power grid or on the power grid living. Their is optional solar heating, electricity, and hot water available.
Stay tuned,
Walt

The Micro Home Exterior Is Finished by Walt Barrett

The exterior of our test off the power grid micro home is complete with the exception of the front steps. When the rain stops we will photograph it and publish the photos on this site.

The interior only requires insulation batts, wall paneling and the Pergo floor. We will be finished soon. Several people have offered to move in and test it already, lol!

Stay tuned,

Walt

The Lowest Factory Direct Discount Prices for Jinma Tractors by Walt Barrett

The Lowest Factory Direct Prices for Jinma Tractors by Walt Barrett
The lowest prices on discount tractors!
In Case you did not know, Factory Direct China Depot with headquarters and a super warehouse in Lincoln, Rhode Island is one of the oldest and probably has the lowest new tractor prices on the Internet. We sell both Jinma and Terra Cyclone tractors. The Terra Cyclone tractor is made by an entirely different factory than the Jinma tractor. We are a supplier of parts for Chinese Tractors and generators. We sell front loaders, backhoes, wood chippers, snow blowers, and most other accessories for Jinma and Terra-Cyclone tractors. We also sell mini dozers. We can quote just about any product from China. Let us give you the best prices and handle all of your customs paperwork for you too If we have to import it for you.
Thanks,
Walt Barrett President
www.chinadepot.com

A Free Course In Battery Reconditioning by Walt Barrett

I think that this is worth repeating. We are offering a free video course in battery reconditioning. Our chemicals that we developed over 25 years ago have brought back many a battery from the dead. We have thousands of satisfied customers. We know this because of the repeat sales and the email letters that we receive. Whether you are starting your own business of just trying to get a few more years from your expensive batteries, you should view this nine minute video that has been viewed by over 50,000 people on YouTube alone. It has also been mirrored on many other video sites world-wide. The video teaches you how to test and service lead acid batteries, and how to determine if they are even savable to begin with. The chemicals are available though our well known web site www.chinadepot.com. Please view the video at this link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XuZhf2J-NIg
Many people are now using very expensive batteries for storage in solar and wind power systems. The market for proper battery service is really starting to open up. Learn how to service even sealed lead acid batteries too because they do run out of water and we show you how to bore into them, and refill them with deionized water and boost them with our famous dry powder chemical formula, and reseal them with our special caps.
Please write to me for a free copy of our battery service manual and go to our web site www.chinadepot.com to obtain free samples for postage costs only.
Thanks,
Walt Barrett
P.S. The entire exterior including the roof of the solar micro home will be finished this weekend and the photos will be posted on this site. We are getting ready to market several micro home models.

A to Z Global Marketing To Build Container Homes by Walt Barrett

I am officially announcing today that our company A to Z Global Marketing Inc is now offering container homes that we will be manufacturing at our assembly area in Connecticut for world-wide shipment. There will be a forty foot two bedroom model in production within two weeks and it will then be placed on display and will be fully photographed and sold from our web site http://www.chinadepot.com/ . An optional solar electric system will be offered.
We are also still offering our new Micro Home that is featured in this blog.
Stay tuned,
Walt

Your Own Micro Home Business by Walt Barrett

We are seeking some business associates nation-wide

I have had a great many business items to attend to the past month, and some serious decisions to make about the micro home business. For those of you that do not already know me, I am the owner and President of A to Z Global Marketing Inc, which in turn owns several Internet companies including http://www.chinadepot.com/ , Our main marketing platform since 1996, Walt Barrett's Secret Formula Battery Restoration Chemicals, and a diversified light manufacturing operation here in the USA building Video steady cam equipment, solar power and water pumping systems, and wood products.

There is a bio located at this link. Http://www.chinadepot.com/aboutusnew.html

After recently receiving huge amounts of mail I have finally arrived at a decision about the Micro Home Business. We are going to move forward on a nation-wide basis. We will offer homes that are both on and off the power grid and of various sizes. They will all be our own custom super energy efficient designs, very reasonably priced, and with optional solar electricity, hot water, and heat. I have forty years in the solar business, and know how to design economically priced solar energy systems. In short, our goal is to produce the best and most reasonably priced Micro Home possible. It will have a one year warranty against defective material and workmanship. Anyone who knows either me, or my companies knows how I operate. We have always been totally honest and fair with our customers and have always sold for the lowest possible prices. Just ask our tractor customers!

We have found that we can build and sell these micro homes in the smaller two person sizes for less than$10,000.00 dollars, and we intend to do it. Larger models will of course be more money.

I am seeking people that are interested in starting their own Micro Home manufacturing shop using our designs and our solar and other energy saving products. Anyone that does this with us will have to meet certain conditions including having a fully equipped work shop that can be set up specifically for building these units. A contract will be involved to meet our code specifications, materials used, and non compete conditions. You will be dealing with a nationally branded housing product. Agreements must be signed etc.

Please, if you do not have operating capital and a sufficient indoor workshop do not apply.

I believe this is a leading edge, and the next big thing product and technology opportunity. Anyone that is sincerely interested should contact me at: wbarrett1@aol.com or CEO@chinadepot.com

Our model home is nearing completion and photos are coming soon.

Thanks,

Walt

More On LIght Emitting Diodes and The Micro Home by Walt Barrett

We have virtually sold out our supply of LED 3 watt = 40 watt light bulbs. We have re-ordered more bulbs, and also sample of some double the power kitchen floods etc. We will have to test them here for brightness before offering them for sale. They look very promising. We can get bulbs that draw the following wattage's 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, and 12 watts and of course, they yield much brighter light than their wattage's indicate they would.
We expect to have the micro home roofed and fully sided weather permitting by Monday Oct 13, 2008. Photos will be published on this site.
Stay tuned,
Walt

The New Energy Saving Light Emitting Light Bulbs Are Now On Sale by Walt Barrett

Our new Light Emitting Diode light bulbs are now on sale.
This 120 volt powered bulb draws only 3 watts of power but it equals a 40 watts conventional light bulb. This bulb is the exact same unit that we are using in our new totally off the power grid micro home. It is 75% more efficient than a conventional light bulb and easily three times more efficient than the new energy saving fluorescent bulbs that have been featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show etc. These units can be ordered in 120 volt A/C household current, or in 12 volt DC current (currently special order) to run directly from solar modules. These bulbs have 60 light emitting diodes in them with a life cycle of 50,000 hours! This is a special introductory offer at only $14.95 each plus shipping. The normal price is as high as $36.95 per 120 volt bulb. They fit the standard 120 volt light sockets. Save up to half of your electric bill.

No other lights or flash were used to make the above test photos

Walt

The Micro Home Lighting System by Walt Barrett

Sorry for the long delay but we have been very busy shipping out generators. It's that time of the year. Now we are sold out so we can get back to the micro home project by the weekend.
We have received the shipment of LED light bulbs from the factory and they are excellent. I have one in my desk lamp and it is super and easy on my eyes too. I like the fact that it only draws 3 watts and the life span is tested to 50,000 hours. Each bulb should save over $40.00 a year based on only a six hour day.
There a little pricey at 14.95 for our 60 LED globe model, but they will pay for themselves in saved electricity in several months of operation, and then it's all profit for 50,000 hours! The battery system will be able to run them for hours and hours at 3 watts. They are a great addition to our micro home test bed!
We should be ready to finish the micro home interior in about a week.
Stay tuned,
Walt

Inexpensive Micro Home Power System Inverters by Walt Barrett

We are just a few days away from installing the roofing and siding for the micro home. Between heavy rain, and a heavy shipping schedule John and me have had very little time to work on the micro home for days.
One great piece of information though is that we have picked up a line of inverters that can supply 3000 watts of 120 volts AC from a 12 volt battery.
We will be using one on our micro home. The price is very good at only $275.00 for 3000 watts, $195.00 for 2000 watts and $140.00 for 1500 watts. Shipping is extra. These work great with solar battery packs, and they have all kinds of built in protection. They are 85% efficient which is not bad considering they have built in cooling fans. I can send full specs to anyone who request them at wbarrett@aol.com .
There is a video of the micro home on my Pickens Plan web site.
http://push.pickensplan.com/video/video/show?id=2187034:Video:981044
If anyone wants to join write to me for a free invitation. It's a great place to learn about free energy.
More coming soon.
Thanks
Walt

A New Blog On the Pickens plan by Walt Barrett

I have started a new Blog on the Pickens plan web site in order to add to the great content needed to draw attention to this site. This is a site where you can learn a great deal about saving energy and building your own energy saving products. It is also where we can build up a great deal of clout to force our Congress to do something about the energy mess we are in.
So please come and join me on this great new site. Please contact me at this link and I will send you a personal invitation to join and become a friend of Mr. Pickens.
http://push.pickensplan.com/profile/WaltBarrett
Mr. Pickens has gone to a great deal of effort to establish this site for us. Let's not let him down!
This blog will continue here as usual.
Thanks,
Walt

More wiring of the micro home by Walt Barrett

Now that all of the electrical boxes are in and hardwired We have started to install all of the plug sockets etc. This won't take long because in a tiny off the grid micro home there are only about a dozen boxes to do, but they have to be done right and follow the local electrical codes. We are very busy of course and the project is lagging, but we have already gained a wealth of information The solar power system will be up and working well before the interior is finished. This will give us plenty of light to work by.

Photos coming shortly.

I have now decided on a composting toilet that will directly feed a composting bin with earthworms under the building. It will be similar to the on in the Bronx Zoo in New York City. We will build it our selves, and will detail the construction with photos etc. We expect it to be odor free with our stack design, we'll see. And now its off to work on the micro home.

Walt

Wiring The Micro Home part 2 August 26, 2008

Well I have been busy today. I wired I all the electrical boxes in four hours today between customer calls and all the other stuff that goes on around here.
Here is the link to the photo album on www.Picasa.com
http://picasaweb.google.com/chinadepot/TheNextBillionairesWillBeGreenByWaltBarrett/photo#5238899211962181330
I have to run, more tomorrow.
Thanks,
Walt

Micro home structure and sheathing by Walt Barrett

The photographs are posted on our Picasa web album. This is the link.
http://picasaweb.google.com/chinadepot/TheNextBillionairesWillBeGreenByWaltBarrett

They are all in chronological order. It was a tough day putting up the roof for this old man.
I have joined the Pickens Plan to help solve the energy and environmental crisis we are suffering. I would like to invite you all to join too. Here is the link to my page.
http://push.pickensplan.com/profile/WaltBarrett
Thanks,
Walt

Some Micro Home Wiring Photo Details by Walt Barrett

I have attached some photos of the wiring details. Progress is slow this week due to a heavy sales and shipping schedule. We have pre drilled every stud before assembly, all in the exact same spot 24 inches up from the bottom and on center. There is a photo of a corner detail with a snake wire in to to pull the heavier wire through easily. This method is the neatest and strongest way to go structurally. It does not weaken the corner. We have also shown the placement of the electrical boxes for the female 120 volt plugs. We hope to have more progress to show you soon.
We will soon have LED Light Bulbs that only draw 3 watts at 120 volts and they are supposed to be a very bright but warm white for reading etc. We'll see, because we will be testing them and publishing non flash photo of the actual results. We have found a very reasonable source. They are also available in 12 volts DC. We have elected to invert the 12 volts Solar DC to 120 AC in our unit but will offer both options.
Thanks,
Walt

Wiring the Micro home II by Walt Barrett

The electrical system for the Micro Home will consist of the following components.
1. Solar power modules and mounting racks.
2. A solar charging regulator.
3. A battery bank of solar type deep draw batteries in a sealed and vented to the exterior storage bin. Batteries perform better at normal room temperature.
4. A 12 volt DC to 120 volt A/C inverter.
5. A 120 volt circuit breaker panel.
6. Standard house wiring consisting of electrical boxes for plug sockets, light switches and light fixtures. Number 12 and 14 wire will be used as required.
If the batteries are to be stored inside the building then the sealing and exterior venting of the battery storage box is very important because the hydrogen and other gasses emitted from the batteries during the charging process can be toxic and explosive.
During the process of pre cutting all of the framing material we ran all of the studs through a drill press and pre drilled all of the 1/2" holes for the wiring. It's a lot easier than on site drilling. Each hole is exactly 24 inches off the floor and is on center exactly. This is particularly handy when you have to snake the wire around a corner inside the walls. I have personally seen electricians "butcher " the inside corner of a wall in order to get wire around the corner. They really weaken the structure for one thing and it is also just plain sloppy work in my opinion.
Another important point is that the electrical codes should be followed implicitly at all times. You have to figure the total load on each electrical circuit and size the wire and breakers accordingly. When designing a solar power system you need to start by figuring the wattage on every electrical appliance and light. You have to then choose the proper inverter, wire and electrical supply panel and circuit breakers. The total wattage consumption and solar insolation (Watts or BTU per sq ft per hour for your climate also determines the number of storage batteries and number of solar modules and the amperage rating off the solar charging regulator.
Obviously, if you tone down the number of appliances and use low wattage lighting you can have an almost bargain basement price on the solar electric system. We are investigating all of the low wattage refrigerators. These units will determine how low we can go on the cost of the system. We have found one 5.8 cu ft unit so far that runs on one 85 watt solar module and two deep draw batteries. They also offer the unit as a freezer.
I hope to post some photos of the wiring soon. We are experiencing heavy sales of tractors and generators right now, and it is really eating into our time schedule. That's what pays the bills and finances our micro home research project. Our goal is to develop the lowest priced and most efficient micro home design.
Any questions, wbarrett1@aol.com
We welcome your suggestions and ideas.
Thanks,
Walt

Wiring the Micro Home by Walt Barrett

Yesterday we went to Lowe's because it was a no sales tax special weekend deal that the state Massachusetts sponsors one weekend a year to stimulate business. We live just over the boarder in Rhode Island so the RI businesses lost a ton of sales this past weekend. The state of RI never met a dollar, a tax, or a fee that they didn't fall in love with. Twenty percent of the population is on some kind of public assistance and, the illegals are literally killing us in more ways that one! We may be the first state in the union to go bankrupt. We are considering moving our company to another state, probably to a warmer climate too.
We bought everything we need to wire the Micro Home, plus the rest of the OSB for the roof, the roof shingles, drip edge, the underlayment, the nails, and more 2" x 4" lumber. Between the sales tax savings and some Lowe's coupons we saved fifty dollars. We will be posting photos of the wiring process and the roofing process very soon now. It looks like we are getting a break in the weather.
The electrical system will be totally solar. We will make DC and store it in batteries and then invert it to A/C as we need it. We also plan to charge spare batteries while driving our cars and pickup truck. We have a special wiring harness for that project. This plan will save a fortune is solar panels.
I have forty years experience in the solar business so the electric, the heat, and the hot water are a relatively simple task. When I say off the grid, I mean off the grid! We need more people to get with the program. You have to think about your future. The less energy you use, the more money you save. It's the same with your motor vehicles. Imagine how much money you would save if you figured out how to do without a car, and just rented one for vacations etc.,or when you really needed one? Of course, everyone can't do that, but suppose they could. You could easily save enough money to retire on. Owning a Micro Home is a similar proposition. You build it or buy it for a fraction of a huge typical American home and have either no mortgage , or a very small one. Now there's a deal! It's the same thing for a Micro Apartment. Just take a look at the Micro Apartments In Japan, and to add to that they ride bikes besides. No wonder they lead the world in savings accounts!
Well I have to go out and work on the project now. I'll post more photos soon.
Please tell your friends and stay tuned!
Thanks,
Walt

LED Lighting For The Micro Home Project by Walt Barrett

Light emitting diode technology has come a very long way in recent years. These units give off incredible amounts of light using only milliwatts and up to 4 watts in the home lighting range. They barely trickle electricity from your battery storage bank. They come in 12 volt DC and 120 volt A/C configurations. You don't even need an inverter to run the 12 volt DC type. This makes them ideal for off the grid living.
We have finally found a source for these thrifty units that is reasonable and will be installing them in our Micro Home. We will use the 120 volt A/C units as we are also going to run a wireless computer and need to power a TV, and radio. We can also tap into our 12 volt battery bank separately to run our 12 volt well pump and any other 12 volt appliance etc. that we may choose.
It is also interesting to note that these bulbs can be installed in your current residence and save even more electricity than the popular energy saving fluorescent bulbs that we are already using in our own home. We will soon be switching to the New LED units though. Our electricity rate was just increased by 28% and I don't think that is the end of it yet! I can't believe the government even allowed a foreign company to buy our local electric company here in New England. I think it's a bunch of Bull#$%*, but that's another story!
Personally I would like to see as many people as possible get off the power grid and also find alternate ways to heat and cool their homes. I feel that retirees and singles or childless couples are ideal candidates for Micro Homes or Micro Apartments that are either partially or totally off the power grid. Micro Homes may be the only way for the working class to ever own a home the way we are all getting screwd over these days.
Also , we have so much water pollution here in our rivers, streams and the ocean (Narragansett Bay) That we need to develop new, and more convenient methods of using composting toilets. The water treatment plants are overwhelmed, and constantly overflowing raw sewerage into the rivers and the bay. Think about that every time you are tempted to eat raw seafood. We are building a composting toilet for our Micro Home. The compost will then go right into a bin and then when it is ready, a flower garden. We are going to do our part to save the rivers and our beautiful bay.
Well, I have a very busy day ahead of me and have to sign off now.
Please register for the site feed if you haven't already and make a comment now and then. We need your inputs!
Thanks,
Walt

Visit Business Success Stories by Walt Barrett

I may not be the greatest writer in the world, but I have a lot of interesting stories to tell. Please visit one of my favorite blogs that I write, I have four.
We have an interesting recycling story on there today!
Thanks, and if you like what you read please tell your friends because if we don't get more readers and comments, then I'm just wasting my time!
Thanks,
Walt
http://businesssuccessstoriesbywaltbarrett.blogspot.com/

Totally Free by Walt Barrett

The rain has the micro home project at a standstill. We are currently researching small heaters that can run on used non toxic vegetable oil that we are getting free from a local restaurant. It looks very promising. Recent tests show that a quart of this free fuel will heat our current model for up to 24 hours. Heating and cooling cost savings are one of the main advantages of the tiny micro homes.
Another interesting item is that we have been contacted by off shore companies that are very interested in the micro home project. Some of them have offered us products. Some of them are interested in our low cost solar electric system. We will keep you posted on all of this interesting data.

Whether you have a product you wish to buy sell, or maybe you just want to join a ride share program in your area. Perhaps you have a used item that you would simply like to donate to a needy family. We have set up a web site http://classifieds.free2advertize.com/ and it has totally free classifieds for you to advertise on.
One word of caution though. As with any classified ad site be very wary of work at home schemes and anyone asking for personal information. It's always best to deal in your own area where it is easier to check these things out. Never pay money for a job, or job information. Employers pay the companies that are job agencies. Be very careful of Job offers, never pay them money.
The golden rule as always is "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."
In spite of all that, Free ads are a great way to sell a product or get your name out there. We list on as many of them as possible every day. If used properly, they can be very helpful and profitable.
Thanks,
Walt http://classifieds.free2advertize.com/

Micro Home Composting Toilets & Baths by Walt Barrett

Micro Homes have to take advantage of every square foot of floor space possible. There is no tolerance for wasted space. I have noticed for many years that movable or portable composting toilets are the answer to a lot of problems related to expensive septic systems and water pollution etc. I have found a web site that really explains the whole subject, and their product is very inexpensive to either buy, or build. With the addition of a vent to the design it is probably the answer to the human waste disposal problem. This site is a great place to start in solving the problem. http://www.jenkinspublishing.com/sawdustoilet.html It has great videos and info and a book is available to purchase. Please note that we do not know these nice people nor are connected to their company in any way shape or form. However, we intend to use one of their units in our micro home, but will add a solar powered venting system that we have designed to eliminate any unpleasant odors from the unit. There is no way I would ever pay over $1000.00 for a fancy commercial unit. This is the way to go.
When we get to finishing the interior of the Micro Home we will post photos of our version. We are trying to keep these units affordable.
We are currently exploring an inexpensive way to build a light weight soaking type tub that can be easily store under a counter etc. This would be especially good for our tiny 8' x 8' model with the sleeping loft. We can easily supply all the necessary hot water with our solar system design. The other option is a special shower design we are working on. Obviously, the trick is to fit as much as you can in a small space without getting ridiculous! A permanent shower takes up about 8 square feet of floor space. We have seen outdoor toilet and shower facilities in the warm climates. This is another way to skate by in an 8' x 8' micro home
Stay tuned,
Walt

Micro Home Project Photo History by Walt Barrett

For your convenience we have posted a Picasa web album of the photo history of our micro home project. It will be added to as the project progresses. This is a 100% off the grid expandable home and it will serve as the test bed for our many energy saving projects. Here is the link.
http://picasaweb.google.com/chinadepot/TheNextBillionairesWillBeGreenByWaltBarrett
We are still suffering from too many rainy days, and are currently packing a huge generator order, but we will try to get the roof rafters installed today. John and I are building the entire project ourselves so we will be totally familiar with the product if we decide to go into mass production. The whole idea depends upon public acceptance-- of course.
Thanks for your interest and please comment, good or bad we need your viewpoint.
Walt Barrett President
John Barrett CEO
A to Z Global Marketing Inc.
http://www.chinadepot.com/

Micro Home Roof Rafter Installation by Walt Barrett

Please click on images to enlarge.

Well it was another terrible rainy day, but we managed to work between the down pours. We should have all the rafters screwed in place and aligned by the end of the day tomorrow. If they look a little funny in the photos it's because every thing is temporarily tacked down so we can make the final adjustments tomorrow. We are using metal hold down clips at both ends of each rafter. Nobody likes a roof shaped like an airplane propeller!

We are very pleased with the huge amount of space we gained by using the gambrel roof. It's a great place to sleep, and also has the height to hang clothes.

Stay tuned,

Walt

Micro Home Ridge Board And Rafters by Walt Barrett

Well it rained again for the best part of yesterday so I took a 2" x 6" board into the shop and made the ridge board for the gambrel roof. I like to think of the ridge board as kind of a spine that ties the roof rafters in a sturdy and solid fashion together at the peak of the roof.

The metal clips are on sixteen inch centers to match the spacing of the vertical studs below in the building walls. The rafters in the roof transfer the weight load directly down onto the double plate and studs, and from there to the foundation sill. There are also metal clips that tie the base of each stud to the building. I will post photos as soon as we install the roof rafters, which will be today if the rain ever stops!

We have put up a Micro Home/Micro Apartment page on our own server and will welcome and publish any material on the Micro Home subject including construction, alternate energy power and heating systems, solar hot water, and passive solar heating etc. Te site is http://www.micro-homes.com/ , and the material submission address is wbarrett1@aol.com. Photos are also welcome if pertinent to the micro home and alternate energy . We sincerely hope that many of you will be willing to share your ideas and photos with us.

One other thing before I sign off this morning. Yesterday I was browsing the Internet and found a company selling a sixty-four square foot micro home with a low profile roof which doesn't leave much room for a sleeping loft, if there is one. They didn't say. The price was in the $16,000.00 range. Personally, I think that kind of pricing is a total turn off to the general public. That is $250.00 a square foot! My calculations based upon the present construction of our test model is that a completed 64 sq ft model with the sleeping loft which effectively takes it to 128 square feet with a solar lighting system included should easily sell for about $10,000.00 If we mass produce it. That includes four high quality windows and a steel door with a sliding window and screen. at takes us to about $78.00 a square foot, which is our target price counting the loft. Our figures are based on the current costs of building materials. Oh well, we are going to know very shortly if the rain ever stops!

Stay tuned,

Walt

Micro Home Discussion Page for All by Walt Barrett

Please note that this is my third post this morning on this site. There is Micro Home news below this post.
I have decided to start a Micro Home Discussion Page. We have registered a new Domain www.micro-homes.com and it will be up this afternoon. I am preparing data for Dave, our in house web master now.
This will be a free discussion page where participants can post Articles, tips and comments to the moderator for posting to the site. Photos are allowed if pertinent to the Micro Home or Alternate Energy field. We are open to all kinds of suggestions. This site is sponsored by us to help you in a free exchange of ideas. We have to get a handle on the rising housing and energy costs, and I hope you will get excited about the idea.
I have discovered that there are many people hungry for this type of information, and I'm willing to pay the freight, as they say, for this project.
All submissions may be sent to wbarrett1@aol.com and just tell me if you do not want your address shown on the site.
Thanks for participating.
Walt Barrett President
A to Z global Marketing Inc
www.chinadepot.com

Free Battery Reconditioning Course by Walt Barrett

For the free Video and training manual files please write to: wbarrett1@aol.com .
Why is it free you ask. Because we make our money selling our proven secret formula chemicals that I developed 23 years ago -- they work! Our products are available on eBay at the china-depot-100 store front.
Don't spend thousands of dollars! We even give you free samples, just pay the postage.
Walt
This is a reprint because we are getting tons of mail for free videos and manuals. If you didn't receive yours, please ask me again at:wbarrett1@aol.com
The Free Battery Reconditioning Training Program by Walt Barrett
For those of you that are interested in our free battery reconditioning program, this is the link to the free video.http://youtube.com/watch?v=XuZhf2J-NIg It is the full explanation and runs close to ten minutes.If you would like to receive the full training manual in a printable word file via email then click here and request it.wbarrett1@aol.com .This program is sponsored in full by our parent company A to Z Global Marketing Inc.
A to Z Global Marketing Inc is the owner of the web site www.chinadepot.com .This training program is 100% free with no obligations. Our soul purpose is to familiarize the public with our reconditioning product. You may obtain a free sample by simply paying the shipping costs. Ordering may be accomplished at our EBay store, just Google "china-depot-100" . We accept Pay Pal and there is a shipping calculator on the store site.Remember, there is no need to spend thousands of dollars to get started in the battery reconditioning business. We'll show you how to get the necessary battery charger and testers for under $500.00, and you don't have to buy them from us. We just want to sell you our additive that has been proven successful for over 25 years..
Let us put you in business!
Thanks,
Walt

Building Micro Home roof rafters by Walt Barrett

It's raining again today here in Rhode Island. This is the wettest summer I have seen in many a year! Well anyway, I'm going to set up the ridge board inside the workshop and nail all the rafter clips to it. At least that will speed up the process of getting the roof on when the rain stops. Let me repeat, this is the last home we will ever build out doors, or stick by stick.
I will post photos of all the rafters installed ASAP.
I am currently planning the solar electric system. It has to be sized correctly. There will be enough power for the lighting, a radio, a TV, and a computer. We are not planning on any other electrical appliances. Each home will come with a solar clothes dryer. That's NASA talk for a free clothes line. You cannot be off the grid economically if you are planning on a bunch of energy sucking appliances.
The Micro life style is great way to save a ton of money!
Thanks,
Walt

Micro Home Rafters by Walt Barrett

We built several of the gambrel style roof rafters today. These are the design that I had previously laid out on the shop floor. Note that we used gussets on the joints and screwed and glued them down. I learned the technique by building wooden aircraft wings when I was a youngster in the USAF about a lifetime ago. We will be using metal hangers to fasten them to the ridge board. You can see the3 simple alignment fixture I built in the photo.We will post photos when we do that.

Walt

Micro Home comments from Bryan Ebbenga

The comments and suggestions below are from Bryan Ebbenga, and I will be answering each suggestion individually on another blog. These are all excellent suggestions. I will make two responses now though.
1. We are converting solar 12 volts to 120 volt 60 Hz House current as part of our being totally off the grid with these homes.
2. We already have the Tyvek vapor barrier and we will be fully insulated.
We welcome all comments and criticism's
Bryan's comments below
Thanks Bryan!
Walt,
for long term energy saving and comfort.
consider insulating the ceiling and have a trap door that closes to keep the heat down in main living area in winter, and open in summer for cooling,
We always got a nice air flow in our farm house, 1st floor windows open, stairwell door open, and air flowing up through attic trapdoor through attic and out the roof vents, cools the house down overnight through convection.
Can post this to blog if you wish as a comment. Bryan Ebbenga

Wow! Nice job on the windows and doors! Vinyl will last forever, no painting and will never rot. Question- will you be using a plastic vapor barrier on the inside? Will the roof have venting from soffit to ridge or will it be through small windows in the end walls? When you wire the house, will you put in 120 volt and 12 volt lines? Phone and cable? Cable for sat dish? Provide for some watertight entries into the roof end walls for future roof installs for solar electric, sat dish, TV antenna, etc?
As simple a a piece of 1 inch PVC through the wall, tilted to the outside for drainage, caulk around it and put a cap on the inside.
I am waiting to see what products from China Depot you will be using for heat and light and water system.
Go Green!
Bryan
Bryan Ebbenga 48564 Shanaska Creek Rd.,Kasota, MN 56050 www.AntiqueTractorSupply.com CALL 507-995-1297 after 4 pm Central Distributor of manuals, memorabilia, apparel, flags, games, etc. We can order 3500 tractor parts, let us know your needs. www.YourSolarSavings.com Fixed Elec Rate 25 years, Residential Solar Electric Panels, Long Term Rental

The Micro Home Rafter Layout by Walt Barrett

Well it rained yesterday and this morning , So we took advantage of the spare time to lay out the gambrel roof rafters on my concrete shop floor. I had to figure out the lengths of the two piece rafters and the angles for the saw cuts. I'm no ace carpenter but I do know my math and geometry. We took some scrap and made some experimental cuts based on a mock up that we laid out on the shop floor. I knew the height I wanted to the bottom of the 2" x 6" ridge pole and I knew the height I needed down to the break in the rafter so it was a simple matter to lay out the lumber on the floor to get the proper inside dimensions and trace off the angles. Then we cut some sample pieces out of scrap and checked it out. It looked good so we then cut a set out of fresh 2"x 6" lumber. They were perfect-- beginners luck! I'll post a photo of this ASAP.
I noticed that some people do not use a ridge board on their gambrel roof designs, but for that little bit of extra work, we are gaining all kinds of strength and rigidity. We will screw and glue gussets to both sides of the rafter Angle cuts and use metal fastening brackets to tie them into the floor and ridge board. It's just plain good quality engineering practice.
We will not skimp on this product.
By changing from the gabled end roof to the gambrel roof, we may have detracted a bit from the cosmetics, but we have gained a great deal of head room for both sleeping and hanging clothing etc. We are more concerned in getting the maximum usage out of a given area than we are in cosmetics. We need practical housing for retirees and less fortunate people. Of course, we don't want ugly either.
It's getting pretty cozy in the building already now that the windows and doors are installed. John says he wants to use it for an office. It's a great spot for it overlooking our lake. I have recently visited the home of a well known writer in Connecticut and he has a great writers cabin in the woods a few hundred feet from the main house. As a struggling writer myself I find that it is really great to have a quiet spot where you can work with no interruptions.
If any of our readers can put us on to low cost land where we and put up these homes we would certainly appreciate it. It could mean jobs and an assembly shop for that area. You can only ship so far without spending an absolute fortune these days.
Please feel free to ask any questions or make any comments, positive or negative, that's how we learn. We are trying to refine our design and will soon be building an 8' x 16' foot spacious luxury mansion model, lol!
If these homes are too Small for you please look at them from the perspective of the homeless, or the people with gigantic heating bills, and no way to pay them. It made me think twice!
And don't be fooled by the dropping cost of oil, Their only fueling with us again! You'll see after the election!
Thanks,
Walt

Micro Home Photos 2 by Walt Barrett

This is a double post to fit all the photos. Please see the post below. All of the windows and doors are installed.

SEE POST BELOW TO VIEW THE REST OF TODAY'S PHOTOS

Walt

Micro Home Photos 08 05 08 by Walt Barrett

We had a lot to do today but we got the windows and the doors in and shimmed up. We have a little more shimming on the door, but it is basically tacked in for now.
We will finish up tomorrow, 08 06 08, and then we are going to lay out the roof rafters for the sleeping loft.
I have decided to go with a gambrel roof to give us more head room and storage space.
Walt

Micro Home Report by Walt Barrett

Well today we are putting in the windows. We are still playing catchup from the lost time due to heavy orders and heavy rain, plus the problem with Google censorship we had to straighten out by starting a mirror blog on Yahoo just in case Google screws us over again.
I should have fresh photos tomorrow.
Walt

Is Google to powerful, or don't blame us, "the Robot did it." by Walt Barrett

Yesterday morning when I fired up my computer I quickly discovered that all four of my blogs on the Google Blogger pages were blocked! I was informed by a robot notice that their robots had determined that I was a spammer, and that my blogs would stay blocked until they determined other wise! Anyone who knows my blogs or me knows that I do not spam, nor do I publish or read any kind of smut.
All I have ever done is try to help people with my green energy Blog, and maybe entertain the a bit with my photo Blog.
Well I filed the necessary appeal form they left me for each of the four blogs that I write, and by late last night I was unblocked.

In the meantime though, I got very angry and have started a new Blog on Yahoo called Low Cost Micro Homes & Free Energy. It will be a mirror Blog with a different name http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Sn8e3OEyc6.2t1_ctnfplgxU and I will continue to transfer all of the Blog stories I have written to that site too. We are not getting enough readership or comments anyway. Like the man said, “Never put all your eggs in one basket.” I have been reminded of a good lesson.
I also did a thorough search for Google censorship complaints etc., and found hundreds of them. In most of the cases, the reason was “Our robots did it!” How very convenient! Especially blocking the Blogs that criticized certain political candidates, and were blocked!” “The robot did it” theme is very convenient!
Shades of Hal (2001)!

I have read the Google terms of service and according to them they can do just about anything they want to your blogs! I know they are into green energy etc there, and I am wondering if they heat their building on chilly days by burning books?
I’m not even sure if terms of agreement are legal if they deprive people of their first amendment rights, but we are going to find out.
Long story short, I’m writing my congressmen and complain that these people have entirely too much power, and it is growing daily. We don’t need anyone having that much control over what is seen or read on the Internet. Anyone with that much power is scary! I urge you all to write to your congressman and advise him of the dangers of letting any giant corporation exercise that kind of power over an important asset of the magnitude of the Internet. No one should be allowed to buy up the Internet either. I’m going to use Yahoo more often!
The blogs will continue unless Google blocks them again.

Micro Home construction continues on Monday, Google permitting!
Thanks,
Walt

The Next Billionaires Will Be Green by Walt Barrett: The Micro Home Project by Walt Barrett

The Next Billionaires Will Be Green by Walt Barrett: The Micro Home Project by Walt Barrett

The Micro Home Project by Walt Barrett

Good Morning!
We have received several comments for moderation this morning and I have published them, but they have not shown up on the site as yet. I don't know why.
If you see a problem or have a question please be more specific. Someone referred to a broken link for example but did no paste in the link, so I can't fix it. There are many links on this blog and I don't have time to go looking for broken ones. We will also answer specific questions about alternate energy problems etc. if you send them. There was one comment this morning on the subject but it was not specific so I don't know how to answer it.
As far as the micro home goes, we are ready to wrap the exterior with Tyvek moisture proofing and install the windows and doors.
The ceiling rafters and loft are finished and temporarily covered with tarps because of the heavy rain we have been experiencing. I'll never build another building out doors! It's the assembly line for me from now on!
We had a problem with the 45 degree roof rafters but have laid them out on a flat surface and screwed together a mock up. We had a problem calculating the cuts for the birds mouth notched. It is of minor consequence in the overall scheme of things. We have taken almost zero waste of the lumber and are finding uses for every piece of scrap. We also build a lot of shipping crates and large pallets here too so we have learned how to utilize every piece of scrap. There is virtually nothing left even for kindling wood. We will photograph the building again after it is wrapped and again after the window and door installation. We are expecting more rain so please be patient. We lost two days building electric scooter shipping crates and packing them. The business has to come first.
We received a reply to our micro home questionnaire about living in a micro home today. I'm sure the sender won't mind if I leave his name out and publish it along with my specific comments to his original answers. It should be very helpful to all of you.
Here it is.
I have removed any brand names from his reply as it is not our intention to knock anyone on this blog, or even imply that we are knocking them. Our readers are fully aware of high prices for plans or buildings when they see them. That's what the Internet is for! Let the people with the big money spend thew big money if they wish. We are here to help people whom cannot afford to spend big bucks. It's not about the money with us.
My responses are in red.
Walt
Good Morning Again____________:
I have commented below in the body of your letter, but first I would like to emphasize that these companies are charging way too much money for plans to build a very simple tiny home. The materials to build an 8 x 8 micro are under $2000.00 including the Andersen windows and door that we purchased. I am not a builder and neither is my son John, yet we have done extremely well in just a few working days that we have managed to squeeze in between bad weather and our many tractors and generator shipments that we have to make weekly. We bought a book for About $15.00 and made our design from it. Also, there are plenty of books in the library, We have a friend that is supposed to draw up plans for an 8 x 16 , and if he does, we will send you a free copy, but they are really not necessary. There are plenty of free plans around. Try Home Depot or Lowe's. They give out a lot of plans.
The biggest problem we have here is that land is very expensive.
We can buy 40' containers here for less than $2000.00, but I think there is too much work involved to make them livable in a cold climate. Also if I were building stick by stick on site I would change the size to 12 x 20 or 24 feet because you don't have to move it over the road.
I would also start to gather up surplus materials as soon as I had land to store them on. You can save a ton of money by recycling. A lot of great stuff is being dumped off of the big construction sites.
I was raised in a tiny home and it never killed me! See my blog "From Oil Lamps To The Internet."
See comments below

Walt,

your questionnaire:

1. Would you ever consider owning a very low cost but very attractive Micro Home?
absolutely
Good thinking!
2.With some Micro Homes on the market starting at the extremely small size of 64 square feet plus a sleeping or storage loft of 50 square feet.What is the smallest number of square feet you would consider living in? 64 square feet = 8 feet X 8 feet difficult to answer, probably 100-200 ft.
200 square feet is very affordable if you build it yourself.
3. Can you live without a home laundry if necessary due to space considerations?laundry facilities are a must for me. I prefer a small stacking system
Very doable with stacked units. We have them full size from Sears in our home.
4. Can you live with just a shower and no tub?while a tub would not be necessary for me, I would think a tub would be more water/energy efficient. A small 'stand up style tub would be fine, as I don't need to lay down in it.
You could consider a Japanese style soaking tub that you could actually build. Full baths take at least 5' x 5'
http://www.ehow.com/how_2292740_build-japanese-soaking-tub.html
5. Would you consider using a 100% odor free composting toilet?
There are free plans on line for these too. Building one will save over $1000.00, and a lot of water!
I would like to see more info on this. Especially the process of emptying it.
6. Would you use a space saving sleeping loft with windows at either end for ventilation and safety, or do you need extra space for a bed on the main floor? (Lofts not recommended for seniors.)for me a loft would be fine as long as I could sit up in it without striking my head on the ceiling.
DIY construction is so much less expensive that you could afford any ceiling height you want, of even a full second story. You get double the space without changing the size of the foundation footprint. This saves a ton of money.
7. Can you find a space to place this micro home if you wanted one?at the moment, I am looking into a land purchase. Still looking for suitable land.
Land is our number one problem here. It is too expensive!
8.Do you need a full foundation or just concrete blocks to set the unit on?I would prefer a foundation and/or basement for storage. No heat necessary.
A full basement is great if you can afford it. Ours is very cool in the summer time and 55 F in the winter with no heat.
9. Do you think the micro home is a good idea for low income and retired people, or just plain stupid?I think its the best idea I've seen in years!
We are very pleased that you feel that way, and you are going to save a lot of money in the long run. Fuel is now a major expense and Micro's are very cheap to heat. You can also install a couple of hundred watts of solar and if you use it judiciously you can be off the grid, and off the grid land is much cheaper to buy.
10. How many people would occupy your micro home if you had one?1-2 max
Perfect!
11. If the models varied in size from 8 x 8, 8 x 10, 8 x 12, 8 x 14, 8 x 16, or 8 x 20' is there a size that you would prefer realizing that the 8' x 20' is most likely to be nearly triple the cost of that 8 x 8' model, and the energy bills would also be higher?
I would consider an 8 x 20
Good thought, but if site built I would go 12 x 20.
12. Other comments I have been researching small disappointingly expensive. (I have removed the brand names here. Walt).
homes for some time online. Most designs, while interesting are furthermore, for energy savings, I even looked at Domes (Brand name removed. Walt) for a small energy efficient dome. Problem with (removed, Walt), is that it is an unusual construction, and would require specialized building techniques.
I also looked at containers, also expensive to buy, and build it myself is still expensive. The containers here are $5000+ each.
You have to do what is right for you. That container price seems very high. We were offered around $2000.00 at last check. The least expensive is obviously a DIY using free plans and recycled materials as much as possible. Make sure to use six inch walls and lots of insulation though. Do not skim on the quality of the windows and doors either. You don't want to waste fuel. On the other side, make sure you have enough air changes per day, or the place will turn into a smelly swamp! Go with the full basement and pack all of the utilities into one corner to gain usable space.
I am not a wealthy man. I have no official trade; more like a 'jack of all trades'. I am adequate with power, hand and air tools.
I am looking to buy/build a place for myself, and a bit of storage(hence the basement/foundation. I believe that there is a second depression coming in our near future, and want to prepare for it.
I agree with your thinking and there are millions of people like you out there. If you don't start to prepare for your own future, no one in government, or anyone else is going to do it for you.
Thanks a lot for taking the time to do this blog. REALLY appreciate it! :)
Thanks, we want to help as many people as we can. WE LIKE TO HEAR FROM THEM. We feel the future can be scary if people don't start to prepare for it now. The fuel situation is not looking good. Even if prices come down again temporarily we should not be fooled. These are marketing tactics by the energy companies. People should start to consider living as much off the grid as possible. It is not always possible to go 100%. People should also consider revamping larger city dwellings into "Micro Apartments" of about 100 to 200 square feet. We have studied many of these units in Tokyo. There are thousands of Micro's in Japan and throughout Asia. There are also many older tiny homes in Europe.
Good luck with your project and we will help you in any way we can. Just send us your questions. Our assistance is free. It's not about the money with us!
Sincerely,
Walt

Micro Home Report by Walt Barrett

Well we managed to get the floor joists for the loft installed and get the loft floor screwed down. All this was between the rain showers that we have been having. We hope to get the roof rafters laid out and installed in the next couple of days. We are having an incredible amount of rain lately!
Now if I was a farmer, with my luck, we'd be having a drought!
There will be more photos coming soon.
Thanks,
Walt

Micro Home Progress Report by Walt Barrett

Due to a very heavy sales and shipping schedule combined with some extremely hot weather we have no progress to report on the Micro Home project. We do plan to get the loft and the roof rafters installed shortly. We will post photos ASAP.
Thanks,
Walt

Off the grid micro home progress report July 18 2008 by Walt Barrett

Three sizes of this home will be in assembly line production in New England by this fall. They will be available assembled, pre-cut, and in pre-fabricated panels. They also will be offered in flat roofs or peaked roofs with sleeping/storage lofts. They are designed to be totally off the power grid. Experiences of other micro home owners indicate that yearly energy costs (propane cooking gas) are About $200.00. Our units will include a solar power system and 120 volt inverter. The Bathroom space can be fitted or left empty. Credit will be given for fixtures not used. This is for people who have their own ideas and needs. Some people in Warmer climates use separate bathroom and toilet facilities. We intend to be very flexible with our interior design offerings. You can talk to us and we will listen! Our primary goal is to create jobs and low cost housing for Americans.
Progress Report:
We finally got all of the sheathing screwed on yesterday and we cut the ceiling joists to length and angled the ends so that they will match the 45 degree angle of the roof rafters. We hope to have time over the next couple of days between customers etc. to cut the roof rafters and start the installation of them. We would like to get the roof on ASAP and seal it up.
We will install the ceiling joists and sleeping loft today including framing off the entrance hatch opening. Personally I would use the loft for clothing storage etc, and sleep on the first level.
Most of the studs have already been pre-drilled for the wiring. We did it on a mini assembly line we set up to cut the studs to length. We will wire for 120 volts and will use a solar inverter along with LED lighting. We have located a 30" new shower stall that will be installed in the mini bathroom.
Things are moving along as well as can be expected with all the other work we have to do daily in our sales department.
Another point I would like to mention is that we have an associate that is doing an excellent job on the building plans.
We hope to have new photos to post by tomorrow.
Stay tuned,
Walt

This is a very interesting blog if you are considering a Micro Home or green living. Please check it out.
http://rowdykittens.com
Thanks,
Walt

Micro Home Progress Report July 15th 2008 by Walt Barrett

Well we found enough time between customers today to get 99% of the sheathing on the micro home. The next step is to lay out the roof rafters. I am dreading the job. Where are my carpenter friends when I need them?
I'm telling you one thing, this is the last building I will ever do stick built!
We could have dome it all in three days on an assembly line easily. It's so hard to keep everything square and get the proper fits. At least for me anyway. At 75 I'm not exactly Mr. Super Carpenter. I never did it for a living. My gig is designing and selling things. I have been a production line guy all my life, Working with metal, and it's the only way to go! Anyway, I am posting the photos for better or for worse.
We welcome your comments.
Thanks,
Walt

Micro Home Report

Yesterday we had time to install about a third of the exterior sheathing. We expect to finish today. I have pre-cut most of it already.
I will try to post the latest photos this afternoon.
Thanks,
Walt

Important energy video for you to view

Please view this short video about our current energy crisis.
http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1641244028/bclid1641831933/bctid1653634930
Thanks,

Walt

About building the off grid micro home by Walt Barrett

I have included some photos of our 1 kw wind turbine kit that can be used to provide additional power to our micro homes.

Please note that the Micro Home Blogs are a series, and in order to properly enjoy the posts you should scroll down to the first installment with the photos of the empty lot overlooking the lake.

Yesterday we erected the four wall frames and today we will start the sheathing install . I doubt we will finish today as we need some time off. We have been running the business and pounding nails between customer calls.

This unit will be totally off grid with solar as the energy source.

I would also like to add that I am somewhat disappointed and surprised with the low traffic numbers on this blog. I am really concerned that with the major energy problems, low cost housing shortages we are facing, and the fact that things are only going to get worse. We expected more interest. Please tell your friends about our blog!

Thanks and Happy Solaring!

Walt

Erecting The Micro Home Walls by Walt Barrett

This morning we finally found the time to erect the four walls that we had built previously. It took us exactly an hour, but then we have never done it before. It took the most time to get every thing square and level. Because we built up against and also on some uneven terrain you may get the illusion that things are crooked or twisted. Believe me, they are not. You might also notice that before we assembled the wall that all of the studs were pre-drilled for wiring and all in the same place. We marked them and drilled them right off the chop saw. We think this will save us time during the wiring stages.

I have posted four photos. If anyone thinks we need any more structural bracing anywhere on the frames please to not hesitate to drop us a line. wbarrett1@aol.com The roof will be peaked with a sleeping loft. We welcome your suggestions.

Thanks,

Walt

Micro Home Construction Update by Walt Barrett

Well yesterday it finally stopped raining and I built the third and probably the most complicated wall of the micro home. It will have two Anderson windows installed in it and I had to frame in the windows properly so as not to compromise the strength of the wall.
Today I will build the final wall with the front door and window openings in it. I will try to get some photos posted this afternoon. I'm looking forward to the next step when we erect the four walls and start on the floor of the loft space.
We have located some space in an abandoned textile mill nearby so that if we do decide to go into production with this tiny home and some larger models we will be able to jump right into production. It certainly will be a lot easier than stick building! These tiny homes will employ a solar electric system, passive solar heating, and solar hot water heating and shower. Toilets will be of the composting type unless otherwise specified. Various options and sizes will be offered. The model we are currently building is for a maximum of two people.

Personally, I see these tiny micro homes as a housing solution for people whom would normally never get a shot at owning their own home, or who may be homeless currently. I like the idea that they provide most of their own green energy. I have noticed that several cities on the west coast have changed their zoning to allow these micro homes to be built in the back yards of existing homes in order to help alleviate the existing low income housing shortages. Several people have commented to me that they could not possibly live in a home that small, and my response has been "That's because you are currently not living in a cardboard box, or sleeping in a shelter, or under a bridge!" That could make a difference in your thinking! We are trying to make them attractive looking, because many we have seen are just plain ugly boxes.
Please stay tuned and please tell your friends about our project. We will be seeking dealers as soon as we get a handle on all of the costs. We expect to have the lowest prices in the country. With us, it's not about the money! We need to provide jobs and housing in our area.
Thanks,
Walt

Solar Micro Home project by Walt Barrett

This is an ongoing off the grid solar micro home construction project. See it below.
There is a 75 year old micro home in the background (lower photos) on the left that was built by my grandfather. They just called them cabins then. it is where he retired on very little money. He lived there until he died in 1948. I used to spend a lot of time there in the thirties and forties. It had oil lamps and outdoor plumbing. We used to play cards and checkers by the lamp light. Those were better times! We plan to renovate it completely. It is 12' x 20' and we plan to put it to good use in the near future. It needs a total rehab now! It's full of antiques.

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http://thenextbillionaireswillbegreen.blogspot.com/

The Micro Home As An Alternate Lifestyle by Walt Barrett

It is raining today so we will not be working on our demonstration model of an off grid micro home. I do not like wasting time so I have decided to make a few comments and express my views of the current mess we are in.
This morning when I turned on the news I heard that our local electric utility that our government allowed a foreign company to purchase has requested a twenty-one percent rate increase. At age seventy-five I have long since lost my idealistic beliefs in the honesty of our politicians on every level. We have been sold out! Many people that I speak with in my daily process of doing business feel betrayed and trapped by a system that has definitely spun out of control. They feel powerless to do anything to correct the problem because the politicians in both political parties appear to be corrupt, bought and paid for, or just plain stupid. It is obvious that any system allowing campaign donations is just a legal form of bribery that allows the big money guys to hold our congress and us all captive. We should make them stop!
Having said all that, I believe that one of the best ways that we can beat this situation where we are all slaves to the large energy companies is to keep finding ways to use as little fuel and electricity as possible. You don’t need to have a lot of money to accomplish this. As a matter of fact you can save money by fighting back. Every time a light bulb blows out simply replace it with an energy saving bulb that uses a fraction of the watts (power), and if you shop carefully you can find them at the large box stores on bargain specials. Of course, you can save the most money by simply turning all unnecessary lights and appliances off. Many appliances are now power on all the time type which is very wasteful. There are power strips available that you can plug several items into and then shut them all off at once. I am now always shutting off or putting my computer on sleep mode when not using it. Mostly I shut it off.
One of the biggest wastes of fuel I have ever seen is that many of the people I know seem to look for reasons to hop in the car and run to the store etc. with no planning, rhyme, or reason. It is a known fact that the fuel business is a supply and demand business and even a ten percent drop in fuel usage would affect the prices.
I have oil hot water heat in my home and I found that my service man had the water temperature cranked up to 200 degrees F. Wintertime water temp is usually 180 degrees F. I have also turned the temp down to 125 degrees for the summer because the only reason the boiler is running for is to make hot water. It is saving a great deal of oil but running the boiler in the summer is very wasteful. We cannot have a solar hot water heater because we are on a heavily treed north slope. Our entire lot is shaded by our neighbor’s trees and he is not about to cut them down. I can’t say that I blame him and I would not even ask!
I’m seriously considering building a new all solar off the grid micro home elsewhere for myself. Our town is so poorly managed, or should I say mismanaged that we are being literally taxed out of existence. Any normal retiree can no longer afford to live in the town. If we ran our businesses the way they run this town we would be broke in a month!
Elderly people are leaving the town in droves to move into the elderly housing (brick prison cells) in the nearby cities.
All of the above is the reason that we have embarked on this off the grid micro home project. If we receive enough positive response, we will set up an assembly line to mass-produce them. It is definitely an alternate life style. Personally, I was raised in a micro sized home with no utilities for many years until we got power and indoor plumbing. Power and plumbing are no longer a problem. We have been involved in solar for over thirty-five years, and on a micro sized basis it’s relatively cheap. We have a person in Utah (link on our blog) that is spending only $200.00 a year to heat and power his micro home. Unless you are really quite well of you should seriously consider downsizing. My own particular daydream is to have a micro home in a rural low tax town in Maine for the summer and another one in a warm climate for the winter. We could actually move the solar electric modules back and forth if we wanted to go to the bother. Thanks to the Internet, we can run our business anywhere, as will many of you. With a micro home you can just kick back and live more easily on your pension. We know it’s not for everyone, but for many, there may not be any choice. It’s a good thing to think about anyway. It’s never too soon to plan for your future. If you don’t, who will?
Please take our survey in the previous Blog below, and also please comment back to us. We need your inputs
Thanks,
Walt