Choosing Major Appliances Chapter 24 page 539
Shopping tips Safety –Look for the UL- means the product has been tested and meets safety standards –Gas appliances- AHAM and the AGA
Performance –May decide to pay extra for a model that performs better, –Ex a dishwasher that gets dishes cleaner or tends to need fewer repairs –A bargain model that performs as well as more expensive ones.
Energy use –More energy an appliance uses the more it will cost to own. –Think month to month difference. Times 12 months. How much can you save?
Special features –More cost –Price you can afford –Set your priorities
Size –Capacity- how much can it hold? –Very important –Refrigerators and washing machines –Fit in the doorway –Fit in the place you plan to put it.
Style –Color that will blend well. –Choose a neutral color –Can match a color scheme
Purchase price –Compare prices –Ask about delivery and installation fee
Warranty –Which protects you in case the product is defective. Sometimes only parts. –Investigate the length and type of warranty. –10 year or repair costs
Refrigerators To keep foods cold Styles- side-by-side or two door top and bottom Movable shelves Built-in touch screen and bar code scanner that keeps household food inventory
Range, cooktop, and ovens Can be installed in a cabinet or island Gas or electric? –Surface cooking many people prefer gas burner because the temp can be adjusted instantly and precisely –Electric is often preferred for oven cooking because it keeps the temp more even and is a safer heat source for children and older adults. –Gas top and electric oven good choice
Dishwashers Built-in and portable Use less hot water to wash dishes 4 gal only Drawer-type
Disposal Units Quick and convenient way to eliminate waste Connected to the drain Underneath the sink Turned off by a switch
Washing Machines Wash, rise, and spin-dry clothes Features- large-capacity, water levels and heavy duty to delicate cycles
Clothes Dryer Gas dryers are less expensive Time and temp controls Electronic senor drying Top load washer All in one