Large Appliance Update
Participant Handout
If you’re like most consumers, you haven’t purchased a new appliance in 10-15 years. As
you shop, you’ll see many new features and applications of new technology in a variety of
configurations in today’s models. The great variety reflects the wide range of consumers and their
different needs.
The purchase of a major appliance is a major expenditure. By doing your homework, you can
find the right appliances to meet both your needs and your budget.
The objectives of this program are to help participants:
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Gain knowledge about new appliances – design, technology and performance.
Be able to compare appliances and critically evaluate each for cost, value, and features.
Learn how to compare energy usage and operating costs of appliances.
Refrigerators
Today’s families are smaller, but their refrigerators are larger – primarily to meet changing
lifestyles. What size do you really need? As a rule of thumb, a family of two requires 8 cubic feet
of fresh food space. Add an extra cubic foot for each additional family member. Plan for 4 cubic
foot of freezer-food space for two people, and 2 cubic feet for each additional person. Other factors
may help you determine the best size for your family:
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Is your grocery store close?
Do you freeze food from the garden?
Do you cook meals in large quantities and freeze portions for another meal?
Do you buy frozen food in bulk?
Do you entertain frequently?
Refrigerators on average use a whopping 42 percent less electricity than they did in 1972. So,
even if you purchase a bigger appliance, it will probably be more efficient than the old unit.
Side by side
Side-by-side refrigerators generally offer more storage capacity than top- or bottom-freezer
designs, and they offer the advantage of extra eye-level storage space. Side-by-sides are
recommended for older users and the disabled, because the narrow doors are easy to manage. In
general, these designs have a higher purchase price and are less energy efficient than other
refrigerator styles because they use less insulation between the freezer and refrigerator
compartments.
One of the newest design features of the side-by-side refrigerator is the built-in look. They
have the depth of a base cabinet (24”) and are taller and wider than other refrigerator-freezer
designs. They are more expensive, require special installation and may use more energy than
other refrigerator designs.
Water filters
A major consumer complaint regarding the odor and taste of water and ice have prompted
manufacturers to install water filtration systems on many refrigerator models to provide fresh,
filtered water and ice on demand.
Freezer on the bottom
While two-door, top-freezer models are still the most popular design, lowest in cost and highest
in energy efficiency of all no-frost refrigerators-freezers, new bottom-freezer designs are appearing
and sales for the bottom-freezer models are increasing.
3-door
This 3-door design has fresh food storage at eye-level. Door bins hold big gallon containers
where they are easier to reach and opens up shelf space. Frozen foods are stored in a two-tiered
pullout freezer drawer.
Twin-cooling system
The twin-cooling system cools the freezer and the fridge separately, making it easier to
maintain the ideal temperature and humidity in both sections. Food stays fresher longer and with
two separate air flows, the mixing of odors between compartments is eliminated. Other features
include a digital control panel to set the exact temperatures you want in both compartments with
the touch of a button; a power cool/power freeze option bring the compartment back to the desired
temperature after the door has been opened.
Cooling drawers
Refrigerator and/or freezer (with or without an icemaker) drawers let you put them wherever
you need them. These units are utilized in homes where space is a premium or serve as second
appliances in larger kitchens.
Under Counter
Options for under counter units include refrigerator/freezer combination, refrigerator only or
freezer only. These units are ideal for small families or families who shop for groceries more
frequently. They find great use in smaller homes, wet bars or even as second appliances in large
kitchens. Under counter models are a growing market.
Cook tops
Style, ease of cleaning, performance and convenience are the most important factors for most
cooking appliance buyers. A number of options are available. With any cook top, heavy gauge,
flat-bottom, metal pans are best for fast heating. Some cook tops feature “quick cook” burners
that have high heats designed for fast cooking (in a wok) or “simmer” burners designed to keep
sauces/foods warm without scorching.
Electronic controls and lockout settings for childproofing are new features.
Sealed burners (gas)
Sealed burners are sealed into the cook top so boil-overs won’t seep into the subtop area.
Contoured wells are designed around the burners so spills are contained and can be cleaned up
easily. Continuous grate designs offer larger cooking surfaces and makes using and moving large
pans or pots much easier.
Smooth top (electric)
While coil elements are still available, many consumers opt for the smooth, easy to clean, glass
(Ceran) surface. They use a different kind of coil element under the glass surface. Today, higher
wattage elements are offered resulting in quicker heat-up than the glass cook tops from several
years ago. Some models use a halogen bulb in place of elements. Glass pans are not suited for
these surfaces as glass can scratch glass.
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Sensor technology
One of the newest innovations is a dual element (which contains a small and large burners in
one element) to use with small or large pans. A sensor can tell the pan size and heat the proper
element size. The sensor will shut off automatically after a minute or so when the pan is removed.
Ranges/Ovens
There are a number of range/oven models available including freestanding, drop-in or built-in.
Ranges with modular accessories such as a griddle, a wok, a deep fryer or grill increase cooking options.
Anti-tip brackets are supplied with every range. The rear legs should be secured to the floor to
prevent tipping over as a child safety measure.
Double oven
One of the newest innovations includes a range with two ovens having separate controls. The
bottom oven is extra large (4 cubic foot capacity) and offers a new ½ rack design. This allows
cooking more items at the same time. The smaller upper oven is 1.2 cubic foot in size. The
smaller oven also has a food-warming feature. The ovens feature a delay start option and an
automatic shut off (after 12 hours).
High speed cooking
Some ovens offer the option of combining convention heat with microwave energy. Used
together, the options require no oven preheating and save up to 50 percent of cooking time. This
oven also allows for convenient defrosting of large items like turkeys.
Microwave/light
These models use halogen light and cooks up to 8 times faster than conventional ovens. Whole
chickens cook in about 1 and ½ hours in a conventional oven and only 20 minutes in these models.
No preheating is needed. The outside of the food is cooked like radiant heat while the light
penetrates the inside so it cooks at the same time. These units bake, broil, brown, roast and grill foods.
True convection
Convection ovens contain a forced fan to circulate hot air around the food. “True convection”
systems have a heating element that surrounds the fan. With convection cooking, foods are more
evenly cooked and browned as well as cooked for a shorter length of time and at lower
temperatures.
Steam oven
Steam ovens, while having been in the restaurant industry for years, are making there way into
homes. Promoted as quick cooking without losing the vitamins and minerals in food items. Steam
cooking seals in the texture, color and flavor without added fats or sodium. A meal can be ready
for the family in 20 minutes. Defrosts foods quickly too. There is no need for special plumbing as
the system uses a refillable water reservoir to provide the steam.
Dual fuel
Serious cooks love this option – electric ovens (either conventional or convection) with gas burners.
Warming drawers
These small ovens keep moist foods moist and crisp foods crisp. Containers divide the drawer
into sections and easy-to-remove liner pans make cleanup a snap. The drawers have pre-set and
variable temperature settings with automatic shut-off.
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Refrigerated range
This new technology allows consumers to prepare meals up to a day in advance, keep it fresh
in the refrigerated range cavity, and have the meal cooked and ready to eat when they walk in the
door.
For example, you can prepare tomorrow's dinner before you go to bed tonight. You just place
the dish (casseroles, lasagna, a turkey, etc.) in the oven; program it to cool while you're at work or
running errands. It will switch to baking mode at the time you choose, so the dish will be cooked
when you get home in the evening. The oven will stop baking at a pre-programmed time and,
should you be held up, it automatically kicks into a warming period for up to an hour. Still not
home? The range will automatically switch back to refrigeration mode again, cooling the food for up
to 24 hours.
Start delay
This feature is available on several models of ovens and should not be confused with the
refrigerated range. Food is put into the oven and then programmed for a later start time for
cooking. Food safety is an issue here since these ovens are not refrigerated.
Dishwashers
Today’s dishwashers are quieter and much more energy efficient. Most of the interiors are
made of polypropylene. This material can stain. To clean, pour citric acid in the detergent cups
and run through a cleaning cycle with no dishes inside. Stainless interiors are more costly but stay
clean and are much quieter.
Sink dishwasher
This dishwasher is ideal as a companion to a full-size dishwasher or as a stand-alone solution
in small kitchens or secondary cleanup areas. It’s a big idea for handling your smallest loads.
Instead of feeling guilty about running a less-than-full dishwasher, this attractive alternative
maximizes every load, inviting you to use it multiple times a day without sacrificing energy
efficiency or performance. A quick wash cycle delivers a clean, dry load in only 18 minutes.
Drawer dishwasher
This new innovation is used in a variety of settings where convenience and/or space are at a
premium or as a second dishwasher. It cleans with minimal water, energy and detergent. Seven sets
of dinnerware fit perfectly. There is no bending to load and controls are not visible on the outside of the
appliance. Some kitchens have two – one for fine china and the other for pots and pans.
Larger capacity dishwasher
Many of the newer models offer much larger capacity, offering 3 racks instead of the traditional
two. Many will hold 14 place settings and have adjustable baskets to accommodate extra large
serving platters or pots and pans. Additional spray arms maximize water circulation and produce
optimal cleaning results. Some models boast of no pre-rinsing due to a food disposer within the
system.
Kitchen planners promote installing dishwashers at a higher level (off the floor) to alleviate
bending and stooping to load or un-load.
Laundry
Major changes have been made in the design of washers and dryers as well as the concept of
clothes care in general. More insulation gives quieter operation. New designs make for larger
tubs; others for saving space.
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Under counter
Under counter models of washers and dryers offer consumers a clean, crisp look. The frontloading washers and dryers are only as deep as a typical base cabinet and fit under the counter.
They can be concealed in a kitchen area or offer counter space for folding or crafts in the laundry
room. These models conserve energy and water.
Washer/dryer combo
One unit is both the washer and dryer. This energy-efficient and quiet laundry machine offers
all the cleaning power of a full-size washer. Great for those who are concerned with space.
Front load
Front-loading washers are normally associated with high energy and water efficiency. Agitators
are replaced with tumble action said to be gentler on clothes.
Electronic Controls
Electronic controls give more beauty to the design of washers and dryers. They offer more
precise time and temperature options. Dryers can be set to more specific moisture levels, for
example, moist for items you want to iron and completely dry for those you will put away in a
drawer.
More precise drying helps prevent clothes damage and is especially effective on delicates as
well as large loads. Some dryers offer “super hot” anti-bacterial cycles to kill dust mites in bedding.
Outdoor kitchens
A new rage! These are designed for outdoor living at it’s best. Can include cooking, both grills
and cook tops, small refrigerators, icemakers and sinks.
Second appliances
Many of the appliances found in laundry rooms or kitchens are now being used elsewhere in
the home. For instance, the family room or basement area might have a wet bar complete with a
dishwasher and refrigerator. The bedroom closet might house a smaller space-saving washer and
dryer. Or, you might find two dishwashers in the same kitchen.
Home automation
Home linking technology allows intelligent appliances to talk to each other, making it easier to
manage your home and your life. Looking into the crystal ball of your future home, you can
remotely preheat the oven, run the dishwasher, or check to be sure the iron is turned off. You will
also be able to control lighting and burglar alarms and warm up or cool down your home in
anticipation of your return.
This refrigerator uses advanced multimedia computer technology. It is both a computer and
television. Handy for home and family activities, you can check your e-mail, download music,
watch TV, surf the web, monitor your grocery inventory and list the family activities on one
calendar.
Wine coolers
Wine coolers are one of the newest appliances to hit the market. Some models can be
installed under counters and others are full-door pantry style. Temperatures can be set so wine is
the appropriate temperature for serving.
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Clothes care systems
New to the scene in clothes care is a complete clothes care system. In addition to a washer
and dryer, appliances include as warm air cabinet designed to put hand washables in the proper
drying position. It features fold-down shelves for flat drying, racks for hang drying, and door racks
for gloves, socks, and scarves. A sweater that takes days to air-dry on a counter or table, will take
only an hour or so in the drying cabinet. A personal valet cabinet is available to steam and freshen
clothing, saving on dry-cleaning bills. It also removes odors and wrinkles from clothes.
Style and Finish
Contoured doors and handles
Handles and fronts of appliances have outward curves, giving visual softness to the usual
boxy look of appliances and cabinets.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is the new finish of choice by designers and consumers alike. Stainless takes
the professional look to the private home. Those who prefer a softer look will like the new
“brushed” effect.
Colors
Black or white appliances remain popular. Biscuit has replaced almond in the neutral color
scheme. Some manufacturers are offering plenty of color. Colors such as deep forest green,
cobalt blue and vibrant red are showing up especially in commercial-style appliances.
Integrated
Many consumers prefer the look of integrated appliances. Here panels are made to cover
the appliances so they look like the cabinetry elsewhere in the kitchen. Refrigerators and
dishwashers are usually integrated. Heavier hinges are needed on appliances if they are
integrated due to the weight of the wooden panels.
Energy Use
Energy Guide
The energy guide label helps you compare the efficiency or annual energy use of competing
brands and similar models. You could save money over the long run by choosing a model
that’s more energy efficient, even if the purchase price is higher.
Energy Star
The Energy Star logo identifies an energy-efficient product. The US Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) and the US Department of Energy (DOE) set guidelines for energy star
program. The appliances save money and energy without sacrificing performance. The
Energy Star effort helps protect environment by reducing global warming associated with
energy production and reducing air pollution.
Energy Star labeled appliances indicate they are significantly more energy efficient that the
average comparable model. For instance, refrigerators with the Energy Star label can save
more that $35/year, dishwashers more than $30/year and clothes dryers more than $93/year.
These are quite substantial savings for consumers.
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Average appliance lifespan
Appliances can be expected to remain in good working condition for several years. The
amount and kind of use the appliance gets will affect its expected lifespan.
Appliance warranty
Full warranty – offers the most protection. Provides that problems be taken care of within a
reasonable amount of time and without charge. Consumers are given the choice of a replacement
or a refund if the problem cannot be fixed.
Limited warranty – covers only what the manufacturer outlines in the terms. Must be studied
carefully to determine costs consumer will have to bear.
Home warranty/Home service plans
It’s after the warranties run out that problems start to hit for home systems and appliances.
Many homes today are sold with home warranties or home service plans or can be purchased by
any homeowner. These plans insure some or all of your appliances for repair or replacement even
when they’re past their prime. They can be expensive so be sure you read the fine print and make
certain the coverage you’re looking for is the coverage you’ll be getting.
Maintenance and care
Homeowners should practice regular maintenance to keep appliances in good running
condition. Gaskets and hoses should be checked often and replaced as needed. Keep drains, lint
traps and vents clean. Make sure appliances are level.
SUMMARY
Local showrooms are an excellent place to view the newest designs and models of appliances.
Ask the dealer questions about the operation, use and care. Check Consumer Reports, available
by subscription, on-line or in your library, for unbiased information of performance of many
appliance models. Manufacturer’s web sites also provide information.
Lois E. Smith, Extension Educator
Consumer and Family Economics 5/04
Your local Extension Office:
University of Illinois Extension-McLean County
402 N. Hershey Road,
Bloomington, IL 61704
309-663-8306
www.mcleanextension.org
University of Illinois  U.S. Department of Agriculture  Local Extension Councils Cooperating
University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.
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