Home Appliances
By Mariette Mifflin, About.com Guide
Once home, you'll need to care for that appliance to keep it in top condition. I've got great buying tips for you along with helpful care information, to help you get the most out of your appliances.
- Major Home Appliances
- Small Appliances
- Air and Water Quality Appliances
- Floor Care, Cleaning Appliances
Major Home Appliances
Major appliances are the most essential items for a home. From cooking or keeping foods from spoiling, to helping us complete laundry tasks, we cannot be without some of these large appliances. But major appliances require an investment, which can be considerable if you want the best, the most convenient or even just a few time-saving frills. So it's important to be informed as to what's available in terms of styles and features, to get the best appliance for your home.
My buying tips will help you sort it all out and then read appliance reviews - they will help you make the final purchase decision. And you can help others with their appliance decisions, by writing a review on your appliances.
- Dishwashers
- Dryers
- Freezers
- Garbage Disposal Units
- Microwaves
- Ranges, Cooktops, Ovens
- Refrigerators and Coolers
- Trash Compactors
- Washers
- Washers - Portable
- Washer Dryer - All in One Units
- Washer Dryer - Compact Laundry Options
- Washer Vibration - Causes and Remedies
- Find Appliance Parts, Repair Tips, Accessories
Small Appliances
While some are necessary to everyday meal preparation, many small appliances simply make a task easier and quicker to do. And since it is possible to have too many appliances which can cause a storage problem, the challenge for most households is to find those small electrics that earn their keep and quickly become must-have items to meet their lifestyle needs.
Then there are those seasonal or special function appliances that can be just as important given the particular task. My buying tips will help you find what you need, but I'll also give you some tips on use so you can get the most out of your small appliances.
- Blenders
- Bread Makers
- Buffet Servers
- Coffee Makers, Tea Makers
- Rice Cookers and Other Cookers
- Fondues and Melting Pots
- Food Processors
- Fryers
- Grills, Griddles, Skillets
- Kettles
- Mixers
- Pink Ribbon Appliances
- Pressure Cookers
- Slow Cookers, Crock-Pots
- Toasters
- Treat Makers
- Steam Appliances, Steam Cleaners
- Find Appliance Parts, Repair Tips, Accessories
Air and Water Quality Appliances
There are some appliances that improve the quality of the air we breathe, thus making our homes healthier and others just make it more comfortable. When it comes to home moisture, a proper balance of humidity is essential. Water quality appliances improve the water we drink, which for some areas are must-have appliances.
- Air Purifiers and Cleaners
- Air Conditioners
- Air Coolers, Fans
- Heaters
- 5 Must-Have Appliances for the Allergy Sufferer
- Home Steamers and Other Steam Appliances
- Humidifiers
- Signs You Need a Humidifier
- Dehumidifiers
- 5 Signs You Need a Dehumidifier
- Install a Water Filter on a Faucet - Video
- Water 101 - Quality, Hardness, Filtration, Storage
- Water Cooler or Dispenser
Floor Care, Cleaning Appliances
Vacuums are probably the most essential when it comes to caring for your floors and keeping your home clean. But there are other appliances that are very convenient including steam mops and carpet cleaners.
- Anti-Fatigue Floor Mats
- Steam Appliances, Steam Cleaners
- Steam Cleaner (Handheld)
- Carpet Cleaner 101 - Types, Functions
- Steam Spot Carpet Cleaners (Handheld)
- Steam Carpet Cleaners
- Steam Mops
- Vacuums
- Vacuums - How to Buy Video
- Vacuums - Robotic
- Vacuums - Used (Preowned)
- Vacuums for Homes With Pets
Appliance Reviews
Regardless of how short an appliance review is, there is always some beneficial information that the consumer can use in their quest to decide on an appliance purchase. Read these appliance reviews and be informed, so you can find the best appliance for your home and needs. And to help others, take a few minutes to write a review on your own appliances.
Appliance Care and Maintenance
Appliance care is essential for some appliances, if you want them to operate as they should. But you'll find that a little care and maintenance for all your appliances, can extend useful life, as well as improve performance and energy efficiency.
- Find Use, Care & FAQ's for Appliances
- Find Parts, Filters, Vacuum Bags and More
- Water 101 - Including Filters, Hardness
- How to Use a Moen Faucet Cartridge Puller
Consumer Tips
Buying appliances does involve knowing what's available, but there's more to shopping than just deciding which appliance you want. There may be unexpected costs, such as for installation and extended service contracts to consider.
- Appliance Set-Up Costs
- Buy Only Safe, Certified Appliances
- Are Colored Appliances for You?
- Refrigerants are Changing
- Find a Great Appliance Gift
- Buying for Seniors - What You Need to Know
- Gifts & Hosting Tips
- Downsizing Options
- Save On Your Gift Budget
- Service Contracts - Pros & Cons
- Out With the Old Appliances - Options
Energy & Water Efficiency
With today's higher electricity costs, even small energy savings can really add up over time. When shopping for energy efficient appliances, take time to compare the estimated energy use on the Energy Guide label with other models. Buying an Energy Star appliance also assures you that it meets energy reduction targets. And buying an appropriately-sized appliance for your needs rather than a just-in-case larger capacity (that you may not need) will save you both - money and energy.