Archive for 'Home Appliances'
Your Microwave Wastes $70 Per Year And Other Vampire Energy Facts
May 10th, 2010. Published under Home Appliances. No Comments.
Even when they’re not “on”, a multitude of everyday home appliances continue to draw power from the grid, raising home energy bills and increasing atmospheric emissions. These so-called “Energy Vampires” cost U.S. homeowners $4 billion, collectively, in 2005.
In 2010, that figure is likely higher.
In the video above, some of the more common Energy Vampires are highlighted. As an example of how costly standby power can be, researchers show that idle microwave ovens consume enough energy each day to pop an entire bag of microwave popcorn. Annually, the kind of energy consumption wastes close to $70 per household.
Other household Energy Vampires include:
- Idle battery chargers
- Computers in “standby” mode
- Remote control sensors
Simply being aware of home energy-suckers is one easy way to reduce your electricity bill and do something good for the environment. The video shows you how you can both.
How To Remove Mildew Smells From A Front-Loading Washing Machine
December 28th, 2009. Published under Home Appliances. No Comments.
The front-loading washing machine is a popular home appliance choice. As compared to its top-loading counterpart, a front-loader can handle larger clothing loads, is gentler on garments, and uses about 1/3 less water.
However, because its design prevents water from fully draining, a front-loading washer can be a haven for mold and bacteria if not cared for properly. It’s the story the salesman doesn’t often talk about and is the reason why products like Affresh exist.
If you own a front-loading, here’s some steps to keep in-washer mildew at bay and your clothes smelling fresh.
- Leave the door slightly open after every cycle. This allows water to evaporate.
- Use low-sudsing, high-efficiency detergent. If your local store doesn’t carry it, try Amazon.
- Every week, pull back the rubber seal and wipe the inner ring with a cloth.
- Clean the drain pump filter monthly, at least.
- Run a bleach-and-hot-water cycle monthly, at least.
Front-loaders are good products, but require special care. Follow the steps above and your washer should remain mildew- and mold-free.
