Tag: home appliances

Is it Time to Replace Your Home Appliances?

Appliances are designed to be tough and rugged, but this doesn’t mean that your hard working appliances don’t have an expiration date. You will need to replace your current dishwasher, refrigerator, range, washer, or dryer at some point, but how do you know when it is time? If your appliances are pushing the 10 to 15 year mark, it’s likely that it is approaching retirement, but here we’ll explore in more detail when it is time to replace your home appliances.

Refrigerators

Most refrigerators last an average of 12 years. If your refrigerator is approaching this age, it doesn’t mean that you should immediately get rid of it. You should check to see if your refrigerator is still operating effectively and efficiently. Refrigerators should cool your items to 35 to 38ºf to avoid your food going bad. At these temperatures, it is cool enough to prevent bacterial growth without being cold enough to freeze.

Even if your refrigerator is maintaining this optimum temperature, you need to consider how much energy is being used. Older appliances can use more power, causing energy bills to skyrocket. Refrigerators run 24/7, so if you notice that your energy bills keep creeping up, you may need to look at upgrading your appliance.

Dishwashers

Many of us don’t realize how much we rely on our dishwashers until they stop working. Family life can be hectic enough without needing to tackle a mountain of dishes at the end of the day. Fortunately, most dishwashers have a lifespan of up to 10 years. You can prolong the lifespan of your dishwasher by regularly cleaning the filter. This can be accomplished by removing it and soaking it in hot, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes before replacing it. It is also a good idea to periodically sanitize your dishwasher to keep bacteria and bad smells at bay. But, if your dishwasher isn’t draining, starts making weird noises, has developed a persistent bad smell or doesn’t clean your dishes as it should, it is time to think about replacing it.

Ranges

Ranges are at the heart of our kitchens, allowing us to cook family meals and bake treats. Fortunately, most ranges can have a lifespan of up to 20 years, particularly when they are well cared for. If your range isn’t heating up properly or consistently, it is time to consider an upgrade. Fortunately, newer models offer some impressive features that can not only improve your cooking skills, but also make maintenance easier.

Washers and Dryers 

Washers and dryers tend to have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years before they need to be replaced. Fortunately, you can extend the lifespan of your washer and dryer with some basic maintenance. Even something as minor as cleaning the lint traps after every cycle can help to prolong the lifespan and efficiency of your appliance. Unfortunately, you’re likely to need an upgrade if your washer doesn’t fill up or drain properly, or your dryer fails to dry your clothes. Watch your washer and dryer during use, and if they are shaking erratically, it is a sign that they are approaching the end of their life.

Upgrade Efficiency

While no one enjoys needing to spend money on new appliances, there is a positive aspect of upgrading. New appliances offer far greater efficiency and often boast some impressive features to make your life a little easier. Although you may not have noticed the increasing energy use, you may be pleasantly surprised at the cost of your energy bills when you start using your new appliances.

If you are considering upgrading your home appliances, you can explore the options with this online collection, or speak to a home appliance specialist for professional advice and guidance.

How Quiet Should Your Dishwasher Be?

Most of us take our dishwashers for granted. They are an essential appliance in many kitchens, but this doesn’t mean that they can’t be unobtrusive. Some dishwasher models can be so noisy that it is difficult to watch television if the cycle is running in an open plan kitchen. So, how quiet should your dishwasher be?

Measuring the Noise of Your Dishwasher

Dishwasher manufacturers often advertise how quiet their dishwashers are and label them with a dBA rating. A dBA number is an expression of the weighted decibel level in human context for how quiet or loud the sound is to our ears, since humans perceive differences in sounds less sensitively at extreme volumes. Dishwashers in the marketplace have a noise output that ranges between 37 and 64 dBA, but what does this actually reflect in terms of how quiet it operates, and how much of this is simply hype?

Human speech is approximately 60 dBA, while light rainfall is approximately 50 dBA. A night in a quiet suburb is 40 dBA and whispers is 30 dBA. So, when a dishwasher manufacturer says their appliance is whisper quiet, it must be in the low 30s range when operating.

Modern Dishwashers 

In the past, you could expect a dishwasher to produce noise of 65 dBA on average. These days, many dishwasher models are far quieter, operating between 40 and 55 dBA. This means that they produce noise that is somewhere between scattered showers and dinner table chatter. This is a vast improvement and means that using a modern dishwasher doesn’t mean that you need to leave the room.

The quietest models tend to operate within a dBA or two. This difference is barely noticeable with some models operating at 37 dBA when using an Extra Quiet program, but there are other dishwashers that operate between 38 and 42 dBA in normal programs.

The choice of program is not the only factor that can influence the noise output of your dishwasher. Some experts argue that the soil level of your dishes can lead to louder operation. If you have dirtier dishes, the dishwasher needs to work harder to complete the cycle. This can lead to an increase in appliance noise output, but it is rarely more than 3 dBA, which is barely perceptible to human ears.

Determining Your Choice of Dishwasher

In the real world, a difference of a noise output up to 10 dBA is rarely noticeable. At the 10 dBA range, this is the point where audible sound doubles, you’re likely to start noticing the difference.

So, with typical dishwasher models operating between 40 and 55 dBA, there is very little difference in the noise output for the average household. If you’re deciding on a new dishwasher model, you need to assess whether you need a dishwasher to be whisper quiet or if you don’t mind a rainfall noise level. You need to think about your home layout and the types of activities in your everyday life. If you like to homeschool your children while sitting at your kitchen counter or have an open plan kitchen where the family likes to watch television, you may need to consider a dishwasher that has a quiet program. If you don’t tend to carry out important tasks in the kitchen, you should take the noise ratings into consideration with the performance and price to determine the best option for your home.

If you’re having difficulties with your dishwasher and are considering an upgrade, you can explore the options with this online collection of dishwashers or speak to a home appliance expert for a specialist service.

UMRP Price Increase on Sub-Zero and Wolf Appliances

Sub-Zero Wolf is the largest family owned manufacturer of appliances in the United States. It is also second globally to Miele. Sub Zero is perhaps one of the most iconic appliance brands in the United States, and the company was the first to produce a refrigerator with twin compressors, to keep foods fresher for longer. Sub Zero was also the first brand to use digital temperature controls, electronic air scrubbers, and a vacuum seal to help prevent foods from spoiling. All Sub Zero/ Wolf prices are dictated by UMRP, and this looks set to increase on 1st March 2018.

What is UMRP Pricing?

Approximately 10 years ago, the Supreme Court ruled that manufacturers could set the prices for their products in the marketplace. This was the birth of uniform prices, and you’ll see this when shopping for watches, bedding, and appliances.

Most consumers are unfamiliar with the acronym UMRP and are unaware that it has an influence on their appliance purchases. UMRP stands for Unilateral Minimum Resale Price, and in essence, it allows manufacturers to have stringent pricing guidelines for retailers. This means that Sub-Zero Wolf dictates the minimum pricing for retailers offering their product line. If retailers break these guidelines and offer appliances below the set minimums, they will be dropped from the Sub-Zero Wolf distribution network.

The UMRP policy means that consumers can shop for a Sub-Zero Wolf appliance in LA, Chicago or backwater USA and the price is likely to be almost identical at any of the retailers.

Since retailers can’t compete simply on price, most offer non cash incentives. This means that you’re likely to find retailers offering free delivery, installation, extended warranties or other adds-ons. You may even be offered a discount on other Non-Sub-Zero Wolf appliances if purchased with your new Sub-Zero or Wolf. This means that when you’re appliance shopping, it’s more about what a store can offer in services such as installation, delivery, and aftercare rather than just the lowest prices.

The Sub-Zero Wolf UMRP Increase

On March 1st, 2018, there will be an increase in the UMRP for all Sub-Zero Wolf appliances. Since this price increase comes directly from the manufacturer, all retailers will be forced to also increase prices. This means that you can expect to see the prices of Sub-Zero appliances increasing in the coming days as stores and appliance centers bring their pricing into line with the new UMRP rate.

Fortunately, Universal Appliance Kitchen Center can help to negate this price increase. Although we will comply with the stringent manufacturer pricing guidelines, we don’t simply offer great prices. Our aim is to provide our customers with an immersive purchase experience. We appreciate that buying a new appliance can be daunting, so we aim to make it easier for you. With our knowledgeable staff, superb delivery and installation options, attractive finance deals and unrivaled aftercare, we aim to help you throughout the life cycle of your new Sub-Zero Wolf appliance.

We appreciate that price is an important factor when making a major purchase, but when every retailer is offering similar pricing, you need to look further at the services offered. While you may have a choice of retailers offering Sub-Zero appliances, Universal Appliance Kitchen Center is more than just a store offering premium brands; we offer a complete service to help you to find the right appliance to suit the needs of your family and kitchen. So, allow our experienced team members to guide you through the purchase process and negate any UMRP price increases.

If you’re thinking of upgrading to a brand new Sub-Zero Wolf appliance, you can explore your options with this online collection of appliances or speak to a home appliance expert for a more specialized service.

Survival Tips for a Kitchen Remodel

A kitchen remodel can be an exciting prospect, but unfortunately, it is not all about choosing shiny new appliances. The reality is that you may have to live in chaos for weeks or even months as your kitchen is out of action. Fortunately, there are some survival tips to help you get through the process.

Triage Your Kitchen

If you like to have your front load washer and dryer side-by-side, but want easier access to your appliances, then you may As you are packing up your kitchen for the remodel, you should sort all your gear into categories. You will need to place your items in boxes marked up for storage, recycling or donation and a temporary kitchen. The boxes for storage should contain items that you will need in your new kitchen, but won’t be used until later. These should be kept in a safe place, but out of the immediate area. Your recycle or donate boxes can be disposed of at your convenience, and your temporary kitchen boxes will be needed for the next tip.

Create a Temporary Kitchen

Even if your kitchen is only out of action for a week, you will need somewhere to make meals, prepare drinks and pack lunches. This temporary kitchen should be out of the way of any renovations, but in a convenient location. You can set up your kettle, microwave and toaster oven in a dining room or a corner of your living room and have your essentials close by. To avoid dust getting on your dishes and utensils, pack them in plastic tubs, so they are protected but easily accessible.

Develop a Dishwashing Strategy

Unless you plan on eating out three times a day, you will still need clean dishes during your kitchen remodel. So, you will need a dishwashing strategy. You won’t want to visit an upstairs bathroom to dump out coffee cups or rinse vegetables. So, designate a sink for kitchen use, so you don’t need to move dishes every time you want to take a bath. This sink can be set up with a dish rack and allow you to keep your detergent on hand. While it will lack the convenience of having your kitchen sink, it should make the chaos of the remodel a little easier to deal with.

Try to Control the Dust

It is inevitable that any home improvements will create dust, a lot of dust, and during a kitchen remodel this can cause problems throughout your home. Your contractor should have plastic sheeting to cover flooring and create a curtain around the project site. This will keep some of the dust under control, but you will need to have plenty of microfiber cloths on hand to pick up drywall dust. Clear anything on the route between your kitchen and outdoors, to avoid workers bumping into items when they are carrying tools or appliances. Be prepared to clean up at least once a day to minimize dust in other areas of your home.

Establish a Pet Plan

If you have pets, you will need to set up a safe area where they can have access to food and water, yet be out of the way of contractors. You should also set up a place to sleep. This will provide a secure place for your pet to retreat if they start to feel anxious

Be Realistic About Your Food Standards

The reality of not having a working kitchen is that you will not be able to prepare the meals, snacks, and drinks that may be everyday staples in your home. It is unlikely that you will be able to brew fresh coffee every morning and make a three course dinner. Be prepared to make some compromises. Sandwiches, toast, salads, cereal, and fruit are all easy to prepare, and nourishing. Ice cream on a stick will keep the kids happy, yet doesn’t dirty a bowl. Plan your menu according to your means, not your usual habits.

Finding the Right Appliance for Your New Kitchen

A kitchen remodel isn’t complete without the latest model appliances and if you’re ready to find the ideal appliances for your new kitchen, consider starting your search with this collection of kitchen appliances to explore your choices, or contact a home appliance expert for specialized service.

How To Raise The Height of Your Laundry Appliances

Your laundry space serves as “mission control” for the modern home, and requires the proper layout for maximum efficiency. Depending on your unique needs and the size of your home, it may be a smart idea to raise your laundry appliances above their standard height.

Homeowners typically want to raise the height of their laundry units for one of two reasons. They either want easier access to front load units, or want to stack their appliances to save space. To help you meet these goals, we’ve gathered some information on two beneficial laundry accessories that will allow you to raise your laundry appliances.

Laundry Pedestals

If you like to have your front load washer and dryer side-by-side, but want easier access to your appliances, then you may want to invest in a laundry pedestal.

These useful laundry accessories can be placed below a washer or dryer to raise the height of the appliance. The additional height is ideal for front load laundry units, which offer quality washing and drying functions, but force you to bend down to load and unload the machine. Thanks to a laundry pedestal, you won’t have to bend down nearly as far. Moreover, many pedestals feature a spacious storage drawer designed to hold laundry essentials like detergent, bleach, fabric softener and more.

An effective laundry pedestal will give your laundry units the boost of height you need while helping your laundry space stay organized. It’s worth remembering, however, that these add-ons are not designed to help you save a significant amount of space in the laundry room.

Laundry Stack Kits

Should saving space be your top priority, you’ll definitely want to consider purchasing a laundry stack kit.

Stack kits are metal brackets sold separately from you laundry units that allow you to place your dryer on top of your washer, creating additional floor space in your laundry room for other cleaning tools or appliances. The vertical orientation provided by a stack kit can also help you install laundry machines in areas other than a laundry room, like inside a closet or alongside appliances in your kitchen.

While these units do not offer the built-in storage possibilities of a laundry pedestal, they will still help you raise your laundry units to a comfortable height that actually saves you space. Should you choose to invest in a stack kit, you need to check the model numbers on your washer and dryer to ensure you purchase a compatible kit.

High Quality Laundry Accessories for Every Home

Every home requires a different layout for its laundry appliances, and there are a host of helpful laundry accessories that are sure to satisfy your needs. If you want to raise the height of your unit’s and promote exceptional organization, laundry pedestals are a great investment. Meanwhile, should you need extra height for space-saving purposes, you’ll definitely want to invest in a laundry stack kit.

Are you looking for a new laundry pedestal or stack kit? Explore your options using this online collection of laundry accessories, or contact a home appliance expert for specialized service.

4 Kitchen Appliance Tips For The Holidays

Your kitchen is a hub of activity throughout the year, but this is particularly true during the holiday season. If you plan on hosting a holiday gathering, you’ll definitely want to get the most out of your premium kitchen appliances, and there are plenty of small tips and tricks you can employ to ensure your kitchen runs smoothly.

To help, we’ve compiled some suggestions for kitchen appliance use this holiday season.

1. Do Not Self-Clean Your Oven Before Holiday Cooking

The self-cleaning feature on your oven is intended to make cleaning easy, but if used right before you begin cooking for the holidays, it could cause a major disaster.

Many homeowners do not use their oven’s self-clean option frequently, and if you use this feature right before a big event, you risk causing an oven malfunction that can seriously damage your appliance. If your oven’s self-cleaning feature isn’t used at least every six months, you run the risk of damaging the appliance when it is activated.

You should also avoid using chemical oven cleaners right before holiday cooking. These products can be effective, though they often leave a layer of chemical residue that needs to be burned off before heavy oven use. This residue can be cooked into your holiday dishes, creating a foul taste while providing a health risk to your holiday guests.

 2. Use Your Oven’s Convection Settings

Many homeowners have a convection oven, though they are unsure of how to properly use its convection setting. Your unit’s convection option helps it cook food faster and more evenly, and is generally better for browning dishes — making it a great choice for a host of holiday favorites.

If you want to take advantage of this feature, be sure to reference your appliance’s owner’s manual for instructions. In general, you should try to follow these basic rules on how to use a convection oven:

  • Lower the recommended cooking temperature by 25 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit, or cut the baking time by 25 percent.
  • For small pastries, reduce the cooking time by 10 to 15 percent
  • For large roasts, reduce the cooking time by approximately 30 percent

3. Do Not Overwork Your Dishwasher

Once your holiday feast is done, it’s time for the dishwasher to do its job. However, you don’t want to risk ineffective wash cycles by overworking your appliance.

When washing dishes post-holiday dinner, be sure to use the proper amount of soap for each cycle. Too much soap will fill your machine with excess suds, making your cycles less effective. You should also be sure to scrape off all food residue from plates, bowls and silverware, as excess food particles can clog your unit’s jet streams. You should also be sure not to over-rinse dishes, as enzymes in dishwasher detergent require the presence of food residue in order to activate and be effective.

 4. Empty Your Ice Maker Before Gatherings

Nothing ruins a delicious drink like dirty ice, and you’ll definitely want to supply your holiday party with a steady stream of fresh and clean ice. If you notice that your ice maker produces chalky or smelly ice, you’ll have to take action to ensure your guest receive what they deserve.

As air moves throughout your refrigerator and freezer, the unit’s ice maker can become polluted by the flavors of food stored in the appliance. This often results in chalky, smelly and odd tasting ice. To prevent such impurities, you should first empty out your entire ice compartment and allow it to refill with fresh ice. Once the compartment if full, empty the fresh ice into a plastic bag and store it on your freezer shelf. The bag will protect your ice from air that circulates in the unit. You can feel free to continue this process until you have enough ice for your holiday party.

Meet Your Home Appliance Needs This Holiday Season

Your kitchen needs to work at peak efficiency during the holiday season, meeting your cooking and cleaning needs at each and every turn. Armed with a deeper understanding of how your kitchen appliances operate, you’ll be in the perfect position to have a memorable holiday season.

If you notice any issues with your home appliances, the holiday season is also a great time to upgrade to more modern options. You can browse this online collection of cooking appliances to explore your choices, or contact a home appliance expert for further details.