Bright Ideas: The Dos and Don'ts of Smart Lighting in Your Home

Get the Most Out of Your  Smart Lighting with These Expert Tips

Lighting in our homes is undergoing a thrilling transformation, all thanks to the integration of smart technology, like smart bulbs. These advancements not only bring numerous benefits to the home but also open up a world of possibilities. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the dos and don'ts of smart lighting, to help you make the most of this exciting technology.

Dos

Do Check Compatibility

Before you purchase smart bulbs, ensure they are compatible with your current light fixtures and home automation systems. Not all smart bulbs work with all setups, so doing your homework can save you from potential headaches. As an example, just think about the differences between Alexa and Google Home, and trying to get them to work together. 

Do Consider Lumens Instead of Watts

Courtesy of Cloudlynx

Traditional bulbs are measured in watts, but smart bulbs are measured in lumens. Lumens indicate brightness rather than power draw, like watts. Be sure to check the lumen output to get the right brightness level for your space.

Do Set Up Routines and Timers 

Smart lights come with the ability to establish timers and routines. Yet many people forget this not long after they get them, and lose out on some of the best features.  Take advantage of these in your own home to customize your lighting, save energy and create moods for various events. You can also use them to enhance your security by giving the appearance that someone is home. 

Do Focus on Color and Warmth

Your smart bulbs offer a full-color spectrum, and it’s lots of fun to play with different color set ups. However, when you’re looking to give your home a new look, make sure and pay attention to the warmth of your light as well. Warm lights like yellows or soft whites help make your home feel cozy and comfortable, while cooler blues help you  stay alert. Additionally, you have to consider how different tones of light can give you a headache.

Do Track Your Energy Usage 

Courtesy of Haus Automation

There are many smart bulbs that allow you to monitor the energy output that they are using. This can make your life easier when it comes to finding spaces where you can cut consumption and lower your electric bills. 

Do Prepare Your Network

Smart bulbs are hooked directly into your Wi-fi network all the time. Before you bring them into your home, make sure that your network can handle the additional load of the bulbs you’re getting. If not, consider upgrading to a mesh network. A mesh network is a Wi-Fi system that uses multiple access points to spread the signal evenly throughout your home, ensuring a stable connection for your smart bulbs.

Don'ts

Don't Neglect Proper Installation

Like any piece of technology there are ‘right’ ways to use it and ‘incorrect’  ways to use it. One of the most common issues people run into is not researching the proper installation methods before purchasing. Doing this can lead to the bulb overheating, or the fancy bulb you bought…dying long before it should have. One key tip to avoid is recessed fixtures that don’t allow head to dissipate from the bulb. 

Don't Overlook the Learning Curve 

Smart bulbs are indeed smart, with a plethora of features that everyone is eager to explore. However, it's important to remember that there is a learning curve. Take the time to familiarize yourself with them before you start using them, so you can dive right into the fun stuff. Most importantly, be patient with yourself as you learn-you've got this. 

Don't Use Dimmer Switches

Smart bulbs are controlled from the app. In addition to being able to chose your color and timer settings, you can also change how bright your lights are. From the app. Let’s say that again, from the app. Many people love dimmer switches prior to converting to smart bulbs, and after. The problem is that using a dimmer switch with a smart bulb can damage that smart bulb.  Using them with traditional dimmer switches can cause flickering and reduce bulb performance.

Don't Ignore Security Concerns 

Smart bulbs are part of the Internet of Things. Just like we’ve talked about with smart appliances, smart bulbs are gaps in your internet security. Before you connect them into your network, make sure that you use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Also make sure that you keep up with upgrades to your network and the smart bulbs 

Don't Ignore Connectivity Issues 

Are there any spots in your home that your network is less than ideal? Or where it goes out entirely? Prior to getting smart-bulbs you need to fix that. Smart bulbs require a stable Wi-fi system. If your network goes down due to those lovely Texas power surges,, you can lose control of your lights. Plan ahead of time to avoid losing your lights out of the blue. 

Don't Buy on Promises 

Just like any other new piece of technology, companies often make promises that don’t always come to fruition. Instead of buying based on future promises, make your smart bulb purchase based on what they can already offer your home. This cautious approach will ensure you make informed decisions about your smart lighting technology. 

Don't Forget to Manually Reset When Needed 

Courtesy of Gerd Altman

Just like any other piece of technology, sometimes, smart bulbs will bug out. When in doubt, don’t assume that the bulb is broken, try a manual reset following the manufacturers’ instructions to get things back in order. 

Smart lighting technology can offer incredible efficiency and convenience for your home. However, it also comes with its own challenges. Follow our dos and don’ts to make the most of your new technology and avoid the most common pitfalls. 

At Appliance Rescue Service, we're all about sharing helpful tips for managing your home. Just a friendly reminder that connecting lots of devices, like those cool new smart bulbs, to your Wi-Fi can affect how well your smart appliances work. While we can't sort out your internet issues, we're definitely here to help fix any problems with your appliances. Our goal is to keep your home running smoothly, so please reach out if you need expert appliance repair and maintenance. We're always happy to help!

Additional Reading

Kickstarter in the Kitchen

The Planned Obsolescence Debate

Minimize Waste, Maximize Sustainability: The Case for Appliance Repair

Why Repairing Household Appliances Matters for a Greener Home

You might not think twice about the energy your appliances consume, but what if we told you that maintaining and repairing them could significantly lower your carbon footprint? It’s true! Your household appliances play a crucial role in the fight against climate change. Join us as we uncover the surprising ways your everyday actions can lead to a greener, more sustainable future.

Understanding Your Carbon Footprint 

When we talk about your carbon footprint, we're referring to the total carbon emissions resulting from your daily activities. This includes direct emissions like driving your car and heating your home, as well as the emissions needed to produce electricity for your computer, appliances, and HVAC system. Additionally, it encompasses the emissions associated with goods imported and produced elsewhere and then shipped to you. All these factors combined make up your individual carbon footprint.

 Countries also have carbon footprints, which are related to what they produce, import and export, and consume. 

 Finally, you have your primary and secondary carbon footprints. We're not talking about your left and right hands, but instead what you have control over versus what you don't. Your primary carbon footprint is what you have direct control over. Your secondary carbon footprint then has to do with carbon emissions tied to the goods and services that you consume. For example the manufacturing and transportation of consumer goods make up a lot of secondary carbon footprint. 

The Average Carbon Footprint in the US

Per person the average carbon footprint is 14.9 tons per year. On one hand, that's still quite a bit. That means that in a given year, you are contributing that much. On the other hand, as much as it might not seem like it we have actually gone down in our consumption on a per person usage. We are actually back down to what we were in 1949, and we are on a mostly downward trend, which is fantastic. But you're probably asking how did we lower it and, more importantly what the heck does that have to do with your home? 

Courtesy of Andrey Matveev

Both of these are tied together. Most of what we do and consume within our homes directly impacts our carbon footprint, and one of the biggest contributors is our appliances.

Why Should You Care

We’re not here to debate climate change—that's beyond the scope of our discussion. However, we can explain how our carbon footprints, individually and as a country, impact greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere.

We want to note that household carbon only equates to 20% of carbon emissions in the United States. That leaves the other 80% that are created by other means, primarily industrial. So, while greenhouse gases are all of our responsibility to change, it does not mean that it is solely your responsibility.you can still make a difference by taking action at home and advocating for policy changes. 

How to Make a Difference

Now that you know what it is, and how it can affect you, how can you make changes? 

Surprisingly? One of the big answers is your appliances. From purchasing appliances, to maintaining them, to the question of repair vs replace, all of these affect your carbon footprint. 

When an appliance breaks down, it might seem easiest to just get a new one. However, this contributes to electronic waste, encourages companies to produce new appliances, and requires more raw materials.

By choosing to maintain and repair your household appliances, you can reduce waste, lower your energy consumption (and bills) and help create a greener environment around you. 

Reduces waste and lowers energy consumption

That’s all well and good, but how? 

Let’s take a look at the first one, reducing waste. The obvious answer is if you’re not throwing out an appliance, then you’re not adding waste to a landfill. Additionally though, you’re ensuring that you’re not purchasing all of the waste that comes with a new appliance. The plastic packaging to keep it looking pretty. The foam to protect it in travel. The foam and plastic that separate out different pieces for assembly. You also don’t have to purchase any of the aftermarket additions that you need to make it work for your household.

You also reduce your energy consumption. A poorly maintained or malfunctioning appliance will always eat more energy as it struggles to continue running. The harder it has to work, the more energy it will consumer, and the higher your power bills and higher greenhouse gas emissions. 

Lowers Carbon Emissions In Manufacturing

Courtesy of Pixabay

You continuing to repair your appliances also means that fewer resources are used to produce new appliances, thus creating less waste. Creating new appliances requires extracting and processing raw materials (which requires additional energy as well), the manufacturing process and then transportation. Each step contributes greenhouse gas emissions, waste in landfills, and using more resources. 

Promoting Sustainable Practices

When you choose to repair over replacing your appliances, you’re actively supporting your community, local businesses, and sending a message to appliance manufacturers. 

You support your community by supporting local businesses for repair.
Your need for parts supports the businesses that cater to parts for repair. 

Your choices, and support of local repair businesses, encourages your community, which in turn sends a messag to the appliance manufacturers that we want appliances that are sustainable. That you want ones that can be repaired instead of having to be destroyed instead. 

Courtesy of cottonbro studio

That message? Encourages the development of a repair-focused industry. That then can create more jobs and stimulate your local economy further and promote even more environmentally friendly practices. It’s a snowball effect that starts with you and the people you talk with. 

Encouraging Repairability And Upgradability

By prioritizing appliance repair, we influence manufacturers to design products that are easier to repair and upgrade. We want them to design products that are easier to repair and upgrade. This has the effect of not only ensuring your appliances last longer, but they require less materials to maintain. 

If we can get manufacturers to make it possible to upgrade your appliances with the help of a technician? It would mean that you didn’t need to purchase a whole new refrigerator, just because you want improved seals, or a new oven because you want the air-fryer addition. 

All of this is how your choices affect your carbon footprint, and the effects you can have on your community and the larger industry. What are the companies that make up that industry doing to help though? 

Companies That Are Working To Make A Difference

A final note before we round things out for the week is that there are companies that are trying to make changes just like you are at home. One way you can directly apply pressure to the industry is by supporting companies like these who are making positive changes and telling friends and family to support them as well. On a large scale, we have to try and shift culture towards embracing environmentally friendly ideas, and looking to try and change the problems that are being had on a cultural basis surrounding the carbon footprint.

Miele has promised to be carbon dioxide neutral across all its locations starting in 2021.  ((Check email to see if they got back to me)) 

Samsung has also been running a carbon offsetting campaign since 2019 to offset carbon emissions from customer usage. (This means that they are looking to find ways to balance out against all Samsung product usage, not that they're looking to change their manufacturing output.) 

LG has a zero-carbon initiative that has been running for five years at this point. It is committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions from its global operations by 2030. As of 2023, it is working hard to decrease carbon emissions, boost its renewable energy, and support other companies in making the switch to renewable energy as well. 

The business that we were most impressed by, though, is Bosch. In 2019 alone, Bosch launched more than 1000 different projects that generated enough electricity to bring power to 65,000 households in Germany for a year. (And while Germany is a long way off from us here in Texas,   by supporting companies like Bosch and demanding involvement like that here, we can make our wants known.)  Bosch is a company that has taken responsibility for combating the problems we’re facing, and are working to not just net zero, but to become carbon neutral. 

 Bosch launched 1000 different projects back in 2019 that generated enough electricity to power 65,000 households in Germany for a year.

This company in particular is one that really has taken up a lot of responsibility for combating the problems that we face with climate change. They intend to become carbon neutral in the immediate future, and this would make them the first big company in the industrial world to do so.

By prioritizing the maintenance and repair of your household appliances, you're not just reducing waste and saving on energy bills—you're actively contributing to a more sustainable future. Each choice you make at home echoes beyond your walls, influencing manufacturers to prioritize repairability and driving a shift towards eco-conscious living.

At Appliance Rescue Service, we believe in extending the lifespan of your appliances through reliable repairs. Our expert technicians specialize in ensuring your appliances contribute to a greener environment without sacrificing convenience. Join the conversation on sustainable living and discover how Appliance Rescue Service can be your partner in creating an eco-friendly home. Contact us today to schedule your next repair and take a step towards a more sustainable future.

Website
Call: (214) 599-0055

Additional Reading

Wondering How to Clean Your Appliances Sustainably? Eco-Friendly Methods Unveiled

The Planned Obsolescence Debate

Sustainability Unveiled The Complex Process of Recycling Your Appliances

Elevate Your Culinary Experience: The Quad Door Refrigerator Advantage

Discover the Ultimate Blend of Style, Functionality, and Convenience

Unlocking Luxury: The Quad Door Refrigerator Experience

Welcome to the epitome of luxury living, where every aspect of your home reflects sophistication and discernment.  Today we’re embarking on a journey into the realm of luxury living, where every detail, every appliance, serves as a statement piece, seamlessly blending functionality and elegance. If you’re a homeowner with a taste for the finer things in life, allow us to introduce you to the epitome of refrigeration elegance: The quad door refrigerator.

In a world where kitchen appliances are not merely tools, but expressions of the self and your lifestyle, the quad door refrigerator stands as a beacon of innovation and elegance. Let’s delve into why discerning homeowners with luxury on their minds find themselves drawn to this remarkable piece of technology. 

Unparalleled Design 

Imagine stepping into your kitchen, greeted by a masterpiece of stainless steel and glass. The sleek, contemporary design of the quad door refrigerator effortlessly elevates the ambiance of any kitchen space. Every aspect of its design is meticulously crafted to enhance the culinary experience, from adjustable drawers to customizable shelves and door shelving. With the quad door refrigerator, chaos gives way to order. 

But it’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality seamlessly woven into elegance. The quad door configuration offers unparalleled access to your culinary goodies, ensuring that every ingredient is within arm’s reach, all while maintaining optimal freshness and temperature control. 

Ample Storage Space

For the homeowner who refuses to compromise on storage capacity, the quad door refrigerator delivers in spades. With its expansive interior and customizable shelving options, organizing groceries becomes a delight rather than a chore. From fresh produce to fine wines, from artisan cheeses to decadent desserts, there can be a designated space for everything your heart desires.

No longer will you find yourself juggling items or struggling to make room for that last-minute addition to your pantry. With a quad door refrigerator, ample storage space is not just a luxury, it’s a way of life. 

Efficiency Redefined

In the pursuit of luxury, efficiency should never be overlooked. The quad door refrigerator stands as a testament to this principle, offering not only unparalleled organization and flexibility but also remarkable energy efficiency. With its innovative design, this appliance minimizes energy consumption by allowing you to open individual sections without affecting the entire refrigerator’s temperature. This thoughtful approach not only reduces your carbon footprint but also translates to lower utility bills, further enhancing the allure of the quad door refrigerator for the environmentally conscious luxury homeowner. 

Advanced Features for Ultimate Convenience 

In the realm of luxury appliances, innovation reigns supreme. The quad door refrigerator is no exception. From touchscreen controls to built-in water and ice dispensers, from temperatures zones for precise preservation to smart connectivity for remote monitoring, every feature is designed to enhance your kitchen experience. 

Picture yourself effortlessly customizing temperature settings for different compartments, receiving notifications when it’s time to shop for your favorite ingredients, or even remotely access recipes while standing in front of your fully stocked refrigerator. With the quad door refrigerator, convenience is not just a luxury-  it’s a given. 

If you’re interested in seeing a stunning example of a quad door refrigerator, check out the additional reading section below for our article on the MoodUp refrigerator from LG. 

A Commitment to Quality

At Appliance Rescue Service, we understand that luxury isn’t just about extravagant features; it’s about reliability and longevity. That’s why we take pride in offering top-tier repair and maintenance services for all of your major appliances, including the crown jewel of your kitchen - the quad door refrigerator. 

Our team of expert technicians is dedicated to ensuring that your appliance continues to perate at peak performance, year after year. Whether it’s a minor adjustment or a major repair, you can trust Appliance Rescue Service to deliver prompt, professional service with a smile.

In a world where luxury is synonymous with lifestyle, the quad door refrigerator stands as a testament to the art of indulgence. From its unparalleled design t its advanced features, it represents the pinnacle of culinary sophistication.

So why settle for anything less?  Elevate your culinary toolkit with a quad door refrigerator and experience the epitome of luxury living. 

And remember, should your kitchen ever require a touch of expert care, Appliance Rescue Service is here for you. Visit our website or give us a call ((214) 599-0055) today, and let us help get your home running smoothly again. We will work with you to find a time and date that fits your schedule to have one of our experts come and find what’s going wrong, to return your home to the oasis you’ve created. 

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Additional Reading
The MoodUp Refrigerator to Shake UP Your Kitchen

An In-Depth Look At Refrigerators

Energy Efficient Refrigerators: What Makes Them Tick? 

What is the Most Energy Efficient Clothes Dryer?

The Top Energy Star Rated Dryer And 4 Others That Come Close!

We're back at it again, looking to find the most energy-efficient appliances for your home! This time we're looking at your dryer and seeing what we can come up with. We'll walk through the different types of dryers first, then what makes them efficient, followed by five of the most energy-efficient dryers on the market for 2022, and wrap up with tips for purchasing a new dryer or making your current one more efficient. 

Categories of Dryer 

Vented Dryers

Vented Dryers can be broken down into either gas or electric dryers, with both types working mostly the same.  Both contain a heating element that raises the temperature of the air inside the dryer drum. The moisture that then evaporates from the clothes is vented out through aluminum ducts. 

Ventless Dryers 

These dryers are better for smaller spaces like apartments and tiny homes. Instead of having built-in ducts, They contain all of the heat and moisture inside of the machine. The water can be drained out of a reservoir later and should be done between loads for best use. 

Condenser

A condenser dryer is different from both of the previous models in that it pumps out the water.  It starts by pulling air in from outside the machine and over the heating elements, which then gets pumped into the drum of the dryer. The air is then pulled back out as cooled air, which gets condensed further into water and is pumped out. This process is repeated until the end of the process. 

Heat Pump Condenser

Our final variety of dryer is a heat pump condenser. These are even more efficient than any of the previous options using about 1/2 of the energy that they require.  A heat pump condenser is different because it uses a refrigerant system with both hot and cold coils. Instead of consistently drawing in air the way a condenser does, it keeps the air internal and constantly heats and cools It as needed to remove moisture from the air.  That water is then drained into a holding tank in the dryer that you empty as needed. 

For people who wash a lot of laundry and have high electricity rates, a heat pump condenser is a great choice because of how energy efficient it is. 

Ratings according to Energy Star 

How do you tell, though, when something is efficient vs. when it's not? When it comes to clothes dryers, you're going to be looking at a term we've seen in one of our other articles, Combined Energy Factor. CEF is a measure of energy efficiency based on a couple of different factors, which, combined together, show how much the dryer is going to be affecting your energy bill. The higher the CEF, the more efficient the dryer is. 

Top 5 Energy-Efficient Dryers According to Energy Star for 2022

1- Beko - HPD24414W 

Electric Standard Ventless - Heat Pump

Combined Energy Factor (CEF)Field details:11.0

Drum Capacity (cu-ft):4.5

Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr):217

Optisense Technology

Internal smart sensors allow you to choose how dry you want your clothes and will stop the dryer when that level of dryness is detected

16 Programs

Unique drying cycles that include: Permanent Press, Delicates, Gentle Care, Express 45, Wools, Jeans, Silent, Super Quick 30, and even Baby Sanitize

2- Blomberg - DHP24404W

Electric Standard Ventless - Heat Pump

Combined Energy Factor (CEF): 11.0

Drum Capacity (cu-ft): 4.5

Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 217

Anti-Creasing Option

The gentle drum action of a Blomberg dryer separates and smooths out individual garments as they dry, so when the cycle finishes clothes come out wrinkle-free and ready to wear. 

Gentle Care

Blomberg's closed loop heat exchange system means the heat pump dryers use a circulating air temperature that is consistently 40 percent lower than conventional dryers. This gentle care helps keep all fabrics-even woolens-at their best and extend garment.

Quick Drying

An 8.45 lb. load will dry in less than one hour. They also save your clothes. Faster drying and cooler temperatures reduce friction and shrinkage for clothes that look their best and last longer.

Direct Draining

A calibrated water-level sensor identifies any deviation from the correct water level in the tank and automatically starts draining if the level is exceeded.

16 Drying Cycles

Choose between Automatic Regular/Delicate Cycle, Automatic Perm Press/Knits Cycle, and Air Fluff / no heat.

3- Miele - PDR908 HP 

Electric Standard Ventless - Heat Pump

Combined Energy Factor (CEF): 9.75

Drum Capacity (cu-ft): 4.6

Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 245

Honeycomb Drum

Less folding, easy finishing: Laundry is dried very gently and evenly in the honeycomb drum.

PerfectDry System

The Miele PerfectDry system dries garments perfectly.

Intelligent Dryers

Gentle and uniform drying thanks to intelligent technology.

Short Program Cycles

Premium commercial technology allows you to benefit from the shortest program cycles.

4- Asko - T411HS.W.U 

Electric Standard Ventless - Heat Pump

Combined Energy Factor (CEF): 9.1

Drum Capacity (cu-ft): 4.9

Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 263

Butterfly™ Drying System

The two paddles inside the machine gently push the clothing in a figure eight, to spread the garments out and allow air to circulate through them evenly.

Soft Drum™ Technology

The new drum design enhances airflow around the load, thereby increasing the drying effect and allowing for even and gentle drying with both small and large loads.

Air Lift™ Paddles

The Air Lift™ paddles are designed to lift the load as high as possible for increased time in the air flow to enhance the drying effect and shorten the drying time while preventing them from bundling.

Multi Filter System™

This is a filter system of five different filters that ensures that all lint and even smaller particles are trapped before they reach the sensitive inner parts of the tumble dryer.

Lint Trap™

The Lint Trap™ is placed in the door and is designed to be easy to empty and clean.

16 Programs

This dryer comes with 16 drying programs to choose from - Auto Extra Dry, Auto Dry, Auto Normal Dry, Auto Iron Dry, Jeans, Synthetic, Terry, Down, Bedding, Silk/Wool, Shirts, Steam Wrinkle Care, Steam Refresh, Quick Pro, Time, and Airing.

Drying Sensor

ASKO dryers with a sensor system will dry your clothes in the shortest possible time and with lowest possible energy consumption.

Steam Wrinkle Care

Repetitive steam injections and heat treatment to eliminate creases in the fabric. Low heat is used to also cater for sensitive fabrics.

Quick Pro Cycle

With this program, you can get your wash completely dry in less than an hour.

Mesh Filter

This filter traps slightly smaller particles than the Lint Trap™ and is automatically cleaned with water.

Foam Filter

As a final step before the air hits the condenser, the foam filter traps the

smallest dust particles.

Lint Cup

Models with a steam function have an additional small filter, the Lint Cup, that protects the steam generator from lint and dust.

65 dB(A) noise level

LCD display

Interior light

Remaining time and program end indicator

5- Samsung - DV53BB89**H*

Electric Standard Ventless - Heat Pump 

Combined Energy Factor (CEF): 8.5

Drum Capacity (cu-ft): 7.8

Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 281

AI Optimal Dry

Automatically chooses the best settings based on what you're drying

Super Speed Dry

Dry a full load in just 30 minutes and achieve a complete wash and dry in under an hour with an added Super Speed Washer

MultiControl™

Eliminate the long reach and operate your dryer right from your washer when the units are stacked

AI Smart Dial

Simplifies your dryer's control panel, learns and recommends your favorite cycles, and allows you to customize your cycle list, making laundry day a breeze

20 Dry Cycles

More cycles to cover almost every washing need for your active family

Sensor Dry

Automatically optimizes the time and temperature of your drying cycle to protect your clothes from heat damage while avoiding excess energy use.

Steam Sanitize+

Samsung Steam Sanitize+ cycle removes 95% of pollen from fabric, while Multi-Steam refreshes clothing and relaxes light wrinkles.

Wrinkle Prevent

It prevents clothes from getting wrinkled

Vent Sensor

Continuously monitors the condition of your dryer's air duct to make sure it's running safely and efficiently.

Drying Rack

The included drying rack provides a perfect place to dry delicate items, sweaters, and footwear gently.

As you can tell, all of these are Heat Pump, ventless, electric-powered dryers. The reason for this is that currently, those are the most efficient and effective models on the market. 

Tips for Energy-Efficient Dryers

If you're looking at buying a new dryer, look for one with these features: 

Sensors to Detect When Clothes Are Dry -Just what it says on the tin. If you make sure that the dryer is no longer running when the clothes are dry, you’re saving energy as well as saving your clothes from additional wear and tear.

Delayed Start- Make use of any time based discounts for energy in your area with a delayed start on your dryer.

Steam Cycle- This helps save you time on ironing or re-running the clothes to prevent or remove wrinkles.

Steam Cycles - Many ENERGY STAR dryers also include convenient features, such as a steam cycle that can help save time on ironing clothes by preventing wrinkles. 

If however you're looking to make the one, you already have more efficient, try these tips: 

-Dry your loads back to back.  Doing this means that the dryer doesn't have to heat up as much by comparison to letting it cool in between. 

- Separate out your lights and your heavier materials. If your dryer already has a sensor for when something is done, this is more effective. The point, though is that your lighter clothes (socks, pajamas, t-shirts etc) are going to dry much more quickly than your heavy materials like sheets, towels, & denims. Save yourself time and energy by separating them so that when you're waiting for a load to dry it's because everything is still drying, not just one or two items. 

-Don't overload the dryer.  If the clothes don't have a way to tumble around and have air circulating, then it's much harder for them to dry.  

-Make sure your dryer vent is regularly cleaned if you have one. Much like in our last tip, if the air cannot get out, the dryer has to work harder, and your electric bill is going to go higher. 

And that is our top five most energy-efficient dryers available on the market as of right now. What did you think? Were you helped more by the new dryers or the tips for improving your current dryer?  Let us know in the comments below or over on our Facebook page! As always, we love to hear from you. 

If you're not looking to replace your dryer, it's just making weird rattling noises, we can help. You can reach out to us at ((214) 599-0055) or on our contact page. Wherever you live in the Dallas Metro area, we will work with you. At Appliance Rescue Service, our top goal is to get your home running smoothly again.  From Addison to Frisco, we're here for you. 

Energy-Efficient Washing Machines

What they are, how they work, and what the best are in 2022

What is the most energy-efficient washer? The one you do by hand! Yep, we're back at it again, looking at energy-efficient appliances. This time we're looking at washing machines. Will tell you about what makes a washer energy efficient, what the difference is between energy-efficient and high efficiency, what the best on the market is right now, and what you can do to make your current one more efficient.

We're happy to say that this article is more straightforward than our last one on ovens.

To start with, what is it that makes a washer energy efficient? According to Energy Star, in order for a brand to have the logo on their washer, it needs to meet two criteria. First off, it has to have a high Integrated Modified Energy Factor, and second, it has to have a low Integrated Water Factor. We know you're looking at us and going what the heck does that mean? An Integrated Modified Energy Factor or IMEF, is a measure of energy efficiency that considers the energy used by the washer during both the cycle and while on standby. An Integrated Water Factor or IWF, is a measure of the water efficiency in gallons of water consumed per cubic foot of capacity for the washer drum. The lower the IWF the more efficient the washer. So in order for a washer to get the energy star logo it has to use 25% less energy and at least 33% less water than what is currently standard on the market.

So then, what are the most efficient washers for 2022, according to Energy Star?

You have the best IWF, and that is the

LG WM9500H*A

Front load washer

Has a volume of 5.8 cu.ft

Annual Energy Use: 120 kWh/yr

Annual water use: 4588 gallons/yr

IMEF: 3.1

IWF 2.7

Price: $1,799.00

Then we looked at the best IMEF.

Samsung- WF45A64*A*

Front load washer

Has a volume of 4.5 cu.ft

Annual Energy Use: 93 kWh/yr

Annual water use: 3807 gallons/yr

IMEF: 3.1

IWF 2.9

Price: $949.00

Our third washer is the best in terms of annual energy use.

Frigidaire - FWFX22D4EW

Front load washer

Has a volume of 4.4 cu.ft

Annual Energy Use: 50 kWh/yr

Annual water use: 4154 gallons/yr

IMEF: 2.76

IWF 3.2

Price: $700.00

Keep in mind that this one does have a lower IMEF and a higher IWF than others on the list so far, but for the amount of energy it uses, it seems like a fair trade-off.

The fourth one we looked at has the best annual water usage.

Asko- W2084.W.W

Front load washer

Has a volume of 2.0 cu.ft

Annual Energy Use: 75 kWh/yr

Annual water use: 1728 gallons/yr

IMEF: 2.31

IWF 2.9

Price: $1499.00

We will note that if you look at the volume of the washer, that's the reason the annual water usage is so low. So it might be a good option if you're looking to take care of a family of two or if you're on your own. We wouldn't necessarily suggest it for a family of three or more, though.

Our final washer that we looked at is the direct opposite of the last one and has the largest volume.

Maytag- MVWB955F

Top load washer

Has a volume of 6.2 cu.ft

Annual Energy Use: 197 kWh/yr

Annual water use: 6735 gallons/yr

IMEF: 2.38

IWF 3.7

Price: $ 1170.00

Even with the IMEF and IWF being wildly different from any of the others on the list, we still have to point out this is still an energy star washer. We also want to point out that this one is no longer being sold by Maytag directly, but you are likely to find it on secondary sale sites still. 

Now let's take a quick look at what is the difference between a high-efficiency washer and one with the energy star logo.

A machine with the energy star logo is a great place to start. They are at least 33% more efficient than what's on the market. However, a high-efficiency machine goes even further. Due to the way they're designed, they need even less water than those with the energy star logo. That's not a flaw of your standard washers but a design feature of the high-efficiency ones. They use a more concentrated detergent that reduces the suds and penetrates deeper into the fabric. That then requires less water to be used to rinse the clothes. And they also use less energy because they keep your clothes constantly moving during the washing cycle instead of using a central agitator. We wouldn't say that we're for or against high-efficiency machines? We'll repair all of them, and it really is based on what your household needs.

What if you can't replace your washer with one of these Energy Star wars? Is there anything that you can do to make your washer more efficient as it stands right now? The answer to that is a resounding yes.

Tip Number 1

To start with, maintain your machine. Just like cleaning the coils on your refrigerator or the ducts on your dryer, residue buildup on your washer will reduce its efficiency and make it work harder. To do this, you can have a professional come out, or you can do it on your own with recipes from around the web. Make sure to look at whether you have a high-efficiency machine or a standard washer before you do this.

Tip Number 2

Avoid the sanitary cycle. Unless it is truly necessary, say you got exposed to covid, heaven forbid, just don't use it. The amount of energy that goes into the sanitary cycle is unnecessary a large portion of the time.

Tip Number 3

If you're not already doing it, wash full loads. Although there are washers out there that allow you to wash just one item when you need it, it's better to wash a full load. Although we won't say it's the same for all washers, most washers will still use the same amount of energy and water for a partial load that they do for a full load. So you might as well get the most out of spending that money.

Tip Number 4

And for our final tip, wash in cold water. It uses less energy because you're not heating the water. It's kinder on your clothes. And it's just as effective as hot water washing if you're using the right detergent.

And that's that! Let us know in the comments below or over on our Facebook page, did you have any further questions?

If not, or if you're looking to get your current washer looked at, give us a call at ((214) 599-0055) or reach out on our contact page. We'll work with you to find a time that fits your schedule best. Whether you're in The Colony or McKinney, Appliance Rescue Service is here for you.