Pick the Right Appliances

Appliance Size and Features

When the week is done, review your use and determine which features are most important for your family. Having matching timing cycles on a washer and dryer can eliminate waiting for loads to finish. A larger-capacity washer or dryer can reduce the number of loads overall. A pullout freezer compartment may make more storage and accessibility sense for your family. Maybe it’s time to downsize the dishwasher or get a convection oven. A family with young children might choose appliances with safety features. An older household might select easy-to-reach controls and compartments. Analyze how you use your appliances before you start shopping.

Finally, add a gripe column and list frustrations with present or past appliances. A poorly designed lint trap on a clothes dryer, a stovetop without independent heating elements that required total replacement when one element failed, or loose seals on refrigerator doors can all drive you crazy. A loud dishwasher can prevent you from using the kitchen phone or helping with homework. When you buy new, make sure to correct past problems.

Definitely consider your available space before you select an appliance, because it won’t do you any good if it doesn’t fit. Measure your available space and include footprint, height, and width. Measure the doorswing or space needed to fully open doors, drawers, or lids. Decide if it must be right or left-handed because of counters or obstructions. Determine how the appliance will be ventilated and how much clearance is needed. And don’t forget to size your openings before you get the appliance home. Measure hallways, stairways, and door openings to ensure the appliance can pass through.