Replacing your white goods
There comes a time in everyone’s life when it’s time to say goodbye to our trusty white goods. They may break down, stop working as well as they did, start costing us too much money, or just look plain ugly in our new apartment.
White goods are an important part of any home. They are used almost every day so it’s important to choose wisely when overhauling your collection. Apart from simply choosing appliances with high energy-star ratings, here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing your new white goods.
Fridges and refrigerators
Your most important white good, your refrigerator is always switched on, and it is of utmost importance to make sure you not only get an energy efficient model, but that you also use it in an energy efficient way. Refrigerators with automatic ice-makers and water dispensers on the door are more expensive and will increase its energy consumption. Also, if you’re choosing a fridge with a freezer attached, it will be more energy efficient if the freezer is on the bottom rather than on the top. You also must consider size. A bigger fridge costs more to run, especially if it’s mostly empty (as more cold air escapes when you open it) so if you live alone, a fridge which is only a quarter full is costing you too much money to run.
Dishwashers
Having a dishwasher can save you money simply by using it to wash dishes rather than washing everything in the sink under running water. You should read reviews of different models online and choose one that’s reliable and durable. Also ask plenty of questions about what happens if the dishwasher breaks and needs a new part. Often parts need to be ordered from overseas, which may take up to five weeks, so think about whether you’re prepared to wait that long without your trusty dishwasher…
Washing machines
Front-loading washing machines are around 15% more energy efficient than top loading machines, and can also take up less room – an important consideration if you only have a small laundry or apartment. For many, a washing machine is just as important as a refrigerator, so invest in a reliable, top quality model. If you can’t quite afford a washing machine just yet, remember there’s always the option to rent white goods from a number of different retailers.
Dryers
Dryers are perhaps the most ‘optional’ white good, with many people choosing to air dry their clothes in the sun or on a clothes line. Of course, dryers come in handy when you need to quickly dry your shirt for work, or for cold rainy days when you can’t exactly hang your socks up outside. To help save money on energy bills, choose a model that turns off automatically as soon as the clothes are dry, and again, there is the option of rental finance if you can’t quite afford a dryer just yet.
Are your whitegoods out of date? A good start is to rent white goods to help save cost. Please find out more and visit www.flexirent.com.au