Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Which Washing Machine Saves the Most Water

Many people today are interested in saving water and unsurprisingly, the appliance that uses the most water is the washing machine. By replacing an older model with a more efficient one, it's possible to save up to two-thirds of the water previously used in the old machine. It's also notable that combined, the washer and dryer use up 3% of the average household energy bill. For anyone who is interested in knowing which washing machine saves the most water, there are a few top models and designs.

The best way to find out which machine is going to use the least amount of water is to look for the Energy Star label on washing machines. This label means that the machine is 37% more efficient than a standard washer. Usually the most efficient washers will also advertise that they are high-efficiency, meaning that they use the least amount of both energy and water per load.

In general, front-loading washing machines are the most efficient. Top-loaders typically require more water and are less efficient. While a model like the Kenmore Elite Oasis is a top-loading machine that is very efficient, a general rule of thumb is to choose a front-loading machine.

When trying to figure out which washing machine saves the most water, it's important to consider how often the machine will be used. In general, the smaller the machine, the less water it will use. However, for larger families that need to do laundry frequently, a larger machine will actually be more efficient for them. Choose a high-capacity washing machine for a household of 4 or more and the smallest model possible for households of less than 4.

An additional consideration when choosing an efficient washing machine is the Modified Energy Factor (MEF) and the Water Factor (WF). The MEF measures the energy efficiency and the higher the number, the better. The WF measures how much water is used, and this number should be as low as possible. Both of these numbers will be listed on the Energy Start charts of the products, making it easy to compare when shopping for a washing machine.

One of the top rated washing machines for smaller households is the Frigidaire FAFW3801. This is a front-loading washing machine that is efficient both for energy usage and water usage. It has 3.3 cubic feet of room and is ideal for smaller households and families. The price of the machine is reasonable and it is a reliable brand for a washing machine.

For households that may need a larger machine, the Electrolux EIFLW50 was one of the top rated washers for larger machines. It has a 4.2 cubic feet capacity and has a very low water factor. A front-loading washer, this machine is also reasonably priced and will be around for years.

These are some of the ways to choose a water efficient washing machine as well as the best washing machines on the market today. When choosing a water efficient machine, consider the number of loads per week and the household size for maximum efficiency.

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Benefits of Protecting Your Home with a Warranty

Many people believe that their homeowners insurance offers them sufficient protection from all unexpected expenses. But, this is not true because there are many features and circumstances in the home that your homeowner's insurance just doesn't cover.

What all is covered in a home warranty?

A home warranty fully covers the breakage of several crucial systems in the home. A standard home warranty insurance includes all major appliances, such as laundry and kitchen. Aside from that, major systems, such as heating and cooling, and water heaters are also covered. In addition to various mechanical appliances and systems, you can even buy coverage for your electrical systems, roof, hot tubs, gas fireplaces, pools, septic, well pumps, etc.

For protecting your home with a warranty, you should work with a reputable home warranty insurance provider to ensure proper coverage of all the things in your home that you feel necessary. However, there is no need to include new appliances that are still under the manufacturer's warranty, as there is no use wasting money on covering these items. However, as appliances and systems in your home age, it's best to get coverage for them in case they stop working.

Many home buyers think that the type of residential accommodation they are buying may not be eligible for home warranty, such as multi-family unit, or duplex homes. And if they are buying for the purpose of renting out the property, they may think that renter's insurance would be sufficient and would cover everything. But, this assumption is not true.

If you are interested in renting your property, you will have to provide many appliances and are also responsible for their repair, unless any damaged is expressly caused by your tenant. Aging appliances, usual wear and tear and sudden breakdown of household systems are some of the situations that you ay face and would have to address as a landlord. Therefore, protecting your home with a warranty is the smartest thing you can do with your investment property.

Any lack of maintenance or repair of broken appliances due to lack of money may upset your daily routine, and if you are a landlord, may even cost you a tenant leaving your property sitting empty. As homeowner's warranty ensures that all repairmen available to the policyholder are real experts, homeowners won't have to waste their time in finding one. They are dispatched almost immediately and all their work is fully guaranteed. Instead of the cost of actual repair, you will have to pay a small service charge from your pocket. For example, if you need electrical maintenance, all you have to do is call and pay a small service fee to have it completely fixed with no hassle to you.

All these benefits combined with the total convenience of talking only to the representative of the home warranty insurance company means that you get everything at one place without any hassles and without paying huge amounts of money on replacement parts or repairs. Most of the home warranty insurance policies can be easily customized, making them best for any renter's or homeowner's needs.

You can easily get basic coverage at affordable rate, which is quite comprehensive, and you can add additional items as per your convenience. Thus, you can build your home warranty insurance in your own way, and in the end you'll be glad that you made a decision to buy it.