Modern appliances have certainly changed our lives – and pretty much everybody would agree that the results have been positive and definitely convenient. Imagine your day before washing machines and refrigerators: it would have been full of boiling water, washtubs, scrubbing, preserving, and other activities. In fact, in some parts of the world, these are still the major tasks each day.
However, the trajectory of modernization has depended on practicalities. For example, in the US – where homes have tended to be large, electricity cheap, and water plentiful – appliances have evolved to mega proportions. Everything is large and, until recently, relatively inefficient. Compare North American versions to their European or Japanese counterparts. Due to higher energy costs, water restrictions, and smaller domestic spaces, these countries have always relied on more compact designs.
Time marches on, and new design aesthetics come into play. A tour of the latest show home will demonstrate a mix of factors. Energy and water no longer seem quite so limitless, as the global reality becomes more evident. And compact designs offer other advantages. The irony is that many smaller appliances are available through import, cost more, and come with some cachet. Instead, smaller and more efficient should be basic values.
The Energy Star program has begun to address energy efficiency concerns. Some areas offer incentives to encourage choosing these certified models. But there are still plenty of huge appliances available. The “bigger is better” mentality is hard to shift, although the reasons will become more compelling each year.
In fact, just as technology has brought us smaller telephones, computers, and other wonders, the same ingenuity and innovation can be focused on appliance designs. The trick is to make them beautiful, functional, efficient, and compact. Think about oven microwave combinations – able to cook food in a fraction of the time (using less electricity). Steam and convention ovens are also effective. Washers and dryers also benefit – offering stackable and front-loading versions.
In North America, Danby and Thor offer a wide range of compact appliances. There are also many established European manufacturers like Neff, Bosch and Siemens, and Miele. Microfridge has some unique combinations.
The trick is genuinely to reduce, not just to buy smaller versions. Don’t think bar fridges that supplement existing kitchen fridges and storage freezers. It’s about using less energy and water – such as drying clothes and dishes without electricity whenever possible – taking up less space, and modifying our expectations. The challenge will be maintaining modern lifestyle standards while incorporating sustainability.
Photo credit: Liftoff Lady@Flickr.com
