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Its all about gross margins. General Electric confirmed today that they are leaving the appliance business and will sell their appliance division to the highest bidder, as part of the “most active portfolio change in the history of the company.” GE, which entered the appliance business in 1907, is closing one of its [...]

Name of Product: Deluxe Bottle and Food Warmers
Units: About 5,000
Manufacturer: Munchkin Inc., of North Hills, Calif.
Hazard: The bottle and food warmers can overheat, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Munchkin has received nine reports of units overheating, several of which ignited, causing damage to countertops. No injuries have been reported.
Description: This recall involves the Munchkin Deluxe Bottle [...]

Samsung has a creative refrigerator idea. The Quatro Cooling Convertible Refrigerator allows the consumer to switch the refrigeration and freezing compartments as needed. If you plan to cook and freeze food in preparation for a big event just switch use to make room. The same applies to needing more room to [...]

If you are shopping for a high-def TV, you’ll need to decide which type you’d like. Will you go for LCD(liquid crystal display), plasma, or HD rear projection microdisplay? Let us offer some information and advice to make your decision a little easier.
LCD
These televisions are thin and lightweight with bright picture contrast. [...]

Sears, Roebuck and Co. and Samsung Electronics, have announced the addition of Samsung refrigerators to Sears line-up of leading appliance brands. Beginning in March 2008, Samsung side-by-side refrigerators are available at Sears stores nationwide. Samsung front-loading washers and dryers have been available at Sears since November 2007.
Sears will carry Samsung’s Twin Cooling side-by-side [...]

Name of Product: Broil King Gas Grills
Units: About 4,800
Manufacturer: Onward Manufacturing Co., of Ontario, Canada
Hazard: The bottom of the cook box that contains the burners can melt or crack as a result of a grease fire. This poses a fire and burn hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported
Description: This recall includes the Signet, Sovereign and Sovereign [...]

Fisher & Paykel, the New Zealand appliance manufacturer well known for it’s dishwasher drawers and washing machines is consolidating it’s manufacturing and moving to Reynosa, Mexico, just south of the U.S. border.
The range and DishDrawer factory in Dunedin, New Zealand, the refrigeration plant in Brisbane, Australia and the DCS manufacturing plant in Huntington Beach will [...]

Name of Product: DEWALT DW744 Jobsite Table Saws
Units: About 13,000
Manufacturer: DEWALT Industrial Tool Co., of Towson, Md.
Hazard: The pivot bracket on the saw can separate which can misalign the blade and the fence and cause kick back. This poses a laceration hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: DEWALT has received one reported incident of the table saw’s blade [...]

Name of Product: LawnBott Lawn Mowers
Units: About 530
Importer: Kyodo America Industries Co. LTD., of Lawrenceville, Ga.
Manufacturer: Zucchetti Centro Sistemi S.p.A., of Italy
Hazard: The cutting blades continue to rotate when the mower is lifted from the ground and the spacing on the side of the lawn mower could allow room for a consumer’s foot to go [...]

If you’ve been longing for an extra burner, but are short on counter space, KitchenAid offers their newest cooktop- a five burner that fits in a thirty inch space. Part of the new Architect Series II appliance collection, they will also be available in a thirty-six inch size if you have a bit more [...]

Name of Product: Electric Simmer Pots
Units: About 830,000
Importer: Waxcessories® Inc., of Dracut, Mass.
Hazard: The simmer pots have wire connections that can become loose, posing a risk of fire and electric shock to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: There have been 161 reports of discolored cords, loose wires, and wires separating from the pot. No injuries have been reported.
Description: The [...]

If you have been considering buying a new kitchen appliance, now might be the time to act. LG is offering a rebate of up to $500 on their kitchen appliances. The deal starts at $250 for two appliances and goes up to the $500 if you buy four. You can outfit [...]

Miele will debut the new G 2002 La Perla series dishwasher this fall. Engineered to be the quietest Miele dishwashers yet, they also sport a Turbo feature that speeds up wash programs by 10-15%. Sensor Dry, the most advanced drying system on the market, analyzes room temperature to calculate the optimal water heat, rinse aid [...]

U.S. factory shipments of residential cooling and heating equipment declined in February, compared with the same month a year ago, while the commercial market for these products maintained steady growth, according to the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI).
Central Air Conditioners and Air-Source Heat Pumps

Combined U.S. factory shipments of central air conditioners and air-source heat [...]

Does customer service really matter? We like to think that it does. Have you ever had a really bad experience with a store, and silently (or not so silently) wished that they would just go out of business? Well sometimes, the customer gets lucky. Our own NightOwl reported a while back on a nightmare experience [...]

Electrolux, makers of premium appliances for fine homes and restaurants in Europe for over 70 years and Europe’s leading premium appliance brand, is introducing a new line of stylish, high-performance kitchen appliances exclusively for North America. Called Electrolux, the new line of premium kitchen appliances is designed to help today’s multi-tasking moms do what they [...]

I realize that every job probably gets routine after a while, but some jobs probably get the juices flowing more than others. Here’s one that that keeps the juice flowing to all of us.

glumbert.com - High Power Job

So I did a bit of research, and hey its the real deal. [...]

According to a survey conducted by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), about 15 million televisions will be replaced by 2010 because over-the-air reception will no longer be available beginning next year.  The study also says that about 95% of those TVs will be sold, recycled or donated.  Forty-eight percent of households plan to keep their televisions and [...]

With the biggest change in over-the-air television since the 1930’s coming in February 2009, some seniors may need to take steps to continue watching their favorite programs once the digital television transition is complete. To encourage baby boomers to help their elderly parents, relatives, and neighbors get ready, the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® enlisted actress [...]

Appliance Design magazine has announced the winners of its 21st Annual Excellence in Design competition.
Entrants were evaluated by an independent panel of three experts in the field of design. The products were judged by four criteria: aesthetics, human factors, innovation, and technical merits.
Products were entered into one of several categories. The winning entries, listed by [...]

Oneida Ltd., the 128 year old tabletop company, and a leading source of flatware, dinnerware, drinkware, cookware, bakeware and kitchen gadgets for both the consumer and food service
industries worldwide, announced it has signed a licensing agreement with Greystone Brands Ltd. Under the terms of the agreement, Greystone will license the Oneida brand for use in [...]

Whirlpool Corp. has been recognized with its third consecutive ENERGY STAR Sustained Excellence award. Provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the award honors Whirlpool Corp.’s contribution to providing innovative efficient products that help consumers reduce utility bills and greenhouse gas emissions.
Whirlpool will accept the award at [...]

From the East Valley Tribune in Phoenix, Arizona:
A Pinal County jury on Thursday handed down a huge civil award to a family whose two boys were badly burned in a fire apparently caused by a faulty stove.
The manufacturer, Electrolux Home Products, was ordered to pay the Kavu family of Stanfield $43.1 million.
“They’re just elated,” said [...]

The Vita-Mix Corporation has been extolling the virtues of a whole food diet for decades, quietly amassing thousands of loyal customers who have made Vita-Mix high-performance blenders an integral part of their healthy lifestyles. Today, Vita-Mix is proud to announce the first new Vita-Mix household blender in 15 years – the Vita-Mix 5200. The Vita-Mix [...]

 Called Electrolux, the new appliance line is set to debut on North American shores in spring 2008. Boasting a distinctive look with a curved front design and signature blue LED displays, the new European-designed collection from Electrolux also offers ingenious features such as advanced Wave-Touch™ controls, one touch and more than 60 controls appear and [...]

Here’s some bad news for appliance dealers (if they haven’t already noticed the effect in their own markets)
 Twice.com reports that according to AHAM (Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers), January shipments of major appliances fell 17 percent to 3.9 million units compared with the 4.7 million major appliances sold during the year-ago period.
Taking the biggest hit was the home-comfort [...]

News from appliancemagazine.com a trade magazine, reports:
LG Electronics has entered into a cross licensing agreement with GE Consumer & Industrial that will allow LG and GE to use one another’s patents for refrigerators and cooking appliances without paying licensing fees.
“We believe that this licensing arrangement with GE will enhance our ability [...]

If you’re looking for a museum trip without the drive, just click here to visit the Washing Machine Museum. If you want to make the trip a real, not virtual experience, the museum is located in Eaton, Colorado with tours by appointment.
The virtual tour offers glimpses of the forgotten world of early hand, gas and [...]

Name of Product: Toggle Switches and Rotary Switches
Units: About 19,000
Distributor/Importer: Disconnects of Florida Corp., of Tampa, Fla.
Manufacturer: Ensto Control Oy, of Finland
Hazard: When switched OFF, one electrical pole may remain energized, posing a risk of electrical shock hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Ensto Control Oy has received 13 reports of the switches not functioning properly. [...]

I’m enjoying my stainless steel appliances and plan to add to the look by replacing my range hood with a stainless version, but I’m sensing that stainless may have some serious competition on the horizon.  I’m not alone with that thought, the Home and Garden people at nj.com, feel the same way:
“I think stainless has [...]

Smoke alarms are proven life savers. There are more than 300,000 residential fires every year, so when there is a fire, smoke alarms buy families valuable escape time.
Unfortunately, about two-thirds of fire deaths take place in homes with no smoke alarms or with non-working smoke alarms. The most common reasons why [...]

For the most part, clothes drying technology hasn’t changed in over 70 years, but the people at Hydromatic Technologies have a new plan. They don’t make dryers, but at the 2008 International Builders’ Show, they debuted a new technology - Hydronics- that could make future dryers better.
Hydronics is the utilization of water or other [...]

Name of Product: Strike Force™ Portable Air Compressors
Units: About 64,000
Supplier: All-Power America, of City of Industry, Calif.
Importer: Advance Stores Co., d.b.a. Advance Auto Parts, of Roanoke, Va.
Hazard: The compressor’s motor can overheat and ignite the protective cover, posing a fire hazard to consumers. Also, the cover might not prevent internal components from [...]

If you have carpets in your home, it has probably occurred to you that despite regular vacuuming and scheduled cleanings, they likely harbor a great variety of unsavory bacteria.  I know that even though we all take off our shoes when we come home, I can’t require that visitors do the same and so the [...]

Kenmore unveiled the addition of crisper drawers with Microban antimicrobial product protection in new Kenmore refrigerators. Featuring Microban antimicrobial technology, the new crisper drawer will remain fresh longer between cleanings. In new Kenmore refrigeration models, the crisper drawer is infused with Microban antimicrobial protection to continuously inhibit the growth of stain and odor causing bacteria. The [...]

A hot shower. Few rituals bring as much pleasure as does standing beneath a warm spray. And few things can spoil that ritual as much as finding that the person who showered before you has used up every drop of hot water.
The new line of GE® tankless gas water heaters provides a continuous supply of [...]

Dacor introduced the new Renaissance Wall Oven in 36-in, 30-in, and 27-in widths for the Epicure and Millennia Collections, expanding the brand’s premium cooking appliance offerings.
The new wall ovens exemplify Renaissance thinking with a design that celebrates the luxurious style of the classic wall oven combined with cutting-edge performance details, to create an appliance that [...]

Luxury refrigeration is here.  Miele is launching its  North American refrigeration system - MasterCool - this April. 
“Our patented MasterCool control system beautifully merges accessibility, functionality and design,” states Matthew Kueny, Senior Product Manager for Miele, Inc. “Since most users generally don’t know the proper settings to correctly preserve fruits, vegetables and other perishables, the Miele [...]

Bosch showcases it most advanced lineup of kitchen and laundry appliances that offer complete ECO solutions at the 2008 International Builders’ Show. Bosch remains the undisputed leader with the ENERGY STAR qualification on all its models in every major appliance category that the program rates. With the most energy-efficient dishwashers [...]

Name of Product: Direct-Vent Wall Furnaces, Models RHFE 431 and RHFE 556
Units: About 52,000
Manufacturer: Rinnai America Corp., of Peachtree City, Ga.
Hazard: A gasket in the unit can fail, posing a risk of poisonous carbon monoxide gas leaking into the home.
Incidents/Injuries: Rinnai has received 11 reports of carbon monoxide leaking from the furnace. No injuries have [...]

Name of Product: Portable Electric Heaters
Units: About 152,000
Importer/Distributor: Aloha Housewares Inc., of Arlington, Texas
Hazard: The portable electric heater can overheat and melt plastic parts, posing a fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Aloha Housewares has received 29 reports of the heaters melting, smoking or catching fire, including 18 reports of property damage. One consumer reported minor burns [...]

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Whirlpool Corporation announced that it has filed a patent infringement action against LG Electronics, Inc., of South Korea, and its U.S. and Mexican affiliates.The action, filed with the ITC in Washington, DC, states that several LG- manufactured refrigerator products imported into the U.S. infringe on five Whirlpool patents. Whirlpool is asking the ITC to issue an [...]

Frigidaire announced that its Affinity Washer and Dryer pair received the NSF International certification for sanitization.
The internal heater of the 7000 and 8000 series washers raises water temperature during the cycle, while the stainless steel dryer heats air and clothing, both reaching temperatures high enough that 99.9% of bacteria commonly found on laundry are killed. Plus, [...]

 WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CALIF. — J.D Power and Associates, the market research firm, said consumers are largely happy with the performance, features, styling and price of their major appliances.According to the results of its 2007 Major Home Appliances Study, only one in 10 consumers report some kind of problem with their major appliance during the first two years [...]

           
The Freedom Collection features counter-depth 24” and 30” fresh food columns, and 18”, 24” and 30” freezer columns, including dispenser freezers. Additionally, the industry’s first fully integrated and flush-mounted three-door 36” bottom-freezer, as well as a two-door version, are available within the collection. Unique 18” and 24” wine preservation columns have see-through glass doors and [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today that a liquidating trust acting on behalf of a now-dissolved manufacturer of heaters has agreed to pay the government a $500,000 civil penalty. The penalty settles allegations that Vornado Air Circulation Systems Inc., formerly of Andover, Kan., failed to [...]

By Gary Dymski
Newsday
Two socks enter the washer. Two socks exit the dryer.
As household tasks go, what could be simpler? A pair of socks goes from drawer to feet to dirty clothes to washer and dryer and back into the drawer.
Of course, anyone associated with a social group that faintly resembles a family knows the truth. [...]

Name of Product: Crafters Square Hot Melt Mini Glue Guns
Units: About 253,000
Retailer: Dollar Tree Stores Inc., of Chesapeake, Va.
Importer: Greenbrier International Inc., of Chesapeake, Va.
Hazard: The recalled glue guns can short circuit, causing the gun to smoke and catch fire. This poses fire, burn and shock hazards to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Dollar Tree is aware of seven [...]

Here’s some news from appliancemagazine.com  about saving energy and how the appliance industry is working to make some changes.
In late December, President Bush signed into law the “Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007,” a comprehensive energy bill that includes several historic provisions supported by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) to dramatically improve energy efficiency [...]

Many of us could use the space an extra refrigerator in the kitchen would provide. I have a spare freezer in the garage, but when I’m cooking for holidays or other large gatherings, my large fridge bursts to overflowing. I have even stored food for neighbors who have the same dilemma.
If you don’t need a [...]

If you hate cleaning around knobs, the Bosch NES electric cooktop could be the cook top for you. It solves that fussy work with one dial, the mTwisT. This removable dial, held in place by a magnet under the ceramic glass, does it all. Select an element on the touch-through glass panel, then rotate [...]

If you need hands-free security and media access in a compact unit, Nutone’s drop-down monitor will fit neatly under your kitchen cabinets. The system comes with one camera. A second camera (either recessed or surface-mount) can be added to monitor the back door. Lower the color LCD panel to watch cable TV with the integrated cable [...]

Sharp Appliances has a great idea, they have designed a microwave for below the counter.   Built-in ready for easy installation under a counter, the Microwave Drawer Oven is perfect for islands and open-plan kitchens, as well as wet bars, family rooms and home theaters.  Not only that, it allows wheelchair users access,  as well as the very [...]

Here’s an idea: A keyboard that doesn’t really exist, or that can exist on any opaque, flat surface.
At compactimpact.com, a crazy site that says about itself: Some people think “Compact Impact” stands for a small impact, others consider it as something small with a big impact. 
 I found this unusual device that projects a keyboard (measuring [...]

Every small appliance has its moment, and the deep fryer’s moment might just be now. Even Thanksgiving turkeys are getting tossed (quite carefully-hot oil, you know) into the deep fryer. The Los Angeles Times reviewed six new deep fryers, of which, the smaller models could fry about one cup of, say, mushrooms; the larger models [...]

Name of Product: Portfolio Incandescent Torchiere Lamps
Units: About 90,000
Importer: L G Sourcing, Inc., of North Wilkesboro, N.C.
Manufacturer: Field Smart Lighting Co. Ltd., of China
Hazard: A short circuit in the lamps’ wiring can pose a fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: L G Sourcing has received two reports of lamp fires. No injuries have been reported.
Description: The recalled [...]

My family,  like many enjoys pancakes or even better- waffles- on Sunday mornings.  Crispy on the outside, puffy, tender golden brown waffles.  I’ve been making them for years using my almost eighteen year old Toastmaster waffle iron and we all love them.
Just recently, the old Toastmaster started having a bit of trouble with waffles sticking [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is issuing a warning to consumers confronted with severe winter weather. When there’s a power outage, exercise caution when using portable generators.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible killer. You can’t see or smell it. A generator’s exhaust contains poisonous CO which can kill you in a [...]

Once you’ve read through our articles on choosing a kitchen appliance and have narrowed down your decision, it’s time to shop.  A good place to start is with your budget.  Knowing what you feel comfortable spending and sticking close to that number will help you to enjoy your new purchases.  One good way to stay [...]

Taking a bath is relaxing, checking in frequently to see if your bathtub is full or getting the water temperature right is not. The Ondine Ess Tub-Electronic Faucet, a bathtub and shower system with an electronic touch pad will prepare your bath for you.
You can set the water level to half-full tub, full tub and [...]

I have a friend who used chalkboard paint to create a large drawing space on her kitchen wall.  The family leaves messages and greetings there and she doesn’t have magnets and scraps of paper posted on (and falling from)  her refrigerator.
Kitchen clutter is a problem for most of us and Amana is addressing this with their [...]

If you have a dishwasher in your home, you know how convenient it is. Many don’t consider a dishwasher to be a luxury anymore, but a necessity. (Especially if you have a large family) I happen to know of some homes that now have two dishwashers - one is always full. If you are shopping [...]

Bosch home appliances, a leader in high quality and energy-efficient appliances, announced today that its dishwashers have been ranked highest in customer satisfaction for the second consecutive year by J.D. Power and Associates in its 2007 Major Home Appliance Study. Bosch dishwashers earned the highest ranking based on overall customer satisfaction with operational performance, including [...]

During the last few days of December, volunteers show up by the hundreds to decorate the floats that will be on display during the annual Rose Parade in Pasadena, California.  One of the regulations for the floats is that they must be completely covered in plant matter.  No paint, wallpaper, plaster or cardboard is allowed [...]

Name of Product: Counterfeit Circuit Breakers labeled as “Square D”
Units: About 50,000
Distributor/Retailer: North American Breaker Co. Inc. (NABCO), of Burbank, Calif.
Hazard: The recalled circuit breakers labeled “Square D” have been determined by Square D to be counterfeit and can fail to trip when they are overloaded, posing a fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The [...]

If you’d like to see how the KitchenAid Artisan mixer looks in action before you buy, check this out and then check out our reviews of the Artisan Mixer and the Professional 600 Series.

If your kitchen needs that special 50’s retro refrigerator, SMEG, an Italian manufacturer, has just what you need.
50’S Style Refrigerator with ice compartment,
Pastel Green, Right hand hinge
Capacity 9.22 Cu. Ft.
REFRIGERATOR:
Antibacterial interior
Interior light
3 adjustable glass shelves
1 bottle storage shelf
1 fixed glass shelf
1 fruit and vegetable container
1 dairy box

DOOR:
2 adjustable covered bins
2 bottle storage bins
4 adjustable bins
2 [...]

Many people believe that an air cleaner will help their family be healthier.  Using an air cleaner or air purifier in your home supposedly helps reduce dust, pollen and other respiratory irritants.  There are three types of air cleaners,  High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, electrostatic precipitators, and ozone generators.
From the Arizona Daily Star:
1. High [...]

Name of Product: Pressure Cookers
Units: About 38,250
Importer: Manttra Inc., of Virginia Beach, Va.
Manufacturer: TTK Presitge Ltd., of India
Hazard: If the pressure cookers are not closed properly, the lid can separate and allow hot contents to spill out. This poses a risk of burns to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Manttra has received two reports of hot contents spilling out [...]

If you are shopping for eco-friendly appliances, here’s some good news from Twice.com:
Whirlpool will increase its commitment to environmentally-sound business practices by reducing total greenhouse gas emissions 6.6 percent by 2012, the company announced last week. The world’s largest majap maker will make these global, voluntary reductions while at the same time increasing production by [...]

Name of Product: DEWALT Cordless Drills
Units: About 346,000
Manufacturer: DEWALT Industrial Tool Company, of Towson, Md.
Hazard: The trigger switch of the cordless drill can overheat, posing a fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: DEWALT has received 11 reports of trigger switches overheating. No injuries or property damage have been reported.
Description: This recall involves DEWALT individual cordless drills listed [...]

Most of us want to save energy.  It’s good for the environment and good for our pocketbooks.  By choosing a new appliance with an Energy Star rating you are off to a good start.  How much you will save though, depends on the type and age of the appliance you are replacing.
 One thing seems certain [...]

AmericanChronicle offers this review of the toastmaster bread machine which is an option if you are looking for a less expensive bread machine than the Cuisinart that we reviewed here.
A Toastmaster bread machine is cheap to buy. This combined with their standard features makes these appliances attractive to buyers. But there are other cheap bread [...]

Name of Product: Heat Recovery Ventilators
Units: About 1,100
Manufacturer: Venmar Ventilation Inc., of Quebec, Canada
Hazard: The thermal protector in these units can fail, posing a potential fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: This recall involves heat recovery ventilators made between October 2006 and August 2007, and have the following brand names and model numbers:
Brand Models
Venmar 40225
Venmar [...]

I recently overhead someone ask a friend: ‘how did we ever find out anything before Google?’. I gave away my internet age when I said “with altavista” and added for good measure - in a gopher guide. But nevertheless, the point stands. Google is just the greatest mindshare search tool, but its just a gateway [...]

Stainless appliances are popular right now, but they are difficult to keep clean.  Fingerprints and smudges are a constant challenge. Consumer Reports tested six stainless steel cleaners, trying both wipes and sprays.
When it comes to smudgy fingerprints, the tests showed all the cleaners do a good job removing them. But beware of claims [...]

Name of Product: Billy Goat MultiVac Outdoor Vacuums
Units: About 1,600
Manufacturer: Billy Goat Industries Inc, of Lee’s Summit, Mo.
Hazard: The vacuum’s fuel tank could crack and leak fuel. If gasoline leaking from the fuel tank is ignited, a fire or explosion can occur. This poses a fire and burn hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recalled [...]

This may sound too good to be true, but its not. The future may be bringing us appliances that can sense when the national power grid is over-taxed and switch off or down to reduce energy use.
 Scientists from Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, Wash., found that providing homeowners with smart appliances and information on how to [...]

Many people believe that an air cleaner will help their family be healthier.  Using an air cleaner or air purifier in your home supposedly helps reduce dust, pollen and other respiratory irritants.  There are three types of air cleaners,  High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, electrostatic precipitators, and ozone generators.
From the Arizona Daily Star:
1. High [...]

As the days get colder, many people are bringing their electric heaters out for the season. The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), the “best source of information about home appliances and the industry www.heatersafety.org. Tip number seven is one people might not be aware of:
Unless the heater is designed for outdoor use or [...]

Name of Product: Black & Decker® brand Infrawave™ Toasters
Units: About 70,000
Distributor: Applica Consumer Products Inc., of Miramar, Fla.
Hazard: An electrical component in the toaster can overheat and ignite the circuit board, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Applica has received two reports of the toasters igniting, including one report of fire that damaged a kitchen countertop and [...]

Name of Product: Built-in Combination Wall and Microwave Ovens
Units: About 92,000
Manufacturer: GE Consumer & Industrial, of Louisville, Ky.
Hazard: The door switch in the microwave oven can overheat and ignite plastic components in the control area, posing a fire hazard to consumers. The lower thermal oven does not pose a hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: GE is aware of 35 [...]

KitchenAid produces a whole line of stand mixers with a range of sizes and power to suit your particular needs. Recently, we reviewed the KitchenAid Professional 600 series here and found it to be a powerhouse that can tackle truly large jobs with ease. Now we’ll take a look at the Artisan stand [...]

Invisibly small silver ions that eliminate bacterial growth that cause odor are the idea behind Samsung’s SilverCare washer. Channel 4 news in New York met with Consumer Reports who conducted a study on the washers. See their report here.

Name of Product: Performax and Wilton 10” Sliding Miter Saws
Units: About 7,100
Manufacturer: WMH Tool Group Inc. (WMH), of Elgin, Ill.
Hazard: The saw handle’s switch can fail, causing the saw to smoke, spark, and trip circuit breakers, and disable the safety brake. The saw also can keep operating unless the unit is unplugged, posing a laceration [...]

The basic appliances in our homes are becoming less basic each year. Refrigerators are getting larger with separate temperature zones, dishwashers sanitize dishes and washers clean with less water than you would think possible.
Let’s start with washers. At the Columbus Dispatch , Kevin Kidder writes:
About 30 percent of washers sold are front [...]

The Sansa Shaker is a little, pink or blue, kid’s dream come true. I’ve listened to it with my kids-it comes with ports for two headsets- and the sound is fabulous! It retails for around $29-$39 depending on the memory you want. Check out a comprehensive review at TechTalk.net. This MP3 player is fun, [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
 Name of Product: Metalux Fluorescent Shop Lights
Units: About 274,000
Distributor: Cooper Lighting Inc., a division of Cooper Industries, of Houston, Texas
Hazard: [...]

With the joy of the holidays comes the joy of delicious food- and someone has to cook it.  If that someone is you, you might want to take a look at the Association of Home Appliances Manufacturers (AHAM)safety page.  There, you can order brochures, read safety tips and learn facts like these:

The range-top was involved in [...]

Induction cooking has been around for a while, but it seems that in North America it is just beginning to assert itself.  I’ve recently learned more about how the technology works from some helpful sites. 

At choice.com.au they offer a clear explanation about the magnetic fields:
Each ‘element’ (an induction coil) generates a magnetic field that induces heat in steel cookware [...]

If you take a minute now to visit www.howstuffworks.com, you will be prepared the next time a small child asks you how the vacuum works.  This site gives a clear, and very detailed description of a vacuum’s mechanics.

When you plug the vacuum cleaner in and turn it on, this is what happens:

The electric current operates [...]

From November 1 - December 31, 2007, Whirlpool brand and Dream Dinners invite consumers to register to win a Whirlpool Gold(R) suite of kitchen appliances or one of four Whirlpool Gold(R) Velos(R) SpeedCook ovens. The Velos oven can cook up to 47 percent faster than a traditional oven, getting the holiday turkey and all the [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Yamaha AC Power Adaptors
Units: About 49,000
Distributor: Yamaha Corporation of America, of Buena Park, Calif.
Hazard: The housing [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
 Name of Product: Honda HRX217KHXA and HRX217KHMA Lawn Mowers
Units: About 22,000
Manufacturer: American Honda Motor Corp., of Torrance, Calif.
Hazard: Due to [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Portable DVD/CD/MP3 Players
Units: About 12,000
Importer: Coby Electronics Corp., of Maspeth, N.Y.
Hazard: The portable DVD/CD/MP3 players can [...]

Straight from PR Newswire: J.D. Power and Associates Reports: High Reliability of Major Home Appliances May Reduce Need for Extended Warranties
According to J.D. Powers and Associates 2007 Major Home Appliance Study, most major appliances these days are quite reliable, yet many consumers continue to purchase extended warranties.
The study measures customer satisfaction in nine segments of [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners (PTAC) and Heat Pumps (PTHP)
Units: About 185,000
Manufacturer: Carrier Corp., of Farmington, Conn.
Hazard: [...]

Homeowners who add high end appliances to their kitchens have for years acknowledged stainless steel as the premium finish for appliances according to appliance magazine.  But now “more consumers are daring to commit to vibrant color on kitchen fixtures, and colorful alternatives to stainless ranges are becoming common.”
Dacor launched a colored-glass front on its wall ovens three [...]

Washer and dryer manufacturers around the world all recognise  that the demands of the consumer drive their designs.  The latest trends are for energy efficiency, quietness and, especially in North America, size.
In Globalizing Laundry, David Simpson of Appliance Magazine writes:
Consumers are more aware that efficient models are less costly to operate, their awareness advanced by [...]

This week we’ve been testing the KitchenAid Professional Series 600 Lift Stand Mixer (in onyx black).   I may not be a professional baker, but I’m no stranger to flour.   Most months I bake at least 16 loaves of bread, 4-6 quick breads and unreasonable amounts of cookies and brownies. Crazy yes,  but with four kids and [...]

Whirlpool is adding a new washer/dryer pair to their line-up with the Aspen Green Duet Steam pair. (Although the pair is available in white too.)  “Whirlpool brand is proud to introduce this new technology and help consumers use steam to get more done in the washer and dryer,” said John Alexander, VP and GM Brand [...]

Maytag has released it’s newest HE washer/dryer pair, the EPIC z. Maytag says:
BENTON HARBOR, Mich., Oct. 19 /PRNewswire/ — The legacy of Maytag(R) brand laundry continues with the new Maytag(R) EPIC z(TM) front-load washer and dryer. The versatile design of this space-saving, high-performance laundry system allows it to be installed virtually anywhere in the home.
The EPIC [...]

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Cook’s Essentials Convection Ovens with Pull-Out Rotisserie and Deni Convection Ovens with Rotisserie
Units: About 32,000
Retailer: QVC of West Chester, Pa.
Distributor: Keystone Manufacturing Co. Inc., of Buffalo, N.Y.
Hazard: [...]

According to Katherine Salant of the Southwest Florida Herald Tribune, if your remodeling or home-building budget is so tight you can only afford to splurge on one appliance, make it a high-efficiency, front-loading washing machine. 
For starters, laundry chores will take less time. With a spin speed of 1,200 RPMs, my high-efficiency front-loader wrings out so [...]

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: 64 Zone Wireless Receivers
Units: About 200
Manufacturer: Home Automation Inc., New Orleans, La.
Hazard: If the receiver loses power, it could fail to receive the signal from transmitters monitoring [...]

This is possibly another way to view appliance recycling and is definitely a way to save money.
Reverse logistics- this is the business of taking merchandise that has been returned by customers or overstocked by retailers or has been cosmetically damaged and finding a market for it.  Reverse logistics can keep appliances out of landfills.  What [...]

Whirlpool has entered a new contender in the race for kitchen bells and whistles.  It is called the Central Park Connection and its gimmick is a digital photo frame that is built into the door.  The theory behind this new gizmo is that it will cut back on kitchen clutter by reducing the number of [...]

Some posts just have to brought to the front page.  This is one of them.  The writer is responding to our post relating a similar refrigerator problem. 
This whole story about the fridge is nothing compared to what I am STILL going through. We bought a Maytag Model MZD2666KEB side-by-side fridge/freezer, with water and ice on the [...]

They say technological advancements have dramatically improved the efficiency of appliances, meaning replacing a 10-year-old refrigerator can translate into major savings in energy bills. It also significantly reduces the home’s “carbon footprint,” a measure of the impact human activities have on the environment in terms of the amount of greenhouse gases produced.
“We know … that [...]

Name of Product: Toshiba AC Adapters Sold with Portable DVD Players
Units: About 142,000
Distributor: Toshiba America Consumer Products LLC, of Wayne, N.J.
Hazard: The AC adapters can fail, causing the portable DVD player to overheat, posing a burn hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Toshiba has received two reports of minor damage to the bottom of the DVD player. No [...]

Do you find that you are drawn to a certain brand of appliance again and again?  Did your mother always rely on one brand of washer and dryer?  Whirlpool is aware of consumers conscious and unconscious preferences for specific appliances.
For every Whirlpool Corporation brand - including Whirlpool®, Maytag®, KitchenAid®, Jenn-Air®, Amana® and Gladiator® GarageWorks - [...]

When we bought our house about three years ago, we replaced all the kitchen appliances.  It was very necessary as far as I’m concerned since the kitchen was equipped with top- of-the-line 1960 copper colored, oven, cooktop, dishwasher (okay, maybe that was installed in the ’70s) and fridge.  The problem now is we lost our [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: IonizAir(tm) Table Top Air Purifiers
Units: About 83,000
Importer: P3 International, of New York, N.Y.
Manufacturer: Leaven Enterprise Co., of [...]

Turn off the Lights! Turn off the water! Reuse and recycle!
I know I try to follow those simple guidelines and have installed low flush toilets, energy efficient appliances and compact fluorescent lights in my home.  Sears is trying to help a bit by “rolling out the Kenmore Elite® dishwasher with Ultra WashHE technology, and the [...]

Salton Inc. and QVC Recall Electric Toasters Due to Fire Hazard
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in
cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary
recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using
recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Cook’s Essential Electric Toasters
Units: About 5,200
Retailer: QVC Inc., of West [...]

A report from ABC News says:
The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (HREOC) is warning that new technology for home appliances is becoming harder for people with disabilities to access.
The report says small buttons on remote controls, heavy oven doors, and touch-operated devices, are some of the features that render appliances unusable for about 20 [...]

 ”Viking doesn’t make commercial ranges?”  That has been the response to my very informal survey when people learn that Viking Corporation has recently announced their plan to release a line of commercial appliances.
Viking Range Corporation who originated ultra-premium commercial-type appliances for the indoor and outdoor kitchen has announced their intention to enter the commercial market.
The Viking [...]

Electric Heaters Recalled by Aloha Housewares Due to Fire Hazard
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in
cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary
recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using
recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: “Aloha Breeze” Portable Electric Heaters
Units: About 281,000
Importer/Distributor: Aloha Housewares, Inc. [...]

Samsung has announced the release of its H-series refrigerator line featuring its “exclusive Twin Cooling System™.” This system allows “the different freezer and refrigerator compartments to be controlled and cooled independently, as well as preventing the mixing of odors between the two compartments.” This style also defines itself as the first “truly [...]

Global warming aside, it seems that the “big box” stores have impacted corporations such as Fedders to the extent that they have changed direction and started producing a “broad line of residential, commercial and industrial IAQ and HVAC equipment”
“Founded in 1896, Fedders Corporation is a leading global manufacturer of air treatment products, including air conditioners, [...]

Back to Basics Products Recalls Iced Tea Makers Due to Fire Hazard
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in
cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary
recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using
recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: IT400 Iced Tea Makers
Units: About 10,000
Importer: Back to Basics [...]

I know some people have those toasters with the slots on top that pop the toast up, and I remember having a toy one for my play kitchen as a child, but as an adult with a family to feed, I always choose a toaster oven over the pop-up.  My mother had a toaster oven [...]

If you have recently spent some time feeling baffled by the many options on a new appliance, you are not alone. Some folks have even sought help with their entire kitchen. Maybe not a bad idea. The Los Angeles Times writes:
With sophisticated, professional-quality appliances and high-design gizmos going into residential kitchens, many would-be home [...]

Are folks really willing to pay for what they say they want in an appliance?  Apparently not.  The OC Register has some thoughts on cool but pricy features that are appearing on kitchen  appliances.
In 2002, for example, Whirlpool Corp. introduced Polara, which combined refrigeration with a convection oven. Polara would keep a casserole cool until a [...]

Name of Product: Easy-Bake Ovens
Units: About 1 million
Manufacturer: Easy-Bake, a division of Hasbro, Inc., of Pawtucket, R.I
Hazard: Young children can insert their hands into the oven’s front opening, and get their hands or fingers caught, posing entrapment and burn hazards.
Incidents/Injuries: Since the repair program announced in February, Easy-Bake has received 249 reports of children getting [...]

One of the easiest ways I have found to get calcium and vitamins into my kids is to offer them smoothies as an after school snack.I just throw a variety of frozen fruit, yogurt and some milk into the blender and produce a treat they love. This is a great time of year to pull [...]

Signature GourmetTM and Kitchen Gourmet® 12-Cup Coffeemakers
Units: About 392,000
Importer/Distributor: Atico International USA Inc., of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Hazard: The coffeemaker can ignite due to an electrical failure, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Atico International USA, Inc. has received 14 reports of electrical failures, including six reports in which the unit ignited causing minor property damage. No injuries [...]

I recently overhead someone ask a friend: ‘how did we ever find out anything before Google?’. I gave away my internet age when I said “with altavista” and added for good measure - in a gopher guide. But nevertheless, the point stands. Google is just the greatest mindshare search tool, but [...]

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2007/4/prweb521477.htm
Invention Support has signed a strategic alliance with Virginia Gibbs, the inventor of the new device known as the “Refrigerator/Microwave”, to offer support for this great new invention and to proudly introduce it into the general kitchen appliance market.
The basic idea behind the Refrigerator/Microwave is to combine two kitchen appliances into one as a convenient [...]

We’re working on a radio segment on grills over at TechTalk Radio and I’ve been lucky enough to test the Char-Broil Commercial Series 4 burner gas grill (Model 463268107). Here are my first impressions out of the box so to speak. This thing is shiny. And BIG. [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Name of Product: Thermador® Brand Built-In Ovens
Units: About 42,000
Manufacturer: BSH Home Appliances Corp., of Huntington Beach, Calif.
Hazard: The oven [...]

One of my fondest childhood memories is of eating homemade chocolate ice cream on the Fourth of July. I can still hear in my mind the sound of my parents’ ice cream maker churning for hours in the bathtub. (Where it was placed to catch the water from all the condensation that would [...]

I was visiting a friend a few weeks ago who has recently finished a home remodel in West Los Angeles. He and his wife turned their 1500 square foot bungalow into a 4000 square foot family home. I stood in their kitchen looking at their double wide refrigerator (literally, double wide.) [...]

Name of Product: Combination Tire Inflator and Hand Pumps
Units: About 55,000
Importer: Innovations In Cycling Inc., doing business as Genuine Innovations, of Tucson, Ariz.

Hazard: The combination tire inflator and hand pump can shatter under pressure when inflating tires if there is a blockage in the tire valve, posing the risk of bruises, lacerations, and ringing in [...]

Is this a situation rife for conflict of interest?
Sears: What’s in store next
Sears is experimenting with encouraging its appliance-repair teams to make sales pitches, and is featuring its repair technicians at workshops inside Sears stores, as the retailer explores ways to exploit its service and repair network.
A service technician who comes to a customer’s house [...]

Superman said it best “Truth Justice and the American Way”. The American Way - the secret to our strength? well you can follow it back to the days of barn raising, and follow it forward to the deep response of American’s nationwide to the victims of Katrina. American’s look out for [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Name of Products: Asko DW95 Model Series Dishwashers
Units: About 130,000
Manufacturer: Asko Cylinda AB, of Vara, Sweden
Importer/Distributor: AM Appliance Group [...]

Claim: Washing the lint filter in your clothes dryer can help extend the lifespan of that appliance.
Status: According to Snopes, this is True.
Ask the average person, for example, how a clothes dryer works, and you’ll probably get an “Are you kidding me?” look in return, along with a terse explanation that a dryer makes stuff [...]

No its not your NANA’s silver its NANO silver from Samsung. Samsung, the monster Korean manufacturing conglomerate is taking advantage of silver’s ability to inhibit bacterial growth. By using Nano technology to drop create a mist of silver ions 1/75,000th the width of a human hair Samsung has created a [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Product: Thermador® Brand Ceramic Cooktops
Units: About 2,000
Manufacturer: BSH Home Appliances Corp. of Huntington Beach, Calif.
Hazard: The cooktop can come [...]

Do you know how a vacuum is made? Pull up a chair and learn about it the way your 5 year old would.
Did you ever get tired of dragging your old canister vacuum around the house? Well maybe what you need is a central vacuum. A central vacuum is to your handheld what a central [...]

He has to be one of the most easily recognized pitchmen on TV. He does nothing. He’s the most bored, lonely guy we know and he’s been missing in action for months. But not any more. He’s back. They found him.
Could it be this guy? I’d pick him [...]

Name of product: GE Dishwashers
Units: About 2.5 million

Manufacturer: GE Consumer & Industrial, of Louisville, Ky.
Hazard: Liquid rinse-aid can leak from its dispenser onto the dishwasher’s internal wiring which can cause an electrical short and overheating, posing a fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: GE has received 191 reports of overheated wiring including 56 reports of property damage. [...]

CPSC Warns of Dangerous Counterfeit Electrical Products
WASHINGTON, D.C. — May is National Electrical Safety Month, and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning consumers that, unlike a fake purse or watch, counterfeit electrical products could pose the risk of injury or death. Counterfeit circuit breakers, power strips, extension cords, batteries and holiday lights [...]

Name of product: Perfect Flame Four-Burner Gas Grills
Units: About 36,500

Manufacturer: Sagittarius Sporting Goods, of China
Importer: L G Sourcing, of North Wilkesboro, N.C
Hazard: Some of these grills could be missing a hose that connects the grill manifold to the side burner, which poses a risk of fires and burn injuries to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: About 30,000 of [...]

Name of product: Char-Broil Two-Burner Gas Grills Model 463720407
Units: About 600
Importer: Char-Broil LLC, of Columbus, Ga.
Manufacturer: Winmax, of China
Hazard: The recalled grills could have an incorrect heat shield that does not fit the grills. Without the correct heat shield, the propane tank, hose, and regulator could overheat and damage these components, presenting a risk of [...]

Coby Electronics Recalls Boomboxes Due to Fire Hazard
Name of product: Coby-Brand USB/MP3/CD Boomboxes
Units: About 13,800
Importer: Coby Electronics Corp., of Maspeth, N.Y.
Hazard: When left plugged into an electrical outlet and the off switch is not firmly in place, these boomboxes can overheat, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Coby Electronics Corp. has received 18 reports of these boomboxes [...]

The Holmes Group Recalls Oil-Filled Electric Heaters Due to Fire Hazard
Name of product: Holmes® Oil-Filled Electric Heaters
Units: About 300,000
Distributor: The Holmes Group, of Milford, Mass.
Hazard: A poor electrical connection within the heater can lead to overheating. This poses fire and thermal burn hazards.
Incidents/Injuries: The Holmes Group has received reports of 59 incidents involving the recalled [...]

Appliances and materials that get daily use and lots of wear and tear eventually need replacing. Knowing their life expectancies may help you decide whether it makes sense to repair an aging appliance.
Here’s a general guideline:

6 years — trash compactor
9 years — dishwasher, microwave
8-10 years — carpet
10 years — clothes washer
11 years — freezer, water [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firms named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer products. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of product: Maytag and Samsung Brand Front Loading Washing Machines
Units: About 250,000 Maytag-brand units and about 20,000 Samsung-brand [...]

Ah those were the days. Mom in the kitchen cooking dinner (chops, potatos, peas) while we all played tag outside for hours until she finally called as the sun came down “Dinner” and we slowly worked our way back home for a family dinner. But what happens if the boys [...]

No matter how high tech our ovens, ranges and other appliances get, we’re sometimes still driven to try old fashioned fixes. I’m sure that you hate when your food overflows and spills on the bottom of the oven. You know its just gonna burn off and smoke up the joint before its [...]

Whirlpool announced its quarterly financial results today and Ryan Fuhrmann over at the MotleyFool seems to think that Whirlpool might just be a stock to invest in these days.
Although the company is reporting growth on overseas markets like Brazil (12%) and India (5-10%), it anticipates shrinking in its core North American [...]

Another great American brand bites the Dust. Hoover got Sucked up by Chinese conglomerate Techtronic Industries (TTI) of Hong Kong.
Whirlpool washed its hands of its floor care products today and dumped the Hoover brand along with all of its assets to TTI. TTI already controls the Dirt Devil brand and is [...]

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Name of product: Maytag® and Jenn-Air® brand dishwashers
Units: About 2.3 million
Manufacturer: Maytag Corp., of Newton, Iowa
Hazard: Liquid rinse-aid can [...]

Whirlpool Corp. is launching a nationwide search for someone to portray the Maytag Repairman — the lonely, iconic character that has represented Maytag for 40 years.
The Repairman has been under new ownership since Whirlpool purchased the Newton-based Maytag in March and announced that all Maytag’s Newton operations would close by the end of 2007.
The new [...]

Name of product: Travel’N Baby Mini Hair Dryers
Units: About 18,000
Importer: Detour Corp., doing business as Version-X, of Studio City, Calif.
Distributor: Metropolis Beauty Inc., of Los Angeles, Calif.
Hazard: These electric hair dryers are not equipped with an immersion protection plug to prevent electrocution if the hair dryer falls into water. Electric shock protection devices are required [...]

Name of product: Holmes® Oscillating Tower Fans
Units: About 300,000
Distributor: The Holmes Group, of Milford, Mass.
Hazard: Electrical arcing in the fan’s wiring can cause a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: The Holmes Group has received 16 reports of property damage, including one reported injury involving minor burns and smoke inhalation.
Description: The recall involves the Holmes HT30 Oscillating Tower Fan.
The [...]

Well, the skeptics are coming out to challenge the news we reported earlier that microwave ovens may kill germs.
According to the kitchen technology and appliances director of the Good Housekeeping Research Institute Karen Franke:
“We don’t recommend that people do it,” she told The Early Show co-anchor Harry Smith. “They take the risk that their sponge [...]

Not sure if I ever saw this in a Hints from Heloise column but it’s the kind of news that shows us again that some obvious solutions are easy, inexpensive and right under our noses.
Who knew that microwave ovens can sterilize sponges?
Microwave ovens are famous for cooking or heating the food but the appliance that [...]

Emerson Electric Co. Recalls Ceiling Fans for Injury Hazard from Falling Blades
Name of Product: Emerson 60-inch Designer Ceiling Fan

Units: About 4,000
Importer: Air Comfort Products Division of Emerson Electric Co., of St. Louis, Mo.
Hazard: The brackets holding the fan blades can break, causing the blade to detach. Falling pieces can hit and injure bystanders.
Incidents/Injuries: Air Comfort [...]

Name of Product: Farberware Classic Series Fruit Slicers and Corers
Units: About 207,000
Manufacturer: Lifetime Brands Inc., of Westbury, N.Y.
Hazard: The metal blade can separate from the plastic handle during use, resulting in cuts to consumer’s hands and fingers.
Incidents/Injuries: Lifetime Brands has received 34 reports of the blade separating from the handle, including [...]

December 14, 2006
Release #07-055
Firm’s Recall Hotline: (800) 326-7931
Firm’s Media Contact: (617) 421-0543
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908
Hobby Lobby Stores Inc. Recalls Christmas Light Sets Due to Shock and Fire Hazards
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the [...]

Atico International USA, Inc. Recalls Espresso Makers for Burn and Impact Injury Hazards
Name of Product: Espresso Express(tm) Espresso Makers
Units: About 54,000
Distributor: Atico International USA, Inc., of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Hazard: The espresso maker’s heating element can forcefully separate from its base during the brewing cycle. This poses burn and impact injury hazards to nearby consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Atico [...]

Name of Product: Weil-McLain Ultra Series Gas Boilers
Units: About 16,000
Manufacturer: Weil-McLain, of Michigan City, Ind.
Hazard: These boilers were manufactured for use with natural gas, but could have a blue tag incorrectly indicating to installers that they are intended for use with LP (propane) gas. If an installer connects one of the boilers to LP gas [...]

Starbucks Announces Recall of 8-Cup Coffee Brewers Due to Possible Fire
Hazard - October 17, 2006
Firm’s Recall Hotline: (800) 453-1047
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908
Starbucks Media Contact: (206) 318-7100
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the manufacturer named below, today announced voluntary recalls of the following consumer products. [...]

Many people will find this hard to believe, but my last washing machine lasted almost twenty years. When it finally needed a new transmission, (who knew washers had transmissions?) I shopped around for the quietest washing machine I could get.
The two features that mattered most to me were capacity and quietness. The Kenmore [...]

Gizmodo blogs about USB batteries, an idea whose time has come, but isn’t quite ready for prime-time.
Moixa USBCELL batteries can be charged using a regular charging station as well as the USB port in your PC, laptop, Xbox 360, or USB car charger.
Power and longetivity still need work, but I still remember brick-sized cellphones and [...]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 21, 2006
Release #06-239
CPSC Media Contact: Scott Wolfson
(301) 504-7051
* Statements from the Commission attached
CPSC Approves NPR Proposing New Warning Label for Portable Generators
WASHINGTON, D.C. - In an effort to reduce the rising death toll from carbon monoxide poisoning associated with consumer use of portable generators, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) voted [...]

Remember avocado green appliances? I believe they were popular in the 1960’s and 1970’s . Last fall, my mother decided that this was the year that her almost forty- year- old refrigerator had to go. The green didn’t bother her, and it was working just fine, but she thought that at about forty years, she [...]

As the summer comes to an end and used exercise equipment appears more frequently on EBAY and Craigslist, there are other things that require calesthenics to keep in proper shape. Kitchen appliances. This will be the first in a series of easy maintenance tips designed to extend the life of your essential appliances. [...]

With summer heat and threats of air conditioner supply shortages, if you can’t buy a unit, then keeping yours working is the way to go.
An air conditioner’s filters, coils, and fins require regular maintenance for the unit to function effectively and efficiently throughout its years of service. Neglecting necessary maintenance ensures a steady decline in [...]

Earlier this month, the news reported the latest craze, cellphone Ringtones that only teens can hear. The National Public Radio (NPR) article Teens Turn ‘Repeller’ into Adult-Proof Ringtone describes how:
The war between teens and authority figures has a new — or old — front: ears. British shopkeepers tired of teenage loiterers have turned to [...]

Hey, I didn’t put those words together in the first sentence of this Orlando Sentinel article entitled
See hot new ideas found in the fridge
Some of today’s models go high tech and high style, making food storage and cleanup a little cooler
Refrigerators may lack the sex appeal of other swanky kitchen appliances, but that image [...]

What are you gonna do when you just have to have a Vintage 1970’s Mixmaster Governor Assembly? The great thing about the internet and search is that you can find most anything. But how do you know the information is reliable? Came across a great little site called Davesrepair.com run by Dave [...]

It’s the fodder of cartoon strips and Erma Bombeck novels, but hauling laundry from bedrooms and bathrooms to remote laundry rooms and basements is the exhausting bane of leaving your parents’ nest and doing your own washing duties.

The July 2006 Consumer Reports discusses the efficient trend of moving the mountain of laundry closer to Mom [...]

There once was a time when this headline would seem as unlikely as “Performance Yugo” or “Haute Cuisine Denny’s“. Nonetheless, the New York Times reports in GE finds sleek profit in luxury appliances that GE is tired of sour grapes and is aiming at the Viking and SubZero market.
GE recently inserted a 30-page promotional [...]