| Boilers
Boilers are the key elements in the steam and hot water heating systems generally found in older homes. They heat the water and either pump it through the system or convert it to steam that passes through radiators.
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| Dishwashers
There are a few things to remember in order to get the best results out of your dishwasher. If you're shopping for a new one, look for one with its own heating element to get the water to the proper temperature.
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| Disposal care
The most important thing to remember in keeping your disposal running smoothly is to be careful what you put into it. Most models can't handle bones, and none of them can grind up silverware.
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| Infrared heaters
The heat you feel when you stand in the sun comes from the infrared light that it emits. There are a number of heating systems that employ this same principle to project heat.
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| Microwave maintenance
A microwave oven works because certain radio waves cause some substances to get hot as the waves pass through them. Fats, sugars, and water are primarily affected, while most glass, porcelain, and plastics aren't.
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| Refrigerators
You'll find plenty of choices if you're shopping for a new refrigerator. There are frost-free or self-defrosting models. The freezer could be on the top, the bottom, or the side.
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| Space heaters
If your home has central heating, you might be able to save on your electric bill by lowering the thermostat to 60 degrees and using space heaters for the areas that are occupied.
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| Stove-top ranges
There are advantages to both gas and electric ranges. Gas cooktops are generally cheaper to operate and allow you to vary the heat levels more quickly.
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| Washers and dryers
Today's washers and dryers offer an amazing range of features designed to address various laundry problems. The array of buttons and knobs on the machines may seem intimidating at first, but your instruction manual should enable you to sort through your various options to get the cleanest clothes possible.
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| Water heaters
If your dishwasher has its own water heating element, you can save on energy bills by lowering the thermostat on your water heater. Dishwashers require a temperature around 150 degrees, while 120 degrees is generally enough for most other household uses.
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