subject: Longer Life Reduces Waste [print this page] So until the pace of recycling catches up with the pace of new energy efficiency technology, it might actually be more cost effective and energy efficient to stick with the theory that replacing your white goods every few years as the method that will maximise your spending. Once near-perfection is released in terms of energy efficient in the white goods sector, we can all start to slow the spending but this is a good few years off yet so investing in a branded washing machine, dishwasher, tumble dryer or fridge freezer is the smart route.
What you can guarantee from a new appliance from a large and well respected brand such as Hotpoint or Bosch, is maximum efficiency and results but even these big hitters havent perfected technology and just when you think they might have done, they or a competitor goes and brings out something else with a new or improved feature. Its hard to keep up if thats what you try to do and quite frankly, its an expensive game to be playing, not just for your pockets but for the environment too.
To lengthen the life of your appliance, simply have it serviced regularly, dont overload it and always refer to manufacturers guidelines when it comes to where to place it (i.e. a well ventilated room), how to install it (best to get a professional in) and any troubleshooting. But be prepared for the reality, which is that despite the ideal being that longer life reduces waste (it certainly does), manufacturers will do their best to persuade you otherwise and energy efficient white goods are not yet sophisticated enough for you to be saving money on your water and electricity bills ten years on from the date of purchase your shiny new appliance will be old and rusty and outdated and youll be hankering after a new one to suit your new kitchen.
Thats the other thing to consider, the fickle nature of people and the fact that as a species we are easily tempted and a good deal or promotional offer might well be enough to tempt us away from our attempts to save money and make do.
