Home appliance

Toaster, Universal, Model E947, c. 1915, Landers, Frary and Clark, New Britain, Connecticut, Wolfsonian-FIU Museum

Wascator

Small appliance

銅鑼灣店小家電部

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Home appliance, also known as a domestic appliance, an electric appliance, or a household appliance, is a machine which assists in household functions such as cooking, cleaning, and food preservation. Appliances are divided into three categories: major appliances, small appliances, and consumer electronics. Major appliances, also known as white goods, include items such as refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners. Small appliances include kitchen devices like blenders, toasters, and microwave ovens. Consumer electronics, or brown goods, cover devices used for entertainment and communication, such as televisions and telephones.

History

The history of home appliances dates back to the 19th century when the first examples of major appliances were introduced to reduce manual labor and improve efficiency in household tasks. The development of electricity and the invention of motors enabled the creation of the first powered appliances, such as the electric iron and the vacuum cleaner, in the early 20th century. The post-World War II economic expansion and the increase in consumer spending led to the widespread adoption of home appliances in the 1950s and 1960s, significantly changing the way households operated.

Types of Home Appliances

Major Appliances

Major appliances, or white goods, are large machines used for routine housekeeping tasks such as cooking, washing laundry, or food preservation. They include:

• Refrigerators
• Washing machines
• Dishwashers
• Ovens
• Air conditioners

Small Appliances

Small appliances are portable or semi-portable machines, generally used on tabletops, countertops, or other platforms, to accomplish a household task. Examples include:

• Microwave ovens
• Coffee makers
• Blenders
• Toasters

Consumer Electronics

Consumer electronics or brown goods involve devices used for entertainment, communications, and home-office activities, such as:

• Televisions
• Computers
• Telephones

Impact on Society

Home appliances have had a profound impact on society, significantly reducing the time spent on household chores, improving living standards, and contributing to the rise of the leisure class. They have also influenced the structure of homes, with the kitchen becoming a central hub for family life due to the concentration of appliances in this area.

Environmental Considerations

The environmental impact of home appliances has become a significant concern, with issues such as energy consumption, water usage, and the disposal of electronic waste being at the forefront. In response, manufacturers have developed more energy-efficient models, and there are various recycling programs aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of discarded appliances.

Future Trends

The future of home appliances is closely linked to the development of smart home technology, with appliances becoming more connected and intelligent. This includes the ability to control appliances remotely via smartphones, as well as appliances being able to communicate with each other to optimize energy use and perform tasks more efficiently.

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