*******************************************************************************************

Appliance Tips

Refrigerators

	Locate your refrigerator away from heat sources like ranges, dishwashers or sunny windows.
	Leave enough space between your refrigerator and the walls or cabinets that air can circulate.
	Store food so that cold air can circulate freely to chill food.
	Wipe up spills in the refrigerator promptly to avoid staining and odors.
	Clean the refrigerator compartment regularly, even though it does not need defrosting.

Washers and Dryers

	Be careful not to spill laundry products on the surface of your washer or dryer. Wipe up promptly with a damp cloth or paper towel.
	Wash full loads, but do not overload your machine.
	Use the correct amount of detergent. Too much soap makes your machine work harder.
	Fill your dryer, but do not pack it.
	Clean your dryer’s lint screen after each load.
	Keep your dryer’s outside exhaust clean. A clogged exhaust lengthens drying time.

Dishwashers

	Research shows that a load of dishes cleaned in a dishwasher requires 37 percent less water than washing dishes by hand.
	Select a dishwasher with a booster heater that raises incoming water temperature to 140 degrees F or higher.
	The higher temperature melts dishwasher soap and cleans greasy dishes better.
	Try to have your dishwasher installed away from your refrigerator. The dishwashers heat and moisture may increase your refrigerator’s energy consumption.

Ranges

	When purchasing a new range, consider how often you will be cooking large meals. You may want to select a range equipped with high performance features that will make your time in the kitchen easier and your cooking and baking results better.
	Match the size of the pan to the heating element, and on electric stovetops, be sure to use flat-bottomed pans that make full contact with the element.
	Don’t open the oven door too often when checking your food. Each time you open the door the oven temperature drops by 25 degrees. Use your timer instead.
	Stagger pans and baking sheets on upper and lower racks to improve air- flow, and don’t cover the racks with foil. Food will cook more quickly and evenly when heat circulates freely.