You might think that you'd save money by fixing your broken appliance instead of buying a new one. However, many times repairs aren't covered under warranty. In addition, it could take weeks or even months to find someone to perform the work. So, unless you really like working on electronics, you might want to opt for a new replacement as part of any
kitchen renovation project.
1. Know when you need help from a professional
Installing a new appliance isn't always simple. Sometimes you'll need to hire an expert engineer to help you. Or, you may be able to do it yourself. Check online reviews to see how common it is for people to successfully complete the installation process. And it's always a good idea to acknowledge when you might need some assistance with extra plumbing and the like.
2. Go greener with energy efficiency improvements
Buying new appliances can bring many benefits. For example, if you replace your current fridge with a new, more energy-efficient model, you'll almost certainly see a big difference in your monthly utility bills. A new fridge often uses about 30% less electricity than an older model. And while it's true that some models use more than others, most new fridges on the market today are far more energy efficient. Energy consumption is of course a hugely important issue these days.
3. Disconnect your washing machine
Some appliance changeovers, such as with a fridge, usually involve nothing more than unplugging the old model and plugging in the new one. With a washing machine, however, the process is more complicated. Of course, there will be plumbing issues to take care of, including the disconnection of the appliance from the water supply.
4. Connect the washing machine
When you install the new washing machine, remember to remove the transit bolts from the back of the appliance if relevant. You will then need to attach the fill hose and the drain hose, and there may be a need to level the machine in order to prevent rocking. Finally, when everything is done and you're ready to go, connect the machine to the electrical supply.
5. Change the tumble dryer with ease
There are two main types of tumble dryers, vented and condenser. A vented tumble dryer will need to be connected to a ventilation hose or be located close to a window. The dryer vent will then enable the moisture to be directed outside and away from the room itself. With the condenser variety, there is no need for a hose attachment. Once you've decided where to locate the appliance, you can simply plug it in and start to use it.
6. Disconnect the water supply when changing the dishwasher
As is the case with a washing machine, disconnecting an old dishwasher and replacing it with a new one will involve both the electrics and the plumbing. On most dishwashers, you will need to turn off the valve that supplies water to the appliance, and in most cases, this will need to be done after you have switched off the water at the mains. When disconnecting the drain hose, make sure you have a bucket or two and towels to mop up any unwanted spillages.
7. Get ready to choose electric or gas
If you're looking to buy a new cooker, you'll probably find yourself overwhelmed by the choices. There are gas, electric, ceramic, stainless steel, glass, induction, halogen, double ovens, single ovens, griddles, pizza stones and steam ovens. When replacing your old appliance with a new one, take care to follow all relevant safety instructions. If you're not sure, especially with gas appliances, it's best to call in a qualified expert. As with all types of appliances, safety has to be the number one issue.
8. Go for something stylish
There was a time when fridges, freezers and the like were little more than functional workhorses designed to whirr away in the background. They drew very little in the way of attention. These days, however, many of them are designed to be sleek, stylish and aesthetically pleasing. If you're looking to give your kitchen a brand new look, this could be the time to make a bold statement.
9. Get creative if you have a small kitchen
Plenty of homeowners have relatively small kitchens nowadays, but small can still mean beautiful when it comes to new appliances. Worktop space might be an issue, but there are plenty of smaller models of fridges, freezers and more on the market, designed to either sit proudly on top of worktops or snugly under counters. When replacing appliances, this could be the ideal time to think a little outside the box.
So, whether you spend many hours in the kitchen or not, with new appliances you'll want to be in there more often, working on fantastic recipes and soaking up the beauty of your appliance design ideas. Whether you're planning to replace the entire kitchen or just one or two household appliances, be sure to listen to expert tips as and when necessary.