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Selecting, Purchasing,

and Installing Major

Home Appliances and

Air Conditioners

This information will provide proper planning techniques and a better understanding of

major home appliances and air conditioners, including appliance and air conditioner (A/C)

warranties and where to get help when it is needed.

In today’s market, major home appliances and air conditioners are manufactured to meet

the needs of the average person. Remember that price should not be the most influential factor

when choosing an appliance or air conditioner. Physical and mental limitations should also be

considered when selecting the product that will be juxtaposed with the consumer’s needs.

Electric and Gas Ranges, Cooktops, and Ovens

The domestic range was designed as a multipurpose cooking appliance. It consists of a

surface area with heating elements on the top to cook the food. The oven cavity is used for

baking food at a set temperature. Within the same oven cavity, the broiling of food is also

incorporated.

Domestic ranges are available in either electric or gas, in sizes ranging from 20 inches to

48 inches in width, and with a wide selection of configurations and colors. The following

sections describe a few of the common configurations available to the consumer.

Freestanding Ranges

The freestanding range stands between two base cabinets, or sometimes at the end of a

cabinet line. The consumer has a choice of gas or electric. These ranges are available in 20- ,

24- , 30- , 36- , 40- , and 48-inch widths (Figure 1-1). Some 40- and 48-inch models have two

ovens. Designs include gas burners and gas ovens, or standard electric heating elements

with electric ovens, and a glass cooktop with concealed electric elements underneath. Also

available is a combination of electric and gas cooking. The controls might be located on the

rear console or across the front.

cleaning. Freestanding ranges have the following advantages and disadvantages:

features.

broiler in electric ranges.

Slide-in ranges and drop-in ranges might not always be available in all sizes: 30-inch width

is the most common (Figure 1-2). However, drop-in ranges are also available in a 27-inch

width. Designs include gas burners, standard electric heating elements, and a glass cooktop

with concealed electric elements underneath. The oven and cooktop controls are usually

located across the front of the range; however, some models have the cooktop controls along

the side. They are an excellent choice for an island or peninsula-shaped counter because they

are flush with the surrounding counter. These ranges can also be installed overlapping the

adjacent countertop edges, thereby eliminating dirt-catching gaps. A drop-in range either

hangs from a countertop or sits on a low cabinet base; a slide-in range sits on the floor.

Slide-in ranges and drop-in ranges (Figure 1-3) have the following advantages and

disadvantages:

Built-In Cooktops

Built-in cooktops are set into a countertop and are made in various sizes, from 15 to 48 inches

wide. Built-in cooktop designs include gas burners, standard electric heating elements, and a

glass cooktop with concealed electric elements underneath (Figures 1-4 and 1-5). They might

have side or front controls and might be of modular design. Special plug-in cooking accessories

are also available. Built-in cooktops have the following advantages and disadvantages:

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Built-In Ovens

Built-in ovens usually have one oven cavity, but models with two oven cavities are also

available. In the double oven cavity model, the second oven might be a conventional oven,

a microwave oven, or a combination of both (Figure 1-6). Built-in ovens are available in 24- ,

27- , and 30-inch widths. Their height varies, depending upon whether they are single- or

double-oven units. Oven cleaning systems available include self-cleaning, continuous

cleaning, and standard manual cleaning. Two-oven models also offer conventional ovens

with two different cleaning systems. Built-in ovens with the microwave feature are available

with either solid-state microcomputer or electromechanical controls.

Built-in ovens have the following advantages and disadvantages:

reach for a standing or a seated cook.

an electrician.

cooking techniques.

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Microwave Ovens

Do not go out and purchase a microwave oven until you do your homework. Brand, type,

size, power, features, warranty, and location are just some of the features you need to

consider. You can also go on the Internet and conduct research.

When comparing microwaves (Figure 1-7), fill out the following checklist. Check all

that apply.

Measure the area available for the microwave oven:

_____________width

_____________depth

_____________height

Before purchasing, read the installation instructions for the built-in or over-the-range

model you are considering. These instructions will provide you with information such as

cutout dimensions, venting, voltage, location, and more.

What is the voltage?

What type of microwave?

How much room do I need to fit the microwave oven on the countertop?

How many watts of cooking?

What additional features do you want?

Does the oven have a light inside the cavity?

Is there a window in the door?

Does the oven have a rack?

Do you want a turntable for the food to rotate on?

Does the model have multi-stage cooking?

Will my plates fit the oven cavity?

Other (list here)

Additional information on warranties, safety, recalls, and maintenance must be taken

into account when purchasing a microwave oven. Ask the salesperson for a demonstration

of the microwave you are considering.

Checklist for Cooking Products

Prior to selecting and purchasing an appliance, read this section. Fill out the following

checklist. Check all that apply.

Measure the area available for the range:

_____________width

_____________depth

_____________height

These measurements are the cut-out measurements, not the range measurements. Also,

be sure that the range can fit through the doorways of the house.

The type of range desired:

Type of oven needed:

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Location desired:

Oven controls:

Cleaning system:

Broiler type:

Cooktop style:

Cooktop controls:

Accessories:

Venting system:

The preferred color of the range ________________________________

Who will use the range? ___________________________________

How many people are being cooked for? ___________________________

Price range: $________________

Warranty and service information:___________________________

Refrigerators and Freezers

As with other kitchen appliances, refrigerators and freezers come in a wide variety of styles,

sizes, and colors (Figure 1-8). Some designs might meet the needs of a family member who

has a physical or mental limitation better than others.

PART I

Some questions to consider when choosing a refrigerator are:

or empty?

the door?

stored in the back?

Five basic types of refrigerators are on the market today:

33 inches wide)

Excluding compacts and portables, refrigerators range in height from 56 to 84 inches

and in depth from 24 to 31 inches.

When selecting the capacity of a refrigerator, the following guidelines should be

considered:

family is 18 cubic feet.

of meals eaten outside the household as a basis.

a vegetable garden growing, or if cooking is enjoyable.

Compact and Portable Refrigerators

Compact and portable refrigerators are often used as a supplementary model in family rooms,

offices, dorms, vacation homes, campers, and other convenient places. Many fit on or under a

countertop. They might be freestanding or built-in models, and they come in a variety of colors

and finishes.

Compact and portable refrigerators have the following advantages and disadvantages:

be installed at any height.

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temperature.

defrosted.

Single-Door Refrigerators

Single-door refrigerators provide both fresh and frozen food storage. Frozen food compartments

are located on top of the inside of the refrigerator and usually contain ice cube trays.

Single-door refrigerators have the following advantages and disadvantages:

Most shelf areas are within reach of a seated person.

easier accessibility.

disabled persons.

position.

frozen food and for making ice. High-sugar foods, such as ice cream, might not stay

frozen.

Two-Door Refrigerators

Two-door refrigerators with top freezers provide storage for fresh and frozen food. The

freezer maintains a temperature of 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. These models come with and

without automatic ice makers. Some models have an ice or water dispenser on the outside

of the doors.

Two-door refrigerators with top freezers have the following advantages and disadvantages:

special aids.

Two-Door Refrigerators with Bottom Freezers

Two-door refrigerators with bottom freezers provide storage for both fresh and frozen

foods. The freezer maintains a temperature of 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Models with and

without automatic ice makers are available.

Two-door refrigerators with bottom freezers have the following advantages and

disadvantages:

position.

bottom-freezer refrigerator is generally not convenient for those in wheelchairs. The

low freezer is also inconvenient for users who have trouble stooping or bending.

Side-by-Side Refrigerators

Side-by-side refrigerators have deep, vertical fresh and frozen food compartments. They

require less room for the doors to open than other types.

Side-by-side refrigerators have the following advantages and disadvantages:

compartments.

opening the door.

used foods within easy reach without opening the main refrigerator door.

the back.

Freezers

A compact, upright freezer will best meet the needs of the disabled person. Installing the

freezer on a box or raised platform can help make its contents more easily accessible.

Freezers are conveniences for people who do not frequent the supermarket. They are

especially useful in homes with smaller refrigerators or refrigerators having only an ice

cube tray compartment. Home freezers come in chest and upright models. Two designs of

upright models are available on the market today: manual defrost and automatic defrost.

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Home freezers are available with wire shelves and baskets, and with storage shelves on the

doors in upright models.

Freezers have the following advantages and disadvantages:

easily take advantage of price specials.

Checklist for Refrigerator and Freezer Products

Prior to selecting and purchasing a refrigerator or freezer, fill out the following checklist.

Check all that apply.

Size

__________ width __________ depth ____________ height

bins?______________

for later expansion needs, plan for additional refrigerator space, especially if the

family is growing larger or to accommodate peak loads.

Each “yes” answer will add to the refrigerator size requirements, as specified earlier.

Model

A side-by-side model allows easy access to both freezer and fresh food compartments

for those who have limited activity requirements.

compartment)

bottles or six packs

PART I

Dishwashers

During the past decades, dishwashers have proven their value and usefulness in reducing

the cleanup tasks in the kitchen. They not only save time, energy, and labor, but they also

deliver dishes cleaner than those washed by hand.

The most common type is the built-in dishwasher. However, other styles are available

for special situations. When selecting a new dishwasher (Figure 1-9), consider the following:

must be moved into position and hooked up to a faucet every time they are used.

Built-In Dishwashers

Built-in dishwashers are designed to fit into a 24-inch-wide space between two kitchen

cabinets and under the countertop. Also available are smaller-capacity models that fit into

an 18-inch space. The consumer now has a choice between a drop-down door (standard)

and a single or double slide-out drawer.

Convertible/Portable Dishwashers

Convertible/portable models are essentially the same as built-ins, but they have finished

sides and tops, drain and fill hoses with a faucet connector, and casters for easy rolling to

the sink. These can be installed later as built-ins, if desired.

Undersink Dishwashers

An undersink model is designed to fit under a special six-inch-deep sink in just 24 inches

of space; or under a special double-bowl sink, with a disposer under the second bowl,

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in 36 inches of space. These dishwashers were designed for small kitchens with limited

cabinet space for storage.

Dishwasher-Sink Combination

A dishwasher-sink combination unit is also available. It includes a stainless steel sink with

drainboard, an enameled metal undersink cabinet, and a dishwasher in 48 inches of space.

Some “Pullman-type” combination units include a dishwasher as well as a sink, range,

and/or, in some, a refrigerator—all in one unit. Dishwashers have the following advantages

and disadvantages:

removed.

This might require a two-level counter if the sink is installed at a 30-inch height for

a wheelchair-bound person.

Checklist for Dishwashers

Before selecting and purchasing a dishwasher, complete the following checklist. Check all

that apply.

Tub ___________________ Racks_____________________

Color panels_____________ Trim kits__________________

Laundry Equipment

Today’s laundry equipment, along with changes in fibers and fashions, has eliminated the need

for hand laundering, clothesline drying, and routine ironing. There features can often be

preprogrammed into the appliance for any type of laundry load. These all give excellent

results. From diapers and jeans, to delicate silks and knits, today’s laundry system is

equipped for all fabric needs.

The typical laundry pair, a standard washer and dryer, will stand side by side in 4-1/2

to 5 feet of wall space, depending on the brand and model (Figure 1-10). Some questions to

consider when choosing laundry appliances are as follows:

rear controls.

Automatic Washers

Basically, all automatic washers will wash the clothes in the same manner, but there are some

key differences in design and special features from model to model and manufacturer to

manufacturer.

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Top-Loading Automatic Washers

Top-loading models vary in width from about 24 to 30 inches (Figure 1-11). They are available

in a variety of load capacities. Standard-capacity washers are built for the average two- to fourperson

household. However, a large-capacity model reduces the number of loads washed,

saving time. Some models offer front panel controls, and many models have dispensers.

Top-loading washers have the following advantages and disadvantages:

position.

filters from a seated position.

wheelchair—have a smaller load capacity than other designs.

Front-Loading Automatic Washers

Front-loading models might have drop-down or side-opening doors (Figures 1-12 and

1-13). In these models, the entire wash basket revolves. As clothes tumble, they are

lifted by vanes on the sides of the basket. Front loaders use less water than top

loaders, and they use high-efficiency detergent, but only certain models will handle

very large loads because they must have empty space in the drum to tumble clothes.

Front-loading washers have the following advantages and disadvantages:

cannot stoop or bend.

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Compact Automatic Washers

These compact, “apartment-sized” washers range from 24 to 27 inches wide to fit spatial

needs. They are available in two forms: built-in or on casters so that they can be rolled to the

kitchen sink for use. Matching dryers can be

installed next to the washer, stacked on a

special rack, wall-hung, or purchased as a

one-piece unit with the washer (Figure 1-14).

Automatic Dryers

Automatic dryers perform in the same

tumbling manner as front-loading automatic

washing machines. However, there are some

key differences in design and special features

from model to model and manufacturer

to manufacturer.

Dryers are available in electric or gas.

They vary in load capacity. Some models offer

front or rear controls and side-opening or drop-down doors (Figure 1-15). For optimum

efficiency, an electric dryer should have a minimum rating of 4400 watts. Gas dryers require a

120-volt outlet for such features as the motor, lights, and ignition. The gas heater should have

a rating of at least 20,000 BTU/hour for top performance. Dryers should be installed in an area

that permits proper venting.

Compact dryers are electric (either 120- or 240-volt). The 120-volt dryer takes at least twice

as long to dry clothes as the 240-volt model does. While venting is recommended for all

dryers, some 120-volt models can be used without venting if they are not in an enclosed space.

The 240-volt dryers must be vented to prevent damage from moisture buildup in the home.

Compact dryers can be installed next to the washer, stacked above the washer on a special rack,

wall hung, or purchased as a one-piece unit with the washer.

Automatic dryers have the following advantages and disadvantages:

PART I

Checklist for Washers and Dryers

Before selecting and purchasing laundry equipment, fill out this checklist on washers and

dryers. Check all that apply.

Air Conditioners

Room air conditioners are self-contained units that can be installed in a window, through a

wall, or moved around on wheels (Figure 1-16). The smaller air conditioners are designed to

cool the immediate area of a room. However, manufacturers are designing room air

conditioners from 4000 BTU/hour to over 30,000 BTU/hour. These larger-sized units will

PART I

cool a larger area or cool multiple rooms in a home or office at one time. The standard

features are manual or electronic controls, straight cool only, electric heat and cooling, or

reverse-cycle air conditioning (heat pump). Air flow circulating from the air conditioners

discharge grill might have fixed, directional, or motorized louvers. Some models are

available with wireless remote control handheld units. The remote control makes it easier to

control the on/off, fan speed, and temperature of the air conditioner from across the

room. Room air conditioners are available in 120 volts or 230 volts. To properly install a

room air conditioner, it is strongly recommended that you follow the manufacturer’s

recommendations. Factors that should be taken into account when purchasing an air

conditioner include the following:

Room air conditioners have the following advantages and disadvantages:

or office.

removed.

Sizing Room Air Conditioners

To properly size an air conditioner that is needed for a particular room, you must determine

the square footage of that room. If the room is rectangular or square (Figure 1-17), multiply

the length by the width. This will provide you with the square footage of the area to be

cooled. Some rooms may be oddly shaped, consisting of both a rectangular or square area

and a triangular area (Figure 1-18). First determine the square footage of a triangle—measure

the base of the triangle and the height of the triangle in feet. Now multiply both amounts,

and divide that figure by two. The result will be the square footage of that triangle. Then

determine the square footage of the rectangle or square as described previously. When you

have determined the square footage of the area to be cooled, see Table 1-1 to find out what air

conditioner capacity is needed.

Once you have determined what size air conditioner is needed for the room, there are

other circumstances that have to be taken into account before you purchase an air

conditioner:

every additional person in the room, you will have to add 600 BTUs to the basic

cooling capacity.

cooling capacity.

a west and/or southwest exposure.

capacity will be reduced by 10 percent.

basic cooling capacity.

cooling capacity by 10 percent.

Figures are based on sizing an air conditioner in a moderate climate around 75 to 80 degrees

Fahrenheit with an average humidity of 50 percent. If the climate is warmer and the humidity

is higher, you might have to increase the basic cooling capacity by 10 to 20 percent.

Area to Be Cooled (square feet) Capacity Needed (BTUs per hour)

100 to 150 5000

150 to 250 6000

250 to 300 7000

300 to 350 8000

350 to 400 9000

400 to 450 10,000

450 to 550 12,000

550 to 700 14,000

700 to 1000 18,000

1000 to 1200 21,000

1200 to 1400 23,000

1400 to 1500 24,000

1500 to 2000 30,000

2000 to 2500 34,000

How to Purchase the Best Air Conditioner or Appliance Value

Using the EnergyGuide Label

Proper planning and evaluation before buying can save time, trouble, and money each step

of the way. Take the time to determine the air conditioner or appliance’s annual cost of

operation.

Remember, while some energy-efficient products have higher purchase prices than less

efficient ones, they will cost less in the long run because they require less electricity to

operate. Calculate and evaluate the product’s annual cost of operation and carefully read

the EnergyGuide label, which appears on most appliances and air conditioners sold today,

to get the best buy.

The EnergyGuide label (Figure 1-19) is required by the U.S. government on many home

appliances and air conditioners, and gives information to help customers select and save.

PART I

The information gained from the EnergyGuide label is important because is helps determine

the following:

another.

the same size range.

To read the EnergyGuide label, first look for the estimated annual energy cost in the

center. To either side are energy costs of lower-rated and higher-rated models. These costs

are derived from national average electricity rates, so knowledge of the local rate for

electricity is helpful.

Major Appliance Consumer Action Panel (MACAP)

The Major Appliance Consumer Action Panel, or MACAP, was an independent, complaintmediation

group made up of professionals with expertise in textiles, equipment, consumer

law, and engineering who volunteered their time. Unfortunately, MACAP went out of

business in the last few years, but the information printed in this book is still valuable and

worth reading for guidance. Panelists cannot be connected with the appliance industry.

They received no financial remuneration other than the reimbursement of their travel and

living expenses while attending meetings. MACAP received comments and complaints from

appliance owners; excessive charges, delays in parts and service, and alleged unnecessary

repairs are frequently mentioned. Other complaints are related to product performance,

such as operating noise, temperature, maintenance, and running time. Nonresponsiveness

of dealers and manufacturers, warranty coverage, food loss claims, imperfect finishes,

improper installation, and purchasing dissatisfaction are also alleged.

MACAP also studied industry practices and advised industries of ways to improve their

services to consumers. It recommended how to educate consumers on proper appliance

purchase, use, and care. The panel developed and distributed educational publications and

periodic news releases when its review of individual consumer complaints pinpointed

information that would be useful to consumers. The panel was sponsored by the Association

of Home Appliance Manufacturers.

The types of appliances represented include:

After a complaint reached MACAP, the staff screened it to ascertain whether the consumer

has already requested assistance from the local dealer and brand-name owner’s headquarters

office. If this had been done, the complaint was sent to the sponsoring association and thus

entered MACAP’s communications phase. This phase comprised the following actions:

were sent to the brand-name owner involved, requesting a report on proposed

action within two weeks.

action taken, and asking for any additional information, if necessary.

to the consumer confirming any company action or information. The consumer was

asked to return a card verifying this action.

In the study phase, the panel discussed the file at a meeting. Preparation for this review

included the gathering of an exact and detailed background of the complaint from the

consumer and from the brand-name owner, if such information was not already on file. If

conflicting reports were received, the panel could ask for an independent, on-site evaluation

by a utility, extension, university home economist, or an engineer.

All information is included in a confidential summary prepared by the staff and discussed

by MACAP. The panel might have made a recommendation to the company and/or consumer,

have asked for additional information, or closed the file on the basis of the information

presented.

If you are experiencing any problems with your product or service company, contact

your local Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Purchasing Decisions

The purchase of a major appliance is one of the most important investments made for the

home. MACAP’s experience in handling consumer appliance complaints has shown that

poor purchasing decisions lead to unhappy appliance owners.

Pointers from MACAP to help consumers make wise decisions include the following:

types you plan to purchase. Study them carefully and note the different features,

designs, and capacities.

warranty cover the entire product? Only certain parts? Is labor included? How long

is the warranty coverage?

the appliance. The dealer should have manuals available from the floor models on

display. These manuals will help in asking pertinent questions, and they will

explain how the product operates and what special care it needs.

features at a later date, such as an ice maker for a refrigerator.

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adequate clearance space in the hallways and doors through which the appliance

will have to pass before installation?

different brands. If a combination microwave oven/range is being purchased, check

the space between the units to be sure that everything will fit.

are they extra?

authorized factory service.

model. As more features and conveniences are included, the price increases.

Appliance Warranties

MACAP urges consumers to compare warranties of different brands the way you would

compare price, size, and features—it’s a basic consumer responsibility! Yet the panel’s

experience in working with consumer appliance problems indicates that many consumers

are not aware of the importance of warranty buymanship.

Warranty inspection is a legislated consumer right. A federal law, the Magnuson-Moss

Warranty/Federal Trade Commission Improvement Act of 1975, requires warranty

information to be available at the point of purchase for products costing $15 or more. The

law does not, however, require manufacturers to provide warranties on their products.

The store must provide this information in one of the following ways:

warranties for products sold in the department.

Full vs. Limited Warranties

The full warranty offers more protection. Under a full warranty, at a minimum, the warrantor

must remedy the problem within a reasonable time and without charge for as long as the

warranty is in effect. In addition, the manufacturer might not limit the duration of any

implied warranty. Any limitation (or exclusion) of consequential damages (for example, food

loss or floor damage) must appear conspicuously on the warranty. If a reasonable number of

attempts to correct an in-warranty problem fails, the consumer must be given the choice of a

replacement or a refund.

Under a limited warranty, the protection is limited to what is outlined in the terms of

the warranty. For example, the warranty might require that the consumer pay for diagnostic

costs, labor costs, or other costs of that kind. Also, any implied warranty might be limited to

the duration of the written warranty. A limited warranty should be studied carefully to

Warranty Time Limitations

Some major appliances are hardly used over a year’s time. The window air conditioner in

Minnesota, the refrigerator at the lake cabin in Michigan, the range in a Florida vacation

condominium—all of these have only seasonal use.

When problems with these appliances arise, some owners feel that four years of seasonal

usage should constitute less than one year’s worth of warranty coverage. The manufacturers,

however, think differently. MACAP knows it is necessary for consumers to be aware of the

contents of their appliance warranties, and also of the period covered. The coverage is stated

for a specific period of time, not for how often the appliance is used.

The coverage period might vary with the product’s components. For example, a

window air conditioner warranty might provide free repairs of any part that breaks down

in the first year, but only partially cover repair expenses of the sealed system components

(compressor, evaporator, etc.) for an extra four years. Manufacturers can offer almost any

type of warranty as long as the provisions are clearly stated and the warranty is available

for review before buying.

Although seasonal usage might result in less wear and tear on the appliance, MACAP

believes that there are at least two valid reasons for not basing warranties on usage:

impossible for a manufacturer to monitor actual consumer usage.

continuous daily operation.

For example, refrigerator and air conditioner sealed systems stay vacuum-tight

(generally for many years) if the refrigerant gas and oil they contain are kept moving. This

way, the various seals are kept lubricated and soft. They might dry out if the mechanisms

involved don’t move for long periods. The dishwasher provides another example. Many

consumers don’t realize that the seals in the pump area of the dishwasher are meant to be

immersed in water at all times. Water keeps the seal soft and pliable, which is necessary for

proper operation.

MACAP urges consumers to carefully read the warranty that comes with each major

appliance and use the appliance enough during the warranty period so that any defects

have time to surface. It is important to use every feature and control on the new appliance

Appliance Installation Instructions

The manufacturer supplies the installation instructions with every new appliance or air

conditioner that is purchased. These instructions will help the installer to plan, locate,

install, and secure the product for safe and proper operation.

Appliance Use and Care Manual

This manual contains information and suggestions to help customers get the best results

from their appliances. The manual will disclose to the customer how to start the appliance,

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maintain it, and use all the features that come with it. Also included in the use and care

manual are the following:

Where to Get Help

Keep careful records. Always put complaints in writing, and keep copies of all correspondence

and service receipts. Be sure to ask for service receipts, even for no-charge, in-warranty

calls. Note details: when the problem was first noticed, when it was reported, and the

servicing history (who serviced the appliance or air conditioner, when, what was done, and

how often service was required).

If there are complaints about the appliance or air conditioner, there are three steps

to follow:

well as fuses, pilots, and controls.

equipment to deal with appliance or air conditioner service problems.

and phone number are located in the use and care manual.

Product Recalls and the Internet

There are times when a product might have an electrical, gas, or mechanical issue that

might be hazardous to the consumer. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

(CPSC) was created to protect the consumer from serious injuries, unreasonable risks, death,

and property damage.

The CPSC’s website (http://www.cpsc.gov) includes information on appliance, air

conditioner, and other product recalls. It also includes other information beneficial to

the consumer. In addition, Table 1-2 provides a listing of websites for major appliance and air

conditioner manufacturers. You can also look in the use and care manual that comes with the

product for the manufacturer’s website. Remember, safety and education must be considered

at all times when operating or repairing any major appliance or air conditioner.

www.amana.com www.jennair.com

www.americanwaterheater.com www.kitchenaid.com

www.aosmith.com www.kuppersbuschusa.com

www.avantiproducts.com www.lge.com

www.boschappliance.com www.lifeluxurymarvel.com

www.bradfordwhite.com www.maytag.com

www.broan.com www.miele.com

www.brockwaterheaters.com www.northlandnka.com

www.carrier.com www.panasonic.com

www.convaircoller.com www.rheem.com

www.dacor.com www.roperappliances.com

www.danby.com www.samsung.com

www.delonghi.com www.sears.com

www.dynastyrange.com www.sharpusa.com

www.eemaxine.com www.staber.com

www.electrolux.com www.subzero.com

www.equatoronline.com www.sunfrost.com

www.fedders.com www.thermador.com

www.friedrich.com www.thorappliances.com

www.frigidaire.com www.u-line.com

www.gaggenau.com www.vaughncorp.com

www.ge.com www.veronaappliances.com

www.goldstarappliances.com www.vikingrange.com

www.haieramerica.com www.weathercraft.com

www.hatachi.com www.whirlpool.com

www.hotwater.com www.wolfappliance.com

www.insinkerator.com www.zephyronline.com

www.jadeappliances.com

National Appliance Service Technicians Certification (NASTeC)

The roots of NASTeC go back to the Certified Appliance Technician (CAT) certification issued

by ISCET (International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians) in the mid-1970s, when

the bulk of appliance servicing was done by retail appliance dealers, who serviced the

products they sold. In many instances, these same dealers sold items such as televisions,

recorders of various types, stereos, radios, etc. Since ISCET was already in contact with these

PART I

dealers with respect to the other electrical appliances, it was natural that the major appliances

known as “white goods” should be served as well.

The North American Retail Dealers Association (NARDA) attracted dealers and thus

servicers to join their efforts at promoting the retail dealers’ interests through their trade

organization. This put NARDA in a position to better offer its members an appliance

technician certification. NASTeC was then born as a separate entity from ISCET, but as

a partner with equity in NASTeC.

As the “white goods” dealers became more separated from the televisions, recorders,

etc., the servicing of these products became independent operations. This diminished the

ability of NARDA to offer appliance certifications.

In 2002, ISCET secured the interests of NARDA in the NASTeC venture and began

developing the NASTeC certifications to once again actively work with the appliance-servicing

organizations to establish both certification and education in the appliance-servicing segment

of the “white goods” industry.

Certification is offered in basic skills, laundry equipment, cooking equipment, and

refrigeration equipment. Once a technician acquires all four certificates, he is considered

a “universal technician” and is awarded that certificate. Each step is signified by a shoulder

patch that identifies a person as a certified appliance technician. These technicians are known

information, visit the NASTeC website (http://www.nastec.org).

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