All Things Appliance

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/Why-OldSchool-Whirlpool-Direct-Drive-Washers-Were-So-Reliable/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Whirlpool's old direct drive washers earned a legendary reputation for reliability thanks to their simple, overbuilt design. By eliminating belts and pulleys, using a heavy-duty transmission, and powering the system with a rugged induction motor, these machines could handle years of heavy loads with minimal breakdowns. Their steel construction, straightforward mechanical controls, and easy-to-repair layout made them not only durable but also service-friendly. Without the fragile electronics that plague many modern washers, Whirlpool's direct drives remain one of the most dependable top-loaders ever built—many are still running strong decades later.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/110V-vs-120V-and-220V-vs-240V-Whats-the-Real-Difference/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Discover the difference between 110V/120V and 220V/240V power, and how U.S. standards compare to Europe's 230V system.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/Gas-vs-Electric-Dryers-Which-One-is-Right-for-You/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Trying to decide between a gas or electric dryer? Both have advantages, from upfront cost to long-term energy savings. This guide compares the pros, cons, and costs so you can choose the best dryer for your Greenville home.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/How-to-Identify-the-Right-Part-Number-for-Your-Appliance/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Finding the right appliance part starts with knowing the correct part number. Check your appliance's model/serial tag, look directly on the part, or use manufacturer diagrams to confirm the number. At KWR Appliances in Greenville, SC, we help customers identify the right washer, dryer, refrigerator, and stove parts—saving you time and money with tested, affordable options.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/-The-Hidden-Dangers-of-Overloading-Your-Washing-Machine/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Overloading modern washing machines can lead to costly repairs, poor cleaning, and a shortened appliance lifespan. Excessive weight strains key components like the motor, bearings, and suspension, increasing wear and tear. It also reduces water circulation and detergent distribution, leaving clothes less clean and even prone to odors or bacterial build-up. Ironically, this can lead to higher energy and water usage due to longer cycles or the need to rewash. To avoid these issues, follow load guidelines, leave space in the drum, and balance clothes evenly. Proper use protects your washer's performance and longevity.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/How-Does-a-Basic-French-Door-Refrigerator-Cooling-System-Work/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

French door refrigerators use a sophisticated cooling system to maintain optimal temperatures and keep food fresh. The system relies on a refrigerant cycle, where refrigerant absorbs and releases heat through compressor and evaporator coils. Fans circulate cold air evenly between the fridge and freezer compartments, while thermostats and sensors monitor and adjust temperatures for efficiency. The automatic defrost system prevents ice buildup, and features like humidity-controlled drawers and air filters help preserve produce and eliminate odors. Efficient door seals and LED lighting reduce energy consumption, making French door refrigerators both user-friendly and energy-efficient.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/How-a-Power-Outage-Can-Damage-the-Electronics-in-Appliances/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Power outages can damage the electronics in appliances, primarily due to power surges when electricity is restored. These surges flood sensitive electronics, like control boards, with excessive voltage, potentially causing short-circuiting. Voltage fluctuations, or brownouts, can also strain motors and compressors, leading to overheating and wear. Interrupted cycles in appliances, like washing machines or ovens, can corrupt their internal programming. To protect your appliances, use surge protectors, unplug devices during outages, or consider a whole-house surge protector. Regular maintenance and proper load management also help prevent damage.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/How-to-Use-the-SelfClean-Feature-on-Modern-Ovens-A-StepbyStep-Guide/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

The self-clean feature on modern ovens is a convenient way to maintain a clean cooking space without manual scrubbing. It works by heating the oven to very high temperatures, turning baked-on food and grease into ash. To use it, remove oven racks, wipe away loose debris, and start the self-clean cycle. Once complete, let the oven cool and wipe out the remaining ash. Ensure good ventilation during the process, avoid using chemical cleaners, and use the feature sparingly to prevent wear. It's an efficient tool for keeping your oven in top condition with minimal effort.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/Using-a-Refrigerator-in-an-Unheated-and-Uncooled-Garage-What-You-Need-to-Know/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Placing a refrigerator in an unheated, uncooled garage can lead to several issues. In hot weather, the fridge works harder, increasing energy use and causing wear on the compressor. In cold temperatures, the fridge may stop running, leading to frozen fridge items and thawed freezer goods. Temperature fluctuations can create inconsistent cooling, while humidity may cause rust and electrical malfunctions. To minimize these problems, consider using a garage-ready fridge, improving insulation, cleaning condenser coils, and ensuring proper ventilation. Taking these steps will help your refrigerator run efficiently year-round.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/How-the-Presidential-Election-Could-Impact-the-Appliance-Industry/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

The upcoming presidential election could have a significant impact on the appliance industry. Key areas to watch include changes in trade policies and tariffs, which could affect the cost of imported appliances, and potential shifts in environmental regulations, possibly leading to stricter energy efficiency standards. Tax incentives for energy-efficient appliances may also be expanded or eliminated, influencing consumer buying behavior. The election's outcome could impact domestic manufacturing, labor laws, and overall economic stability, affecting both appliance production and consumer confidence. At KWR Appliances, we're committed to navigating these changes while continuing to provide quality, affordable appliances to our customers.