All Things Appliance

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/How-a-TopLoad-Washing-Machine-Actually-Cleans-Your-Laundry-and-Why-It-Works/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Top-load washers don't "blast" clothes clean—they rely on a mix of detergent chemistry, water, movement, and time. Water dissolves detergent and soaks fabrics so the detergent can loosen oils, sweat, and dirt. Then the washer creates mechanical action: agitator models scrub by pulling clothes through the water, while impeller/wash-plate models roll and fold items for gentler cleaning. As soil lifts off the fabric, it must stay suspended in the wash water until it drains. Rinsing removes leftover detergent and grime, and spinning forces out dirty water so clothes dry faster and smell fresher. Poor cleaning usually comes from overloading, using too much detergent, cold water on heavy soils, hard water, or skipped tub cleaning.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/French-Door-vs-SidebySide-Refrigerators-Which-One-Is-Actually-Worth-the-Money/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

French door refrigerators are best for families and fresh-food space, offering wide shelves, a modern look, and easy access—but they cost more and have more moving parts. Side-by-side refrigerators are the value pick, with cheaper prices, easier freezer organization, and narrower doors that fit tight kitchens. If you want style and storage, go French door. If you want budget and simplicity, go side-by-side.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/Why-You-Cant-Put-Metal-in-a-Microwave-Oven/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Metal should never be used in a microwave because it reflects microwave energy instead of absorbing it, which can cause sparks, electrical arcing, fires, and permanent damage to the microwave. Items like aluminum foil, silverware, and metal containers disrupt how microwaves heat food and can pose serious safety risks. To avoid damage or fire hazards, always use microwave-safe glass, ceramic, or plastic containers specifically labeled for microwave use.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/How-to-Prevent-Mold-and-Mildew-on-a-FrontLoad-Washer-Gasket-and-Fix-It-If-You-Already-Have-It/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Front-load washer mildew is caused by trapped moisture and detergent residue. To prevent it, always leave the washer door and detergent drawer slightly open so they can dry. After the final load of the day, wipe down the rubber gasket—especially under the inner fold—and dry the inside of the glass door. Use only HE detergent, use less soap (about 2 tablespoons), and avoid liquid softener unless diluted. Once a month, run a tub-clean cycle with a cleaner and clean the drain filter. If mold is already present, treat it with vinegar or a diluted bleach solution, scrub the gasket, and rinse on a hot cycle. With these simple habits, you can stop odors and keep your washer fresh.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/What-to-Do-If-Food-Catches-Fire-Inside-Your-Oven/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

If food catches fire in your oven, keep the door closed, turn the oven off, and let the flames die out. Never use water—if needed, use a Class B or ABC extinguisher. Call 911 if the fire spreads. Afterward, inspect the oven for damage and clean carefully. To prevent future fires, keep your oven clean, use timers, and avoid leaving food unattended.

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/Creative-Ways-to-Hide-Cosmetic-Blemishes-on-a-Refrigerator/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Cosmetic blemishes on a refrigerator don't mean it needs replacing. Simple fixes like magnets, vinyl wraps, chalkboard paper, touch-up paint, or decorative stickers can cover scratches and dents. For bigger updates, try peel-and-stick wallpaper, shelving, or even embrace the industrial look. These creative solutions are affordable, stylish, and keep your fridge looking fresh.

/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.