We recently bought a Samsung top-load washing machine to replace our Kenmore Elite HE3t front-loader. The Samsung has loads of the latest technology built right in such as: VRT™ (Vibration Reduction Technology) - It really works! Direct Drive Motor - no belts here Internal Water Heater for NSF-certified sanitized loads CEE Tier 3 status Diamond Drum™ for a thorough, yet gentle, wash (easier on your clothes) PureCycle™ is a setting that cleans the washer itself As a … [Read more...]
If you follow my blog then you already know that our ultra-expensive Kenmore Elite HE3t washing machine that we've had for six years turned out to be a piece of crap. We kind of loved it at first (earth-shattering vibrations, notwithstanding) because it saved a lot of water and was very energy efficient in comparison to our previous washer, a Whirlpool top-loader. It also did a good job of cleaning our clothes. After reading in various appliance repair forums and comparing symptoms of our … [Read more...]
I officially dislike my 6½ year-old Kenmore Elite HE3T front-load washer. Yep...it's broken again. I fear that this will not be an easy fix. It will be costly and we may decide to replace it rather than repair it. We've spent our fair share on repair bills with this washer and do not wish to throw good money after bad. The problem now appears to be either a bearing problem or the spider assembly needs to be replaced. Those parts run upwards of around $220-$300 each. Back to the diagnosis. … [Read more...]
Painting dated looking appliances that still do their job is one frugal way to give them an updated look. We painted our refrigerator with a stainless steel paint and it turned out really great. We get compliments on our refrigerator frequently and people have no idea that it's not really a 20+ year-old refrigerator that is not really stainless steel. What follows is a DIY on how to apply liquid stainless steel paint and our first-hand experience with Thomas' Liquid Stainless Steel … [Read more...]
Charcoal or gas (liquid propane or LP), which is your fuel of choice when you want to grill out back? If you're like me, you're grillin' and chillin' every chance you get. I generally cook on the grill throughout the year -- rain, shine, cold weather -- it doesn't matter. Charcoal and gas grills both work throughout the year, right? So why not crank it up and enjoy a flame-kissed burger, caramelized fruits or veggies, or even a nice, thick steak? I'm fortunate enough to own both a … [Read more...]
You don't really have a true appreciation for your washing machine and dryer until they break down. Our front-loading Kenmore washing machine broke down recently at the very beginning of wash day. Isn't that how it always works out?!The last thing I wanted to do was fool with washing machine repair, but this kind of problem can't be delayed when there are mounds of dirty laundry to be cleaned.We have one of those high-efficiency Kenmore Elite models that eeks water and electricity. It was a huge … [Read more...]
I posted an article about Thomas' Liquid Stainless Steel paint a couple of months ago. I mentioned that we would paint our old refrigerator and give our honest opinion on the product and the application process. Now that it has been painted, I wanted to give you a first-hand review here along with a few handy tips on applying Thomas' Stainless Steel Paint. I've included plenty of photos of the entire process, too. … [Read more...]
Are you moving into a new home in need of new appliances? How would you like for the United States government to help you pay for that new appliance you've had your eye on? Uncle Sam is all about encouraging consumers to save energy and resources, in general. One of the easiest ways to do that is to give Joe Public a little cash incentive to do the right thing. Namely, in the way of an appliance rebate for being sure that you make an appliance purchase with the Energy Star endorsement. It's that … [Read more...]
Are you thinking about upgrading your old appliances to stainless steel? If so, I bet you've been keeping an eye on all of the sale ads waiting for a steal-of-a-deal on a stainless steel appliance. Why? Because stainless steel ain't cheap. If your current appliances work great and all you really want is an updated look, you can still have a stainless steel appliance at a mere fraction of what you would have paid for a brand new unit. There is a slight twist to it. You won't really have a … [Read more...]
I've never personally seen an induction cooktop until just recently while at the 2008 Fall Atlanta Home Show. Induction cooktops are very expensive (approx. $3,600-$4,000+ for Viking brand 6 coil units, as pictured on the right), but they have an unmistakable cool factor to them, not to mention the technology involved is cutting edge and they are highly energy efficient cooking appliances.The induction cooktop I saw was made by Viking but the induction coils are made for Viking by a company … [Read more...]
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