Recycle

Should you buy a trash compactor?Trash compactors first became popular in the 70's. Today, trash compactors are part of the lineup for most appliance manufacturers. The pros of buying a trash compactor include: 1) the convenience of having fewer trips taking the trash out, and 2) the benefit of a smaller footprint at our waste disposal sites by compressing your trash 5 times. However, there is the thought that recycle bins are more environmentally helpful. It's worth pointing out that these solutions are not mutually exclusive. In fact, if you typically recycle, you might consider using a compactor exclusively for recyclables. How trash compactors work.Trash compactors have a powerful motor that will compress trash as much as 5:1 when activated, compressing loose contents into a small package. Typically, compactors will fit in a standard depth 24" deep cabinet, and at 34 1/2" tall will fit nicely under a standard 36" countertop. The most common width is 15". Most compactors also have a deodorizer or charcoal filter. Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center can help. UAKC sells all the major trash compactor brands, as well as the premium and luxury brands, from the popularly priced Whirlpool brand to a luxury Viking brand compactor and everything in between. One super-premium brand, Jenn-Air has just launched a new compactor. Below are the details on Jenn-Air's new compactor:Efficiently reduce your trash by up to 80% with the Jenn-Air® Trash Compactor. It's equipped with Anti-Jam and Tilt Sensors for smooth operation on large waste products. Features:5:1

Where did the porcelain go? Back in the day, nearly all major appliances used porcelain somewhere. Dishwashers had porcelain tubs. Washers and dryers had porcelain tops and lids, and most washers had porcelain tubs. Early ranges used porcelain everywhere, and even today ranges use porcelain oven interiors and many have porcelain tops. Refrigerators evolved from porcelain inside and out (including crispers and liners) to now having no porcelain whatsoever. Porcelain finishes were desirable and manufacturers bragged about them.Making porcelain on steel appliance parts is a complex and expensive process. In addition, environmental issues exist not only at the manufacturing level, but also in disposing of appliances at the end of life. Therefore, over time manufacturers have greatly reduced the use of porcelain in appliances.Inexpensive dishwashers now have plastic tubs, and upscale models feature stainless steel interiors. Refrigerators have plastic crispers and interiors which also allow energy-saving foam-in-place insulation. While you might find washers and dryers with porcelain tops, many now feature a high gloss, durable, painted finish. Inside, very few washers have porcelain tubs. Inexpensive washers might have plastic tubs, while the premium models have tubs made of stainless steel. However, range ovens and built-in ovens still use primarily porcelain for their oven interiors.As a consumer, you should take note of the appliances you have that have porcelain finishes or interiors. When it comes time to dispose of these products, they'll need to be properly recycled. Check local or state regulations and find a certified recycling center for your appliance.