[GBlist] energy efficient appliances.

[deumling@socrates.Berkeley.EDU]

On Tue, 26 Mar 2002, Lance Fletcher wrote:

> it's worth mentioning that the European models generally have smaller
> tubs. We have a Maytag Neptune front-loader. Around here a smaller tub
> would mean more loads, higher energy use.

Around *here* that wouldn't necessarily be the case.  I think it is a lot
like having a bigger fridge or a bigger house or a bigger anything.  We
seem to find ways to fill whatever is available.  However people who have
tiny cars don't necessarily drive more than those with Ford
Expeditions--they just might visit Costco less.
For the past 12 years I have done all my shopping on a bicycle with racks
and panniers--and just like folks with cars I go to the store when I run
out of milk or bread, stuff which won't keep any longer for those with
cars and big fridges than those with bikes and little ones.

many happy returns

Reuben Deumling

P.S. European washing machines have for a very long time been rated to
hold 5kg of laundry (11 lbs).  The default load of laundry which groups
like Consumers Union have used since the 1930s is 8lbs of clothes.  Over
time US washing machines have gotten bigger and Americans have washed more
and more clothes per day, week or year.  Now washing machines are
advertised to wash "14 large bath towels" or the like...
Some of us don't have that much laundry, and the disappearance of smaller
models is the "bigger" problem.


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