The Case for Selecting Quality Products for Your Homesubmitted on 6 November 2015
Have you ever bought an item and then about six months to a year later noticed that it was falling apart? It’s called planned obsolescence. This term doesn’t only apply to the technology and software industries; it includes any product that is designed to fail or break, go out of fashion or inspire consumers to buy the next or newest model. A great example is Apple’s iPhone.
Today, many of the household items you purchase have a short life cycle; however, there are still quality products available that can stand up to the test of time.
The Best Purchases
The data doesn’t lie. According to a study conducted by a German environmental agency, the lifespan of goods and devices is shrinking. The study reveals that many home appliances need to be replaced within the first five years. However, there are household products that continue to fare much better than others. For example, appliances like washers and dryers have a lifespan that lasts longer than a decade. The study shows that one-third of consumers replaced their dryers and washers while they were still functioning simply to upgrade to a newer model. Consumer Reports lists the Kenmore Elite front-loader washer and electric dryer as one of the top performing sets of 2015 for its efficiency and quietness.
Taking on a project to upgrade the curb appeal of your home is a big undertaking. Many homeowners look to enhance their home’s appearance by adding a new coat of paint or new siding to their home’s exterior. While vinyl is a popular and affordable choice, it’s not as long-lasting as other siding options like wood or durable fibre cement, according to the home experts from Angie’s List. Although the upfront cost is more, it has a longer lifespan, which saves you money in the long run.
The Worst Purchases
Researchers from Germany’s Öko-Institut found that 60 per cent of televisions were replaced at a time when they were still functioning. This goes to show that it’s wise to be cautious when purchasing a new TV, as new products are constantly hitting the market.
It’s easy to be tempted to upgrade the items around your home. Designers are always coming out with new products in new must-have colours and with new must-have features. But sometimes it’s best to purchase traditional items, like a solid set of pots and pans. Today, pots and pans come in many stylish colours, but robin's egg blue or bright coral won’t necessarily be in style next season and you’ll be tempted to buy the next “it colour.” Stick to the basics and go with a traditional set of stainless steel cookware. The home and living section of Amway features a selection of timeless cookware sets and accessories to choose from.
Another product to be cautious of is the light bulb. Although these products aren’t as expensive as other home goods, bulbs are designed to burn out in about a year. In addition to turning the lights off when you’re not in the room, you can conserve bulb life by purchasing LED bulbs. Not only do LED bulbs last longer, but they conserve energy, which means you’ll save money on your energy bill, too.
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