Examples of Appliances: A Straight‑Forward Look at Everyday Devices

When you hear the word "appliance" you probably picture a fridge or washing machine. But the term covers a lot more – from tiny kettles to big heat pumps. Knowing the basics helps you pick the right gear, keep it running, and avoid costly repairs.

Major vs. Small Appliances – What’s the Difference?

Major appliances are the big guys that stay in a fixed spot: refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, boilers, and heat pumps. They usually require professional installation and service. Small appliances are portable and easy to move – think toasters, microwaves, extractor fans, and electric kettles. You can usually repair or replace them yourself.

Both groups share a few common needs: regular cleaning, occasional part checks, and the right power supply. Skipping maintenance on a major appliance can lead to big breakdowns, like a fridge compressor failure or a water heater that keeps resetting.

Typical Appliances You’ll Find in a Glastonbury Home

Here’s a quick list of the most common household devices, grouped by room:

  • Kitchen: range oven, electric hob, microwave, extractor fan, dishwasher.
  • Living Area: air‑conditioning unit, heat pump, television (often counted as a small appliance).
  • Utility/ Laundry: washing machine, tumble dryer, boiler, hot water heater.
  • Bathroom: extractor fan, electric towel rail, water heater.

Each of these has a typical lifespan. A washing machine often lasts 7‑10 years, a fridge about 10‑15 years, and a boiler can keep humming for 10‑15 years if you service it regularly. Knowing the expected life lets you plan repairs versus replacements.

If an appliance starts acting up – like an oven that won’t heat or a microwave that’s silent – a quick check can save a callout. Look for obvious signs: strange noises, uneven heating, or error codes. Often a blown fuse (in a microwave) or a clogged filter (in an extractor fan) is the culprit.

When the fix is beyond a simple DIY step, a local specialist like Glastonbury Appliance Repair Services can diagnose the problem fast. They know the common failure points – for example, water heater anode rods, fridge compressors, or oven heating elements – and can advise whether repair or replacement makes sense.

Bottom line: understanding the type of appliance you own, how it works, and its typical trouble spots empowers you to keep it running longer and save money. Next time you hear a clunk from the dryer or notice the fridge making a humming sound, you’ll know exactly what to look for.

Got a specific question about an appliance? Use the tips above as a starting point, then reach out to a trusted repair service for a hands‑on check. Your home runs smoother when every device does what it’s supposed to – and you’re in the driver’s seat.

Real-Life Appliance Examples and Their Impact on Daily Living

Real-Life Appliance Examples and Their Impact on Daily Living

Cyrus Ashfield
29 Jun 2025

Explore what counts as an appliance, see real-life examples, learn useful facts, tips for smarter choices, and discover stats about how appliances shape everyday routines.