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- 2022.06
- Tips
- Home Appliances
【Tips on Cleaning Air Conditioners】What do you need to know before hiring someone to clean your air conditioner?
1. Factors Affecting the Air Conditioning Cleaning Fees For general households, window-type or split-type air conditioners are commonly used. In terms of basic fees, the cost for cleaning a window-type air conditioner is usually less than a split-type air conditioner. Other factors impacting the fees include the cooling capacity of the air conditioner, whether the location is remote, items included in the cleaning services (e.g. inspection and disinfection), parts that require repair, and whether the service date falls on the weekend or a public holiday. It is worth mentioning that if the indoor floor-to-ceiling height is too high, consumers may also need to bear the cost of using additional safety equipment. 2. Service Detail Furthermore, consumers should be aware of the various cleaning methods employed by different cleaning companies for window-type air conditioners, and the space required for the cleaning process. If there is not enough space, the machine may need to be dismantled and taken to the cleaning centre for cleaning (which may incur additional charges). Moreover, for split-type air conditioners, most cleaning companies only clean the interior unit of the machine as the external unit is usually located on the exterior wall of the building. If it needs to be cleaned, application to the building management office is required and scaffolding or blocking the road may be needed, which consumers would need to pay for that. Generally speaking, air conditioning cleaning companies will first inspect the air conditioner to ensure normal operation before cleaning. The consumer will be notified of any abnormalities found, and they will have to decide whether to proceed with the cleaning process. If the air conditioner still does not cool sufficiently or even has leakage after cleaning, some companies would offer free maintenance within a designated period. Consumers can also inquire about the related terms and conditions beforehand, such as compensation of any damages during the cleaning process. 3. Advance Preparations by Consumers If any abnormalities are detected in the air conditioner beforehand, it is suggested to arrange for on-site inspection by professionals before deciding whether to send it to a repair centre. Consumers should not attempt to disassemble the machine themselves. In addition, any items near the air conditioner should be removed before cleaning it. 4. Regular Maintenance Tips To have a more durable and long-lasting air conditioner, consumers should pay attention to the following tips for daily maintenance and cleaning: Dust filter The dust filter should be cleaned once or twice a month to effectively block the dust particles in the air and keep the air indoors fresh. Cooling evaporator The cooling evaporator of the air conditioner should be free from obstruction with the air flow outlet kept clear of miscellaneous household items. Temperature The temperature should be set at 25.5°C. A fan can be used alongside the air conditioner to facilitate air circulation, which can also reduce the burden of the air conditioner and save electricity. Turn off and cover the air conditioner If the air conditioner would not be used for a long time, remove the interior moisture with the fan function and then cover it properly. For more information, please refer to the article “Clean Air Conditioners Regularly to Save Energy and Protect the Environment” (Chinese version only) in Issue 523 of CHOICE Magazine. Further Reading: Choosing an Air Conditioner What should you pay attention to when buying an inverter air conditioner for your home? Check out the article “Saving Energy While Enjoying the Cool Breeze! 4 Tips on How to Select Inverter Type Air Conditioners”. Further Reading: Saving Electricity with Air Conditioning Running the air conditioner for extended periods will naturally increase your electricity bill. However, did you know that there are several details related to air conditioners that can also affect the electricity tariff? Find out more in the article “4 Key Tips to Enjoy the Cool Breeze Without Breaking the Bank?” . This article is translated into English. If there is any discrepancy, inconsistency or ambiguity between the Chinese version and its English translation, the Chinese version shall prevail. The Consumer Council will not accept any liability, obligation or responsibility whatsoever for any loss, destruction or damage (including without limitation consequential loss, destruction or damage) howsoever arising from or in respect of any use or misuse of or reliance on the Chinese version or its English translation delivered herein.
- 2022.01
- Tips
- Home Appliances
Useful Tips on Washing Machines: How to Make Them Last Longer?
5 ways to take good care of your washing machine Do not overload When the washing machine spins, the wet clothes in the drum will generate a strong centrifugal force. If you overload the machine, the drum will vibrate strongly, making the mechanical parts more prone to damage. Sundries such as coins and keys should also be removed before washing. Lower the spinning speed If the spinning speed is adjustable and time permits, it is recommended to set the spinning speed to < 1,200 rpm to reduce the chance of mechanical damage and wear and tear on clothes. At the same time, it is best to wash clothes at a lower temperature setting. If there are no children at home, the door of the washing machine should be left open after washing to prevent moisture build-up. Do not use laundry detergent spontaneously You should read the instructions on the packaging to determine the appropriate amount of laundry detergent to be used. Avoid using excessive amount to prevent foam build-up which may affect the operation of the machine. In addition, the detergent compartment should also be cleaned regularly to avoid the accumulation of chemical agents and affecting the operation. It is worth noting that some tests have showed that laundry liquid is easier to dissolve than powder and can deliver a better cleaning performance. It is also less harsh on the fabrics and leaves less residues on the drum. Clean the filter and drum regularly You should remove the small fibres caught on the lint filter regularly to prevent blockage of the drain hose. Furthermore, after the washing machine has been used for a period of time, dirt and residual detergent will build up in the hard-to-reach areas of the drum and may affect the cleaning performance of the machine. Some washing machines have a "drum cleaning" programme. Consumers can follow the instructions in the user’s manual and run it at least once a month. Some instructions recommend adding washing machine drum cleaner (which is available in household stores or supermarkets) to enhance the cleaning effect. Even if the washing machine does not have a "drum cleaning" programme, consumers can still clean the drum by regularly running a wash cycle at a high-temperature setting (if available) with an empty drum (i.e., without any clothes and detergent). Check the door and hose regularly You should check the rubber gasket of a front-loading washing machine regularly and remove any dust and debris that have been built up. If the washing machine takes longer than usual to fill up with water, you should check if the inlet hose and the filter are blocked. Manufacturers should design products that are easy to carry out repair and maintenance No matter how durable it is, a washing machine may still break down after years of usage. If the machine can be easily repaired, it will help in extending its useful life. For example, a design that enables easy removal of the outer casing and replacement of the faulty parts without the need of special tools; or a more flexible freestanding design that allows the detergent dispenser / hose to be removed more easily. Furthermore, according to a survey conducted by the Council, a few respondents indicated that they had experienced problems with the preset programmes of their washing machines / washer-dryers, reflecting that although smart functions make the operation more convenient, they may also affect the durability of the machines. Pay attention to after-sales service With comprehensive after-sales services, consumers will be more willing to repair their washing machines, which will help prolong the machines’ useful lives and reduce burden on the landfill. However, consumers should pay attention to the details of after-sales services to avoid potential disputes: 1. Time limit on free replacement If the new washing machine breaks down immediately after purchase, many brands will provide free replacement within a specified time limit after verification by a repairman. However, it should be noted that the validity period of some brands can be as short as 7 days from the date of purchase. If the delivery and installation take time, this deadline may be missed when the machine is turned on for the first time. Therefore, consumers should pay attention to this issue. 2. Pay attention to the definition of ‘whole machine warranty’ The definition of ‘whole machine’ in the warranty generally does not cover the outer casing, door, rubber gasket, hose and problems caused by installation. Therefore, damages to the body and door, or problems caused by improper installation are usually not covered by the warranty. Consumers should check the scope of the warranty before purchasing. 3. Onsite inspection fee If consumers live in remote areas, outlying islands or restricted areas, they usually have to pay onsite inspection fees, transportation costs, or have the machines sent to designated sites for repair. 4. Commitment on repair and maintenance When a new model is introduced, older models and their spare parts will gradually discontinue. Consumers may be forced to discard a faulty machine due to lack of parts. Consumers should pay attention to whether the brand has relevant policies to ensure continual maintenance 5 to 10 years after the product is launched and supply of spare parts for say 3 to 10 years after the product is discontinued. The Producer Responsibility Scheme on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment If consumers need to dispose of their old washing machines, they may make good use of the Producer Responsibility Scheme on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WPRS) by calling the recycling hotline of the Environmental Protection Department (EPD). WPRS covers 8 types of regulated electrical equipment (REE) including washing machines, refrigerators, televisions, air-conditioners, computers, printers, scanners and monitors, which account for approximately 85% of all electrical and electronic products in Hong Kong. These products contain chemical substances and heavy metals. If discarded or disassembled improperly, they may put the public and recycling workers at risk. Therefore, the EPD has set up a hotline (2676 8888) for the free recycling of REE. The public can call and book the recycling service. This service covers Hong Kong, Kowloon and the New Territories. Even if you live on the top floor of a tenement building, or in a remote or rural area, you can still use this service. For more information, please refer to special feature ‘Maintenance of Washing Machines’ (Chinese version only) in issue #472 of CHOICE Magazine. Further reading: How to choose a washing machine Front-loading type, European top-loading type or impeller-type? Which washing machine is the best in terms of water and energy saving? Is there always a trade-off between water and energy saving? To answer these questions, you can refer to the article ‘Washing Machines: Can They Save Water and Energy At the Same Time?’ Further reading: Do you need to use fabric softener in every wash? Many consumers like to use fabric softener to make their clothes soft and fragrant. However, do you know that fabric softener should not be used on certain fabrics. In dry seasons, clothes with fabric softeners may cause allergies. To learn more on fabric softener, please refer to the article ‘Trivia Facts About Fabric Softener: Suitable for All Clothing? Can you DIY?’ (Chinese version only).
- 2022.01
- Trivia
- Home Appliances
- Tech-savvy
Trivia Facts About Refrigerators: Frost-Free Models May Not Be Suitable for All? Learn More About Where to Place Various Food Items
Direct cool vs. frost-free refrigerators Direct cool refrigerators are also known as conventional ‘frosty’ refrigerators. Moisture condenses continuously on the cold coils (evaporator) to form frost inside this type of refrigerators. As for frost-free refrigerators, a special built-in heating element melts the accumulating frost regularly. As such, users do not need to defrost manually. Frost-free refrigerators may not be suitable for all? Although frost-free refrigerators can defrost automatically and are more convenient, they also have certain limitations. Users should consider the following aspects to assess whether frost-free refrigerators are suitable for their homes. Home environment Frost-free refrigerators are generally larger in size with 2 or more doors. They may not be suitable for smaller living space. Level of moisture vaporization of food items When moisture of the food items stored inside the refrigerator vaporizes, it will add to frosting. Using a frost-free refrigerator is therefore more convenient in such situation! On the other hand, if the items you store do not vaporize a lot, e.g., Tetra Pack beverages, then the speed of frost formation will be lower and the chance of severe frost accumulation will also be smaller. Budget Frost-free refrigerators are generally more expensive. In addition, as the defrosting function consumes more energy, the electricity costs of running frost-free refrigerators are generally higher. Inverter refrigerators Inverter refrigerators are becoming more available nowadays, and they are generally more energy efficient. However, this technology is mainly used in refrigerators of larger size. For example, in the test conducted, 5 invertor refrigerators were all of larger size and frost-free models. And the smaller size direct cool refrigerators were all of fixed-speed compressor type. What are the main points for comparison? Apart from size, energy efficiency and price, consumers may also consider the following aspects when making comparisons across different refrigerator models: Freezing and cooling capacities If you want to chill or freeze your food and drinks quickly, you will need to choose a refrigerator with good freezing and cooling capacities. Taking the cooling capacity as an example, the time taken for some test samples to drop from room temperature to 10°C could range from 2.9 hours to 6.7 hours. In addition, some models may have a ‘fast freeze’ function, giving it a superior freezing capacity. Coldness preservation efficacy In the event of a power outage or temporary suspension, the coldness preservation efficacy of a refrigerator becomes very important. In the test conducted, the time taken for the freezer compartment to rise from -18 °C to -9°Cranged from 3 to 12.5 hours. Reserve capacity It refers to the rate at which the inside temperature of a refrigerator drops to a standard level when the unit is put in an extremely hot environment. In the test conducted, one model failed to bring the average temperature of the fresh food compartment down to 8°C after 23 hours, causing the test to halt. Do you know where to put your food items? Normally, people just randomly put their food items inside the refrigerator wherever they see space. In fact, temperature varies in different areas of the refrigerator. As food items may have different storage requirements, it is best to store them according to the following recommendations, e.g., fresh meat should be stored in a cooler section such as next to the fan holes; eggs should not be stored in the freezer, etc. Tips on defrosting Have you got all the necessary tools to do your defrosting job, e.g., screwdrivers and a hair dryer? Hold on! Read the following tips first: Turn the power off Unplug the unit from the power source and remove food items that need to be stored at lower temperatures. Open the refrigerator doors to make defrosting faster. Don’t rely on sharp objects / hairdryers Scraping ice inside the refrigerator with sharp objects may damage the refrigerant ducts. At the same time, attempts to melt ice with hairdryers can be counter-productive as they may deform the plastic parts inside the refrigerator. Prepare towels / old newspapers Towels and old newspapers can be very handy to soak up the excess water that overflows from the bottom tray during defrosting. Keep away from sources of heat Although the living space in Hong Kong is generally small and the kitchen space is also limited, you should still pay attention to the placement of the refrigerator, and should not choose a site too close to the stove. Take the models tested by the Consumer Council as an example, they all used R600a (isobutane) as the refrigerant and insulation materials containing cyclopentane, which were all inflammable substances. Lighting a flame near them would greatly increase fire risks! For more information, please refer to the article ‘Mid and Small-Size Refrigerators with High Energy Efficiency. Pros and Cons of Frost-Free and Direct Cool Models´ (Chinese version only) in issue #538 of CHOICE Magazine. Further reading: Some energy-saving tips on refrigerators After selecting a good refrigerator, you need to know how to use it properly, so that you can effectively save energy (and greatly reduce your electricity bills)! You may watch the video ‘The Energy-Saving Tips on Refrigerators´(Chinese version only) and start applying those tips!
- 2021.10
- Tips
- Home Appliances
Saving Energy While Enjoying the Cool Breeze! 4 Tips On How To Select Inverter Type Air Conditioners
First of all, Let MIRROR tell you how to choose a ‘2 horsepower’ window-type air conditioner! ‘MIRROR x Review on Window-Type Air Conditioners’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syOgzq70tO0 Fixed capacity type vs. inverter type Nowadays, newer split-type cooling-only or reverse cycle air conditioners that are available on the market are mainly inverter type. Conventional fixed capacity type air conditioners are being gradually phased out. Why? What are the differences between these 2 types? Fixed capacity type The compressor runs at a fixed top speed, and pauses and restarts repeatedly to adjust the room temperature. Inverter type The compressor automatically adjusts the speed within a certain range. Usually, it runs at a high speed in the beginning, and reduces the speed automatically when the room temperature is closer to the target temperature. How does it relate to energy-saving? A compressor typically consumes less energy at lower speed. Moreover, it also operates more efficiently at lower speed, which is the key to energy-saving. ´Grade 1’ home appliances may vary in electricity costs by 56% annually In the first half of 2021, the Consumer Council (the ‘Council’) tested 14 inverter split-type reverse cycle air conditioners. Although all of them rated Grade 1 on the energy label, their energy efficiency varied significantly! Assuming all models were used in an environment with the same cooling requirement, using the less energy-efficient model could cost 56% more in electricity tariff! Therefore, if you want to reduce electricity costs and contribute to environmental protection, you will have to choose your air conditioner carefully! Are you eager to find out which model is good? Please refer to the article ‘Energy Saving, Environmental Friendly, Fast-Cooling 1½ Horsepower Inverter Split-Type Air Conditioners’ (Chinese version only) in issue #534 of CHOICE Magazine. Inverter window-type air conditioners In the past, inverter technology was mainly used in split-type air conditioners. Nowadays, there are more inverter window-type air conditioners available on the market, giving more choices to consumers who have space constraints. Tips for choosing inverter type air conditioners 1. Installation: Inverter window-type air conditioners can be larger and heavier Due to the more complex mechanical design, inverter window-type air conditioners can be 10cm deeper and heavier than fixed capacity ones with similar cooling capacity. Consumers consider installing inverter window-type air conditioners should check whether the space is suitable and large enough for installation. 2. Energy efficiency: Inverter split-type is better than window-type If we compare the test results published by the Council in 2017 on inverter split-type air conditioners to the results on inverter window-type air conditioners in 2019, it is found that inverter window-type air conditioners are less energy efficient than inverter split-type ones. 3. Cooling capacity: Watch out for exaggerated claims Cooling capacity refers to the speed at which the air conditioner removes heat from the indoor air to outdoors. The higher the value, the faster it cools. If the cooling capacity of an air conditioner cannot satisfy the cooling requirement of the space, the unit will have to operate at high speed for a long time. And users will not reap the benefits of an inverter type air conditioner in terms of high energy efficiency. The Council tested 14 ‘1 ½ horsepower’ inverter-type air conditioners in April 2021, and found that the cooling capacity of most models was roughly in line with the claimed value. Among them, the cooling capacity of 9 models was in line with or higher than the claimed value, with 1 model having a cooling capacity 6.6% higher than the claimed value. 4 other tested models had discrepancies within the acceptable 10% tolerance range under the Code of Practice on Energy Labelling of Products and common international practices. Only 1 model whose actual cooling capacity was 17.6% lower than the claimed value and its performance was only equivalent to an ‘1 horsepower’ air conditioner. 4. Airflow rate : The higher, the better The higher the airflow rate, the more air can be blown out by the air conditioner. This can improve air circulation and help to achieve an ideal room temperature faster, thus making users feel comfortably cool. In addition, the fan speed should have a wide enough range. The wider the fan speed range, the better the performance, as otherwise the user cannot feel the differences under different speed settings. Areas to watch out when using inverter type air conditioners Set the target temperature by phases If you don’t have an urgency to cool down quickly, and don’t mind that the room temperature gradually lowers, you may set the target temperature by phases. At first, don’t set the target temperature too low. Instead, you can set the target temperature only a little bit lower than the prevailing room temperature and adjust it downwards bit by bit (for example, every 15 minutes) until the desired temperature is reached. This can help reduce the time that the inverter type air conditioner has to operate at high speed, thus achieving additional energy saving. Other tips on energy saving Electricity costs rise with the actual cooling requirement which can be escalated by various factors such as humidity, larger room size, windows facing direct sunlight, air leakage through doors and windows, running exhaust fans, multiple appliances running at the same time, or a large number of people in the same room, etc. Therefore, it is recommended to draw the curtains to avoid direct sunlight, close the doors and windows where possible to maintain the interior temperature, and do not block the air inlet / outlet of the air conditioner. Some more tips on energy saving: During summer, it is recommended to clean the air conditioner's dust filter, air inlet and outlet once every 2 weeks to prevent airflow obstruction which may impact its performance. Arrange for regular checks, maintenance and repair by an experienced technician. During summer, you may feel extremely hot when you return home. You can take a shower or drink some water to quickly cool down your body. Therefore, it is not necessary to set the target temperature too low. It is recommended to keep the room temperature at around 25.5°C in summer. During winter, using the heating function of a reverse cycle air conditioner can save more energy than using an electric or a fan heater. An electric fan consumes less energy than an air conditioner. If both the air conditioner and electric fan are turned on at the same time, cool air can be blown towards the user. In this way, the target temperature of the air conditioner can be set at a higher level, thus saving more energy. If the air conditioner has a timer, preset a switch-off time to avoid using it for too long or forgetting to turn it off. In order to reap the full benefits of an inverter type air conditioner in terms of high efficiency and energy savings, avoid prolonged operation of the unit under full load. Ensure that the air conditioner only operates at high speed for a short period of time when it is initially switched on. Subsequent cooling only requires the unit to operate at a low speed. Using low fan speed for dehumidification? This is not energy efficient! The cooling function of air conditioner can bring 2 effects on the air, with the primary one being the lowering of air temperature and the other being dehumidification. Moisture is removed through a pipe in a split-type air conditioner. If you want to achieve better dehumidification result, choose a lower fan speed. However, a lower fan speed setting will hinder the full cooling capacity of the air conditioner, resulting in lower energy efficiency. Therefore, it is not recommended to frequently use a low fan speed setting unless necessary. Practical tips on installation and maintenance Installation instructions Some retailers include basic installation service in the marked price, but consumers should check before buying to be sure. If there is no designated cement space for the air conditioner unit, and that it has to be installed on a window frame, consumers should ensure that the window frame and supporting structure are strong and secure enough to hold the unit. Even if there is a designated space, the air conditioner unit must be firmly secured on the cement space. In addition, the metal frame must be connected with equipotential bonding to minimise the risk of having accidental electric shock. Nowadays, some newer-style residential buildings, especially those with glass screen walls, lack considerations with respect to residents’ specific requirements in the installation and subsequent maintenance of air conditioners. Residents may only be able to install split-type air conditioners within designated spaces and it is not possible to install window-type units. Moreover, a gondola will need to be booked in advance for the installation and maintenance of the air conditioners. Consumers should therefore take into consideration the higher budget (for both installation and subsequent maintenance) and time involved. Pay attention to the warranty period Some dealers may set a time limit and may not accept any warranty renewal if the air conditioner has been used for a certain period of time, or require an onsite inspection before deciding whether to accept the renewal request. Furthermore, warranty renewal may be refused for remote areas. Therefore, prior to the renewal date, consumers should check the various terms with the agent, including waiver provisions on transportation fee, labour and spare part costs, etc, before making any decision on renewal. Tips on the disposal of air conditioners Under the Producer Responsibility Scheme on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WPRS), consumers should ensure that used air conditioner units and other regulated electrical equipment (REE) are properly collected to reduce their impact on the environment. In addition to requesting the seller to arrange for a free statutory removal service when purchasing a new air conditioner unit or other REE, consumers may also use the following services: Call the Collection Hotline (2676 8888) for collection enquiries and arrange for collection services; Send the used appliances to suitable recyclers via the ‘GREEN‌@COMMUNITY’ program for proper disposal; For further details, please visit www.weee.gov.hk After-sales service The warranty period provided by different agents may differ. For example, it may range from 12 to 39 months. The compressor is a more durable component, and therefore its warranty period is generally longer. Some agents even provide a lifetime warranty. During the warranty period, users in urban areas are generally provided with free onsite inspection services. As for users living in remote areas, charges are usually required. If an air conditioner requires repairment, as long as the defects are not caused by human factors, most warranties of new units will waive the costs of labour and spare parts. Want to find out more on window-type air conditioners while watching MIRROR? Please refer to the article ‘2 Horsepower Window-Type Air Conditioners: Inverter Types Are Quieter and Can Save More Energy than Fixed Capacity Types’ (Chinese version only) in issue #511 of CHOICE Magazine. If you have decided to install an inverter split-type air conditioner, you may refer to the detailed report in the article ‘Energy Saving, Environmental Friendly, Fast Cooling 1½ Horsepower Inverter Split-Type Air Conditioners’ (Chinese version only) in issue #534 of CHOICE Magazine. Further reading: ‘4 Key Tips To Enjoy The Cool Breeze Without Breaking The Bank?’ https://www.consumer.org.hk/en/shopping-guide/tips/2020-tips-electricbill
- 2021.03
- Features
- Home Appliances
A Guide to Laundry: A Comparison between Laundry Products
How much do laundry costs differ? The first step in doing a laundry is to choose the laundry product! The Consumer Council (or the “Council”) had conducted a detailed review on powdered detergents, liquid detergents and laundry capsules. The Council did a quick cost-benefit analysis on these products based on the recommended amount and price. As the recommended amount and price varied across types, the final costs should only be used as a reference: Powdered detergents: 19g – 81g per wash; $0.23 – $1.28 per wash; a difference of 4 times Liquid detergents: 15g – 102g per wash; $0.28 – $2.89 per wash; a marked difference of 9 times Laundry capsules: 1 capsule per wash, $2 – $6.6 per wash; a difference of more than 2 times A comparison of these 3 types of laundry products showed that the cost per wash ranged from $0.23 to $6.6, revealing a difference of more than 27 times! The above results showed that the average cost of laundry capsules was relatively high. However, did they fare better than the other 2 types in terms of performance? A comparison of stain removal performance We all have encountered that embarrassing moment when we accidently stained our clothes. The stain removal performance of a laundry product is therefore very important and is one of the key factors that consumers use to distinguish good products from bad ones. There are 4 main types of common stains: (a) Greasy stains (including mineral oils, make-up foundation, beef grease and human sebum) Most powdered detergents performed better in removing human sebum but less well in removing make-up foundation and mineral oils. Most liquid detergents, on the other hand, performed better in removing both human sebum and make-up foundation but less well in removing mineral oils. Besides, all 3 types of laundry products (powdered detergents, liquid detergents and laundry capsules) performed relatively poorly in removing beef grease. Beef lovers should take note. (b) Enzymatic stains (including chocolate, blood, carrot puree, mud mixed with grass, etc.) Apart from performing well in removing greasy stains, laundry capsules were more effective than the other 2 types in removing enzymatic stains. It was found that powdered detergents were generally weaker in removing chocolate stains while liquid detergents had quite satisfactory performance. (c) Stains that can be oxidised (including tea, coffee, blueberry, tomato sauce, red wine, soy sauce, etc.) In terms of food stains, most powdered and liquid detergents were effective in removing blueberry, tomato sauce, and soy sauce stains, but their performance in removing coffee, red wine, and mustard stains varied. For stubborn tea stains, the laundry capsules could effectively lighten the stains. Some liquid detergents could slightly lighten tea stains, but powdered detergents could not . It was quite difficult to remove paints due to their chemical nature. All 3 types of laundry products did not perform satisfactorily in removing paints, but their performance was generally better in removing water-based paints compared with oil-based ones. Beware of colour retention If you choose a laundry detergent with poor colour retention properties, your clothes could easily be "transformed"! In terms of colour retention, the vast majority of liquid detergents performed better than powdered detergents, while laundry capsules gave satisfactory overall performance. Powdered detergents vs liquid detergents Although the overall performance of laundry capsules was satisfactory, their price was higher than powdered detergents and liquid detergents. In addition, they are not as common as powdered and liquid detergents, so most people still prefer powdered or liquid detergents. The ingredients of powdered and liquid detergents are similar. The biggest difference is that solid fillers are added to powdered detergents for ease of usage and prevention ofcaking. In addition, although powdered detergents have a lower cost per wash , they must be dissolved in water first. Excessive use may stain dark clothes and affect their appearance. On the contrary, liquid detergents can be easily mixed with water and do not form granules, which are more environmentally friendly compared with powdered detergents. Would you like to know more about the performance of your laundry product? Please read the product tests in detail in the article, “34 Models of Laundry Detergents (Powder, Liquid and Capsules) Tested 4 Models With Outstanding Stain Removing Performance”, Choice Magazine, Issue 493 (Chinese version only). Smart laundry tips Do you think choosing suitable laundry products is enough? If you don’t do the laundry properly, even fine clothes can be ruined! Wash frequently to prevent musty smell Due to the humidity in Hong Kong, if clothes are not placed and handled properly, bacteria can easily grow and give a musty smell, especially in clothes made of synthetic fibres. To remove the odour, you should wash sweat-soaked clothes as soon as possible, and dry them thoroughly after washing. Regular cleaning is important In order to maintain its performance and prevent the growth of bacteria, as well as to keep the washing machine clean, consumers should regularly clean their washing machines with the drum cleaning function or run a washing cycle without clothes and laundry detergent in water at 60 °C or above. As the old Chinese saying goes, “the mechanic, who wishes to do his work well, must first sharpen his tools”. If you want to clean your clothes properly, a powerful washing machine that saves water as well as electricity is indeed very important. Click here to read the article, “Washing Machine: Is It Possible to Save Water and Electricity Concurrently?” (Chinese version only) for thorough preparation. Can laundry be done in an eco-friendly way? In recent years, public awareness of environmental issues has increased, and environmental factors are often considered when consumers choose laundry products. The market is also full of products that claim to be "biodegradable". Are these products really eco-friendly? These products actually only focus on their surfactants or main ingredients. However, to determine whether a product agrees with the idea of sustainable consumption, consumers will require a holistic evaluation of factors such as the recyclability of its packaging and the reduction in emission levels during its production and transportation before making comparisons. Pick products that are truly natural and organic In order to help consumers differentiate between products, many laundry detergents carry labels which are issued by third party certification bodies, such as: Environmental Choice New Zealand (owned and endorsed by the New Zealand Government) Safer Choice (a voluntary programme under the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency) U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) (U.S. Department of Agriculture’s certification of organic production, handling and labelling) ECOCERT (an organic certification body founded in France in 1991) USDA Certified Biobased Products (a voluntary labelling programme of biobased products managed by the USDA) China Environmental Labelling (a labelling certification programme by the PRC Government) To choose a suitable laundry detergent, check its list of ingredients and if it has been awarded the corresponding label by a certification body. For more tips on how to select laundry detergents, please refer to the article, “Find Out If the Ecolabel on the Laundry Detergent Is Certified”, CHOICE Magazine, Issue 494 (Chinese version only).
- 2021.02
- Tips
- Tech-savvy
- Home Appliances
Washing Machines: Can They Save Water and Energy at the Same Time?
3 different types of washing machines 1) Front-loading type (commonly referred as ‘Big Eyes’); 2) European top-loading type which typically has a narrower body, and 3) Japanese top-loading type (also known as the impeller type). In front-loading and European top-loading types, the drum rotates around a horizontal axis and the clothes are tumbled inside the drum. In impeller type, the drum rotates around a vertical axis. Performance showdown The Consumer Council recently tested 18 washing machine models on their energy-saving and water-saving performances, cleaning performance, noise level and vibration reduction, etc. Here is a summary of the results for your reference: Which type had the best cleaning performance? In general, the front-loading and European top-loading models which could heat up water seemed to be more effective in delivering the cleansing power of laundry detergent. Although the impeller models did not have any heating function and washed with room-temperature water only, the test results showed that some models did not necessarily give inferior cleaning results. Duration of the washing phase For the same type of washing machine, the longer the washing phase, generally the cleaner the laundry would be. Many models had a ‘quick wash’ cycle which, e.g., could complete washing, rinsing and spinning within 15 minutes. However, this cycle should only be used for smaller load and less-soiled clothes. Which type had the least detergent residuals after rinsing? The lesser the amount of detergent remained on the clothes, the better the rinsing performance was. A number of the front-loading and impeller models scored well in this test! Were the clothes still very wet after spinning? The water-extraction performance of the tested models varied. For example, in ‘cotton clothing’ session, the front-loading models varied between 42% and 112% in remaining moisture content. Due to their lower spinning speed, the impeller models generally had inferior water-extraction performance. Which type of washing machine has the shortest wash cycle? To complete the laundry in a fast fashion can be very helpful when you face endless housework. Which type of washing machine has a shorter wash cycle? In the test, all the impeller models performed well, taking about 7 to 20 minutes to wash each kilogram of clothes. The performance of the front-loading models varied significantly, taking about 17 to 59 minutes for each kilogram of laundry. European top-loading models took longer on average with 32 to 44 minutes for each kilogram of laundry. Achieving water and energy savings at the same time may not be possible Wishing that your washing machine can save water and energy at the same time? Well, it may not be possible in reality! In terms of energy consumption, since the impeller type does not have a heating function, and the spinning speed is generally lower as well as their wash cycles are often shorter, in general, they consume less energy than the front-loading type and European top-loading type. In terms of water consumption, since the clothes are tumbled in the front-loading and European top-loading models, there is no need to fill up the whole drum with water. Therefore, they generally use less water than the impeller type. Furthermore, using cold water or turning on the ‘eco’ mode can help save energy. Sorting clothes according to their materials and soil level, and using the appropriate wash cycles can help achieve water and energy savings more effectively! Pay attention to child safety features In terms of child safety features, the front-loading and European top-loading types are better as their doors are locked during the wash cycle. Because the drum opening of the impeller type is on top and wider in general, if the child lock function is not activated, the risk of children accidentally falling into the machine is higher. Moreover, the drum is filled with water during the wash cycle, which may not be drained automatically when the lid is opened, thus children may drown if they accidentally fall headfirst into the drum. Therefore, parents must pay attention to whether the washing machine is equipped with a child lock function when purchasing as it will help reduce the risk of accidents. Maintenance tips It is not cheap to buy a washing machine, so how to maintain and use it properly to prolong its useful life? Some models have a "drum cleaning" cycle, which should be used at least once a month. Consumers can also clean the drum regularly by running a hot water cycle with an empty drum (i.e., without any clothes and detergent). Avoid washing too many clothes at one time to reduce the vibration level of the drum during high-speed spinning. This can reduce the chance of mechanical damage. Use an appropriate amount of laundry detergent according to the instructions on the packaging. Using too much detergent may result in excessive foam and affect the operation of the machine. If the spinning speed is adjustable, consider lowering the speed to reduce the chance of mechanical damage as well as wear and tear on clothes. Extra: Some ‘eco’ tips Use cold water or the ‘eco’ mode to help save energy. Sort clothes according to their material and soil level and use the appropriate wash cycle in accordance with the user’s manual. This can help save water and energy more effectively. Try to wash with a full load. Using excessive amount of laundry detergent may not enhance the cleaning performance. It will only be a waste of money and may even cause environmental pollution. For the full report on the test, please refer to the article ‘Impeller-Type Front-Loading Type European Top-Loading Type Which Model Consumes Less Energy or Water’ (Chinese version only) in issue # 529 of CHOICE Magazine.
- 2021.01
- Tips
- Home Appliances
- Food and Cooking
Induction Cookers and Electric Ceramic Cookers are Significantly Different!
Which Pot Matches with Which Stove? Due to different heating principles, induction cookers are only compatible with magnetic-based iron pots with cast iron, stainless steel, or enamel materials. Electric ceramic cookers can be used with any pots, including ceramic, aluminium, glass, or teapots. What's more, the entire surface of a grilled electric ceramic cooker can be used for heating. The inception of new accessories, such as seafood steamer sets and Japanese or Korean teppanyaki, are also available for selection, so the associated package is also a key consideration! Heating Efficiency It can be frustrated to wait for a long time for water to boil when having hot pots. In general, induction cookers can heat the pot directly, being more efficient. In contrast, the surface of electric ceramic cookers must first be heated before the heat reaches the pot, so the efficiency is relatively lower. In terms of heating speed, the efficiency of cookers with a higher wattage performs better. Taking the 2,000-watt model as an example, it takes about 4 minutes to boil one litre of water; smaller wattage models with lower power heats up more slowly. Therefore, it is vital to pay attention to cookers' power when choosing the best fit option. Standby Power Electrical appliances also consume energy in standby mode. The difference in the performance of various cookers can be significant, especially for induction cookers. Consumers may refer to the energy efficiency label of the product when purchasing induction cookers. The third phase of The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme (MEELS) extends the coverage to induction cookers, categorised into five grades. Grade 1 energy label is the most energy-efficient, and Grade 5 energy label is the least energy-efficient. The test results revealed that models labelled as Grade 5 have higher standby power. Therefore, users are advised to switch off the power cord to save energy when idling. Heat Control Cooking fire can be distinguished with a naked eye when the heat is turned on. The control board display helps indicate and regulate the amount of heat delivered for electric stoves. The test results suggested electric ceramic cookers to be more stable, with the heat supply relatively more even and easier to control at low heat. Preset Cooking Procedures In terms of electronic functions, induction cookers and electric ceramic cookers are better than traditional portable LPG stoves. Most models provide basic functions, including hot pot, soup boiling, fixed temperature, and stir-fry. Some cookers are equipped with functions such as slow cook and sauna steam. Electronic cookers usually have timing functions to power off themselves or cook at low heat at constant temperatures, without cooking supervision required. Some cookers contain a bonus Wi-Fi function, which can be operated remotely through mobile phone apps – actualising a smart home life. Convenient to Clean Since the surface of most models is covered in ceramics, it makes cleaning much easier regardless of oil drops, soup spills, or food crumbs! When purchasing, it is vital to observe the cooker's cooktop, edges, buttons, or knobs to identify any potential dents that may make cleaning difficult. Safety Recommendations on Electronic Cookers Safety Locks The light-touch design is convenient but is often touched mistakenly, especially for pets. In case "the naughty pet" jumps onto the stove, accidents can occur at any time. Therefore, a safety lock is also a key factor for consideration. Most models, in general, have the heating button preset for cooking after the on-and-off button has been pressed to ensure safety. Residual Heat on the Surface of the Cooker Electric ceramic cookers pass heat to the pot through the gradual heat-up of the cooktop panel. The heat remains on the surface after the cooker has turned off. It is advised to cover the top with utensils after cooking to avoid getting burnt. Moreover, the power cord should be tied up, stored well, and kept from crossing over the cooker's surface. The induction cooker panel retains less heat, and the temperature of the cooker surface is relatively lower after cooking. In addition, less heat retention in the panel also helps to improve the operation efficiency! Marking and Instruction Labels Foreigner roommates and domestic helpers should observe whether the control board display has dual language, containing both Chinese and English. Although most of the buttons are relatively simple to use, it is best if all family members know how to operate without obstacles. Reminders: Tips for using induction cookers and electric ceramic cookers Induction and electric ceramic cookers' wattage is generally high, so do not share the same socket with other high-power electrical appliances. Please check the cooker surface for cracks or breakage before use. Do not put too much water in the pot to avoid over floating when it boils. Cover the pot with a lid as much as possible and reduce the heat to save electricity and retain food moisture. Many fumes will be produced when grilling, so it is advised to maintain indoor air circulation. Do not unplug the power cords immediately after use as the fans of some models are still operating. It is recommended to allow the heating panel to cool off before turning it off. Summarising the above main points, even with hundreds of models of induction cookers or electric ceramic cookers, the Consumer Council believes you can choose the most suitable one. If you want to understand further the safety test and the efficiency information of different models, take a look at the comprehensive test of various induction cookers! [Issue 518 "Choice" Monthly Magazine: Induction Cookers are Essential for Hotpots in Winter] (Chinese version only) Food Safety You should pay heed to food safety when eating hot pots. Avoid thinking that bacteria will not hurt, thus swallowing uncooked food hastily. You may look at [Issue 320 of Choice Monthly] (Chinese version only) for food safety tips on choosing frozen meat and why thawed meat should not be re-frozen.
- 2020.08
- Tips
- Home Appliances
- Green Living
《4 Key Tips To Enjoy The Cool Breeze Without Breaking The Bank? 》
“Cooling” is the key The cooling capacity of an air conditioner is clearly the most important factor. This measures the appliance's ability to remove heat from the indoor to outdoor. The higher the cooling capacity, the faster the cooling. The Energy Label which people normally refer to when purchasing an air conditioner gives the appliance an efficiency grade. The higher the efficiency, the less energy it will consume and thus more money will be saved. It is worth mentioning that the grading standard under the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme (MEELS) for room air conditioners is based on the Cooling Seasonal Performance Factor (CSPF) which calculates the ratio of the total annual amount of heat that the air conditioner can remove from the indoor air to the total annual amount of energy consumed during the same period. The computation also takes into account other environmental factors and the resultant rating/grade can effectively reflect the actual energy efficiency of an air conditioner. Apart from choosing an air conditioner with high energy efficiency, you may also need to pay attention to certain factors or situations (such as high humidity level, large room size, west-facing windows, multiple electric appliances in use, and indoor population size, etc.) which may increase the cooling demand and also your electricity bill. Would lowering of the “Fan Speed” lead to energy savings? We tend to think that we can conserve energy by lowering the fan speed of an air conditioner. But you will be surprised to learn that a low-fan-speed setting is not conducive to the overall cooling function and thus affects the energy efficiency of an air conditioner. In reality more energy is consumed in the cooling process under this setting. Consumers should try to adjust the fan speed of an air conditioner to its highest setting whenever possible in order to enhance its performance and save energy. Let the “Electric Fan” stay on Do you habitually close all the windows and switch off all electric fans before turning on the air conditioner? Well, from now on you can skip the latter. As an electric fan consumes far less energy than an air conditioner, you can actually achieve energy saving by switching on both appliances. This is because with the electric fan’s supplementary effect, you can raise the air conditioner’s set point temperature (and save energy) while still having the sensation of thermal comfort! Beware of the “Noise Level” A quieter air conditioner is always more desirable as it not only provides for a peaceful living environment but is also “soothing” to your wallet! Imagine that you had an air conditioner which kept roaring and disturbing your neighbours nearby…… Given such noise emission is regulated under the Noise Control Ordinance, you may be prosecuted at any time and liable with a fine of up to $10,000. If you want to learn more about how to save energy and money(!) while enjoying the comfort of your air conditioner(s), you may want to refer to the article, “Test conducted on ¾ “Horsepower” Window-Type Air Conditioners: Models Using the Eco-Friendly Refrigerants Outperform!”. CHOICE Magazine, Issue 523 (Chinese version only). In the article, the Consumer Council gives an in-depth analysis on the energy efficiency of the various air conditioners in the market and provides useful tips on energy saving.
