For Kazman, a legal counsel at the Competitive Enterprise Institute (CEI), this statement reflects a frustrating reality for millions of American households.
Family Handyman magazine notes that the lifespan of appliances in the US has decreased significantly over the past 25 years. Dishwashers that once completed a cycle in an hour now take over two and a half hours, often leaving dishes dirty, damp, or with an unpleasant odor. Appliance repair technicians report that newer models break down more quickly than older ones. Many families pre-rinse their dishes, run two cycles for one load, or even abandon their dishwashers altogether, returning to hand washing.
The reason is believed to be manufacturers' changes in design, using lighter and more complex components to "meet efficiency standards." The result is higher maintenance and replacement costs. For some, these minor inconveniences accumulate, creating a sense that "regulations are making life worse."
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US regulations have reduced water usage per cycle from 19 liters to 12 and mandated a 30% reduction in energy consumption, resulting in newer dishwashers that are slower, less effective, and prone to breakdowns. Photo: Discoursemagazine
Dishwashers are just one piece of the "kitchen appliance battle." In recent years, the US Department of Energy (DOE) has continuously tightened efficiency standards for household appliances like gas stoves, ceiling fans, and refrigerators to conserve energy and water. The DOE claims these regulations can save $652 million annually.
In 2018, the CEI petitioned the DOE to relax standards, allowing for the production of "quick-wash" dishwashers that could clean and dry dishes within an hour. The proposal received over 2,000 comments, with 95% in support.
"Please allow someone to make a dishwasher fast and efficient enough for a family of 5, so I can clear the table before bedtime!", one young mother wrote. "I spent $900 on a new dishwasher that's worse than my $200 model from the 1990s. Isn't technology supposed to improve?", another consumer commented.
In 2020, the DOE initially approved the production of "quick-wash" dishwashers, but this regulation was later rescinded. Eleven states sued the DOE, arguing that the new rules forced people to re-wash dishes, ultimately wasting more water and energy.
The kitchen appliance debate has even become a political issue. In 2020, Donald Trump made "clean and fast dishwashers" a campaign slogan during his re-election bid. In his first executive order after taking office, he emphasized "protecting the freedom to choose appliances."
From gas stoves and showerheads to dishwashers, everyday appliances in American life have become the focus of a decades-long debate between those who want to reduce emissions and conserve resources, and those who prioritize convenience. This tug-of-war continues.
Bao Nhien (via Discoursemagazine/ Theverge)
