Anybody who’s traveled or lived in Europe may have noticed that in addition to foreign cars, accents, and food, home appliances are remarkably different than the ones found in North America.

Many of the differences in the appliances across the ocean are a result of higher population density, and smaller living spaces. The average apartment size in Europe is at least 500 square feet smaller than the typical North American apartment, which means that most appliances are much smaller in order to save space.

The prices of gas and energy are also significantly more expensive overseas, which means that much more emphasis is placed on energy efficiency when it comes to appliances.

Here are a few differences that you’ll notice in standard home appliances when visiting Europe:

Refrigerators

As of the past ten years, almost all modern North American kitchens are stocked with a double door freezer/refrigerator combo, with a built-in ice maker and water dispenser. These models are rarely found overseas, if at all. While refrigerators with built-in freezers do exist, they are typically half the width of their North American counterparts, and built to be stylishly and seamlessly integrated into compact spaces.

Ovens

Like refrigerators, the standard European is much smaller than the ones we are used to in North America. In fact, smaller apartments may be equipped with a counter top cooking surface (or “hob” as they are referred to in Europe) in lieu of a full oven.

The actual heating process itself is also different in European built ovens. Convection ovens are widely used in Europe, and do not include a traditional “bake” setting, because the elements are hidden under the floor of the oven and can take more than 30 minutes to heat. Alternatively, European convection heaters are located on the oven’s outside rear which is more energy efficient and results in faster preheat times as well as higher temperatures. These outer elements also result in less build-up within the cavity, which means that self-cleaning ovens are unnecessary.

Washing Machines

While top loading and front loading machines are merely a matter of preference in North America, the former is next to obsolete in Europe. Front loaders are used almost exclusively, largely because of their energy efficiency. These machines have internal heaters, which allow cold water to be heated from 30 to 95 degrees Celsius. Also, since the water is heated gradually, stains are typically removed from clothing before hot water has a chance to permanently set them.

Again, machines are also much smaller and often kept in the kitchen instead of a traditional laundry room.

Overall, the main differences between European and North American appliances are size and energy efficiency. Fortunately, if you prefer the features or look of overseas appliances, many North American retailers now stock European inspired designs allowing you to add foreign flare to your home. No matter which style of appliance you have SOS Appliance Repair has technicians will the training and experience needed to repair and maintain them. If you're looking for a Toronto appliance repair service or the GTA, don't hesitate to contact us!