February 7th, 2012 by Keri Algar

Albert Einstein once said: “A clever person solves a problem. A wise person avoids it.” Obviously, the genius German physicist wasn't trying to farm in the Australian outback (he was wise enough not to try), where devastating droughts inspired one Aussie to invent an irrigation device that takes water from air and channels it back to plants. The Airdrop system by Edward Linacre was last year's Dyson Design Award winner. “Winning the James Dyson Award ... Read more

February 6th, 2012 by Keri Algar

The Sunbeam FoodSaver FreshSaver was last week announced the 2012 Product of the Year in the Small Appliances category. The product is a hand-held, vacuum sealing system. Sunbeam received the award in Sydney last Thursday, after being announced as a finalist in September 2011. Nicole Cowley, marketing manager Sunbeam, received the award. “Sunbeam’s handheld FoodSaver FreshSaver is a truly convenient and innovative product made for consumers who are conscious about saving money and reducing ... Read more

February 6th, 2012 by Louise Carter

Last week we published 'The Kettle is for Water, not Sausages,' which provoked an extraordinary response from our readers. It seems we've struck a chord deep within the heart of the Australian psyche. Alongside barbequing large bits of dead animal and slathering Vegemite on everything, it appears that the average Aussie is something of a MacGyver in the kitchen – constantly on the lookout for new and ... Read more

February 3rd, 2012 by Keri Algar

Forget bread makers, washing machines and air conditioners, the giant electronics maker has used cutting edge technology to perfect the privy. It has invented a water efficient, tankless toilet. Water is drawn directly from the home water supply while the bowl has been designed like a tornado to circulate waste down the drain cleanly - sans cistern. The Arauno V uses only three litres of water per flush, less than ... Read more

February 2nd, 2012 by Keri Algar

If you’ve paid $50 for 1,000 TV channels, beware. Yesterday, New South Wales police busted a pay TV piracy ring in Ashfield and have today advised anyone accessing illegal pay TV subscriptions to stop, or “risk legal consequences”. The large scale and sophisticated operation has been supplying illicit access to copyrighted materials including movies from multiple companies and subscription TV channels, according to a NSW Police statement. Unlicensed ... Read more

February 1st, 2012 by Richie Black

Okay, let’s talk about taps. Not the most inspiring subject, you may say. Terrific source of H2O of course, but not exactly something to gush over.   Well, that’s where we want to turn you on to Billi – and their instant filtered water taps. Industry-leaders for over 20 years, they bring new standards of style, convenience and safety to this essential kitchen appliance. Who - or what ... Read more

February 1st, 2012 by Keri Algar

Residents living in the shire of Hornsby in Sydney's north west are next to benefit from the New South Wales Government funded Fridge Buyback project. On 6 February Hornsby residents will have the opportunity to have their old, second fridges removed for free as well as offering households a financial incentive to do this. Households are eligible for free removal and a $35 rebate if the fridge is at least 10 ... Read more

January 31st, 2012 by Keri Algar

Breville has today announced an earnings update in anticipation of its end of half year sales report due late February. Based on preliminary results, the small appliance maker has said the group's earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) will be in the range of $65 million and $67 million for the first half of the financial year ending 31 December 2011. Breville has its overseas operations to thank for ... Read more

January 30th, 2012 by Keri Algar

Whitegoods have topped the list of consumer complaints made in New South Wales, according to the Minister for Fair Trading, Anthony Roberts. Whitegoods, electrical, and gas products accounted for 2,611 complaints of the 42,500 received in total by the agency in 2011. Defective or unsatisfactory goods, repairs, maintenance and refunds were cited as the most common problems. Research shows that Australians are frustrated with outcomes when faced with defective white goods and electronic goods especially, said the minister. Have ... Read more

January 30th, 2012 by Keri Algar

One in two Australians are switching off appliances in an effort to save on their energy bill. Whether it's an imminent carbon tax and subsequent energy price hikes or caring for the environment, TVs and beer fridges are being given the flick nationwide. Turning off appliances is certainly the most effective way of saving energy, but for those looking for a less dramatic solution,  Appliances Online has put together a couple of energy ... Read more