Costco Connection | July | Inside Costco | Buying Smart | Laundry Quandry
LG 5.5-cu.-ft. Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Top Load Washer; LG 7.3-cu.-ft. Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Gas or Electric Dryer. Available in black or white. Search “LG” at Costco.com.
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Laundry quandary
Costco buyers scour the market for the latest tech and innovations to offer on Costco.com
by LAURA BODE
According to the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, the average family of four does several hundred loads of laundry each year, a washing and drying routine that, as a mother of two growing kids, I am overly familiar with.
The good news is that technology and innovations have taken washers and dryers to the next level, helping to save time and money on this ongoing chore. I recently spent some time with the Costco buying team to learn about the latest developments, which you can check out at the display kiosks in the warehouses, or view on Costco.com.
Machines that learn
Advanced technology has moved us light-years from the appliances of our parents’ generation.
Adaptive intelligence, a form of artificial intelligence, and commonly referred to as “AI” in the appliance world, enables washers and dryers to “learn” your favorite washing cycles and maximize cleaning power and fabric care. Washing machines with AI suggest the range of temperatures that can be used to most efficiently consume energy. Sensors can detect the amount of water and energy needed for each specific load, reducing waste.
With each use, your appliances become more adept at their jobs.
Clean technology
Many manufacturers feature a small “washer within a washer,” which allows you to run a smaller load at the same time a larger load is going. Some models even wash and dry all in one unit.
Wi-Fi has become a common feature. Many machines are able to communicate with your smart device, allowing you to control your washer and dryer via verbal commands from anywhere.
“It’s not technology for technology’s sake, but we use it to help make laundry simpler and easier,” says David Wilson, senior commercial director of clothes care at GE Appliances.
For example, he says, you can direct the machine, via the manufacturer’s app, to remove wine stains from jeans. The app will send the info to GE, get information on how to optimize the washer to take the stains out and direct that info to the machine, which will automatically adjust to the right temperature, spin cycle, etc. for that particular load.
Automatic detergent dispensing and soil detection are also part of AI. New washers can measure detergent and soil levels in the water. “We tend to over-wash our clothes,” Wilson says. “This new sensor technology detects when the clothes are completely clean, which cuts down on the wash time, which in turn creates less wear and tear on clothing.”
Many dryers feature reverse or extended tumbling, and moisture sensors can extend or reduce drying time, helping you avoid shrinking clothes or ending up with loads that are still damp.
You can also closely track your laundry via the manufacturer’s app or get a head start on your (preloaded) laundry—simply turn on your washer and/or dryer with the app.
Education and support
With all of these advances, how do Costco buyers stay ahead and know which appliances are the best of the best for Costco members? It starts with research. Buyers focus relentlessly on industry analysis and appliance education to review the latest and greatest appliance releases. “We curate the best assortment of items to offer to our members based on quality and value,” says Costco buyer Connor Hovsepian.
The attention to detail doesn’t stop at the point of sale, says Costco buyer Jeremy Noble: “We recognize that technology can be overwhelming for some folks, and learning how to operate and get the most out of your appliances can be a challenge at first.” Free troubleshooting and technical support for members comes with each new washer and dryer. The Costco Concierge Services team is readily available to help answer questions, whether it’s about how to set something up or how to power cycle your device.
While we await the invention of a robot that will take laundry completely off our chore lists, the innovative tech-nology of today’s washing machines and dryers—and Costco—has made it easier to keep up.
Extra load of value
When comparison shopping, note that most retailers offer a standard one-year manufacturer’s warranty. Costco adds a year, doubling the warranty time. “In most areas, we also include in-home delivery, basic installation and haul-away of your old appliance in our pricing,” says Costco buyer Connor Hovsepian. “Competitors often charge extra for these things.”—LB
Mind the details
Costco buyers Jeremy Noble and Connor Hovsepian say that before purchasing an appliance, you will want to consider these important aspects:
- Make sure the fuel type of the washer or dryer (gas or electric) is compatible with the connections in your home.
- Make sure it will fit—not just where you want it, but every step of the path it takes to place it inside.
“A narrow driveway, tight corners, interior doorways or a kitchen island might eliminate certain appliances as options,” Noble says. “We want members to have a positive experience on delivery day, so ‘walking the path’ prior to the delivery team arrival is key.”—LB
Laura Bode fills this month’s consumer reporter slot with this behind-the-scenes look at a Costco program. Email questions about this article to connection@costco.com.
