Appliance Service Technicians

Although some small home appliances, including irons and coffee makers, were patented before the 20th century began, only a few types were in general use before the end of World War I. Around that time, however, more efficient and inexpensive electric motors were developed, which made appliances more affordable to the general public. In addition, electric and gas utility companies began extending their services into all parts of the nation. As a result many new laborsaving appliances began to appear on the market. Eventually consumers began to rely increasingly on a wide variety of machines to make everyday tasks easier and more pleasant, both at home and at work. Soon many kinds of equipment, such as washing machines and kitchen ranges, were considered an essential part of middle-class life.

Since the end of World War II, there has been a tremendous growth in the use and production of home appliances. The increasing use of appliances has created the need for qualified people to install, repair, and service them. Today's service technicians need a different mix of knowledge and skills than was needed by the appliance repairers of years ago, however, because today's appliances often involve complex electronic parts. The use of electronic components is advantageous to consumers because the electronic appliances are more reliable. However, the fact that modern appliances need fewer repairs means that the demand for appliance technicians is no longer growing as fast as the use of new appliances.