Sustainable appliances: Understanding environmental impact and lifecycle
Every appliance has a story that extends far beyond your kitchen or laundry room. From the materials and refrigerants used in manufacturing to how products are shipped, powered, and eventually recycled, your household machines play a bigger role in the planet’s health than most of us realize. In this series, Reviewed explores the full lifecycle of large appliances—their carbon footprints, end-of-life challenges, and the innovations making them cleaner and more sustainable. Learn how to dispose of old units responsibly, what refrigerant types matter for climate impact, and which brands are leading on sustainability and repairability. Whether you’re upgrading your fridge, installing a new dishwasher, or just curious about where your appliances go when they die, this is your guide to making choices that matter.