The Good Old Days (refrigerators)

Last evening, Glenn and I (and Jake and Buddy - like always) went to the pond.  The days continue to be  hot with the evenings/nights cooling to chilly.  The water temperature reflected that cooling, but is still tolerable.  As we swam, we would call out, "warm spot" or "cold spot".

 

Does this look like a refrigerator ready to go out to the proverbial 'pasture'?

What should be  a  cold spot is our refrigerator; it was not.  Our refrigerator died on Thursday.

So, we spent the entire day of Friday looking for a replacement. 

I went with a list of my specifics:  black; textured; exterior ice/water dispenser (Glenn constantly uses this feature); adequate interior cubic footage; inexpensive; and most important, will last 20+ years.

I was told by the salesperson that no refrigerator is made to last 20 years any more, it is more like 7- 10 tops (at least he was honest); and that texture is passe, finishes are now upgraded to smooth. Smooth is great new and unused, but add a dent or everyday fingerprints, and it becomes an eye magnet with each passing.  Also,  I am not one who will constantly be wiping those finger smudges.  Glenn is notorious for opening up the refrigerator with wet or grimy hands.  He insists his hands are clean, but I have proof otherwise.

After spending/wasting the entire day (way too much time) looking, we returned home without a purchase.  After reviewing the options, from memory, in our kitchen, we finally did decide to purchase  the only black, textured refrigerator available. It was also the least expensive.  The next choice was twice the money.  In conclusion,  if this refrigerator lasts 5 years, we should be satisfied. 

our new 'Black Beauty'

I made a phone call, near closing time, to order the refrigerator, and was asked to be called back as B, our salesperson, was with a customer.  B called back after closing, took our order, and guaranteed next day delivery.  The refrigerator was to be delivered on Saturday between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.  The refrigerator was delivered promptly at 1:00 PM.   I give an A+ for service.  And, I will also be calling the store manager with positive comments. I want to make sure I give credit for  this exceptional service - it is so rare these days.

When I was growing up, I remember hearing people comment about refrigerators lasting 20-50 years. (Yes, it was relevant talk back then - a big deal)  A down grade to 10 years is progress? 

Why are we accepting less when we know more is possible?  Why, as consumers, do we not demand more?  Why have our standards decreased with increasing regulations?

I remember when doing good work was praised, providing good service was the norm, and a dollar spent actually resulted in a dollar's worth of goods. 

I guess that is one reason those days are referred to as 'the good old days'.