For the last 100 years, dryers, ovens, refrigerators, washing machines and other household appliances have performed the same basic functions, such as keeping food hot or cold and getting clothes wet and dry. But, a new breed of “smart” appliances is emerging, thanks to advanced sensor technology and the Internet of Things (IoT).
FINDLAY, OH—Whirlpool Corp. has begun construction on a $40 million expansion project at its dishwasher assembly plant here. The project will add 86,400 square feet to the facility and create approximately 50 new jobs. In addition, the appliance manufacturer has completed work on $40 million expansion project at its assembly plant in nearby Greenville, OH.
GREENVILLE, OH—After two years in product development, Whirlpool and KitchenAid finally began producing the new KitchenAid Pro Line Blender on March 28. The new product joins a host of other appliances assembled in Greenville, such as the KitchenAid Stand Mixer and hand mixer.
OTTAWA, OH—Whirlpool’s freezer assembly plant here is an example of having an opportunity and making the most of it. The appliance manufacturer bought the factory in 2009 after its previous owner, W.C. Wood, shut it down and laid off the workforce.
OAK RIDGE, TN—The Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Whirlpool Corporation are collaborating to design a refrigerator that could cut energy use by up to 40 percent compared with current models.
FINDLAY, OH—Whirlpool Corp. is using wind energy to power its assembly plant here. Two wind turbines will supply approximately 22 percent of the plant’s electricity.
BENTON HARBOR, MI—Whirlpool Corp. has agreed to pay $1 billion for a controlling stake in Italian appliance maker Indesit Co., its largest acquisition since buying former rival Maytag Corp. eight years ago.
