How Things Work at Home

A refrigerator uses a refrigeration cycle to move heat from its insulated interior to the surrounding room.

A heat pump transfers heat rather than creating it directly, and many systems can reverse direction.

A thermostat compares measured temperature with a set point and controls equipment to narrow the difference.

A microwave oven uses electromagnetic waves to transfer energy into food, especially water-rich material.

Induction cooking uses a changing magnetic field to induce currents in compatible cookware.

A dishwasher directs heated water and detergent through spray arms, then drains and dries the load.

Water heaters use an energy source to raise water temperature for bathing, cleaning, and cooking.

A washing machine combines water, detergent, mechanical action, and spin cycles to clean textiles.

A vacuum cleaner uses a pressure difference and airflow to carry dust and debris into a bag or canister.

A flush toilet uses water to move waste while its trap helps block gases from the drainage system.

A plumbing trap keeps a small amount of water in a bend to stop gases from traveling through the drain.

Smoke detectors use sensing chambers to warn occupants when smoke reaches a detectable level.

A circuit breaker opens an electrical circuit when current becomes unsafe, helping protect wiring.

An electrical fuse contains a part designed to melt when current exceeds its safe rating.

An elevator moves a car through a shaft using hoisting equipment, guides, brakes, and control systems.

A zipper’s slider brings two rows of teeth into or out of interlocking alignment.

A hinge connects two parts while allowing controlled rotation around a pin or axis.

A siphon can move liquid over a higher point when the outlet is lower and the tube remains filled.

Composting uses decomposer organisms to turn suitable organic waste into a stable soil amendment.