U.S. Appliance Shipment Statistics Monthly: October 2010

The major appliance industry in the United States was well on the road to recovery during the first half of 2010 in terms of unit shipments. The second half of the year, however, is proving that economic recovery is unpredictable. July was the first month in 2010 to show a significant number of category shipment decreases and many categories stayed negative through September.

Earlier editions of the U.S. Appliance Shipment Statistics Monthly report detailed measures that stimulated the appliance industry in late 2009 through the first half of this year - the Home Buyer Tax Credit and the U.S. State Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Programs (SEEARP). Since the expiration of the home tax credits, home sales have dropped. However, September showed sales within the existing home industry up 10% over August figures. In addition, home remodeling spending is expected to reach double-digit growth through the first half of 2011 according to The Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University.

The future outlook is positive for appliance manufacturers that continue to invest in energy-efficient technology. A late-October 2010 report found that consumer satisfaction with appliance performance is strongly influenced by the owner's perception of an appliance's water and energy efficiency. Manufacturers that address these needs will benefit, such as Whirlpool, which unveiled what is said to be the U.S. industry's most resource-efficient laundry pair. The Duet washer uses as little as 11.5 gallons of water per load, saving as much as 12,857 gallons of water per year and $3,300 in lifetime energy costs. Those are the type of premium appliance features that will be compelling to appliance shoppers.