SETTLING IN - CultureShock! A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette - page 112

Appliances
Most kitchens come empty except for the sink, so you will
have to think about appliances and cabinets. If you are
thinking of bringing large appliances from your country,
make sure they fit the rooms—kitchens tend to be smaller
than what you might be used to. Also, if your appliances are
brands not common in Europe, finding parts and service
when they break down may be difficult. In general, it may
be more economical to purchase appliances in Paris.
Most washing machines in France heat the water
internally, using only a cold water tap, so if the washer you
import depends on an external hot water tap, it may wash
clothes only in cold water. In addition, some apartments
are not vented for tumble dryers, but convection dryers
are almost as efficient.
If you have your own washing machine (as well as a
dishwasher), you must remember that the water in Paris
is extremely 'hard'. This means that minerals ( calcaire )
will build up in the pipes. Products such as Calgonite can
prevent this build-up in washing machines and are sold
next to detergents; you should put in one pellet for each
load. For dishwashers, special salts ( sel ) must be inserted
into the machine, as well as a rinsing ( rinçage ) product to
avoid streaks on glasses. (A light comes on to inform you
when they need to be replenished.)
Major department stores such as BHV (see page 106) sell
appliances, as do the big supermarkets or hypermarchés .
Occasionally, a shop will be slightly flexible in its prices
when several large, expensive items are purchased, or if
you are a known customer. Ask about warranties on new
products and about service après-vente / dépannage à domicile
(after sales service/repair), for some shops require 'smaller'
items—even something as large as a microwave oven—to
be brought back to the store, charging extra for a home
call. It is best to get warranties on products and to use
licensed repairmen.
Large appliances are delivered and installed. Make
sure everything works before the installer leaves; the
driver will take back damaged goods. Some stores claim