thanks
Drmitch, thanks for the welcome.
This is a very interesting place. I found this site whilst researching efficiency factors in major appliances, and it's been incredibly informative. I'm a telephone systems engineer (and Panasonic PBX systems dealer), but also do eco-industrial and eco-domestic design in my spare time.
In the past I've found that sites which bring together technical professionals and historic-interest hobbyists, are really good places to discuss potential improvements in the technology in question. In this case major appliances, and other household electrical goods. Energy and water conservation are becoming more important with each passing year, so I've started to get interested in the relevant design factors, and it looks like y'all are exactly the kinds of experts I'm looking to hook up with.