Innovation
History of Appliance Innovation
More than a century of firsts, from the first electric range to the connected kitchen.
Present-2000
2025
Smart hybrid heat pump water heater, up to 4.7 times more efficient than standard electric heaters, with flexible capacity for up to 60 percent more hot water. Named Smart Appliance Company of the Year.
2024
First Spanish-language washer for U.S. customers, a tactile sticker kit for blind and low-vision users, and a smart indoor smoker with active smoke filtration.
2020 to 2023
Ventless heat pump combo laundry, built-in voice assistant on a top-load washer, antimicrobial dishwashers, over-the-air updates that add cooking modes to existing appliances, and a kitchen hub with an in-oven camera.
2014 to 2019
Launch of the co-creation community and microfactory, nugget ice maker, induction cooktop, customizable premium finishes, and the first appliances to connect directly with leading voice assistants.
2000 to 2013
Hybrid heat pump water heater, the first washer that talks to the dryer, advanced water filtration, and the first ENERGY STAR-qualified electric heat pump model.
1999-1990
1999. Stainless steel lineup and the first speed-cooking ovens. 1997. Concept appliances including a web-enabled refrigerator. 1995. First auto-sensing smart dishwasher. 1992. Integrated appliance line. 1990. White-on-white design.
1989-1970
1987. Premium built-in line. 1981. Customer answer center opens. 1978. Over-the-range microwave. 1977. Microprocessor cooking controls. 1974. Molded thermoplastic dishwasher tub. 1973. Dispensing wash system. 1971. Portable air conditioner.
1969-1950
1969. Through-the-door ice and water dispenser. 1963. First self-cleaning oven. 1962. Foam-insulated refrigerator. 1958. Electric can opener. 1955. Mix-or-match appliance colors. 1954. Portable dishwasher. 1950. Major appliance division moves to Louisville.
1949-1900
1947. Two-door refrigerator-freezer and fully automatic washer. 1935. Food waste disposer. 1930. Room air conditioner. 1927. The Monitor Top refrigerator. 1925. Hermetically sealed home refrigerator. 1907. Full line of heating and cooking devices. 1904. First electric range.