Vacuum Cleaners
There is no dramatic savings on importing these tax-free from the US. Vacuum cleaners come in three types: upright, canister, and canister with power nozzle. Important features: light weight, no dust from the exhaust filter (especially recommended for people with allergies), variable suction control (vacuums rugs without drawing them into the machine), re-usable bags.
Canister vacuums are for homes without stretches of carpet. You hold the nozzle in your hand and wheel the motor section along behind you, attached by a long, flexible hose. They can be used on drapery and furniture as well as floors and carpets. Upright vacuum cleaners are preferred for homes with many carpets. They can be bought with attachments for drapery and furniture, though they are a bit awkward to set up and may not clean corners. Kirby is available in Israel. It is without match for solidity, power, longevity, versatility, and effectiveness.
Power nozzles. An air driven power nozzle, with its own motor and powerful revolving brush, fits into the extension hose. It combines the power brushing of an upright with the maneuverability and lightness of a canister. Miele, Severin, and Hoover are recommended brands.
Electric brooms
They are inexpensive, lightweight vacuum cleaners for floor and carpets.
Air conditioners
Buy them in Israel. You can use your rights for Israeli-made brands.
Water Filters
Since the quality of water in Israel is irregular, it is a good idea to consider getting a water filter. There are 3 main kinds in order of price and effectiveness — lower to higher: portable counter-top such as Brita, under the counter/through the sink top ceramic/charcoal filters, and reverse osmosis. Reverse osmosis wastes about ½ the water it purifies so its use should be limited to drinking and cooking water. For all types of filters it is worthwhile bringing them from the US/Canada. For about $10 in the US, you can buy cylinder water filters, which sell in Israel for $50.
Refrigerators with icemakers and/or ice/water dispensers also should be fitted with water filters. With all water filters, if they are unused for a few months, run water through them for 10 minutes before using again.
**When you purchase appliances through Kef, there is a zero deductible on marine insurance.
See also: Appliance Sales, Appliance Info
