Abstract: A clothes washer is provided comprising one or more power consuming functions and a controller in signal communication with an associated utility. The controller can receive and process a signal from the associated utility indicative of current state of an associated utility. The controller operates the clothes washer in one of a plurality of operating modes, including at least a normal operating mode and an energy savings mode in response to the received signal. The controller is configured to change the power consuming functions by changing the duty cycling profile of the heater and/or mechanical action of the basket in the energy savings mode.

Abstract: An appliance lid for an appliance is disclosed. The appliance lid includes a viewing window; and at least one clamshell providing partial encapsulation of the viewing window using at least two parts surrounding the viewing window. The viewing window allows operation of the appliance to be observed. In one embodiment, the clamshell includes a top piece and a bottom piece encapsulating the viewing window. The appliance may be, for example, a top loading washing machine. The top and bottom pieces can be fastened to one another, for example, using an adhesive or one or more mechanical fasteners. One or more gaskets can optionally be provided along at least one edge of the viewing window. A magnet can optionally be embedded in the clamshell to provide a safety lock for the appliance.

Abstract: A clothes washer is provided comprising one or more power consuming functions and a controller in signal communication with an associated utility. The controller can receive and process a signal from the associated utility indicative of current state of an associated utility. The controller operates the clothes washer in one of a plurality of operating modes, including at least a normal operating mode and an energy savings mode in response to the received signal. The controller is configured to change the power consuming functions by changing the duty cycling profile of the heater and/or mechanical action of the basket in the energy savings mode.

Abstract: A display device of an appliance having a graphic user interface and a structure for positioning the display device within a recess of a surface of the appliance between a substantially flush position with respect to the surface and a tilted position in which the display device has been moved away from the surface.