This booklet on household equipment, 1 in a series of 12, covers all the basic aspects of personal- and family-money management. Suitable for use by high school and college students as well as adults, this handbook offers information to help buyers purchase household equipment that is within their budget. Section 1 discusses managing equipment dollars. Topics include establishing a spending plan, determining methods of payment, checking home facilities, recognizing equipment-safety features, and discussing 10 points to help consumers become more knowledgeable when shopping for household equipment. Section 2 provides buying guides for major kitchen appliances (ranges, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, food-waste disposers, and trash compactors), water-softening equipment, water-heating equipment, major laundry appliances (washers and dryers), floor care appliances, and portable electric appliances. In section 3 are tips on using household equipment, appliance services, and safety. (YLB)