TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES: --Obvious print and punctuation errors were corrected. --Bold text has been rendered with equal signs: =bold text=. --Because of the fairy amount of tables, it is recommended the use of a monospaced font. MECHANICAL DEVICES IN THE HOME by EDITH ALLEN, M. A. _Assistant Editor, U. S. Department of Agriculture Formerly Specialist in Home Economics in Kansas State Agricultural College, University of Texas, and Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College_ [Illustration: LOGO] THE MANUAL ARTS PRESS PEORIA, ILLINOIS Copyright 1922 Edith Allen 12C22 _Printed in the United States of America_ PREFACE In writing this book, my aim has been (1) to give information which will guide householders in selecting and installing the best cooking and heating devices, and in using them with the greatest economy of fuel and safety against accidents; (2) to explain the construction of lighting fixtures and how to determine the amount of light for health needed in various places; (3) to explain the principles of cooling; (4) to show how to make small repairs which save plumbers' bills; (5) to guide in the choice and care of laundry appliances and cooking utensils; (6) to familiarize women with the construction of electric, acetylene and gas plants and engines, and (7) to furnish tables of measure often needed for reference. There is a lack of material of this type which is non-technical enough for the use of home economics students and housewives. The material which I have organized applies directly to the appliances with which women work and is of a nature to fill their need in this field. The book is designed as a text for senior-high school and junior-college classes, as well as for the needs of home-demonstration agents, housewives and other women. EDITH ALLEN ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The author is particularly indebted in the preparation of this book to John G. Thompson, professor of economics, University of Illinois; J. K. T. Ekblaw, instructor of farm mechanics, University of Illinois, and editor of _Farm Power_; Andrey A. Potter, professor of steam and gas engineering, Kansas State Agricultural College; J. M. Bryant, professor of electrical engineering, University of Texas; Harrison E. Howe, National Council of Research; Miss Minna C. Denton, home economics specialist, United States Department of Agriculture; Miss Marie Dallas, Washington, D. C.; F. F. Good, instructor in applied physics, Teachers' College, Columbia University, New York.