When it comes to your home appliances, technology has changed over the past 50 years.
You may take for granted the ability today to dispense filtered ice water from your refrigerator at the touch of a button, or cook on a magnetic induction cooktop that leaves you with little in the way of cleanup.
The management and staff at Wagner Appliances in Chilliwack, which celebrated its 50th birthday on April 1, have helped you understand and embrace many changes in technology over the years, says general manager Ray Wolbers. He’s been a part of the Wagner team for 42 years, starting at the tender age of 12.
While not all the staff began learning about kitchen appliances and laundry equipment at such a young age, they all have plenty of experience in the industry to draw on to help make your life easier. Here’s how:
- Your one-stop shop for sales, service and parts – Whether you’re looking for a filter for that ice water dispenser – yes, they need replacing every six to 12 months! – or to replace the whole refrigerator, you’ll find the staff have extensive product knowledge on a variety of major name brands. Known as the “appliance professionals of Chilliwack,” Wagner makes it easy to find what you need in one place. “People appreciate the fact we offer full delivery, installation and disposal of your old appliances,” Wolbers says. And for do-it-yourselfers, a huge parts department means there’s often no need to order items in.
- See and feel how that new appliance fits for you – To help you envision how that fridge, stove or cooktop, dishwasher or other equipment might look in your space – and actually test them out! – Wagner Appliances has many models on display in their large showroom. “Home appliances are still a touch and feel kind of thing for people,” Wolbers says. Live demonstrations of products like the induction range often draw a crowd, he adds. “We put a big pot of water on the stove, bring it to boil, then touch the surface immediately afterward to show how safe it is.”
- The people you know in your community – Former owners John and Carol Blessin retired not so long ago after buying the business from founder Ken Wagner in 1981. But they’re still active in the community as is their son Mark Blessin, who took over Wagner Appliances. He and the rest of the long-term staffers are likely to greet you by name when you walk in. The company also continues to support such groups as Rotary, Salvation Army, the Chilliwack Symphony Orchestra and other non-profits.
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You voted Wagner your Favourite Appliance Store in the 2019 Chilliwack Progress A-List. If you haven’t been by lately, why not drop by the store on First Avenue and wish them a happy 50th. You can also follow them on Facebook.