10 House Differences Between El Salvador & The United States

Summary

In this video, Carol and her daughter Ari discuss the top 10 differences between homes in the U.S. and El Salvador. They cover topics such as household appliances (Linea Blanca), hot water availability, dishwashers, and laundry practices. They also touch on structural differences like tiled floors and brick construction, the lack of bathtubs and window screens, and common items like peepholes and pilas (concrete sinks). The video provides an informative yet lighthearted comparison of daily home life, highlighting unique aspects of living in El Salvador, including their love for house geckos.

Takeaways

• 🏠 Renting homes in El Salvador often requires bringing your own appliances like fridges and stoves, unlike in the US where they are usually included.
• 💧 Hot water is considered a luxury in El Salvador and isn't standard in most homes, whereas it's expected in US homes.
• 🍽 Dishwashers are rare in El Salvador, while in the US they are commonly found in apartments and homes.
• 🧺 In El Salvador, many homes have a 'pila', a cement sink used for washing clothes and dishes, which doesn’t exist in US homes.
• 👚 Dryers are not standard in El Salvador, with most people using clotheslines, whereas in the US dryers are more common and essential in many homes.
• 🛁 Bathtubs are rare in El Salvador, with showers being more common, while most US homes have a shower-bathtub combo.
• 🧹 El Salvador homes have tile floors, which are harder to maintain but easier to clean than the carpets typical in US homes.
• 🧱 Homes in El Salvador are built with brick and cinder blocks, making them very solid, while US homes are often constructed with wood and drywall.
• 🪟 Window screens are not standard in El Salvador, but they are common in US homes to keep bugs out.
• 👀 Peepholes in doors are uncommon in El Salvador but standard in US homes, though security guards in complexes make them less necessary.

Q & A

What is 'Linea Blanca' and why is it significant in El Salvador?

'Linea Blanca' refers to large household appliances like the fridge, stove, washer, and dryer. In El Salvador, rental homes or apartments often do not come with these appliances, so tenants must bring their own, unlike in the US where these items are typically included.

What are 'suicide showers,' and why are they called that?

'Suicide showers' are showers in El Salvador that heat water with an electrical heater attached directly to the showerhead. They earned their nickname due to the combination of water and electricity, which can seem dangerous, though they are commonly used.

Why aren't dishwashers common in El Salvador?

Dishwashers are rare in El Salvador and are considered a luxury item. Most households do not use them, and people typically wash their dishes by hand. In contrast, dishwashers are often included in US homes.

What is a 'pila,' and how is it used in El Salvador?

A 'pila' is a large, industrial-style sink made of cement that is commonly used for washing clothes, dishes, and even as a small pool for children. It's a staple in Salvadoran homes, while not common in the US.

How do people in El Salvador typically dry their clothes?

Many people in El Salvador use clotheslines to air-dry their clothes, as dryers are not standard in most homes. A dryer is considered a luxury item, and some homes have both a clothesline and a dryer, especially useful during the rainy season.

Why are bathtubs rare in El Salvador, and what do people use instead?

Bathtubs are rare in El Salvador, with most homes having just showers. When present, they are often ornamental, especially in homes without hot water. In contrast, bathtubs are standard in the US.

What is the difference in flooring between homes in El Salvador and the US?

In El Salvador, most homes have tile floors, which are easy to clean but can be dangerous when wet. In the US, carpets are more common, except in bathrooms and kitchens.

How are houses constructed differently in El Salvador compared to the US?

In El Salvador, homes are built with brick, cinder blocks, and plaster, making them very solid. In the US, houses are typically built with wood and drywall, making them less sturdy in comparison.

Are screens on windows common in El Salvador?

No, window screens are not standard in El Salvador, though they are available. Screens are more common in the US and help prevent insects like flies and mosquitoes from entering homes.

What are house geckos, and why are they mentioned in the video?

House geckos are small lizards commonly found in Salvadoran homes. They are beneficial because they eat insects like mosquitoes and flies. Though surprising to visitors, they are generally considered cute and harmless.