Why is there not an industry standard regarding gas cooktop performance?

Unlike electric cooktops, where the power is measured in an industry-standard watts, gas cooktops
are often measure in either BTUs(British Thermal Units/hour) and temperature interchangeably. Both
measurements provide an assessment of the rangetop or cooktops performance but can be confusing for
consumers.

Basically, a BTU is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of liquid from
60 degrees Fahrenheit to 61 degrees Fahrenheit when the atmospheric pressure is constant. If all
burners were the exact shape and size, BTUs would be an accurate measurement of the burners performance.
There are several other factors, however, that contribute to a cooktop burners performance, including
the size of burner and the distance from the burner to the cooking vessel. This means that depending on
the burner configuration, a 1200 BTU burner can achieve a lower cooking temperature than an 800 BTU or
even 300 BTU burner.

Several companies, including DCS and Capital, provide ratings for their simmer burners that provides both BTUs as well as actual cooking temperature. For the most part, however, it looks as if many companies choose the number that will make their appliance look the best.

So, will there ever be an industry standard? The answer is unclear but if you have questions regarding the information you are given it would be best to contact the manufacturer to get the big picture on the appliances performance.

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Since 1915, refrigerators have been a staple in homes throughout the United States and around the world. Refrigerators have
come a long way since the early days, however, utilizing more advanced cooling systems than earlier harmful gases that were
originally used for cooling. Available in a variety of styles and with many great features, it’s hard to imagine our homes
without this truly modern convenience.

Your refrigerator is quite possibly the most important purchase you will make for your indoor or outdoor kitchen. Available in
both indoor and outdoor models, modern refrigerators are designed to meet the needs of both families and backyard entertainers.
Loaded with a wide array of great features as the market becomes more competitive for refrigerator manufacturers, there has never
been a better time to buy a new refrigerator. If you are on the market for a new refrigerator, take a moment to read our buying guide
and learn all about the many features and benefits modern refrigerators can provide.

Sizing Your Refrigerator

Before purchasing a new refrigerator, one of the most important considerations you will need to make is the size of the new unit.
If you are looking to simply replace your existing, worn unit, taking a measurement of your current refrigerator may be enough.
If you are looking to remodel your kitchen, planning an outdoor kitchen for your backyard entertaining, or are planning a family
upgrade such as a new baby or Grandma, however, deciding what size refrigerator best suits your situation is very important.

But don’t grab that tape measure just yet. There are actually two things you will need to consider before you purchase: overall
size and capacity.

• Overall Size – To get a clear picture of what size refrigerator you need, you need to take a couple of
  things into consideration; the new refrigerators location and that locations area. Are you looking to install an under-counter
  model for some space saving or the more traditional stand-up design. Once you have determined the location of your new
  refrigerator in the floor plan, get out your tape measure and take accurate measurements of the areas height, width and depth.
• Capacity – Refrigerator capacity is an important consideration that many people don’t think about before
  they buy. If your refrigerator doesn’t have enough space, you will spend a lot of time rearranging to make your food fit.
  If the refrigerator is too large, however, you will end up wasting money on the extra energy it will cost to operate the
  empty space. Think about your existing refrigerator and consider how much more room you may need – consider not only the
  refrigerator itself, but also the freezer portion of the unit. If you are unsure as to how much extra space you will need,
  the general rule is to to provide about 6 cubic feet of usable space for each adult in your home and then add an extra cubic
  foot of space for each additional person in your home. It is also important to remember that the cubic feet ratings of
  refrigerators are often exaggerated and to be safe consider usable space to be 80% for top or bottom freezer models and
  65% for side by side models.

Types Of Refrigerators

Refrigerators com in a variety of shapes and sizes to compliment any setting, whether it is and indoor kitchen, outdoor kitchen or
home bar. Before you choose a refrigerator, it is important to understand the difference between the different types available:

• Indoor Refrigerators – Indoor refrigerators are specifically designed for indoor, home use. These refrigerators
  are usually available with more features than outdoor models but will not hold up against outdoor models in regards to humidity,
  rust-resistance and cooling capacity.
• Outdoor Refrigerators – Created specifically for outdoor use, outdoor refrigerators are designed to keep food
  and drinks cold regardless of the weather conditions. Most outdoor refrigerators are UL approved for outdoor conditions and
  will hold up against harsh rains, sleet, high heat and anything else nature can throw its way. While outdoor refrigerators are
  available in a variety of sizes, most models are considered under-counter and are designed to compliment outdoor kitchens.
• Under-Counter Refrigerators – The standard counter height for all kitchen counters is 36 inches. To allow easy
  installation, all under counter appliances range in height from 33 inches to 35 inches. It is important to check the lip on your
  counter top to help ensure that no modifications will need to be made when your new under-counter refrigerator or freezer is installed.
• ADA Compliant Refrigerators – All ADA compliant appliances are designed to fit within the standards created by the
  Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The ADA was created to prevent discrimination based on a person’s disability. Under the ADA,
  all accessible counter tops must be no higher than 34 inches from the floor. ADA compliant refrigerators and freezers are designed at
  32 inches tall to fit under these counter top restrictions.

Refrigerator Styles

The style of refrigerator you buy is more an issue of personal preference than anything else. There are several door and drawer styles to
consider and each have their benefits.

• Top Freezer – The most common style of refrigerator available, freezer on top models put frozen foods at eye level.
  Top freezer refrigerators generally have more usable food storage space than any other style and are usually cheaper.
• Bottom Freezer – Bottom freezer models are fast becoming a popular style among consumers. While bottom freezer models
  tend to be a little more energy efficient, they often cost more and offer less usable space than comparable top freezer models. However,
  many people still enjoy the convenience that bottom freezer refrigerators provide as the refrigerator is normally used more often and bottom
  freezer styles put that food at eye level.
• Side-by-Side Refrigerators – Side-by side refrigerators can be a good choice for consumers that like to have their favorite
  refrigerated and frozen foods at eye level. Side-by-side refrigerators is where you will likely get the benefit of an ice and water dispenser
  and other features. While the narrow doors of a side-by-side refrigerator are great for tight kitchens, you normally only get 65% usable space
  from the listed capacity and the narrow shelves make it difficult to store pizza boxes and other large items.
• Drawer Style Refrigerators – Drawer style refrigerators are the perfect choice for families where even the biggest freestanding
  refrigerator doesn’t offer enough room. Drawer style refrigerators can be mounted under the counter or in an island and are perfect for storing
  drinks and specialty items that are often needed while cooking – saving the time of walking to the fridge and possibly burning food. The downside
  to drawer style refrigerators is that even though they are inexpensive to run, they are actually very inefficient on energy and can be pricey.

Refrigerator Features

Refrigerators are available with a wide variety of features that add to the convenience of any indoor or outdoor kitchen. It is important to remember,
however, that the more features the model you want has available, the more costly it is going to be. Some of the common features available on modern
refrigerators can include:

• Water & Ice Dispenser – Water and ice dispensers is the most requested feature for refrigerators. Common on most side-by-side
  refrigerators and some French door models, water and ice dispensers provide a steady flow and ice and cold water whenever you need it.
• Wine Coolers – A feature available on several high-end refrigerators, wine coolers keep your favorite bottles at temperatures
  between 40 and 65 degrees so they are always ready to serve.
• Beer Tap – Beer taps are a great feature for outdoor kitchens and game rooms. Beer taps are large enough for a standard keg and
  keep your favorite beer on tap and ready for your next party.
• Glass Doors – Glass doors make it easy to see what food you have on hand without having to open the door and waste energy.
• Door Alarms – This great feature alerts you when the refrigerator or freezer door has been left open so you can save energy
  and food.
• French Doors – French doors offer easier access to the contents of your refrigerator as well as a sleek appearance.
• Fully Extended Drawers/Shelves – Fully extended shelves make it easy to reach food and beverages without having to bury yourself
  shoulders deep in the refrigerator. These shelves are extra sturdy, allowing them to be fully extended – even with weight on them.
• Water Filters – Several refrigerators are equipped with a built-in water filtration system to provide clean, fresh water at the
  touch of a button.
• Independent Controls – Independent control systems vary depending on the model, with some refrigerators offering independent
  temperature controls for the freezer and refrigerator and some models even offering independent controls for individual drawers.
• Humidity Controls – Humidity controls are great for people who like to keep fruits and vegetables on hand – keeping produce fresh
  up to two weeks longer than traditional refrigerators.
• Digital Temperature Controls – Digital temperature controls allow you to make accurate temperature changes for your refrigerator or
  freezer.
• Door Locks – A great feature, especially for outdoor refrigerators, door locks prevent unwanted access to your refrigerator.

Energy Star Rated

Whenever you purchase a new refrigerator it is important to look for the Energy Guide Label to ensure it meets government regulations. The
Energy Guide Label helps you compare the energy consumption and estimated annual cost of major
home appliances. This information will help you determine if that really cheap refrigerator will end up costing you more in the long run.

Warranties

Whether it is an indoor or outdoor model, most new refrigerators come with the industry standard one to two ear warranty that covers parts and labor
repairs of basic manufacturer defects. Home Appliance Center is proud to offer an industry exclusive
5 Year Extended Warranty free with the purchase of any refrigerator over $1500.00. But don’t worry if your refrigerator
does not meet this criteria, however, as Home Appliance Center ispleased to extend the warranty to cover all major home appliances for a minimal charge. This allows
you to take advantage of this exclusive offer and ensures that your refrigerator will stay well protected.

With all of the available styles and features available, buying a new refrigerator can seem overwhelming. Once you understand what is offered, however, you will
be better equipped to make a decision as to which refrigerator is best suited for your family, your budget and your way of life. We hope this buying guide has
been helpful in your search for a new
refrigerator. If you still have questions, however, our friendly and knowledgeable customer service
representatives will be more than happy to assist you. Please give us a call today at 877-723-8114 today!

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As more and more people are remodeling their kitchens and looking to save some much needed space indoor
cooktops are becoming increasingly popular. When combined with a wall oven, kitchen cooktops provide more
versatility than traditional ranges. Modern cooktops are available in a variety of styles and configurations,
providing home chefs with all of the luxuries that were once reserved for the professional kitchen. If you
are on the market for an indoor cooktop, take a moment to read about the available cooktop styles and
available features.

Sizing Your Cooktop

One of the most important considerations you will need to make when shopping for a new cooktop is the available
space you have. Whether you are replacing an existing cooktop or are remodeling your kitchen area, knowing the
dimensions you have available will save you the heartache and headache of having to return your new home appliance
because it was too large or too small. Indoor cooktops are available in sizes ranging from 12 inches, which are
perfect for smaller apartments to enormous 60 inch models for the ultimate cooking experience.

• Available Space – When sizing your indoor cooktop you will want to measure area where you want the
  cooktop to go. Take detailed measurements of the width and depth of your counter area and take into account
  the depth of your counter. This will make a difference if you want your cooktop to be recessed or set above
  the countertop.
• Overhead Cabinets – When designing your kitchen, the last thing you want is to create a fire hazard.
  It is important to remember that whether your cooktop is a gas or electric model it is going to put off a
  good amount of heat which could be dangerous if cabinetry is too low. This may not affect you if you have
  an overhead vent for your cooktop but could be an issue with built-in downdraft ventilation.
• Ventilation – Ventilation is another important consideration when purchasing a new kitchen cooktop.
  While many modern ranges made for islands are available with built-in downdraft ventilation systems which
  pulls the heat and fumes down and out through the vents, many homes will still require the more traditional
  vent hood. Depending on the style of ventilation you want or need, you will need to take into account the
  extra needed space before installing.

Types of Cooktops

When you make the decision to purchase a cooktop and oven combination instead of a traditional kitchen range, you
will have a lot more versatility and options regarding your kitchen set up. Once you have determined the size of
cooktop that is best for your kitchen and lifestyle you will need to decide what fuel type will be most beneficial
for you. The type of cooktop you purchase, however, will depend on personal preference and the fuel sources you
have available.

• Electric Cooktops – As a general rule, while electric cooktops are cheaper initially than gas
  cooktops, they are more expensive to run in the long run. Many people still prefer electric cooktops,
  however, because they are easy to clean and offer a sleeker design which compliments many modern
  kitchens.
• 
  Coil Burners – Still the most common type of electric cooktop, coil burners are removable
  elements that sit inside the cooktop’s cavity. Cleaning is simplified by removing the coil and then
  the drip pan which can be cleaned in the sink using dish soap or harsher cleaners for stains. The drip
  pans and coil burners are normally easily replaceable which is a major plus for many consumers.
• 
  Smooth Top – Smooth top cooktops are usually made of ceramic glass and feature radiant elements
  below the glass cooking surface which provide the heat source. The radiant elements from smooth top
  cooktops heat quickly and evenly, providing for a great cooking experience. The sleek design from smooth
  top cooktops is what most people think of when they picture and electric cooktop and enjoy the easy clean
  up it offers.

• 
  Gas Cooktops – Though more expensive initially than electric cooktops, gas cooktops are generally more cost
  effective over time. Modern gas cooktops offer more precise temperature control than their electric counterparts and
  allows you to adjust temperatures almost instantly. Gas Cooktops are available with natural gas and propane hook ups
  Many higher end burners from brands such as DCS and Capital offer extremely high temperature settings for searing and
  boiling as well as low temperature settings for cooking sauces and soups.
• 
  Induction Cooktops – While many people consider induction cooktops a form of electric cooktop, this is not
  exactly true. Induction cooktops utilize a series of magnetic coils which generate a magnetic field when a steel or
  cast iron pot is used on the cooktop. This magnetic field is used to heat the cookware without heating the cooktop’s
  surface. This induction technology allows the cooktop to offer faster cooking times, use up to 85% less energy and
  are much safer to use because the magnetic technology heats only the cookware, leaving the cooking surface safe to
  the touch.

Cooktop Layout

Another consideration you will want to make when purchasing your indoor cooktop is the layout of the burners. Depending on
the size of your cooktop, the burner configuration may be limited, especially on models smaller than 30 inches. On larger
cooktops, however, you may have the options of adding, woks, griddles, grills and much more.

Cooktop Features

• Sealed Burners – Sealed burners provide for easy cleanup with gas burners by preventing food from falling under
  the burner and becoming trapped.
• Recessed Cooktops – Many ceramic cooktops offer the option of being recessed into the countertop, allowing for
  a smoother look and the appearance of being built-in to the countertop.
• Simmer Burners – Several manufacturers offer low temperature simmer burners, such as the Dual-Flow burners from
  DCS and Power-Flo burners from Capital on gas cooktops which can provide more precise, low-temperature cooking as low as
  140 degrees. This lower temperature setting makes it easier to cook delicate soups and sauces.
• High-Heat Burners – The Dual-Flow and Power-Flo burners mentioned above also offer another great feature that
  is a great benefit on gas cooktops. High-heat burners offer the other end of the spectrum when it comes to cooking. With
  heat outputs reaching an amazing 17,500 BTU/hr, high-heat burners have the ability to boil and sear foods quickly.

• Control Lockout – For homes with small children, the control lockout is a must have feature for your electric
  cooktop. This feature allows you to disable the range controls so you never have to worry about the little ones burning
  their hands on heated burners.
• Heat Indicators – Another great feature with many electric cooktops, heat indicators remain lit even after the
  cooktop has been turned off to let people know that the burner element is still hot.
• Configurations – Cooktops are available with a variety of options to offer the customized look and feel of
  a professional cooktop. Some of the great options you may find include grill plates, griddles and wok rings which
  would allow for the preparation of a variety of foods, including stir-fries, steaks and even diner-style eggs and
  pancakes.

Warranties

Most cooktops come with the industry standard one to two year warranty that covers parts and labor repairs of basic manufacturer defects.
Home Appliance Center is proud to offer an industry exclusive
5 Year Extended Warranty free with the purchase of any cooktop over $1500.00. If your cooktop
does not meet this criteria, however, we are pleased to extend the warranty to cover all major home appliances for a minimal charge. This allows
you to take advantage of this exclusive offer and ensures that your cooktop will stay well protected.

No matter what kind of kitchen atmosphere you are looking t create – from sleek modern designs to more traditional looks – Home Appliance Center
has the indoor cooktop that will compliment both your style and your budget. And
if you are having trouble which cooktop will work best for your kitchen, give one of our friendly and knowledgeable customer service representatives
a call at 877-743-2269. They will be more than happy to walk you through the cooktop buying process.

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Indoor Range Buying Guide

What to look for when purchasing a new indoor range

Indoor ranges have been a staple in homes all over the world since we moved indoors and stopped cooking over an open fire.
While the original cooking ranges were often powered by wood or coal, modern ranges have come a long way in overall appearance
and technology.

Indoor ranges are a combination cooktop and
oven in one convenient unit. When planning a kitchen, the range, whether it is a
smaller freestanding model or a large slide-in commercial model, is the major appliance around which most kitchens are built.
With all of the features most indoor ranges are available with, choosing the right one for your home can become a little
overwhelming. So, before purchasing an indoor range for your kitchen take a few moments and read our buying guide to learn
about the different range styles and some of the features you can expect to find.

Sizing Your Range

When purchasing a new kitchen range most people will go with the same size of range they already own, which is usually the industry
standard 30 inches. However, if you are building a new home or remodeling your existing kitchen, you may want to consider a larger
36 or 38 inch commercial-style range. Here are a few things to consider when sizing a new indoor range:

• Available Space – Measure the available space where you will want the range to go. Make sure to get the dimensions for
  the Height, Width and Depth.
• Oven Size – One aspect of the indoor range that many don’t consider is the actual size of the oven unit. Depending on the
  size of your family, you will want to have enough room to cook large enough meals, especially as the holidays come around.

Family Size	Oven Size
1-2 People	2-3 Cubic Feet
3-4 People	3-4 Cubic Feet
> 4 People	> 4 Cubic Feet

• Overhead Cabinets – Take into account any overhead cabinetry or microwaves you have or will be installing. Ensure there is
  enough space so the cabinetry is not affected by the heat from the cooktop.
• Ventilation – Another consideration you need to take into account when purchasing a range is the type of ventilation you will
  use. Many higher performing, commercial-style ranges require and overhead hood. If this is the case, you will need to plan for the vent
  hood’s installation as well.

Oven/Cooktop Combination
Another option to consider when purchasing a kitchen range is combining a wall oven and cooktop instead of the traditional all-in-one range unit.
Many homeowners like the wall oven/cooktop combination because it allows for more freedom with the installation and can provide a much cleaner,
modern look for your home. It is important to remember, however, that installing the wall oven/cooktop combination will require more carpentry
and possibly plumbing skill than traditional freestanding or slide in ranges.

Range Types

When you purchase an indoor range, you are essentially purchasing two appliances in one unit which include the burners which it on top of the unit
and the oven below. The type of range you buy will depend mostly on the available fuel sources in your home. For example, if your current range is
an electric model, you will most likely purchase another electric range. The three most common types of indoor ranges include, electric, gas and dual
fuel models.

• Electric Ranges – Electric ranges are traditionally less expensive than comparable gas ranges. Unlike most gas ranges,
  electric ranges give you the ability to maintain low heat temperatures and depending on the burner style, can be much easier to clean.
• 
  Coil Burners – Electric ranges with coil burners are generally less expensive and normally feature removable burner coils which
  are replaceable. While the burner coils are more susceptible to spills, they will have replaceable drip pans to catch excess spills that
  are easy to remove, clean or even replace.
• 
  Smooth Top – By far the easiest style cooktop to clean, smooth top ranges feature radiant elements that are installed below the glass
  cooking surface. The elements are designed to heat up quickly and evenly, providing a great cooking experience. Many people enjoy smooth
  top ranges because they offer a sleek appearance which compliments modern kitchen designs.
• 
  Gas Ranges – While electric range burners allow you to maintain lower levels of heat, gas burners provide more more precise temperature control,
  letting you adjust your cooking temperature almost instantly. While gas ranges can be more expensive initially, gas is less expensive than electricity,
  which can make the purchase of a gas range a better investment in the long run. Indoor gas ranges are available with to fuel options:
  natural gas and
  propane.
• Dual Fuel Ranges – Many consumers are looking to dual fuel ranges to get the best of what electric and gas ranges have to offer. Combining the accuracy
  that gas cooktops provide with the even heating of electric ovens, dual fuel ranges
  are easy to clean and operate but you must have access to both gas and electric fuel sources.

Range Styles

Depending on the design of your kitchen, there are a few different styles of indoor ranges available. Normally, people will choose a range that is the same style
as their current model unless they are planning on doing a little kitchen remodeling.

Range Features

Modern ranges are available with a wide array of features depending on the model you choose that make meal preparation and clean-up easier than ever. It is important to
note that depending on the features you want, the overall cost of your indoor range will rise accordingly. Some of the more common features found on modern kitchen ranges
include:

• Convection Cooking – Available on both gas and electric ovens, the convection cooking feature is designed to cook up to 30% faster than traditional ovens
  because of the the heating element located around the fan that circulates the heat around your food. Modern convection ovens provide the option choosing
  conventional or convection cooking.
• Self Cleaning – Self cleaning ovens have become increasingly popular. Removing the need for toxic chemicals and scrubbing, self cleaning ovens utilize
  high heat (up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit) to burn off leftover spills. For safety, self cleaning ovens also feature a locking mechanism to keep the door locked
  during and after the self cleaning cycle.
• Sealed Burners – Available on many gas ranges, sealed burners take the hassle out of cleaning by providing a removable drip tray which can be washed in
  the sink.
• Simmer Burners – Simmer burners, like the Dual-Flow from DCS and Power-Flo from Capital provide more precise, lower temperatures (as low as 140 degrees)
  on gas burners that make it easier to prepare delicate soups, sauces and even chocolate on your gas range top.
• High-Heat Burners – High-heat burners offer the other end of cooking, allowing you to boil or sear foods quickly, offering heat output reaching an
  amazing 17,500 BTU/hr.
• Programmable Timing – A common feature available on many modern indoor ranges is programmable timing. This feature allows you to preset your oven to
  turn on and off and cook meals when you are away.
• Grease Management System – Available on DCS ranges with grills, the Grease Management System channels grease away from the flame to reduce the chance
  of flare-ups while cooking.
• Infrared Broilers – Available on all gas DCS ranges, Infrared Broilers allow you to sear steaks perfectly every time, similar to the tender cuts of
  meat you would get from your favorite steakhouse.
• Warming Drawers – Warming drawers are a great option on indoor ranges, especially for holiday cooking,and allow you to keep food warm while you prepare
  the rest of the meal.
• Cooktop Configurations – To help make food preparation even easier, several ranges are available with customized cooktop configurations, including wok rings,
  griddles and grills which allow you to prepare delicious steaks, stir-fries, pancakes and a variety of other foods.

Warranties

The warranty you get for your indoor range is very important. Most warranties cover parts and labor if the range breaks down due to manufacturer defects during the effective
dates. While most ranges come with an industry-standard one year warranty, Home Appliance Center offers an industry exclusive
5 Year Extended Warranty absolutely free
on all residential appliances over $1500.00. This extended warranty is also available at exceptionally low prices for home appliances under $1500.00, allowing you to rest
assured that your indoor range will remain protected for many years.

Finding the kitchen range that meets your needs and your budget can be a difficult task. But with the proper information, you should have no problem finding the
Indoor Range you have always wanted for your home. And if you would like additional
assistance in choosing your range, call one of helpful and knowledgeable customer service representatives toll-free at 1-877-743-2269.

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Fisher Paykel is now getting ready to launch their new line of dishwashers, and in preparation are offering huge discounts on almost all of their current dishwasher line. Unfortunately, these huge discounts are only available while supplies last.

For a very limited time, you can save hundreds on single and double drawer dishwashers as well as the popular line of integrated dishwashers from Fisher Paykel that fit seamlessly with your existing cabinetry. And with the economy the way it is, these prices couldn’t have come at a better time!

Fisher Paykel has quickly become one of the top-rated brands in kitchen and laundry appliances, offering innovative appliance solutions for your home. The discounted dishwashers feature all of the modern conveniences you desire, including attractive designs, such as their popular stainless steel, variable water pressures, flow through detergent dispensers and intelligent load sensing allowing for the most eco-friendly dish washing available.

If you’ve been thinking of adding a dishwasher to your kitchen or even replacing that old, noisy clunker there has never been a better time than the present. But if you want to take advantage of this great offer on Fisher Paykel dishwashers you will need t act fast because supplies are limited and moving fast!

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Based out of New Zealand, Fisher & Paykel’s newest appliance, the CoolDrawer, which allows you to switch from refrigerator to freezer at the push of a button and fits easily into a standard kitchen drawer. And this innovation payed off – winning Fisher & Paykel the Product Innovator Award for 2008 from Kitchen and Bath Business magazine.

The truth is, Fisher & Paykel have been creating innovative appliance for years. Whether it’s for your kitchen or laundry, you are sure to find something for your home through Fisher & Paykel or their partner company DCS. Today I am going to take a look at two of them: The Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart washer and the DCS DishDrawer dishwasher.

AquaSmart Washers

According to the February issue of Consumer Reports, the AquaSmart LCD Washer was ranked as the #2 top-loader washer available to consumers. So, what’s so special about the AquaSmart and makes it stand out from the rest of the pack?

• Vibrations – One of the biggest problems people find in home washers is the vibrations they cause. While this may not be a huge issue if your washer is tucked away in the basement, it can become a major problem for those of us whose laundry room is on an upper level. The AquaSmart washer by Fisher & Paykel causes far less vibrations, making it the quiet alternative we’ve always dreamed of.
• Long Cycles – Many modern washers use longer cycle times, which include Allergen cycle, that can cost the consumer hundreds of dollars in energy and water usage. Fisher & Paykel knows as well as many experts, that there are far cheaper ways to reduce our exposure to allergens and that these longer cycles can fray your fabrics. The AquaSmart series of washers uses much shorter cycle times, which helps you save money.

In fact, the AquaSmart LCD washer from Fisher & Paykel was the only top loader washer to receive the “Excellent” rating for water efficiency and the only product to receive the “Excellent” rating for both water efficiency and vibrations.

DishDrawer Dishwashers

Another great product form the innovators at Fisher & Pakel is the DishDrawer Dishwasher. Combining power and efficiency, the DishDrawer offers nine distinct wash cycles as well as one-touch controls, variable water pressure and a quiet dry fan. Some of the other benefits you will receive from the purchase of the DCS DishDrawer include:

• Quiet Operation – If you have ever been annoyed with the knocks and whirring coming from the kitchen as your dishwasher does its job, the DishDrawer will be a blessing to the ears, with cycles and operation no louder than a pot of boiling water.
• Efficiency – With water usage less than 2 gal per drawer, the one or two drawer DishDrawer will not only help you become a little greener, it will help you save some green as well.
• Flow Through Dispenser – If you are tired of dishwasher detergent ruining your prized dishes, th flow through dispenser will eliminate that worry. And along with the variable water pressure, the DishDrawer dishwasher from DCS makes it possible to wash delicate dishes, such as your fine china.

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Whether you love them or hate them the holidays are back in full swing. Just walk into your neighborhood store and don’t tune out the incessant muzak for a minute and you’re sure to hear “Jingle Bells”, “Winter Wonderland” or any other of your holiday favorites; along with the sight of Christmas Trees, lights and other holiday decorations.

Of course, some stores have had this up since June.

If you’re looking to snag that perfect holiday gift but don’t want the hassles of dealing with holiday traffic and fist-fights then online shopping is definitely the choice for you. You can find a treasure-trove of great gifts for everyone in your household online including toys, cast iron cookware, bbq grills, hunting accessories and even home appliances.

One of the most over-looked holiday gifts is new home appliances. Gone are the days when buying your spouse a new washer/dryer or cooktop meant spending the weekend curled up in front of the fire on the couch…alone. With modern advances in kitchen cookware technology, having a new refrigerator or dishwasher installed doesn’t mean get to work, it means take it easy and let the appliance do the work for you.

This is especially true if you’re looiking for a great gift for the chef in your family. When you’re cooking for the holidays – whether you’re baking dozens of delicious cookies for the family and friends or preparing a holiday dinner for 12, there is never enough oven space. Why not make their lives easier and invest in a beautiful stainless steel double wall oven or two oven range that will allow them to spend less time in the kitchen and more time relaxing with family and friends.

Whatever you are looking for this holiday season, shopping online is a great way to find everything you need without leaving the comfort of your favorite chair. So lean back, relax and let everyone else get stressed out this holiday season.

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This really is a day to give thanks.

Oh, wait…

I may watch a bit too much television.

Thanksgiving is by far one of the most stressful times of year if you’re the one spending it in the kitchen. Running back and forth to the neighbors house because you never have enough room and hoping your decade-old oven doesn’t burn your turkey again this year. Then, when it’s all said and done, your stuck for hours bent over the sink washing dishes because they’re all too stuffed to move.

And where’s the thanks.

Yeah.

Unfortunately, I can’t give you the magic power to teleport into Jetson-land, but I can offer some advice on how to make your Thanksgiving Day meal preparations a little less stressful.

The Cooking

Thanksgiving Day cooking usually involves the preparation of a variety of different hot and tasty delicacies that can end up taking you most of the night if not a couple days. This is especially true if you are always the host/hostess and are too nice to call it a potluck. The best way to take the stress of of some of your Turkey Day food prep is by purchasing a new double range or wall oven. Having more than one oven in your kitchen will give you the ability to make two or more hot dishes at one time and greatly increase the amount of sleep you can afford yourself the night before.

Indoor cooktops are another great way to make Thanksgiving and any holiday cooking easier than ever. Unlike the standard four burner cooktops of the past, many modern indoor cooktops are equipped with as many as six burners and are even available with grills for the family that would rather have a Thanksgiving steak and griddles for an easy day-after breakfast.

And when it’s all said and done…

The Cleaning

Whether your old dishwasher is on the fritz or you’ve never owned a dish-washing device more reliable than your own two hands, you’re in for a treat. Modern dishwashers are available in a wide array of sizes, some with multiple drawers and can handle even your toughest Thanksgiving Day messes. And if your looking for a more seamless look, you can even find integrated dishwashers that are designed to match your existing cabinetry.

Sit back and enjoy the game with your family, or even better, make them watch something you want for a change…

Hey, you did all the work.

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If your looking to break away from the mold and spend your winter either entertaining friends or just feeling a little more comfortable, you my want to think about adding an under-counter refrigerator and even an indoor beer dispenser to your family room or den.

Imagine sitting with your buddies,watching the game and pouring a tall glass of your favorite draft beer. I mean, I know we’re not supposed to revel in the envy of our peers, but come on – that’s just cool.

Under-counter refrigerators are another necessity for the winter months. When you’re relaxing in your favorite chair, nobody wants the hassle of having to walk all the way upstairs to grab their favorite drink or the chip dip. Under-counter refrigerators are the perfect solution if you are prone to say “Nevermind.” rather than having to walk 50 feet.

Another great addition to your game room or den this winter would be a quality microwave for heating your favorite dishes. Let’s face it – as much as we want to think we all love cold pizza, there’s no better compliment to that cold draft beer than a hot slice.

Having handy home appliances such as microwaves, under-counter refrigerators and indoor beer dispensers are not only great for when your friends come over, they’re also perfect for the holiday season. When you have family coming into town, you will probably be hard-pressed for places to store your extra food and also where to heat it.

And your father-in-law will love the beer dispenser.

Trust me.

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EnergyGuide Label information is governed by the U.S. Department of Energy and is very useful for comparing the energy use and estimated annual cost of for major home appliances. This information can be very helpful as you search for a new refrigerator or freezer and will tell you what kind of energy costs you can expect over time.

The EnergyGuide Label

There EnergyGuide Label consists of three sections which will tell you everything you need to decide if the home appliance you are considering is worth your money.

• Top Section – The top section of the EnergyGuide Label gives the consumer general information about their home appliance. This information includes the manufacturer’s information, the appliance type, the appliance’s model number and the capacity.
• Middle Section – This section of the EnergyGuide Label compares the home appliance’s energy efficiency with other available models. The appliance which uses the least amount of energy is displayed on the left and the appliance that uses the most energy is displayed on the right. The home appliance you are considering will be shown on the scale in rlation to the two extremes.
• Bottom Section – The bottom section of the EnergyGuide Label is an annual estimate of the operating costs for the home appliance you are considering. The estimate is based on the average energy costs from around the country from normal, everyday use. The actual energy costs of your home appliance will vary depending upon the amount you utilize it and where you currently live.

You can learn more about energy conservation by visiting Energy Savers. The Energy Savers website is the U.S. Government’s guide for energy savings, providing homeowners and business owners with tips on utilizing clean, renewable energy while at home or on the road.

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