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Sunday, July 12, 2015
Kitchen of the Week
Kitchen finished in bamboo textured facade, white solid surface worktop, elegant accessories (lights, handles, faucet) and stylish appliances. After taking dimensions for this space, and taken the client's brief, my biggest challenge was the curved external wall...having put in so much time and effort, I came up with this layout.
In place of an island, the client got a peninsula which created ample space for dining, entertainment, and the most importantly large work area.
The appliances are placed such that the person working in the kitchen will have ease of movement from one point to the other, even when having guests or family members around the kitchen.
Kitchen finished in bamboo textured facade, white solid surface worktop, elegant accessories (lights, handles, faucet) and stylish appliances. After taking dimensions for this space, and taken the client's brief, my biggest challenge was the curved external wall...having put in so much time and effort, I came up with this layout.
In place of an island, the client got a peninsula which created ample space for dining, entertainment, and the most importantly large work area.
The appliances are placed such that the person working in the kitchen will have ease of movement from one point to the other, even when having guests or family members around the kitchen.
Appliances Review - Dryer
Dryers get no respect. Consumers tend to invest significant amounts of time and energy researching the perfect washer. Then, often as an afterthought, they throw a matching dryer on their order and move on.
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| TopTenReview |
Dryers get no respect. Consumers tend to invest significant amounts of time and energy researching the perfect washer. Then, often as an afterthought, they throw a matching dryer on their order and move on.
Manufacturers are putting
more and more emphasis on designing dryers that shine on their own, with
advances in efficiency and more specialized clothing care options than ever.
High-end dryers, like their washer counterparts, are moving in the direction of
smart technology, so you can see what is happening from your smartphone and
even change the settings on your dryer. If your dryer bites the dust and you
decide to keep the old washer, or if you want to base your decision about a new
laundry set on the merits of both appliances, not just the washer, we have done
your homework for you.
Dryers: What to Look For
We examined 10 of our
favorite energy efficient dryers on the market today and compared them side by
side to help you find the best dryer for your needs. We considered the
following factors as we evaluated various clothes dryers:
Features
The best modern dryers offer much more than the previous generation, adding useful things like steam to their mix of features. Many of the high-end dryers also offer smart features that let you monitor and even control your machine from your smartphone. While some won't use the smart features, others will love them, especially people who are used to doing everything from their smartphone. Smart technology also allows you to diagnose problems and communicate with the manufacturer conveniently through your smartphone. Some dryers will even alert you via text message and send a message to the manufacturer if there is a problem.
Some of the latest technology also implements occasional tumbling after a cycle to prevent wrinkling (steam cycles can also reduce wrinkling). It is convenient to know you can load your dryer and leave without worrying about finding a crinkled clump of laundry upon your return. Some dryers also allow you to delay the start of a load so you can time it to finish just as you return. Modern dryers also include noise and vibration reduction systems, so you may forget it’s even running. Luckily, most have an end-of-cycle signal too, just in case the quiet operation has lulled you to sleep. For people who prefer to keep it simple and just want a dryer that does the basics, with maybe a few extras thrown in, there are plenty of options in that line as well.
Cycles & Design
Whether you are looking for an ultra-modern design or something more traditional, a dryer should look nice and complement the room it occupies. Even more importantly, the design should also be functional and make setting the options and cycles an easy process. If you want to add steam or activate a wrinkle reduction option to a cycle, for instance, a well-designed machine will make doing so intuitive and easy.
The best dryers have a rich selection of cycles to choose from so you can customize your drying needs. If you are drying a load of towels or routinely dry large loads for a big family, you should be able to easily select the cycle that will facilitate whatever load you throw in. The best dryers include drum lights so you don’t leave any stray socks behind. Your dryer should make it easy to situate the door hinge on either side of the appliance so you can configure your laundry space any way you like. LED displays make it easy to see when your load will be done, and child locks could protect your dress from getting shrunk by a little one who decides all the shiny buttons on the machine look like a fun diversion.
Energy Efficiency
Until quite recently, energy efficiency was not a high priority among the majority of dryer manufacturers. But it has become increasingly important in recent years, and companies have begun developing dryers that cut down on the overuse of electricity, while saving you money on utility bills.
Quality clothes dryers have advanced sensor systems that monitor the moisture content in clothing and stop the cycle when your clothes are dry. This will result in significant energy savings. Some models also offer energy-savers like a lint filter and duct-clog monitors. Keeping those airways clean makes dryers much more green, which can save you green.
Help & Support
We evaluated the customer service options from the manufacturers of each product in our lineup of dryers. Whether or not you purchase a dryer directly from a manufacturer, you’re likely to have a question from time to time. Having access to online PDF manuals is one very convenient way to get information and find answers to some of your questions. Many of the products in our list of clothes dryer reviews offer chat service, which is a great way to get immediate answers as well.
The best modern dryers offer much more than the previous generation, adding useful things like steam to their mix of features. Many of the high-end dryers also offer smart features that let you monitor and even control your machine from your smartphone. While some won't use the smart features, others will love them, especially people who are used to doing everything from their smartphone. Smart technology also allows you to diagnose problems and communicate with the manufacturer conveniently through your smartphone. Some dryers will even alert you via text message and send a message to the manufacturer if there is a problem.
Some of the latest technology also implements occasional tumbling after a cycle to prevent wrinkling (steam cycles can also reduce wrinkling). It is convenient to know you can load your dryer and leave without worrying about finding a crinkled clump of laundry upon your return. Some dryers also allow you to delay the start of a load so you can time it to finish just as you return. Modern dryers also include noise and vibration reduction systems, so you may forget it’s even running. Luckily, most have an end-of-cycle signal too, just in case the quiet operation has lulled you to sleep. For people who prefer to keep it simple and just want a dryer that does the basics, with maybe a few extras thrown in, there are plenty of options in that line as well.
Cycles & Design
Whether you are looking for an ultra-modern design or something more traditional, a dryer should look nice and complement the room it occupies. Even more importantly, the design should also be functional and make setting the options and cycles an easy process. If you want to add steam or activate a wrinkle reduction option to a cycle, for instance, a well-designed machine will make doing so intuitive and easy.
The best dryers have a rich selection of cycles to choose from so you can customize your drying needs. If you are drying a load of towels or routinely dry large loads for a big family, you should be able to easily select the cycle that will facilitate whatever load you throw in. The best dryers include drum lights so you don’t leave any stray socks behind. Your dryer should make it easy to situate the door hinge on either side of the appliance so you can configure your laundry space any way you like. LED displays make it easy to see when your load will be done, and child locks could protect your dress from getting shrunk by a little one who decides all the shiny buttons on the machine look like a fun diversion.
Energy Efficiency
Until quite recently, energy efficiency was not a high priority among the majority of dryer manufacturers. But it has become increasingly important in recent years, and companies have begun developing dryers that cut down on the overuse of electricity, while saving you money on utility bills.
Quality clothes dryers have advanced sensor systems that monitor the moisture content in clothing and stop the cycle when your clothes are dry. This will result in significant energy savings. Some models also offer energy-savers like a lint filter and duct-clog monitors. Keeping those airways clean makes dryers much more green, which can save you green.
Help & Support
We evaluated the customer service options from the manufacturers of each product in our lineup of dryers. Whether or not you purchase a dryer directly from a manufacturer, you’re likely to have a question from time to time. Having access to online PDF manuals is one very convenient way to get information and find answers to some of your questions. Many of the products in our list of clothes dryer reviews offer chat service, which is a great way to get immediate answers as well.
Dryers with
smart technology can usually diagnose a glitch and notify the manufacturer that
there is a problem. Some smart systems will even text you a message to alert
you to a problem. Sturdy warranties are also a good show of confidence in a
dryer. We looked for products manufactured by companies that stand by their
work.
Dryers have come a long
way from their energy-hogging and clothes-ruining past. Designers put a lot of
thought into making sure the latest machines will take care of your clothing
while protecting the environment.
Appliances Review - Washer - Dryer Combo
It turns out that tiny, closeted space is often all the room you have for a washer and dryer, two appliances that don't always fit side-by-side. Appliance manufacturers have anticipated this, however, and created washer dryer combo devices that can wash and dry your clothing without requiring additional floor space.
Washer/Dryer Combos: What to Look For
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| TopTenReview |
It turns out that tiny, closeted space is often all the room you have for a washer and dryer, two appliances that don't always fit side-by-side. Appliance manufacturers have anticipated this, however, and created washer dryer combo devices that can wash and dry your clothing without requiring additional floor space.
Stacked
appliances and combo washer-dryers appeal to consumers with very limited space.
Whether you have a laundry area the size of a coat closet or a tiny nook in the
kitchen, these washer-dryer combinations won’t impose on space. They typically
average 24 to 27 inches in width and 33 to 35 inches tall for the all-in-one
device, or upward of 75 inches tall for stackable devices.
Washer/Dryer Combos: What to Look For
The
best washer dryer combos come in one of two options. The first is the stackable
appliance, which places a full-size dryer on top of a full-size washer to
minimize its footprint. The second option is a combination appliance that can
both wash and dry clothes, so you don't need to transfer laundry between
machines. When identifying the best options, consider the key attributes we've
outlined below.
Features
Many all-in-one washer dryer sets are designed for front loading, which means they use less water and electricity while in use. However, this design risks mold buildups if the machine is not properly cared for. An ideal combo appliance will also offer multiple wash and dry cycles to match the sensitivity of the fabrics being cleaned.
Many all-in-one washer dryer sets are designed for front loading, which means they use less water and electricity while in use. However, this design risks mold buildups if the machine is not properly cared for. An ideal combo appliance will also offer multiple wash and dry cycles to match the sensitivity of the fabrics being cleaned.
Drying Time
When shopping for a combination washer dryer, pay special attention to the efficiency of the appliance’s dry cycle. The small design of the device can lead to longer drying times, since the combo is unable to adequately remove moisture. Some laundry combination appliances are equipped with a dryer vent and thus boast normal drying times, whereas others lack the vent and can take multiple hours to dry your clothes.
When shopping for a combination washer dryer, pay special attention to the efficiency of the appliance’s dry cycle. The small design of the device can lead to longer drying times, since the combo is unable to adequately remove moisture. Some laundry combination appliances are equipped with a dryer vent and thus boast normal drying times, whereas others lack the vent and can take multiple hours to dry your clothes.
Compactness
One of the main selling points of the combo washer dryer is its compact nature, easily fitting into a closet-sized space. The height, width and depth of these devices drastically impact whether you’ll be able to fit it into your home. If the appliance is even a fraction of an inch too wide, you’ll have to return it and shop for something new.
One of the main selling points of the combo washer dryer is its compact nature, easily fitting into a closet-sized space. The height, width and depth of these devices drastically impact whether you’ll be able to fit it into your home. If the appliance is even a fraction of an inch too wide, you’ll have to return it and shop for something new.
Capacity
The typical washer dryer combo is much more compact than a standard side-by-side unit, offering around 7 cubic feet for the dryer and between 1.3 and 2 cubic feet for the washer. Smaller washer and dryer combos exist that require you to run more loads of laundry, though their capacity is ultimately dependent on their size and, consequently, the compactness of the room.
The typical washer dryer combo is much more compact than a standard side-by-side unit, offering around 7 cubic feet for the dryer and between 1.3 and 2 cubic feet for the washer. Smaller washer and dryer combos exist that require you to run more loads of laundry, though their capacity is ultimately dependent on their size and, consequently, the compactness of the room.
When
space is in short supply, your best course of action is often to combine
appliances when and where possible. The design and availability of washer dryer
combinations make them an ideal choice for apartments, motor homes and other
compact dwellings.
Appliances Review - Dishwasher
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| TopTenReview |
If you haven't upgraded
your dishwasher in a while, you'll be surprised how much better newer models
can clean your dishes. Many new dishwashers come with innovative features such
as third racks, sanitizing options, adjustable racks and other improvements
that have increased their functionality.
Dishwashers: What to Look For
When looking for a new
dishwasher, you should choose one with the right combination of features,
whether you need just the basics or a whole array of cycles and options. The
best dishwashers have, above all, excellent washing performance.
Functionality
Many different features affect cleaning performance. For instance, the number of spray arms, wash cycles and additional wash options on the dishwasher will make a difference. The more cycles and options a dishwasher has, the more alternatives you get for cleaning, sanitizing and drying your dishes. Additionally, a dishwasher with a high place-setting capacity allows you to clean more dishes in a single load. The sound level of the dishwasher is also important – the quietest dishwashers run between 40-46 decibels and are whisper quiet.
Many different features affect cleaning performance. For instance, the number of spray arms, wash cycles and additional wash options on the dishwasher will make a difference. The more cycles and options a dishwasher has, the more alternatives you get for cleaning, sanitizing and drying your dishes. Additionally, a dishwasher with a high place-setting capacity allows you to clean more dishes in a single load. The sound level of the dishwasher is also important – the quietest dishwashers run between 40-46 decibels and are whisper quiet.
Features
Some dishwashers have an overwhelming number of features, while some only have the basics. The more features a dishwasher offers, the more you can customize wash cycles for different loads. Top-rated dishwashers will have advanced features such as a child lock function, variable spray pressure, a sanitize option and a small-load wash cycle.
Some dishwashers have an overwhelming number of features, while some only have the basics. The more features a dishwasher offers, the more you can customize wash cycles for different loads. Top-rated dishwashers will have advanced features such as a child lock function, variable spray pressure, a sanitize option and a small-load wash cycle.
Efficiency
Optional eco-friendly washing and drying cycles are becoming the norm on the best dishwashers. The washing features will help to conserve energy by using a lower water temperature to clean your dishes without taking away wash performance. The eco-friendly drying options may include a fan and/or air-dry option so the appliance is not using the heating element, which consumes a lot of energy.
Optional eco-friendly washing and drying cycles are becoming the norm on the best dishwashers. The washing features will help to conserve energy by using a lower water temperature to clean your dishes without taking away wash performance. The eco-friendly drying options may include a fan and/or air-dry option so the appliance is not using the heating element, which consumes a lot of energy.
Help
& Support
When you buy a major appliance like a dishwasher, you want to be certain that it comes with a good warranty. This will give you the peace of mind that if it stops functioning, the manufacturer will come to your aid. The best dishwasher warranties will cover labor for one year, parts for two years, racks and electronics for five years, and the tub and door for a lifetime.
When you buy a major appliance like a dishwasher, you want to be certain that it comes with a good warranty. This will give you the peace of mind that if it stops functioning, the manufacturer will come to your aid. The best dishwasher warranties will cover labor for one year, parts for two years, racks and electronics for five years, and the tub and door for a lifetime.
Be sure to
buy from a manufacturer that offers customer support for warranty and technical
questions by phone, email and online chat. Online frequently asked questions,
tutorials and user manuals are also desirable support features.
Swapping your old
dishwasher for a new, energy efficient dishwasher won't only help your
pocketbook, it will help the environment as well. And your dishes will come out
cleaner thanks to the powerful spray arms and advanced sanitizing technology of
a new dishwasher.
Appliances Review - Side-By-Side Fridge
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| TopTenReview |
With all of the options
for refrigerators on the market, it can be confusing to figure out what
features and functions you want in one. There are various configurations,
capacities, features and options. Side-by-side refrigerators have the advantage
of a classic look and keep all of your food within reach. You don't have to
bend over to get the frozen pizza or stretch to reach the juice concentrate at
the back of your 7-foot freezer. You can organize your food to have commonly
used items right within arm's reach or at eye level, whether they're frozen or
fresh. Many side-by-side fridge and freezer combos provide the added
convenience of an ice and filtered water dispenser in the freezer door, a
feature less common in other refrigerator configurations.
Side-by-Side Refrigerators: What to Look For
When considering
side-by-side refrigerators, we looked for features and options that should be
standard in every model, such as adjustable shelves and a water and ice
dispenser. We also took into consideration some features that are nice bonuses,
such as temperature-controlled drawers and space-saving icemakers. The
following criteria explain the features the best side-by-side refrigerators
should have.
Capacity
Side-by-side refrigerators come in a variety of capacities. The models we looked at for our reviews ranged from 20 cubic feet to 30 cubic feet of interior space. Standard-depth models provide average amounts of space, while counter-depth models naturally have smaller capacities. The refrigerated portion takes up the majority of the interior space. Smaller-capacity refrigerators generally use less energy than large side-by-side refrigerator and freezer combos.
Side-by-side refrigerators come in a variety of capacities. The models we looked at for our reviews ranged from 20 cubic feet to 30 cubic feet of interior space. Standard-depth models provide average amounts of space, while counter-depth models naturally have smaller capacities. The refrigerated portion takes up the majority of the interior space. Smaller-capacity refrigerators generally use less energy than large side-by-side refrigerator and freezer combos.
Refrigerator
Features
When considering which features are most important, we closely looked at the adaptability of interior storage. Adjustable shelves are important so you can accommodate large and tall containers. Spillproof shelves are great to help keep your refrigerator clean. Most models include humidity-controlled crisper drawers, and some include temperature-controlled drawers for additional preservation of your food. Many models also include a deli or snack drawer for smaller items, and a few models include a can or wine rack for beverages.
When considering which features are most important, we closely looked at the adaptability of interior storage. Adjustable shelves are important so you can accommodate large and tall containers. Spillproof shelves are great to help keep your refrigerator clean. Most models include humidity-controlled crisper drawers, and some include temperature-controlled drawers for additional preservation of your food. Many models also include a deli or snack drawer for smaller items, and a few models include a can or wine rack for beverages.
For in-door
storage, all models include some combination of door bins. Some are gallon
sized for large milk or juice jugs, while others are liter-sized bins, and most
models include a dairy compartment at the top of the door. We also looked at
whether a refrigerator includes a door-ajar alarm to warn you when the doors
are left open and a quick-cool feature to pump extra cold air when needed.
Freezer
Features
As with the refrigerator portion, we looked at the number of shelves, drawers and bins included in the freezer portion of the side-by-sides. All freezers include a mix of shelves and drawers made from plastic, glass or wire. Freezer doors generally include fixed bins, although some models have adjustable door bins.
As with the refrigerator portion, we looked at the number of shelves, drawers and bins included in the freezer portion of the side-by-sides. All freezers include a mix of shelves and drawers made from plastic, glass or wire. Freezer doors generally include fixed bins, although some models have adjustable door bins.
The water
and ice dispenser is a nice feature in side-by-sides. All the models in our
lineup include one mounted on the exterior of the freezer door, providing
crushed or cubed ice as well as filtered water. The icemaker may be mounted
above the shelving area or in the door. The latter is preferable because it
saves space for storage.
Energy
& Warranty
Most new major appliances are Energy Star compliant, meaning they meet certain requirements that make them energy efficient. Energy efficiency means that they use less energy and cost less to operate. Not every model on our lineup is Energy Star compliant, and this may mean the difference of a few dollars on your energy bill. Large-capacity models generally use more energy than smaller ones do, and the ones that are not Energy Star compliant use more than similar-sized, energy-efficient models do.
Most new major appliances are Energy Star compliant, meaning they meet certain requirements that make them energy efficient. Energy efficiency means that they use less energy and cost less to operate. Not every model on our lineup is Energy Star compliant, and this may mean the difference of a few dollars on your energy bill. Large-capacity models generally use more energy than smaller ones do, and the ones that are not Energy Star compliant use more than similar-sized, energy-efficient models do.
All
manufacturers offer a warranty on their appliances, but not all warranties are
created equal. The bare minimum in warranties covers parts and labor for one
year. Many manufacturers offer an additional warranty on the sealed system,
including the compressor. Five or seven years is common, and a 10-year warranty
on the sealed system is superior.
Help
& Support
Refrigerators are not generally appliances you need much help with, but it is nice to know that the manufacturer offers support when you need it. Online access to a user guide and knowledgebase or FAQs page is helpful when you have questions. Every company has a telephone or email option so you can contact customer service, and some also have live text chat or even video chat options.
Refrigerators are not generally appliances you need much help with, but it is nice to know that the manufacturer offers support when you need it. Online access to a user guide and knowledgebase or FAQs page is helpful when you have questions. Every company has a telephone or email option so you can contact customer service, and some also have live text chat or even video chat options.
The convenient layout of
side-by-side refrigerators keeps all of your food equally accessible, with the
bonus of a water and ice dispenser. From there, you have a number of features
and options to choose from to find the best side-by-side refrigerator to buy
for your kitchen.
Appliances Review - Chest Freezer
Chest Freezers: What to Look For
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| TopTenReview |
For
cooks or homeowners, a chest freezer can provide additional storage space and
refrigeration options for your kitchen’s workspace. Chest freezers can also be
placed in a variety of locations, from your garage to basement. This
versatility provides valuable flexibility for organizing your home or business.
Because of their larger capacity, you can store items in a chest freezer that
could not fit into a traditional refrigerator. For home use, chest freezers act
a storage space for food and other pantry items.
Chest Freezers: What to Look For
As with
many home appliances, chest freezers can vary when it comes to features.
Depending on your specific needs and applications, certain freezer options will
become more important than others. A variety of models are available, ranging
from a cheap and small chest freezer to models that can provide secure storage
for food and oversized items. Chest freezers come in multiple sizes and styles,
so you'll be able to find one that fits your specific needs. Below are the
elements you want to consider when you're looking into buying a chest freezer.
Construction Quality
Because chest freezers are not typically stored in kitchens, they are designed to be exposed to additional wear and tear, ranging from changing outside temperatures to accidental damage. Features such as secure lid seals and door locks will ensure that your food remains safely frozen. In larger chest freezers, storage compartments and shelving tiers also make it easy to organize your food.
Because chest freezers are not typically stored in kitchens, they are designed to be exposed to additional wear and tear, ranging from changing outside temperatures to accidental damage. Features such as secure lid seals and door locks will ensure that your food remains safely frozen. In larger chest freezers, storage compartments and shelving tiers also make it easy to organize your food.
Size
Chest freezer volume is measured in cubic feet. Models can range from 5 to more than 20 cubic feet. For comparison, an average home oven has a volume of about 5 cubic feet. The ideal size of a chest freezer will depend on how much food you plan to store. A more compact model may save space in your home, but it will provide limited storage capacity. If you will use your chest freezer for long-term food storage and oversized items, consider investing in a larger model. In addition, the outer dimensions and non-shipping weight of a chest freezer can also restrict where you can place it.
Chest freezer volume is measured in cubic feet. Models can range from 5 to more than 20 cubic feet. For comparison, an average home oven has a volume of about 5 cubic feet. The ideal size of a chest freezer will depend on how much food you plan to store. A more compact model may save space in your home, but it will provide limited storage capacity. If you will use your chest freezer for long-term food storage and oversized items, consider investing in a larger model. In addition, the outer dimensions and non-shipping weight of a chest freezer can also restrict where you can place it.
Cleaning Options
A properly running freezer needs a clean chest, so maintenance is an important consideration. Some models will include a drainage spout or removable tray to dispose of extra water when the unit is defrosting. Manufacturers often have recommended cleaning guidelines for specific parts of the freezer. For instance, harsh cleaning agents can cause damage if applied to a freezer's finish.
A properly running freezer needs a clean chest, so maintenance is an important consideration. Some models will include a drainage spout or removable tray to dispose of extra water when the unit is defrosting. Manufacturers often have recommended cleaning guidelines for specific parts of the freezer. For instance, harsh cleaning agents can cause damage if applied to a freezer's finish.
Temperature Control
Most chest freezers operate at a temperature of around 0 degrees Fahrenheit to keep your food safely frozen. Many models also include temperature control functions for precise food storage.
Most chest freezers operate at a temperature of around 0 degrees Fahrenheit to keep your food safely frozen. Many models also include temperature control functions for precise food storage.
Thanks
to their extra storage capacity, chest freezers are a valuable addition to your
pantry or kitchen workspace. Low temperatures and temperature control functions
also make them helpful for long-term food storage. When you are on the market
for a chest freezer, review your kitchen and refrigeration requirements to find
a model that is the best fit.
Appliances Review - Upright Freezer
Upright Freezers: What to Look For
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| TopTenReview |
The Ant Story - Why You Need an Upright Freezer
An Aesop’s fable tells
the story of an idle grasshopper and a hardworking, ever-prepared ant. During
the warm months, the grasshopper wastes its time doing frivolous things while
the ant hastily prepares for the cold months. When the cold winds hit, the ant
is prepared and lives comfortably while the grasshopper perishes from
starvation. The moral of this story is, “Prepare for want before it comes.”
Today, we have the technology to never be wanting. Upright freezers have taken
the food storage world by storm claiming to be the answer to storing perishable
items. While this is very true, there are also some things to consider.
Upright Freezers: What to Look For
Functionality
The most important factor in an upright freezer’s list of specifications is its capacity. To get the best bang for your buck, we found the ideal capacity is 20.1 to 20.6 cubic feet, which will hold approximately 711 pounds of food. While initially you may not think you need this much space, as time goes on you may change your mind and welcome the extra space; an extra bag of frozen peas here, just one more carton of ice cream there, can add up quickly. Luckily, those “extra” items are easily organized with interior shelves, baskets and bins. The best organization method we found was in the Kenmore Elite 28093 which also included an interior light, special shelf for storing pizza, bookend organizers and tilt-out door baskets.
The most important factor in an upright freezer’s list of specifications is its capacity. To get the best bang for your buck, we found the ideal capacity is 20.1 to 20.6 cubic feet, which will hold approximately 711 pounds of food. While initially you may not think you need this much space, as time goes on you may change your mind and welcome the extra space; an extra bag of frozen peas here, just one more carton of ice cream there, can add up quickly. Luckily, those “extra” items are easily organized with interior shelves, baskets and bins. The best organization method we found was in the Kenmore Elite 28093 which also included an interior light, special shelf for storing pizza, bookend organizers and tilt-out door baskets.
You’ll also
want to look for a freezer with a high-tech temperature monitor. The best
temperature monitors alert you with an audible sound when the door is left
ajar, when the power goes out and when the temperature rises above a certain
degree. To protect your frozen food investment even further, look for a
built-in lock and an Energy Star qualification.
Features
What more can an upright freezer do besides freeze your food, you ask? A lot. The best upright freezers are equipped with external temperature controls and a power on light; a Fast Freeze setting that quickly freezes food to seal in freshness; and a Soft Freeze Zone that keeps certain foods, like ice cream, at a warmer temperature. The best freezers also have a Frost Free setting that makes it so you never have to defrost a freezer again. The Frost Free setting defrosts your freezer on a daily basis, preventing icy buildup. Additional features like including storage gates, being icemaker ready and having a defrost indicator are just icing on the cake.
What more can an upright freezer do besides freeze your food, you ask? A lot. The best upright freezers are equipped with external temperature controls and a power on light; a Fast Freeze setting that quickly freezes food to seal in freshness; and a Soft Freeze Zone that keeps certain foods, like ice cream, at a warmer temperature. The best freezers also have a Frost Free setting that makes it so you never have to defrost a freezer again. The Frost Free setting defrosts your freezer on a daily basis, preventing icy buildup. Additional features like including storage gates, being icemaker ready and having a defrost indicator are just icing on the cake.
Appearance
While we didn't weigh the appearance category very heavily, it is still an important attribute. When purchasing an upright freezer, you are looking for an appliance that will last you 10, 15 or 20 years. If you don’t like the way it looks today, we’re willing to bet you definitely won’t like it in 20 years. We recommend looking for a freezer with a stainless steel finish or at least a rust-free finished and contoured door. For convenience purposes, it’s also nice if the door has reversible hinges to allow you to decide which way the door will swing open.
While we didn't weigh the appearance category very heavily, it is still an important attribute. When purchasing an upright freezer, you are looking for an appliance that will last you 10, 15 or 20 years. If you don’t like the way it looks today, we’re willing to bet you definitely won’t like it in 20 years. We recommend looking for a freezer with a stainless steel finish or at least a rust-free finished and contoured door. For convenience purposes, it’s also nice if the door has reversible hinges to allow you to decide which way the door will swing open.
Be the ant in "The Ant and the Grasshopper" story, preparing for a
time when perhaps you will need a little cushion of food for your family.
Appliances Review - Deep Fryer
The process of battering and frying food adds fat and calories to a meal, but getting a quality deep fat fryer will reduce the amount of oil absorbed and calories created. By reducing oil absorption with consistent and high heating, you lose none of the texture and flavor you may love with fried foods.
Electric Deep Fryer: What to Look For
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| TopTenReview |
Frying
is a longstanding preferred method of cooking in the South. Foods like catfish
and hush puppies just happen to taste better when fried, and even the
well-established okra tends to be a dish best served fried. Using a deep fryer
for cooking adds a unique texture and flavor to meals. While it carries with it
a negative stigma associated with high calorie and high-fat foods, it is quite
possible to create low-fat meals.
The process of battering and frying food adds fat and calories to a meal, but getting a quality deep fat fryer will reduce the amount of oil absorbed and calories created. By reducing oil absorption with consistent and high heating, you lose none of the texture and flavor you may love with fried foods.
Electric Deep Fryer: What to Look For
The
process of deep frying foods entails submerging food in hot oil, a type of
liquid fat. While the fat itself is liquid, it is still considered a solid and
thus creates dry heat. Cooking food in oil properly will have the end result of
very little oil being retained in them, which is only accomplished through a
quality fryer that can seal in moisture, maintain temperatures and create
non-oily foods.
Heating Element
One of the most important elements of any electric deep fryer is its ability to maintain a constant temperature. Oil retains heat, and at temperatures of over 375 degrees Fahrenheit, they can begin to smoke and easily burn food. At the other end of the spectrum, cooking at too low of a temperature often results in oil absorbing into the meat and increasing the calories and fat content of a meal drastically. Keeping to the ideal temperatures of 325 to 375 degrees Fahrenheit will result in more effective cooking and reduce the absorption of oil in foods for healthier and tastier meals.
One of the most important elements of any electric deep fryer is its ability to maintain a constant temperature. Oil retains heat, and at temperatures of over 375 degrees Fahrenheit, they can begin to smoke and easily burn food. At the other end of the spectrum, cooking at too low of a temperature often results in oil absorbing into the meat and increasing the calories and fat content of a meal drastically. Keeping to the ideal temperatures of 325 to 375 degrees Fahrenheit will result in more effective cooking and reduce the absorption of oil in foods for healthier and tastier meals.
Features
The goal of a deep fryer is to create fried rather than oily foods. The features of any fryer will work in tandem toward that goal, offering temperature settings ideal for sealing moisture and reducing oil absorption. The design of small and large deep fryers alike should facilitate the safe cooking of food without putting you at risk of burning from oil bubbles popping. In addition to covers to protect against oil spatters, the device should likewise facilitate the easy addition and removal of oil for regular use.
The goal of a deep fryer is to create fried rather than oily foods. The features of any fryer will work in tandem toward that goal, offering temperature settings ideal for sealing moisture and reducing oil absorption. The design of small and large deep fryers alike should facilitate the safe cooking of food without putting you at risk of burning from oil bubbles popping. In addition to covers to protect against oil spatters, the device should likewise facilitate the easy addition and removal of oil for regular use.
Ease of Use
Using a deep fryer should be as simple as adding oil, turning on the heat and adding food. The main element of using a deep fryer that requires some skill and attention is cook times. It is quite easy to overcook food, and the oil can remove moisture just as easily as sealing it in. The best deep fryers will facilitate easy, stress-free interaction with you.
Using a deep fryer should be as simple as adding oil, turning on the heat and adding food. The main element of using a deep fryer that requires some skill and attention is cook times. It is quite easy to overcook food, and the oil can remove moisture just as easily as sealing it in. The best deep fryers will facilitate easy, stress-free interaction with you.
Warranty
Like with any other appliance, the warranty is critically important in ensuring you can use your low fat fryer in the years to come. In addition to having the individual parts of the fryer covered, you also need a warranty that will protect the heating element, which would protect against inconsistent temperatures that could potentially ruin meals.
Like with any other appliance, the warranty is critically important in ensuring you can use your low fat fryer in the years to come. In addition to having the individual parts of the fryer covered, you also need a warranty that will protect the heating element, which would protect against inconsistent temperatures that could potentially ruin meals.
Purchasing
a deep fryer adds a whole new range of meals you can eat. For even the
health-conscious, these fryers can create delicious, low-fat food that is still
fried. All it requires is a little practice and creativity when putting
together recipes, and you can recreate you favorite foods with ease.
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