Buyer’s Guide: Choosing The Right Kitchen Appliances
Despite the pressures created by the modern lifestyle, the kitchen remains the heart of the home. However, in order to get the most out of your kitchen, it is essential that you choose the right kitchen appliances. Making the right decision can help you maximize the space available, make your life more convenient, and lower your utility bills. Here’s how:
Must-have kitchen appliances
The hob or stove must produce heat quickly and safely. Induction hobs do that and are great for families with young children, as they can also be easily cleaned. The main things to look out for in hoods or extractors are low decibel rating (in other words, a noiseless unit) and extraction power, which is dependent on the size of your kitchen. If space is at a premium, go for a 2-in-1 stove and oven unit or for a built-in oven fitted at eye-level. If you cook in large batches or have a large family, a double-oven unit could be perfect. A refrigerator is also essential. If you buy lots of ready meals, choose a unit that has a large amount of freezer storage (ideally 50/50). If you mostly buy fresh produce, go for an appliance with a smaller freezer.
Energy efficiency
Some kitchen appliances are on round-the-clock. This is the case of refrigerators, so ensure that they provide energy efficient food storage so that you bills are lower. It pays off to invest in a fridge freezer with an energy rating of A+ or A++, which on average cost less than £50 a year to run.
Energy efficiency is also important in ovens and stoves, as you want to minimize the amount of heat that is lost. Gas-based appliances are more costly to run, whereas induction ovens and stoves are more efficient and therefore cheaper.
Things to consider when choosing kitchen appliances
Consider your lifestyle first. If you enjoy cooking and baking, go for fully-kitted appliances, as you will surely put all their features to good use. If you’re always busy, there is no point in spending large sums in ritzy appliances. You should also consider the size of your household and choose appliances with a larger or smaller capacity accordingly.
Other considerations
Other things to consider include how easy the appliances are to clean and to maintain (some models even feature self-cleaning systems) and how well their design fits with your kitchen style. The latest trends in kitchen appliances like the fridge freezer have a clear minimalistic and streamlined look, which can enhance the appeal and convenience of your kitchen regardless of its size or style.
