Tag: ranges

Is it Time to Replace Your Home Appliances?

Appliances are designed to be tough and rugged, but this doesn’t mean that your hard working appliances don’t have an expiration date. You will need to replace your current dishwasher, refrigerator, range, washer, or dryer at some point, but how do you know when it is time? If your appliances are pushing the 10 to 15 year mark, it’s likely that it is approaching retirement, but here we’ll explore in more detail when it is time to replace your home appliances.

Refrigerators

Most refrigerators last an average of 12 years. If your refrigerator is approaching this age, it doesn’t mean that you should immediately get rid of it. You should check to see if your refrigerator is still operating effectively and efficiently. Refrigerators should cool your items to 35 to 38ºf to avoid your food going bad. At these temperatures, it is cool enough to prevent bacterial growth without being cold enough to freeze.

Even if your refrigerator is maintaining this optimum temperature, you need to consider how much energy is being used. Older appliances can use more power, causing energy bills to skyrocket. Refrigerators run 24/7, so if you notice that your energy bills keep creeping up, you may need to look at upgrading your appliance.

Dishwashers

Many of us don’t realize how much we rely on our dishwashers until they stop working. Family life can be hectic enough without needing to tackle a mountain of dishes at the end of the day. Fortunately, most dishwashers have a lifespan of up to 10 years. You can prolong the lifespan of your dishwasher by regularly cleaning the filter. This can be accomplished by removing it and soaking it in hot, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes before replacing it. It is also a good idea to periodically sanitize your dishwasher to keep bacteria and bad smells at bay. But, if your dishwasher isn’t draining, starts making weird noises, has developed a persistent bad smell or doesn’t clean your dishes as it should, it is time to think about replacing it.

Ranges

Ranges are at the heart of our kitchens, allowing us to cook family meals and bake treats. Fortunately, most ranges can have a lifespan of up to 20 years, particularly when they are well cared for. If your range isn’t heating up properly or consistently, it is time to consider an upgrade. Fortunately, newer models offer some impressive features that can not only improve your cooking skills, but also make maintenance easier.

Washers and Dryers 

Washers and dryers tend to have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years before they need to be replaced. Fortunately, you can extend the lifespan of your washer and dryer with some basic maintenance. Even something as minor as cleaning the lint traps after every cycle can help to prolong the lifespan and efficiency of your appliance. Unfortunately, you’re likely to need an upgrade if your washer doesn’t fill up or drain properly, or your dryer fails to dry your clothes. Watch your washer and dryer during use, and if they are shaking erratically, it is a sign that they are approaching the end of their life.

Upgrade Efficiency

While no one enjoys needing to spend money on new appliances, there is a positive aspect of upgrading. New appliances offer far greater efficiency and often boast some impressive features to make your life a little easier. Although you may not have noticed the increasing energy use, you may be pleasantly surprised at the cost of your energy bills when you start using your new appliances.

If you are considering upgrading your home appliances, you can explore the options with this online collection, or speak to a home appliance specialist for professional advice and guidance.

Cooking Appliances For Tiny Living

The concept of tiny living has taken the world by storm, and more people are aspiring to downsize their lives. Tiny living is both economically beneficially and eco-friendly, but it can be difficult to find great appliances for a tiny home. So, here we will explore some of the best cooking appliances that are great for tiny living.

The Tiny Living Phenomenon

Tiny houses have been shown to be far more environmentally friendly compared to a standard home. The average tiny home occupies just 186 square feet compared to the average standard home in the U.S with a 2,598 square foot area. Tiny houses also use only 6 light bulbs compared to an average of 45 in a standard home.
What is even more compelling is that 18% of greenhouse gases can be traced to residential houses. The average home needs approximately 28,000 pounds of CO2 annually, while a tiny house needs only 2,000 pounds.

Those choosing to adopt the tiny living lifestyle can appreciate the value of smaller living. Most tiny homeowners don’t have a mortgage and typically have more savings compared to an average American. It costs an impressive 10 times less in order to build a tiny house, and they are designed to be DIY friendly. While you will be able to enjoy a greener lifestyle, you will be faced with the decision of using grid electricity or running your appliances on propane, which can make the prospect of finding the right appliances even more challenging. When you start looking for cooking appliances, you’ll need to really consider how often you’ll cook and how many people you’ll be cooking for to make the right choice.

Avanti

Avanti is a good brand for tiny homes as they specialize in offering compact appliances. The brand even offers complete compact kitchens designed to provide a fridge, electric heating elements, a storage drawer and a sink in the space needed for a standard range.

Avanti has a great selection of small sized appliances with freestanding ranges in both gas and electric. You can even create a more upscale aesthetic with some modern looking models to create a sophisticated look to your new tiny kitchen.

Ranges

If you prefer to go for a small-scale version of a tradition range, there are some great options. Fagor and Fisher & Paykel both offer some excellent dual fuel options that are just 24”. These ranges provide warming drawers, 4 burners, and a 2 cu. Ft. oven with neat features like a self-clean mode. Some models even provide convection ovens and variable BTU burners, so you can create a culinary hub in your tiny house.

Cooktops

If you’re not a serious foodie or keen chef, you may prefer to opt for a cooktop. There are plenty of options available for the space conscious. You can choose a 2 or 4 burner model in both electric or gas. You’ll need to ask yourself whether you plan to cook full meals or eat out more. If all you need it to heat a pan of soup, a 2 burner cooktop will take up next to no space and suit your requirements.

Electric cooktops are easy to clean, but gas offers excellent heat control and reliability. Either option will provide a quality appliance as the industry continues to advance rapidly. Some brands now offer induction technology in smaller models that provide fantastic efficiency, easy cleaning and fast cooking, making them ideal for a smaller home.

A tiny home is a test of creativity as you’ll need to think about multiple uses to fit your aesthetic. Before you start shopping for your appliance, you will need to seriously consider your daily habits, lifestyle, and dietary habits. If you are considering tiny living, you can explore the cooking options with this online collection of small cooking appliances. For further help or advice, you can also speak to a home appliance expert.