Buying New Kitchen Equipment - Everything But the Sink!

Does a New Refrigerator Add to Your Kitchen Decor? You Bet!!

No matter if you are furnishing a new kitchen or replacing old kitchen equipment, there are two main things to look for - convenience and durability.

Kitchen staples such as refrigerators, stoves, microwaves, and dishwashers should be chosen carefully. These each cost a good bit of money, so you'll want equipment that's made to last many years.

Refrigerator Buying Tips

The two main attractions of your kitchen will be the refrigerator and stove. These will be used daily and should be durable enough to withstand this much usage.

Refrigerators are available in various price ranges, with cheaper ones ranging from $300 to $1200 and the more expensive ones ranging from $1300 to $3500. Prices vary by brand name, capacity and size, and the features of the refrigerator.

Expensive VS. Cheap Refrigerators

You shouldn't necessarily disregard cheaper brands, but do be very picky and shop around at several kitchen appliance stores before making a selection. Choose a refrigerator based on your needs and budget.

Think of how much food you plan to store on a weekly basis and ask yourself these three questions....

• Do you need lots of freezer space?
• Do you need lots of shelves and drawers?
• Do you need special storage for fresh vegetables?

Consider whether you would like a side-by-side model or a model with the freezer on top or bottom, and if you would like to have a water and ice dispenser.

Some things to look for include glass shelves, dependable temperature control, trays for butter and meat, a bright refrigerator light, humidity control, and a color that matches your kitchen decor.

Comparison Shop before You Buy

Compare refrigerator brands of various kitchen equipment dealers at the same price level to see which offers the most features for the money. Also, compare the warranties available and the type of materials used to manufacturer the refrigerator.

Include the Stove in Your Kitchen Equipment Plans   For stoves, look for features that best suit your cooking habits. There are counter top burners with a separate wall stove.   You'll also find complete stove sets with four burners and a built-in large oven area.

And, some stoves even come with raised burners or flat burners (ceramic burners with electric coils underneath glass) that appear flush with the stove top.

Kitchen Stove Decor

It really depends on the look and feel you want and how much you plan to use the stove. If you do a lot of baking, be sure to get a stove with a large oven that has at least two adjustable shelves. This will allow you to bake multiple items or large dishes.

Electric or Gas?

There are gas or electric units, but electric units are most popular today because they heat up faster and are more convenient. Most people that buy a gas stove do so because they are replacing an older gas stove and do not wish to pay an electrician to do the wiring needed for an electric stove. But still, it's a matter of preference as to which type of stove a cook likes best.

A Stove is Kitchen Furniture so Shop for What You Want

When shopping for a stove at a kitchen equipment retail store, consider the type of stove and features that will best suit your needs. There are induction cook-tops, self-cleaning ovens, convection ovens, speed ovens, infrared broilers for gas units, and various types of control knobs and timers.

Purchasing a Microwave and Dishwasher

When choosing a dishwasher, consider the capacity and size you'll need as well as the style. There are various types of dishwashers today, including modern-looking stainless steel models.

A standard dishwasher comes in sizes 18 inches (for individuals or small families with two to three persons) or 24 inches (for slightly larger families). There are built-in dishwashers, portable units, and countertop models.

Each has its own benefits and disadvantages, so you'll have to weigh these to see which will work for you. If you have a very small kitchen with limited cabinet space already, you might opt for a portable dishwasher.

Dishwasher Features

Features to consider when shopping for dishwashers include the type of washing cycles available (light, regular, pots/pans, or economy), performance features, racking and stacking features, and trays for flatware and cutlery.

Portable dishwashers are priced between $150 and $1000, depending on the size, features, and brand name. Built-in models can be priced from several hundred dollars to more than $1500. There are some small, compact built-in units for under $200.

Microwaves - All are Not the Same

Microwaves are another kitchen equipment necessity. They can be installed above your range (under a cabinet), or can be freestanding on a countertop. Either way, you’ll want to buy the size that’s needed for your family.

This kitchen accessory ranges from very small to big, and this can make all the difference in how and what you can cook. Before buying a microwave, check out all the settings and features. Look for a microwave with a turntable to cook food more evenly.

Also, be sure it will fit in the space you have available. Get a color that suits your kitchen design as well. Pricing for microwaves ranges from $60 to $700, so be sure to shop around first.

Use these kitchen equipment buying tips to add dependable appliances that will meet your family's needs for years to come. Now, let's get cooking!!!

More Kitchen Decor Ideas and Tips
Kitchen Cabinet Designs - You spend a lot of time there so why have to stack and re-stack everything? With a little kitchen cabinet designing you can have a new room in no time.	Kitchen Table - It's this most visited place in your house. Without a doubt you'll entertain more people here than in any other room so make sure this is a main part of your next decorating project.