Whether you are remodeling your kitchen or building it from scratch, the most important decisions you’ll make will involve your appliances. Here are some of the most important features to focus on when picking out your kitchen appliances.
Oven: The first decision you have to make regarding your oven, after gas vs. electric, is whether you want it attached to the stove or separate. The most space saving option for your oven is to install the combined stove/oven; but some people cook and bake more than others, so this is based on your needs. Dual ovens are popular if you bake a lot or would like to have a warming oven. Some stove options have multiple burners, plus options for grilling, basting, deep frying, steaming and also griddle features.
No matter what kind of oven and stove you get, you have to make sure ventilation is possible. Either a range hood or fan is recommended.
Dishwasher: Most new dishwashers are already extremely quiet due to the higher level of insulation built in. So what else is there to consider? Efficiency and style are definitely two things to think about. Choosing an energy efficient dishwasher with internal water heating is less demanding on the home’s hot water heater and can cut costs over time even though they may be more expensive initially. More expensive dishwashers usually have touch pads, stainless steel interiors, and special wash cycles for particular dishware. Cheaper dishwashers only offer three wash cycles and are operated by knobs or push buttons.
Sink: Shape, size and depth are the most important when determining sink style. The cheaper the sink, the shallower they will be. Standard sinks are typically 8 inches in depth with the more expensive nearing 10 inches. There are many sink shapes to consider as well. Single, large rectangular basics are popular but are starting to be outnumbered by double bowled sinks featuring one smaller side with a garbage disposal. The double sink allows more separation for washing dishes. For the entertainer, Bucks County kitchen remodelers recommend a three bowl sink. The smallest bowl is usually topped with a cutting board and garbage disposal while the two larger basins flank the sides for general dishwashing. This is a good alternative to having a dishwasher as well, because there is more room to wash and dry your day’s dirty dishes.
When choosing a style of sink material, there are four basics to choose from; stainless steel, enamel on cast iron, solid surfacing and quartz. Each offers something unique and the choice is largely based on personal taste.
Refrigerator: A great rule of thumb for the size of refrigerators is that it should be 12 cubic feet per two people in the house. For each additional household member you should add two more cubic feet to its size. The style of fridge ranges based on your needs. There are models with freezers on the top or bottom. They also have side by side refrigerator/freezers that often come with water and ice dispensers. Some extras that you can add-on to your refrigerator style are temperature control meat keepers, vegetable bins, ice maker, door bins and removable/ adjustable shelving.
Stainless steel and white or black paneling are the most popular styles of appliance because of their professional and clean look. Some homeowners opt to hide their appliances by getting custom cabinet fronts so they blend in with the rest of the cabinetry in the kitchen. No matter what style you choose, function is always the most important. So make sure you choose appliances that suite you and your family’s needs before all else.
