Kitchen Appliances

When choosing kitchen appliances, consider features and performance. Other factors to consider are cooking style, your budget, ease of operation, and energy efficiency.

To improve energy efficiency, look for appliances with the Energy Star rating. The Energy Star rating indicates that the appliance is energy-efficient. This choice will help you save on monthly operating costs.

At a basic level, you’ll need a stove or a wall oven/cooktop combo, a refrigerator, and a dishwasher. Freestanding ranges are space-saving and easier to install than a cooktop/wall oven combo. They are available in gas, electric, induction, or dual-fuel configurations; they are also more economical—unless you opt for a luxury range.

Also consider BTUs (burner heat output). Most serious home cooks prefer gas, though induction burners offer speed and precision. Wall ovens, which come in a single or double-oven configuration, tend to be easier on your back since you’re not bending over to lift heavy pots.

When choosing a refrigerator, consider your family size. If, for example, you’ve got teenage boys in your house, you may want to upgrade to more cubic feet. Refrigerators are available as side-by-side, top-and-bottom, and built-in units. Panel-ready refrigerators (and dishwashers too) are a great way to coordinate the look of your kitchen.

If your existing appliances are in good condition, you may want to incorporate them into your remodel to save money. How far you can move appliances from their current locations will depend on the location of your water and gas lines and electrical outlets. Generally, you can’t relocate water-dependent appliances, such as dishwashers, more than a few inches without installing new lines.