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Special Series: Appliances: Part One: Your Guide to the Latest Appliances

An emphasis on technology and energy efficiency is driving the design of appliances from washers to ovens to barbecue grills.
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The Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer is a space-saving solution for small kitchens. Photo courtesy of Fisher & Paykel Appliances.
The Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer is a space-saving solution for small kitchens. Photo courtesy of Fisher & Paykel Appliances.
That click-click-click you hear when firing up a gas range is about to go the way of turn-dial TVs and VHS videotapes.

Technology is taking over home appliances—as is the trend towards energy efficiency. And as the kitchen grows in prominence as the heart of the home, consumers want appliances that are not only functional but stylish.

“Every category has something new and exciting,” says Jill Notini, spokesperson for the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers. “With laundry, there is a focus on conservation. We’re seeing washers that use 60 percent less water. With cooking products, a lot of manufacturers are using induction cooking, which is an entirely new product category and a very efficient way to cook. People are looking for appliances that are sleek, which I don’t think was the case 10 or 15 years ago.”

BobVila.com looks at the trends that are driving the home appliance market in a six-part series:


LG Steam Washing Machine uses less water and energy while gently and effectively cleaning your clothes. Photo courtesy of LG Electronics.
LG Steam Washing Machine uses less water and energy while gently and effectively cleaning your clothes. Photo courtesy of LG Electronics.
Part Two: Technology Takes Over Household Appliances
Cooktops that deliver the precise amount of heat you need for whatever you’re cooking is just one innovation in the world of kitchen appliances. There are also ovens that use steam for cooking and refrigerators equipped with digital picture frames and iPod docks.

Part Three: Space-Saving Ideas
Dishwashers the size of a drawer, ovens that double as microwaves and ranges that feature two heating units instead of four give kitchens with limited space the convenience of high-tech appliances as well as the space to store your cereal.

Part Four: Driven by Design: Appliances that Pop
If you’re ready to move beyond stainless-steel, prepare for the pumpkin-colored oven. You’ll also find range hoods that resemble works of art and refrigerators that are hidden behind cabinetry and sleek metallic doors.

Part Five: The Green Trend: Energy-Saving Appliances
Steam is driving the efficiency trend in home appliances. From washing machines to dishwashers to ovens, steam is touted as better at cleaning than just hot water and as a way to cook quickly while preserving nutrients. A trend toward smaller appliances, induction heat cooktops and tankless water heaters is also helping homeowners conserve energy.

Part Six: Bringing the Kitchen Outdoors

Siemens avantGarde touchSlide Electric Cooktop allows for fast, safer and energy-efficient food preparation. Photo courtesy of Siemens.
Siemens avantGarde touchSlide Electric Cooktop allows for fast, safer and energy-efficient food preparation. Photo courtesy of Siemens.
The days of lugging in bags of ice to keep your beer cold are over. Outdoor kitchens not only feature refrigerators but ice makers, wine cellars and more. For comfort, consider adding fireplaces and mosquito misters and before long you’ll forget that you even have an indoor kitchen.

Part Seven: Maintenance and Repairs
All this new technology brings with it new maintenance requirements. Learn how to properly clean and avoid scratches on your cooktop as well as what to do when one of your high-tech appliances stop working.

Whether you’re designing a new home or renovating your current one, the latest appliance options can save you time and money while creating a look you’ll love to come home to.

Read more Special Series: Appliances articles here.

Text by Cynthia Ramnarace
© 2008 BobVila.com

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