Most apartment kitchens are already supplied with stoves and refrigerators included. However, if you need a new stove, microwave, or refrigerator there are many types of such appliances that are good buys, you just need to know what brand, size, and type etc. that you need. Here are some ideas to get you started if you are looking for new stoves, refrigerators, microwaves or other kitchen appliances:
* Refrigerators:
Refrigerators are essential kitchen appliances
§ The most popular and convenient refrigerators are side-by-side as opposed to the actual fridge part being on the bottom and the freezer on top or vice versa.
§ Water and ice dispensers on the outside of the door are a very nice touch that make water and, if you choose, ice water easily accessible.
§ There are even refrigerators, such as ones GE has designed, that are shallower in depth than traditional model refrigerators, which making it much easier to seek and reach for things stored at the back of fridge. As you probably know, food can go bad way back there, usually because you never see it when you look around for something to eat.
And of course, there are much smaller refrigerators that are not so much kitchen appliances as they are conveniences for the office, dorm rooms or recreational vehicles etc. These items are very handy in a lot of ways, and designed especially for the purposes I just mentioned. Virtually all kitchen appliance manufacturers offer such items.
· The dishwasher:
Most dishwashers come with push button controls or simple to use dials in the front. Dishwashers in general are fairly accessible appliances, but sometimes you will want to do a little research on the reliability of such kitchen appliances before purchasing your dishwasher.
Dishwashers are usually at least 34" high and will fit perfectly beneath a standard 36" high counter. Unfortunately, standards kitchen appliances do not work for everybody.
For example:
Some people are very tall and have trouble bending. In these cases the person should try to have a higher dishwasher installed, (and often will have higher counters as well). This approach will make their experience in their kitchens a whole lot less painful--and such accommodations for the installation of kitchen appliances is sometimes even doctor recommended.
For another example:
People who use wheelchairs often find it easier and more accessible to have a kitchen counter that has provides space underneath it so that they can pull their wheelchair right up to the counter like a chair. Thus the size of the dishwasher they choose to purchase will have to be carefully considered.
· The stove:
Of all kitchen appliances the stove is one of the most important. There are plenty of kitchen appliance manufacturers currently designing burners and ovens especially with different kinds of accessibility in mind.
§ Knobs:
Sometimes there are knobs or push-button controls in the front of the stove. This way the user does not ever have to reach across a hot burner while cooking.
§ Ceramic cooktop units:
Another great kind of stove is the type of stove or burners with flat surfaces. These kitchen appliances allow you to easily slide pots and pans from one area to another, and are incredibly easy to clean up after.
· Ovens:
The way that the oven door opens is also very important.
§ Many ovens have a door that pulls downward. This sort of door will provide a very convenient transitional shelf.
§ On the other hand, some consumers prefer a door that swings to the left or to the right. This may seem to allow him or her better access to the oven racks inside.
* Microwaves:
Microwaves are kitchen appliances that are safer and much less expensive than other kitchen appliances. They are easier to operate than conventional ovens especially because you set the cook time and the microwave immediately turns itself off. This is a great feature for the forgetful cook. Sure you can set a timer for your oven, but the oven stays hot and if you do not hear the dinger--supper may be burned, and you may even have to disconnect the smoke alarm. But with a microwave oven, the item you have heated up will just sit there, waiting for you to remember it.
§ Look for features like a microwave with a door release that can be simply pushed shut.
§ Many microwaves have pads for programming the operation you need, such as cooking popcorn, re-heating soup or beverages, defrosting frozen leftovers etc. These pads are terrific, unless you have low vision. Or you can, of course, set your own time and heat levels with the number and cooking level pads.
§ Some microwaves have a timer dial rather than a touch pad.
* Smaller conveniences:
Other kinds of kitchen appliances are not necessary, but make for great accessories and can be incredibly useful in the kitchen. Without some of these smaller and less essential kitchen appliances, there are some things that you will not be able to make.
§ In-sink garbage disposers:
It is easy to become dependant on in-sink water dispensers. Once you get used to not having to scrape off the remains of your meal on or in your dishes into the trashcan it becomes habitual to take the dishes straight to the kitchen sink. If you do this without an in sink garbage dispenser your drain will get clogged--and quickly.
In sink garbage disposals are designed especially to dispose of food waste easily. And they will help your trashcans smell better longer, for lack of rotting food collecting inside.
§ Instant hot water dispensers:
Instant hot water dispensers can be a great convenience for those who need quick access for things like coffee or soup. However, it takes only a minute or two more to heat your water in the microwave. Accessories such as instant hot water dispensers are a fancy touch to add to your kitchen for extra convenience.
There are many kitchen appliances to choose from that I have not mentioned here. Popular and smaller items such as blenders, coffee makers, espresso machines, mixers, egg timers and more are great items to own, though not essential. Whatever kitchen appliances you choose to purchase for your kitchen, make sure they are in high quality condition and will be long lasting for your convenience.