Honest opinions about how to buy Appliances and Lighting.

Thursday, December 31, 2009

Why I Am So Cold

I like working later...less distractions. Recently, however, I noticed that it was a lot colder in the store. And the reason?

The switch from incandescent bulbs to CFLs and LED bulbs has eliminated residual heat from the store.





In a humorous departure, I am the moderator of a panel of experts at the Residential Design Show in April. My seminar (unbelievably): The Future of Incandescent Lighting.

My talk should last about 30 seconds, and I will create a Powerpoint with one slide, which will say: NONE.

Wonder if the architects and designer who are paying to hear me will appreciate the candor or despise the brevity.

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Best Of....

I was thinking of doing the Best of The Decade, but what was hot even 3 years ago is not now. Following is the best for now and the near future.


LLF LED Recessed:





The cost savings between LED and incandescent is staggering. Although the payback is about 3 years, this technology is bound to decrease in price. Within the next decade, you will be buying this bulb...


Electrolux Induction:





Induction is the best cooking product...even including pro gas. Every manufacturer dabbles in induction, but Electrolux will be introducing new induction products at lower prices.


French Doors:





Fad, Fashion or a bit of both. French doors combine the lateral functionality of a bottom mount in a chic look.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

New Stuff

Its amazing the dearth of new stuff. Next year will be different. But here is the best of the new (short post).

Danby DBC2760BLS

2 door refrigerator freezer, which fits in a 24 inch opening.








Frigidaire FGHS2679KE

Nothing fab about a side by side, but I like the finish. Black with stainless accents maybe a nice alternative to stainless with stainless accents





Viking VDSC530T4SS

Viking has a clock...actually a pretty sophisticated clock. Then again it should be at $5899.



Monday, December 28, 2009

How To Choose a Gas Cooktop

Why do built-in appliances cause such much dread amongst consumers. Its been awhile since my selling days, but I am curious. Let me simplify considerably the vexing category of gas cooktops, as there seems to be so many.





You want to look for a high BTU output on one or more burners AND a unit capable of simmering. What else does a cooktop actually do?

A couple of my favs...

Bosch: Reasonably priced with 5 burners in a 30 inch configuration.





Viking: Good commercial style with 6 burners in 36 inch configuration.