Task Lighting....Track

To rehash how to light a room, There are 4 different light sources: Decorative, which provides the visual pop and depth like chandeliers...Ambient or uplighting provides even, environmental lighting from pendants and sconces. Accent lighting highlights objects.

But the most important element of lighting is task, which is provided by track or recessed. Task lighting provides the functional light for the room and is the backbone of any lighting plan. The majority of new construction employs recessed, but track has its merits. It is more versatile with movable light sources (called track heads).

It also has become more unique and customizable with literally thousands of possibilities...and you do not have to cut into your ceiling multiple times like recessed...

Have a look at some apps:

Cash For Clunkers...Yet Again

Cash For Clunkers AKA The Great Appliance Exchange is a state funded rebate program. Rebates are $250 on a dishwasher, $200 on a refrigerator, $175 on a washer and $50 on a freezer.

From a price/value standpoint, the trick is to piggyback the state rebate with manufacturer rebates...

Have a look:

Bosch dishwasher normally $500.....On April 22, the price after rebates is $99. We will be sending our last Cash for Clunker rebate on Tuesday...Click here to sign up.

Induction Compared

I really am unbiased. What people buy at Yale is consequential to me as long as they are happy with their purchase and are treated fairly. However, when a product is superior, I will certainly extol its virtues (unless it has a bad repair record).

Induction is that product. It is faster, safer, easier to simmer and less expensive than pro gas. We have a number of Youtube videos demonstrating this.

Electrolux seems to be ahead in the induction category. Lets compare their two slide in models:

Frigidaire (an Electrolux Brand) FPCF3085UF...

At $2599, this unit is hybrid induction meaning two of the five burners are induction and the other two are electric. This unit also features a convection oven and warming drawer

Electrolux EW30IS65JS $3599

Better than above with a more intuitive (still like that word) control panel, all induction burners and a second oven instead of just a warmer.

New Products

Every year in April there is a new appliance show in Boxborough. This year was somewhat sparse, because we are almost four years in a recession. Manufacturers have decreased their R&D and focused on their core competencies.

There were a few kernels of innovation:

Big winner: Frigidaire induction slide-in with convection and warming drawer

Second Place: GE 20 cubic foot french door

Distant Third: AGA 36 inch professional