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  • Here’s what you need to know about outdoor refrigerators

    Not any fridge can be used outdoors. This is because indoor and outdoor refrigerators are designed according to the varying demands of the customers. Sure, they both have a primary goal, that is to keep the food and drinks fresh and cool. However, they have different technologies to suit varied environments.

    The refrigerators designed to be used outdoors involve two factors. Firstly, a refrigerator that has to be used outdoors has an ambient temperature range. This is because the temperature can get hot, but the mini fridge should be able to keep everything cool. As the temperature inside the house is generally cool, a refrigerator that is built to be kept outside has to have mechanisms that adjust to the drastically changing temperatures during day and night. In simple words, your potential outdoor refrigerator should be competent enough to manage a highly unstable environment.

    Secondly, electrical components that are part of the mini refrigerator are also weatherproofed. This is why an outdoor refrigerator is designed to handle the changing weather scenarios such as exposure to rain, water or dust. Such waterproof components are required to evade the risk of electrocution. Ensure that the mini fridge you purchase should be approved by the UL (Underwriters Laboratory). A UL certification guarantees that your outdoor fridge meets all the required safety standards.

    However, outdoor weatherproofing does not imply that it can ensure all kinds of climatic conditions. This weather proofing renders a shield to the electrical parts from the water. It does not mean that no precaution has to be taken and it can be left unprotected in extreme weather conditions. The outdoor fridges bear the capacity to resist rust and therefore are generally made up of stainless steel. However, this the surface can get affected if it is left to face severe cold or hot climate.

    Outdoor fridges are also made to be in two styles that are free standing or built-in. One can be made to fit a cabinet in order to suit the design of your patio or backyard. As refrigerators need proper ventilation to sustain its performance, it is advised to ensure that the cabinet facilitates a decent flow of air. If you have limited space, then you can get a freestanding model which can be installed under the counter that could provide adequate ventilation. You can also move the freestanding model in your basement or garage if the weather gets too harsh.

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  • Four great features of the GE convection oven

    If you are planning to get a convection oven that is built-in, then you should definitely check out GE’s latest model. It is packed with amazing features such as multiple cooking modes, self-clean with a steam-clean option, fantastic control options, etc. Before you buy one, read further to know more about its unique cooking features and capabilities.

    • Food gets cooked evenly
      Traditional ovens get too hot or cold in any area. However, this will not be the case when you use GE’s built-in convection oven. This is because these ovens use True European Convection with Direct Air. This type of technology has a fan on the inner side which allows the hot air to flow all over the oven. This keeps the temperature equal in all parts of the oven. Therefore in a convection oven, cooking a pie and having it remain cold in the middle when the timer goes off is not an issue. However, the scenario in a traditional oven would be different.
    • Shorter cooking time
      Due to the presence of a fan in GE built-in convection oven, the food gets cooked instantly even at a lower temperature. This quickens your cooking pace if you have to manage multiple recipes at once. This also means that a lesser amount of electricity is spent, so you indirectly even end up saving on your utility bills.
    • Can cook more than one dish at a time
      In case you are preparing a meal for a big family more than one dish might need to be cooked at any given time. This will complicate the scenario since various dishes will lead to fluctuations in the temperature of the oven. This will result in any one dish cooking at a faster pace and the other being left half-baked. However, this will never be the case for a GE built-in convection oven since the technology used ensures that these dishes are cooked or baked evenly. In a GE convection oven, the dishes can easily be stacked on top of each other, and the food will always be cooked at the right temperature.
    • Dishes can be put anywhere
      In a traditional oven, the plates cannot be placed on a rack that is either too close to top or bottom. This will create risk as these can get burnt. However, in a GE convection oven and the dishes can be comfortably stacked without any chance of ruining the food.

    Besides the convection ovens from GE, you can also check out its double wall ovens, combination ovens, electric wall ovens, etc. All of these have their own highlights, so you can pick the one that suits your wallet and culinary needs.

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  • Some popular features that the best refrigerator must have

    To someone who is technologically handicapped, most refrigerators on the outside look identical except for the logo they don upon their chests. This indistinguishable characteristic of refrigerators makes buying them not only tedious but rather overwhelming. It is, however, important to delve deeper into the refrigerator’s distinct features to choose a fridge that not only performs well but also lasts long. If choices puzzle you, and finding the best refrigerator seems impossible, check out our top list of features that you must look for before making thepurchase.

    Energy star rating
    The best refrigerator has an energy star program that is verified by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. You can, therefore, safely choose to pick your refrigerator soley based on its energy efficiency. Since all refrigerators have to work round the clock, it is imperative to choose the appliance that not only lasts for several years, but also saves a substantial amount on the operating cost.

    Dual evaporation
    Most basic refrigerators house a single evaporator in the freezer that is single handedly responsible for cooling the entire fridge. This aspect poorly affects the refrigerator’s performance, making the appliance lesser effective. The best refrigerator therefore is ideally the one that has a system of dual evaporation. By dual evaporation, we mean a separate cooling system for the freezer, and a different cooling environment for the rest of the compartment. Dual evaporation is the most desirable feature in the fridge as it helps maintain a steady temperature, and a balanced humidity level that allows food to remain fresher, for longer hours.

    Adjustable sheves
    People who have busy schedules, and limited time for cleaning, and accomplishing other household chores, often look for features that are hassle free, and require minimal maintenance. In such cases, buying a refrigerator that has easily washable, and adjustable shelve can prove to be a great boon. Adjustable glass shelves add great convenience to refrigerators as they can easily be removed and cleaned within seconds.

    Other features
    While many people prefer large storage drawers in refrigerators to accommodate bigger pots, cartons, and other storage items, technology enthusiasts may look for smart connect and sync features that automatically adjust, regulate and control temperatures, and humidity levels to ensure food stays fresher than ever before. Several newer models also come with advanced features specifically incorporated to provide great convenience, ease, and comfort to users. Some of these features include LED lights, digital control panels, water dispensers, and air purification systems, power cool feature, and more!

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  • Tips on buying the best refrigerator

    Refrigerators are one of the most important home appliances that should be bought only after adequate research, and careful comparison across several brands. If you are a newbie at managing a home or someone who has just started living alone, here are a few tips on the things you must consider before buying a new refrigerator.

    Research about the types of options available
    Buying a fridge is one of those investments that you must surely get right. Therefore, it is important you do not buy just any fridge, but the best refrigerator that suits your needs. Before you take a trip to the store, ensure you educate yourself with the sundry types of options available at your disposal. The best refrigerator comes in four major types. You can choose from a range of French door, side-by-side, top freezer or the one with a bottom freezer. The best way to pick a specific type of fridge may be to consider your own needs, lifestyle, and cooking habits.

    Take the space you have into account
    One of the key factors while picking a particular fridge is to take the amount of space available to you into account. Size can be a strong factor that can help you determine the kind of fridge you must pick. It is therefore important to consider your spatial restraints before finalizing on a fridge.

    Your lifestyle matters too
    Factors like your marital status, the size of your family, and the number of meals you consume play a crucial role in choosing a style or size for your refrigerator. For people with certain physical conditions like back pain, a top-freezer, or a double door style may be the best refrigerator to pick. These styles do not require excessive bending, and can, therefore, help them go about their business, with little discomfort.

    Food habits
    Every individual has their own style of cooking and eating habits. If you are someone who consumes more of frozen cold cuts, the best refrigerator for you would be the one with a bigger freezer. Similarly, it is only wise, to pick a double door fridge, if you are someone who stocks up beverages, and drinks in your fridge.

    Consider ease of cleaning too
    Most refrigerator shelves come in two basic variants, one of which is a wired shelf, while the other one is made of a glass or plastic sheet. If you are someone who doesn’t have enough time for cleaning the fridge, it is prudent you do not pick the wired shelves as they are rather complicated to clean.

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  • Picking the best KitchenAid mixer to complement your cooking style

    KitchenAid mixers have a range of products that suit specific needs of every kitchen. If you are planning to purchase a KitchenAid stand mixer then you will find the product line-up ranging from Commercial Series, Pro Line Series, Artisan, Professional Design Series, Architect to Ultra-Power, Classic, and more. These KitchenAid mixers feature a powerful motor, high-quality make, and are durable as well. So, if you are confused which is the best mixer for your kitchen, then here are a few a few things to consider before picking your perfect KitchenAid mixer.

    Research well
    You should research about the appliance you are planning to buy. In addition to knowing the basic product information and price, you should also check which mixer suits your needs. One of the best things that you can do to learn about any of the KitchenAid mixers is to read customer reviews. This will guide you to which is the most preferred mixer option for your cooking needs.

    Price matters
    Starting with the price range, you will find KitchenAid mixers of varied costs. The KitchenAid mixers start with $299 to a range that goes up to $1200 as well. You can also find products that are available at a discounted price on some of the online shopping sites. That’ why, be sure to check and research before buying.

    Mixing bowls
    KitchenAid mixers come with different types of mixing bowls. There are some of the mixer models that have stainless steel mixing bowls while others come with glass ones. Glass mixing bowls are difficult to handle and use because they are prone to breakage. So, choose a mixer that lessens your work.

    The size of the bowl is another feature that you should consider before buying a KitchenAid mixer. The Ultra Power Series and the Classic Series come with a 4.5-quart bowl, while Pro Line Series has a 7-quart mixing bowl. So, pick your stand mixer depending on the mixing bowl size too. If you do not need a bowl as big as an 8-quart then you should go with a smaller size for daily cooking needs.

    Home use or commercial use?
    Decide why you want the mixer for? If your cooking need is non-commercial, then you should go for the Classic KitchenAid mixer or Ultra Power Series. On the other hand, if you are looking a mixer for commercial baking needs, then it is better to choose a mixer that has a more powerful motor and bigger mixing bowl for convenient mixing.

    So, next time when you are in a dilemma about picking the best KitchenAid mixers, keep this information handy!

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  • 3 popular KitchenAid mixer models you must consider

    If you are planning to buy a KitchenAid mixer and do not know which one to pick, then here are a few popular options that you can consider. Take a look!

    KitchenAid Professional 600 Series For the home chef
    Are you someone who is looking to expand the menu with professional food items at home? If yes, then a bowl-life mixer from KitchenAid can offer you expert results. If you choose this KitchenAid mixer, you would get a 6-quart bowl with a lift that allows easy work even when you are working with heavy mixtures. The powerful motor of the mixer is best when it comes to mixing faster and effectively.

    Also, the big-size mixing bowl allows room for big recipes.

    The KitchenAid Professional series mixers feature a mechanism that lifts the bowl where the beater is and this happens with the lifting of the lever. Similarly, when the bowl is resting at its place, you can easily mix all the ingredients without the beater coming on your way.

    There are additional features that come along with the KitchenAid Professional 600 series of stand mixer. The planetary action of the beater ensures that there is even beating and mixing of the ingredients and it can reach to 67 touch points in the mixing bowl.

    KitchenAid Commercial Perfect for service kitchens
    If you want a bigger mixing bowl and a powerful motor then KitchenAid Commercial can be your perfect pick. Thee 500-watt, 1.3 HP motor is what makes this model one of the most powerful in KitchenAid series of stand mixers. The KitchenAid Commercial series of mixers are the only ones in the line-up that are specifically designed for foodservice kitchens. The 8-quart capacity of mixing bowl has enough space for preparing 12 dozen of cookies.

    The KitchenAid Commercial stand mixers come with the beater, whip and dough hook that is made using stainless steel, which is also dishwasher-safe. Now no more worrying about hand washing mixer’s attachments. Also, the metal knobs are made with heavy duty material quality that is resistant to consistent and repeated use.

    All the KitchenAid mixers are durable and long lasting, while the motor is sturdy and high-quality one that offers an extended life of the mixer.

    KitchenAid Ultra Power A beefed-up version of the Classic mixer
    Flaunting the same design style of the Classic stand mixer from KitchenAid, the Ultra Power also features a more powerful motor of 250-watt, a wire whip, flat beater and burnished-steel dough hook. The motor is specially designed to mix dense ingredients well while the mixer attachments have a smooth finish that allows easy cleaning.

    The 10-speed control helps you to get a range of mixing options such as stirring, whipping, creaming, beating, to name a few.

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  • KitchenAid mixers – Different stand mixers you should know about

    KitchenAid mixers are one of the most popular mixer options for every kitchen. The durability of the products along with budget-friendly mixer models makes KitchenAid mixers a preferable choice too. Here are a few popular types of stand mixers from KitchenAid that you should have in your kitchen!

    KitchenAid Classic Tilt-Head stand mixers
    This tilt-head model is a durable option as compared to other stand mixers and is smartly designed that makes it an easy-to-use mixer. The KitchenAid mixer comes with a stainless-steel bowl, which easily locks into its specific place and assists in constant and consistent mixing. With 10 speed controls, KitchenAid mixers are specifically designed in a way that allows planetary mixing for great output. Also, this makes the tilt-head model one of the best-suited Kitchen Aid mixers for great mixing.
    If you are worried whether the parts of the mixers are dishwasher safe or not, the fret not, they are! You only have to hand wash the whips that are included in the pack.

    KitchenAid Artisan Design stand mixers
    With a 5-quart glass mixing bowl, the Kitchen Aid Artisan Design stand mixers are one of the must-haves for your kitchen. This microwave safe bowl has made it simpler for you to melt chocolate for your chocolate souffle. Also, the glass bowl with markings is a life saver in the kitchen when it comes to measuring the quantity of the ingredient that goes into the bowl. Now you can be worry free about even mixing with this Kitchen Aid mixers, all thanks to the glass bowl. The high-performance motors of the model come with 10-speed control and long-lasting metal make. If you want your kitchen appliances to complement your kitchen decor, it is possible with the several color options of Kitchen Aid Artisan Design stand mixers that are available in sugar pearl, apple red, azure blue, to name a few.

    KitchenAid Artisan stand mixers
    Are you looking for an attractive option from KitchenAid mixers? If yes, then you cannot miss out on KitchenAid Artisan stand mixers. The powerful performance of the mixer’s motors along with the designer look of the model makes it an appropriate choice for your kitchen. With an all-metal construction, you can be sure about the durability of this KitchenAid mixers. The stainless-steel bowl comes with a handle that facilitates steady grip. If you are purchasing the KitchenAid Artisan series, then you are in for a large 5-quart capacity motor. With the revolutionary planetary mixing action, this stand mixer makes sure to not leave any unmixed ingredient. The KitchenAid Artisan stand mixers are dishwasher safe, while the whip needs to be hand washed.

    Whether you are preparing a dough or mixing ingredients to bake a cake, Kitchen Aid mixers are one of the popular options when it comes to mixing.

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  • How to compare various KitchenAid mixers

    It is definitely true that when it comes to KitchenAid mixers, one is spoilt for choice. But you cannot settle for just any other mixer for your daily kitchen chores. So, we have made the comparison simpler for you so that you can choose the one that suits your specific needs in your kitchen.

    The power of the motor
    Almost every KitchenAid mixer features a powerful motor that makes it one of the most powerful mixers. If you compare then you will notice that KitchenAid Ultra Power comes with 250-watt motor whereas the KitchenAid Commercial has a 500-watt motor.

    Price range
    The cost of the mixer is one of the important things that we are always worried about. We do not want anything to go over budget. So, you can check the price of individual KitchenAid mixers and then pick the one that fits your budget and needs. KitchenAid mixers start with a base price of $299 and can go up to $599.

    Mixer attachments
    You can get a wide range of mixer attachments. These attachments include mixing bowl, pasta roller and cutter set, juicer and sauce, food processor, ravioli maker, fruit and vegetable strainer, to name a few. You can choose whichever suits your specific needs and requirements. You can simply compare different KitchenAid mixer attachments and then pick the ones you want for your kitchen needs.

    The construct
    One of the important things that we all look for while purchasing an appliance is its durability. KitchenAid mixers are solid, long lasting, and most of the models are made using solid metal that makes them sturdy too. So, whenever you are choosing a KitchenAid mixer, always look what it is the mixer body made of.

    Choose a mixer as per your use
    You might want to purchase a KitchenAid mixer for different purposes such as to make bread, preparing a mix for baking a cake, or for basic cooking needs like meatloaf. Whatever your everyday need is, choosing a mixer as per your requirement will help you to utilize it better. There are a number of KitchenAid mixers that has multiple attachments that can be used for making your own pasta, ice cream and so on.

    Check for the warranty
    Most of the KitchenAid mixers offer a bother-free warranty. This warranty comes for the replacement and repair of the model. It is better if you read the terms and conditions carefully to know on which KitchenAid mixers will you be getting a warranty. Also, the warranty varies from a period of one to five years.

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  • Ever wondered how cotton candy machines work?

    Don’t we all love the taste and texture of cotton candy? It’s one of the most unique looking candy that is available for us. Looking at the vendor making a cotton candy for you can sometimes be little intriguing and makes you wonder how does that all happen around a stick.

    Cotton candy goes way back, and it was only in the near end of the nineteenth century that a dentist decided to make a machine that can produce the impossible looking cotton candy. Before the machines was invented, people used to make cotton candy manually and that is the reason why it was highly expensive and normal people couldn’t afford it.

    A dentist named William Morrison along with the help of a confectioner named John C. Wharton together ideated and introduced a machine that turned sugar into cotton candy. People loved the cotton candy so much that later they were willing to pay a high price for it. There is also a day in the year that is dedicated to cotton candy. It is called National Cotton Candy Day and is celebrated on November 7 every year.

    As complicated or mysterious the cotton candy and its machine looks, it’s actually a very simple process. The simple science behind the whole concept is melting sugar with the help of hot air with so much force that melts the sugar and spins long strands through tint holes in the machine and that soon dries out, taking the form of threads that look like cotton.

    Things that go in the making of the machine are metal bowl, mostly steel or stainless steel, a motor that throws hot air and a spinner through which sugar is spun out. When the machine is turned on, the sugar or colored sugar that’s been put inside the container between the spinner is spun out with the force of a fan motor with hot air. One has to stir a stick around the spinner so that the melted sugar, which is now dry, gets wrapped around the stick and becomes candy.

    If you are wondering what else is there in the ingredients, well, it’s just sugar and nothing else. There is color added to the sugar and that gives it pink or blue color. Having said that, you can add any edible color to the sugar and make cotton candies of any color.

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  • Counter depth refrigerators: price and discounts

    Counter depth refrigerators can be costlier than a standard refrigerator or of the same price range and that depends on where you are buying it from and how are you using the discounts. If thought about smartly, you can actually save up lot of money buying a counter depth refrigerator.

    Companies like GE, Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, KitchenAid, Fridgidaire, Monogram, Avanti, Maytag, Amana, Premium, Electrolux, BOSCH, Haier, and Hotpoint, are some of the common and known companies that sell variety of refrigerators including counter depth refrigerators.

    The variety of refrigerators available for you to take home include French door, bottom freezer, top-freezer, side-by-side, compact, counter depth, and built-in refrigerators. In this article, we will speak more on the counter depth refrigerators.

    Certain websites let you buy counter depth refrigerators for much lesser than their original market price. You can get a Daewoo or a Frigidaire refrigerator for less than $800 under a clearance sale. Whirlpool, LG, Samsung, and other such companies have counter depth refrigerators available for $900 to $1000 when on sale.

    You will also find different sizes and types of counter depth refrigerators, such as, one with single door, one with double door and more width, bottom, top freezer or no freezer, and long or short height. If you plan to buy one online, the websites you can check are:
    bestbuy.com; amazon.com; sears.com; homedepot.com; lowes.com; kitchenair.com; and more or you can directly check the manufacturer’s website. But you might not find great deals or discounts there.

    Comparing two different refrigerators will help you understand the price against the features but that is not enough before buying one. Since these are long term purchase, you can go through the reviews for all the brands and the model you’d like to buy.

    Without discount, the price of a counter depth refrigerator starts from $1500 and goes up till $8000. Of course, the cheaper ones aren’t bad at all, in fact, it’s all about the need and priority and at times, brand name.

    You can also go for used or second-hand counter depth refrigerators if you want to save money and do not mind purchasing a second hand-product. Second-hand products will cost you far lesser than even the on-sale products and if you browse meticulously, you can get the best fit for yourself. Sure, there are limitations when it comes to used products, but worth giving a try to get the counter depth refrigerator for cheap.

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