A POT OF WATER THAT TAKES 13 MINUTES TO BOIL ON A GAS BURNER WILL BE BUBBLING IN JUST THREE MINUTES ON AN INDUCTION ELEMENT, AND THAT’S NOT THE ONLY ADVANTAGE.
By Bob Armstrong
>> SOPHISTICATED FINISHES and streamlined designs are giving modern appliances stylish new looks, and cosmetic changes aren’t the only trend-setting developments in kitchens and laundry rooms. A growing array of features that add flexibility and convenience is making for smooth sailing on wash day, and giving home cooks more tools to whip up Food Network-quality meals. Angela Bowcott, who works with contractors at Midland Appliances Builders Group, says one trend gathering steam in the kitchen is induction cooking, which uses a magnetic field to heat up metal cookware without heating the cooktop. Induction elements speed up cooking — a pot of water that takes 13 minutes to boil on a gas burner will be bubbling in just three minutes on an induction element, and that’s not the only advantage. Induction elements allow for precise temperature control and safe, easy cleanup, since there’s no danger that spilled food will burn onto the stay-cool element. That cool factor fits in with another major trend — an emphasis on clean, sleek surfaces. Dishwashers now have hidden controls mounted inside the doors, and some counter-depth refrigerators have recessed handles and special door hinges that allow them to fit into a tighter space. “It not only looks sleek and gives a clean look, there’s also no handle that you can snag your clothes on,” Bowcott says. The emphasis on clean lines and flawless surfaces fits naturally with today’s home designs, since the kitchen is typically on full display. Coast Appliances general manager Curtis Penner says black stainless steel is still growing in popularity, and new “fingerprint-proof” stainless steel finishes eliminate the need for constant polishing. “You’ve got to remember that a lot of homes are open-concept, so you want something visually appealing,” he says, adding the old standard white fridge doesn’t cut it anymore. Fridges have also become more functional. Some new models have an outer door that can be opened to reveal oft-used items such as milk and juice while keeping cold air trapped in the main compartment. Others have built-in marinating dishes and deli drawers where large platters can be stored for entertaining.
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