Every day, we see new innovations enhancing how we go about daily life. But what does that mean for home appliances? An innovative appliance changes the way we interact with it with a new method or idea that makes something easier, faster, or better. Since there have probably been a few advances since your last purchase, we’ve asked Chad, Sales Manager, and Appliance Expert at Judd & Black, to share some of the innovative features in today’s home appliances that he and his team love demonstrating in our showrooms.
What are some benefits of app-connected appliances?
Chad:
It’s basically convenience at your fingertips. Imagine preheating the oven on your way home, starting laundry remotely while tackling errands, or checking how much milk you have in the refrigerator from the comfort of your couch. App-connected appliances put you in control, saving you time and effort in managing everyday tasks and even knowing when there is a power outage at home. Voice control adds another layer of ease, allowing you to operate appliances hands-free with simple commands. Just ask Alexa or Google to get you started.
Can you share some new features offered in refrigerators?
Chad:
The household fridge has undergone significant technological design improvements with features you’ll love and improved efficiency.
- Ice
One of the coolest features of new refrigerators is for ice lovers. Now, not only can you get cubed and crushed ice, but the hottest trend is shaped ice, including crunchy pellets similar to your favorite fast food restaurant (Samsung calls it Ice Bites™) and spheres or rectangles for perfecting a cocktail at home.
- Smart Fridge
The focal point of most kitchens is the fridge, and Samsung has embraced this idea with its line of Family Hub™ refrigerators. With a large screen in the door and built-in Alexa, you can order groceries, play music, display recipes, pull up the soccer schedule, show off photos, leave notes, and connect with your family in ways you never thought a refrigerator could assist you.
- Streamlined Fit
Another innovation in refrigerators is how they fit into our kitchens. The LG Counter Depth Max features redesigned walls that increase the interior capacity. Yet, the overall dimension allows it to still tuck neatly flush to the counter edge.
- 4 Door Fridge
Designed with two doors on top and two on bottom, 4 door refrigerators boast increased organization and energy efficiency.
How can we get rid of our clunky countertop air fryer?
Chad:
That’s easy! You no longer need a separate air fryer cluttering up the counter. Many ovens now have convection settings that circulate hot air around your food like an air fryer so you can get the crispy food you love from your regular oven.
What’s new with cooktops?
Chad:
A few months ago, we talked about induction cooktops in more depth, and they are such an excellent option for those looking for modern cooking options that are faster, more precise, and more energy efficient. And when we mention innovative appliances, it’s one of the first that comes to mind. For hundreds of years, stovetop cooking has been done with direct heat transfer from a flame, coil, or heating element below glass to your pan. Induction cooking uses electromagnetic fields to heat the cookware directly. This means the heat is generated in the pan, and you aren’t waiting on the transfer (to heat up or cool down.)
Are built-in microwaves any smaller than they used to be?
Chad:
One negative impression people have about over-the-stove microwave ovens is that they are obtrusive and hang down too far into the workspace of the range or stovetop. Whirlpool has introduced a space-saving design that fits more like a hood fan, measuring just 10” high. What’s awesome about this microwave is that it is tall enough for bowls, cups, and plates, yet it is out of your way when preparing your meal on the range. Plus, it has a light and vents just like a range hood. Whirlpool® 1.1 Cu. Ft. Black On Stainless Over The Range Microwave - Wml55011hs
How can families master the kitchen mess faster?
Chad:
Until recently, dishwasher models with a third rack usually reserve it to hold flat items like pancake turners and tongs. The KitchenAid® 24” PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher turns the FreeFlex™ Third Rack into a workhorse. With its angled design that fits cups, bowls, and mugs, it’s the deepest third rack available. Rotating wash jets and a drying bar prove it’s not “just another rack” stuck at the top of the dishwasher.
Do any appliances make doing laundry easier?
Chad:
How about “one and done” laundry? Let me explain. How often have you forgotten to transfer the laundry from the washer to the dryer when the cycle is over? Teenagers get a bad rap for this, but honestly, it’s easy to do. What if your machine washed and dried all in the same cycle? With the GE Profile™ 4.8 Cu. Ft. Carbon Graphite Washer Dryer Combo, you can say goodbye to sour loads that need rewashing and hello to easy laundry days. Some customers will add a second all-in-one machine to maximize the space in the laundry room and get the chore done twice as fast.
Is something at Judd & Black Appliance Stores particularly unexpected or leading-edge?
Chad:
Yes, the innovation doesn’t stop when you head outside! How about wood-fired cooking with smart features and induction? In the Traeger® Timberline XL 71” Black Wood Pellet Freestanding Grill, the premium smoker is paired with an induction cooktop perfect for getting a hard sear on meats, heating up a side dish, or warming sauces for that perfect finishing touch. Here’s an example of how connectivity can help you be a better cook. With Traeger’s WiFIRE® technology and MEATER® Wireless Meat Thermometers, you can monitor your food anywhere.
We count on appliances to help make our daily chores easier to manage, and some of the latest models are real game-changers. Visit your local Washington Area Judd & Black Appliance Store to see our offering of innovative appliances.