By Justine Olivier
The kitchen is more than just a place to cook – it has become a place for entertaining as well as for relaxing, unwinding and de-stressing. And what would the kitchen be without the ultimate in home appliances: the oven and stove.
Today, however, the variety of oven and stove available are numerous when compared to those of yesteryear. There are even models available, such as the 6th Sense technology from Whirlpool, which gives you 25 pre-programmed recipessuch as roast chicken, lasagna, pizza, apple pie and so on, where you simply select the recipe you wish to prepare and let the oven do the rest.
Sergio Polita, of Snaidero Cucine, says that menu programming is the latest in technological oven and stove improvements in most new electronic ovens; another is the self-cleaning oven. Philip Richards, of blu_line says that touch control allows one to have “knob-less” appliances that blend effortlessly into the rest of your design scheme.
While some love the new developments in technology others prefer to stick to those more simple options. “Simplicity is the best option for stoves,” says Wehrner Gutstadt, of the Culinary Group, “as it ensures longevity”.
No matter what your preference, whether keeping it simple or getting the latest in technological advancements, there are a few things that one should keep in mind when purchasing oven and stove appliances.
Philip advises that one should always keep three things in mind: the functional requirements (how you like to cook and what type of cooking for example gas or electric), the aesthetic appeal, and budget.
“From the technical aspect, I would suggest checking the energy efficiency rating (with A being a good rating), the number and type of functions: grill, convection, defrost, and number of tempered layers (double or triple) in the glass door,” adds Lukasz Sylwester, of Whirlpool.
With more products and materials becoming eco-conscious it’s only natural that appliances would follow suit. Wehrner advises that your appliances must have an SABS or EU certification – preferably both: “There is no substitute for quality supported by a strong service record.”
If in doubt over anything involving these appliances always consult your instruction manual or manufacturer.
With thanks to blu_line, Culinary Group, Global Pact, Miele, Smeg South Africa, Snaidero Cucine and Whirlpool
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