Whether you’re an interior designer looking to create a state-of-the-art kitchen for a client or a homeowner shopping around for an appliance upgrade, incorporating smart appliances into the mix is a modern solution that can save both time and energy. Thanks to automated functionality that connects home devices via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, you can control today’s cutting-edge smart appliances remotely via your phone or tablet using the relevant app. Traveling for the weekend and worried you forgot to turn off the oven? Just check your app.
Although the initial cost to install such trendy devices can be high, it’s worth the return on investment in the long-term, thanks to the time and money you’ll save through the added efficiency. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best features you can enjoy with today’s smart kitchen appliances.
Refrigerators
The workhorse of the kitchen, the refrigerator has evolved since it first debuted in 1927, and although you might think it has reached the height of its capabilities, innovation still drives its design and functionality.
One of the best features of smart refrigerators, besides indicating when your fridge needs maintenance, is that you can keep track of what’s inside in real time, from anywhere (thanks a handy interior camera), as well as keep track of expirations dates. This not only helps you avoid making accidental duplicate purchases when you’re at the grocery store, but it also helps you decide what meals to prepare based on the ingredients you already have on hand. You can also add items to a shopping list via voice commands, and then sync the list with your smartphone; look up recipes (and watch recipe videos or have the instructions read to you); and even stream shows and/or music while you cook. In line with modern aesthetics, smart fridges are also available with glass doors.
Ranges & Cooktops
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled cooktops and ranges can be controlled remotely, so you can adjust cooking times and temperatures as needed, preheat the oven on your way home from work, or just check to see how much cooking time is left. If you really want to get fancy, some can even connect to Amazon Echo or Google Home. Struggling to choose between gas or electric? With Samsung’s Virtual Flame Technology on the Smart Slide-In Induction Range, you can go electric and still have the look of a gas flame.
One thing to keep in mind when shopping for cooktops and ranges is to pay attention to burner shape, which affects heat distribution. Star-shaped burners, like Thermador’s, provide more heat at the center of the pot. For more tips on buying a range, be sure to check out this guide.
Microwaves
In addition to being Wi-Fi- and/or Bluetooth-enabled, smart microwaves also have several other cool features. Most boast LED touchscreens, and some are even equipped with a sensor that knows when you’re nearby and it will enlarge the display so you can see cooking time at a glance. You can also scan barcodes on packaged products and download the cooking instructions. Some smart microwaves can even look up recipes, play cooking videos, give step-by-step instructions, and more. Unfortunately, it can’t actually bring the food to the table, though. Yet.
One of our personal favorites is the LG Studio Over-the-Range Microwave with Air Fry. In addition to also doubling as an air fryer (allowing you to eliminate one gadget), it also doubles as a convection oven.
Dishwashers
Dishwashers have come a long way from the ones your parents had. Today’s versions are nothing short of space age, equipped with all kinds of energy saving features that also can make your life a little easier. Smart dishwashers come loaded with perks including things like:
- Letting you check the cycle status from you smart phone and alerting you to when the cycle is finished
- Auto-releasing the door to let out steam at the end of a wash, or allowing you to decide when to lock/unlock the door (handy if you have kids)
- Ability to download new cleaning cycles
- Sensors that detect how big and how dirty your load is to save on energy and water use
- In models that have detergent dispensers, like this GE dishwasher, you can receive alerts on when the detergent is low, and even set up recurring orders via online sellers like Amazon
- Receive alerts when the dishwasher needs maintenance or there’s a leak
From cost to size, there are all kinds of things to consider when shopping for a dishwasher. If you’re looking for a new one, check out this guide so you can choose the right one for your kitchen.
Faucets
In addition to helping simplify tasks, smart kitchens are built with sustainability in mind. And even the humble faucet can offer cutting-edge technology and ultra-modern design features, such as sensor activation (via hand, elbow, foot, or voice), so you don’t have to touch handles with messy fingers, leaving you with yet another item you have to clean. Smart faucets also let you regulate how much water is dispensed and at what temperature.
Best of all, smart faucets come in a range of finishes, such as polished chrome, mattes, and metallics, so that you can find a faucet that will work with your design.
Jarrell Can Help You Achieve the Kitchen of Your Dreams
As one of the largest independent appliance dealers in Texas, The Jarrell Company is dedicated to modernizing your kitchen with sought-after brands. We complement our high-end offerings with exceptional service that is solutions-oriented and attentive to the needs of each customer. Contact us for your next project if you’re looking for quality products and a trusted advisor.
