• A fridge is an electrical appliance that constantly consumes electricity, making it one of the biggest consumers of electricity at home. Therefore, if you are planning to buy a new fridge, we recommend you choose a fridge with a higher energy efficiency class, which will consume less electricity.
• Before buying a fridge, please read the energy label of the fridge carefully.
• A critical factor in choosing a fridge is its capacity: larger-volume fridges consume the most power.
• Choose the capacity of your fridge based on the size of your family, the quantity of food you need, and how often you cook. If your previous fridge was half-empty all the time, maybe you should buy a smaller one next time.
• We also recommend buying a fridge and a freezer with an automatic defrost function to prevent layers of ice from forming on the walls of the appliance. It will make sure that you don’t have to manually defrost your freezer and fridge and your appliance is energy efficient during operation.
• Remember that the electricity consumption of a freestanding fridge is 20% lower than that of a built-in fridge.
• For the regular freezing of fruit, berries, mushrooms, game, fish and other products, it is advisable to buy a separate freezer that can be switched off when stocks run low. This will be more efficient than buying a fridge with a large freezer, which will consume unnecessary electricity when your stocks run low.

Do I really need to replace my current fridge if it still works?

You should start thinking about buying a new fridge if your current fridge is at least 10 years old: the amount of energy it consumes can be up to 50% higher than that of a modern fridge.

• The fridge must be positioned in accordance with the installation instructions, at a distance of approximately 10 cm from the wall.
• It is not advisable to keep various objects and electrical appliances such as toasters, microwaves on the fridge, or to place them next to cookers and heating appliances or in direct sunlight to avoid an increase in the electricity consumption of the fridge.
• For the most efficient operation, the temperature in the freezer should be set at -18 ˚C and in the fridge compartment at +5 ˚C (please also refer to the instructions of the manufacturer in the user manual), as each degree the temperature is decreased increases energy consumption by around 5%.
• Keep an eye on how full your fridge is. If the fridge is less than 60% full, it will operate inefficiently and waste electricity. Meanwhile, if the fridge is more than 90% full, the internal air circulation doesn’t occur and electricity consumption also increases.
• It is not advisable to put unpacked food in the fridge, as it dries out and moisture builds up on the walls of the fridge, thus damaging the products and increasing the energy consumption of the fridge.
• It is also not advisable to put hot food in the fridge, as this also creates excess moisture in the fridge compartment, as well as drastic changes in temperature and the need to use extra energy to bring the temperature back down. Changes in temperature are also undeniably detrimental to the storage of other products and unnecessarily increase electricity consumption.

• Dust from the cooler at the back of the fridge should be cleaned regularly to ensure that the fridge works efficiently. Use of a vacuum cleaner or special brushes is preferable for this purpose.
• The door seals on your fridge should be cleaned regularly and replaced if they are damaged.
• It is important to check that the fridge door closes tightly. To prevent the fridge door from being left opened halfway, the fridge must be positioned in accordance with the instructions for use. If the door doesn’t close tightly, warm air is drawn into the refrigerator and freezer compartments and the electricity consumption to cool the air increases.
• This can be checked as follows – if it’s difficult to pull out a sheet of paper pressed in the refrigerator door, everything is fine. If it slips out of the door, it means that the door is not sealed, and cold air is flowing out, while warm air is flowing in, which increases electricity consumption for cooling the air. In this case, the door seals need to be replaced.
• Every centimetre of ice in the freezer increases electricity consumption by 10%; therefore, the refrigerator should be completely defrosted and vented at least once per year. This is especially important for older refrigerators that don’t have an automatic defrost function.
• Refrigerators with automatic defrost or no frost function should be emptied and cleaned once a year or as instructed, by unplugging them from the socket in advance.
• Before cleaning the freezer, the appliance must be unplugged from the socket.
• We recommend you prepare a cold bag to put the products in to prevent them from spoilage.
• Alternatively, you can place the products in a larger bowl and wrap it with foil and blankets – this will keep them frozen for at least 4–5 hours.
• Initially, the freezer should be allowed to thaw naturally, or a bowl can be used, allowing the melting water to drip into it.
• Do not use an abrasive sponge for cleaning as this can damage the freezer! Once all the ice has melted, the freezer should be wiped thoroughly with a cloth, which can be dampened with lukewarm water.

Types of freezers, their pros and cons

• Before buying a freezer, you need to evaluate where it will be placed and how much space there is in the room.
• Room temperature is also important, as each freezer has a specific climate class that indicates at what room temperature it will work efficiently. Please read the instructions of the manufacturer and the user manual.
• When assessing the capacity of the freezer, be aware that the size of the freezer depends on the number of people in the family and the number of products that you plan to freeze – even up to 400 l. When planning to freeze only a few berries or mushrooms, it is recommended to choose a smaller freezer with a volume of 80–100 l.
• When choosing a freezer, attention must be paid to the following aspects: capacity (how many kg of fresh food it can freeze in 24 hours) and freezing class (indicated in the energy label, and technical specification).
• The more products that are planned to be frozen, the more capacious a freezer is needed. Thus, the freezing capacity must be greater. For example, a freezer with a capacity of 5–8 kg/24 h will be sufficient for a family of four. • Please consider – a freezer is an electrical appliance that, unlike a stove or a washing machine, operates continuously, so it is especially important to pay attention to how much electricity the chosen freezer will consume, or the estimated electricity consumption (kWh/year) that is indicated on the energy label

Recommendations on additional features

• Not all models of freezers are equipped with lighting; some models have a place where lighting can be installed.
• To avoid frequent manual defrosting, it is best to choose a freezer with a "No frost" function, which means that the freezer is optimally ventilated, humidity is reduced and ice is completely prevented from forming, although it must be emptied and cleaned by unplugging it once a year or as instructed.
• If you choose a freezer with a quick-freezing function, products that have just been put into the freezer will be frozen quickly, which ensures high-quality products, preserving nutrients and vitamins, and keeping them for longer periods of time.
• Three types of controls are available for freezers: electronic, mechanical and sensor. The electronic type allows you to set the modes with the help of buttons, the mechanical – with knobs, and the sensor – with touch.
• The display, on the other hand, shows information about the settings and temperature of the device, and it can be situated both inside the freezer, as well as on the door. When the display is combined with the electronic control panel, management of freezer settings and monitoring of temperature is particularly convenient.

• Remember that a newly purchased freezer should not be turned on immediately after placing it in the intended location. You have to wait for at least four hours, and after turning on the freezer, you have to wait a few more hours for the required temperature to be reached, and only then, with small time intervals, can you put in the products to be frozen. For additional information on the use of a particular freezer, see its instruction manual.
• The optimal temperature must be set in the freezer -18 ˚C (please also refer to the instructions of the manufacturer in the user manual), as each degree the temperature is decreased increases energy consumption by around 5%.
• It is not recommended to fill the freezer compartment but to leave free space for air to circulate.
• Wrapping food carefully helps reduce moisture loss and prevent freezer burn.
• Try opening the freezer door/lid as rarely as possible and do not leave it open for long periods of time. Otherwise, warm air will enter the freezer, making it necessary to lower the temperature again, which will increase electricity consumption.
• It is recommended to turn off the freezer in advance before a storm or expected power outages. This is especially true if it is equipped with an electronic display and buttons as the electronics are most sensitive to power outages. The products in the freezer will stay cold for a while even if it is turned off. Manufacturers state that after turning off the freezers, products will remain frozen for about 24 hours; however, various tests show that this should not be completely relied upon, especially in the case of vertical freezers.

See above – recommendations for fridge care.

• It is recommended to buy an electrical oven with a higher energy efficiency class since it will consume less energy and the quality of its operation will be better.
• We recommend choosing an oven that suits your family’s needs – built-in, counter-top, freestanding or a combined electric hob and oven.
• Depending on the needs of your family, electric ovens are available in different capacities, smaller ones up to 50–59 litres, and larger ones – from 70 litres. When choosing an oven, it is important to not only consider the space in which it is to be placed but also how often and how much you plan to use it for cooking.
• Small ovens that can be placed almost anywhere in the kitchen are becoming increasingly popular – this solution is particularly suitable if the oven is rarely used for small meals, as a smaller oven will reach the required temperature faster and use less electricity.
• To reduce the total electricity consumption, selecting an oven with a convection function or hot air mode is particularly recommended. It allows you to cook fast and efficiently, as the fan distributes the heated air evenly throughout the oven, using less energy.
• Most oven models are equipped with a steam function, which is particularly useful for those who follow a healthy lifestyle, as the use of this function not only preserves the nutritional value of the products but also improves their taste and texture – juicy on the inside, and crunchy on the outside.
• More and more manufacturers are offering ovens with a self-cleaning function. If oven maintenance is a problem, this feature of the oven will make daily maintenance much easier.

Three main self-cleaning functions are available:

1. Pyrolysis – pyrolysis converts all dirt and grease into fine ash at a temperature of around 500 ˚C, after which all you have to do is wipe the oven with a damp cloth;
2. Catalysis – appliances have special catalytic walls or coatings, and grease and dirt are softened or burnt off during operation;
3. Hydrolysis or steam cleaning – an environmentally friendly and easy way to clean your oven without using any chemicals. All you need to do is fill the tank with water and then switch on the relevant programme. This mode is more economical compared to pyrolysis and catalysis, which require high temperatures and, therefore, more energy.

• After considering all aspects, you should choose the best one for your needs, keeping in mind that the cleaning method is not the decisive factor when choosing an oven; it is more important to focus on ensuring even heat and cooking control.

The most popular cooking modes and explanations thereof:

Other things to consider when using the oven:

• The oven door should be opened as little as possible during cooking, as every time the door is opened the internal temperature of the oven drops and additional energy will then be needed to reach the previous temperature.
• Cook several dishes at the same time on different levels of the oven as much as possible.
• It is important to use the oven options according to the specific food, for instance, the bottom bake/heat mode is suitable for dishes that require more browning of the base (pizza, certain types of cakes), the double-sided bake/heat mode is suitable for traditional dishes, while the top bake/heat mode is designed for dishes that require browning, such as casseroles.
• To reduce electricity consumption, it is recommended not to preheat the oven before cooking a meal, unless it is specifically stated in the respective recipe.
• If possible, you are recommended to cook with the use of convection mode. In this mode, the cooking temperature indicated in the recipe can be reduced by 20 °C (depending on the specific nature of the meal, it is recommended to refer to the user manual of the appliance for precise instructions). Lower temperatures mean lower electricity consumption.
• And the use of the steam function wherever possible will enable you to cook food 20–30% faster than when using the traditional mode – this saves energy and preserves better nutritional value.
• To reduce electricity consumption, it is recommended to switch off the oven 10–15 minutes before you finish cooking without opening the oven door, as the oven will still retain heat.
• It is important to make sure that the oven door closes tightly and check whether the seals and door mechanisms need to be replaced in order to prevent heat from escaping the oven and wasting electricity to maintain the set temperature.

• Cleaning the oven is not the easiest of household chores, which is probably why more and more manufacturers are offering ovens with a self-cleaning function. It is important to note that household chemicals and special cleaning products should not be used for this type of oven as they can damage the enamel coating of the oven.
• Irrespective of whether you use the oven’s self-cleaning function or clean it manually, always make sure the oven has cooled down to room temperature before cleaning the inside of the oven!
• Use ordinary sponges and cloths to clean the oven. Brushes and spiral metal scrapers are not recommended as they can damage the coating of the oven wall.
• The oven door/glass needs to be cleaned regularly, which can be done by using baking soda and lemon juice/citric acid.

Apply a thick layer of baking soda on the oven door, then spray a solution of lemon juice/citric acid mixed with water in equal parts over the layer of soda to form a paste. Leave the paste on the oven door for about 15 minutes and then use a sponge or cloth to remove the stains. The paste is best removed with a brush rather than water. Finally, wipe the oven door with a dry cloth, preferably microfibre.

We recommend using environmentally friendly cleaning products, which are equally effective, to clean the interior of the oven:

• Lemon juice and baking soda – mix lemon juice with baking soda, and add a small amount of warm water, and you have made a natural and effective oven cleaner. It can be used to treat the sides and the bottom of the oven, using a brush or sponge. If you need to get rid of dried dirt, it is recommended to leave the mixture on the surface overnight.
• Steam – this can be used even if the oven doesn’t have a hydrolysis or steam mode. You need to pour water into heat-proof dishes and place them in the oven, set the temperature to 100 ˚C and leave for 30–45 min. The steam from the boiling water will loosen the dirt and make it easier to clean.

Experts recommend cleaning the oven at least every 3–6 months, or more often if required. If the stove is used frequently, it is best to keep it clean regularly, and the more often the appliance is maintained, the easier and quicker the cleaning process will be. A regularly cleaned oven will also last longer; it will prevent damage to your food and reduce the presence of microbes that could affect it.

• Small ovens of different types and volumes are available on the market; therefore, you should first consider what you want to use it for. If you are planning to replace your current oven, a larger capacity oven is recommended, but if you use the oven for small meals and rarely, a smaller capacity oven may be selected.
• Before you buy, we recommend measuring the space you plan to use and making sure that the new oven will fit in your kitchen and have enough space around it to prevent heat transfer to the walls or other kitchen appliances. Most models are designed to be placed on the kitchen worktop or kitchen island.
• The main thing to consider when choosing an oven is how quickly it reaches the required temperature. The faster it heats up, the less electricity it uses, thus, choosing a smaller oven can reduce your overall electricity consumption.
• Comparing the maximum power initially used to reach the desired temperature and the volume of the oven, it was found that a larger capacity oven (71 l) will consume approximately 1.77 kWh per 30 minutes, while a small capacity oven (6.2-20 l) will consume 0.8-1.0 kWh on average.
• Please note that a smaller oven will be suitable for cooking smaller quantities of food, may have fewer functions than a built-in oven and may provide lower temperatures than a built-in oven.
• As small ovens heat up faster and cook food quicker, when choosing this appliance, make sure that the model has temperature control and pre-set programming options. Most appliances offer variable temperatures controlled by a thermostat, but models with programmes are also available, which allow you to avoid guesswork regarding cooking times. A timer is also useful to help you monitor the cooking time, which may differ from the cooking time in a conventional oven.

• Like a larger built-in oven, it is important to preheat the small oven before cooking. This will ensure that your meal is baked evenly and cooked perfectly every time.
• It is important to make sure that the baking tray/pan you want to use is suitable for the particular oven. Choose cookware that is small enough to fit in the oven; however, it is important that it has enough space for the food you are cooking.
• As small ovens are not as large as traditional ovens, you need to take into account the fact that food can cook faster, which is why you may need to keep an eye on your food while cooking to make sure it is not overcooked or burnt.

Small ovens usually have the following functions:

• Roasting or browning
• Preheating
• Grilling
• Baking/Roasting
• Skewer grilling
• Convection
• Pizza (check oven depth)
• Defrosting
• Keeping food warm

• Small ovens are much easier to clean than built-in ovens, which is an advantage.
• Most models have a non-stick coating on the inside, while the body is either enamelled or made of stainless steel, so it just needs to be wiped clean.
• The steel shelves and trays are safe to be washed in a dishwasher.
• Most have a removable tray, where crumbs and other food debris accumulate.

There are many questions that need to be answered before you buy a hob. Is it a gas or an electric cooker? Which is the best choice for running a comfortable and pleasant kitchen?

When choosing between gas and electric cookers, many people have chosen the former, as the older generation of electric hotplates once created a lot of stigma in society. As time has passed and technology has developed, the electric cooker has become a much more convenient, safer and economical choice. There have also been changes to laws and legislation, so if this issue is topical, we encourage you to consider switching from a gas to an electric cooker.

Why switch to an electric cooker?

• Comfort: cooking on an electric cooker doesn’t produce combustion by-products; consequently, the hood doesn’t need to be as powerful as for a gas cooker, and your kitchen furniture won’t get covered in dirt. Induction hobs are the most convenient in terms of comfort – food doesn’t get burnt to the hob and you can adjust the heating intensity just like with a gas stove.
• Safety and health: gas cookers are open flame stoves, so there is a risk of both scalding and fire in the home. If left unsealed, gas can leak from the cylinder and cause serious health problems; furthermore, it is explosive. The latest electric cookers do not heat up or automatically switch off if liquid is spilled on them or nothing is cooked on them; furthermore, they have a lockable control panel, which makes them safe for families with children.
• Efficiency: although the cost of cooking on a gas cooker is low, it is not the most efficient or environmentally friendly method. Cooking on induction hobs is more environmentally friendly since approximately 80–90% of the electricity is used to heat the food, compared to only 35–40% for gas hobs. All electric hobs can also be considered more environmentally friendly, as cooking on them doesn’t produce CO2 emissions, whereas burning natural gas or propane-butane mixtures produces direct emissions that enter the living space, while consuming the oxygen in it. Meanwhile, electric hobs are becoming increasingly efficient – induction hobs use 50% less electricity than, for instance, older-generation electric hotplates with metal heating elements.

We invite you to take a look at the comparison between all cooktops, which can help you in choosing the hob that suits you best.

What else should I consider when selecting a hob?

• Before buying a new electric cooker, it is important to assess the capacity of your existing electrical connection by consulting a certified electrician. If it is found that the existing capacity is insufficient, please contact Sadales tīkls AS to request an increase of the load.
• Induction cookers with a glass-ceramic surface are the most economical option. They consume 50% less power than cookers with metal hobs. They are more convenient to use – as soon as you place a pan or a pot on its surface, a reaction with the object occurs under it immediately, creating an electromagnetic induction current, which quickly heats it up, while the surface of the hob remains cool.
• Induction cooktops tend to have 1 to 4 zones for cooking your meals. We recommend choosing the number of zones based on how big your family is, and how many different dishes you intend to cook at any single time.

• When you start cooking, turn the hob on to maximum heat. As the temperature rises, it is advisable to reduce the heating intensity. Cooking at high intensity will not reduce the cooking time, but will consume electricity unnecessarily.
• While cooking, pots and pans should be closed with lids, preferably – glass lids, to prevent heat loss and, consequently – increased consumption.
• Cooking on induction hobs requires cookware with a special base that is designed for this type of hob. Pots made of glass, aluminium and some other non-magnetic materials cannot be used. Nowadays, a lot of cookware is suitable for cooking on different types of surfaces, including induction hobs.
• The use of pots and pans with a thick base that acts as a heat accumulator is preferable while cooking on an electric cooker. It should be remembered that an uneven base of a pot can increase electricity consumption.
• Pots and pans of appropriate or larger diameter than the cooking zone must be used on electric cooktops, except for induction ones. Small-sized cookware should not be used on large heating zones as there is a high risk of burning the handles of the cookware, as well as electricity is wasted heating the surrounding air.
• If sugar, plastic or aluminium foil falls on the hot glass-ceramic and induction hob surface, the appliance must be switched off immediately and the hobs must be thoroughly cleaned with a surface-specific scraper while they are still hot.

• It is recommended to unplug the cooker from the power outlet before cleaning.
• Basic cleaning steps with the use of a special cleaner: wipe away food residues, then apply the cleaner and, preferably, leave it on for 10–15 minutes (no longer, otherwise the surface may be damaged). Then wipe the surface with a damp cloth or kitchen towel.
• Do not use sharp objects to clean electric and induction hobs, as the seal between the hob and the work surface may be damaged.

• When buying a new dishwasher, you should choose a model that meets the needs of your household, in terms of size as well as use.
• In households of up to two people, smaller dishwashers with a capacity of 4–8 place settings are more cost-effective. A compact model is more efficient than a large one, as long as you do not have to run it several times per day.
• It is also important to pay attention to the energy label of your dishwasher.
• Noise levels will also be an important factor when making a decision about which dishwasher to buy. An efficient motor and special sound insulation will take care of noise levels. Most modern dishwashers have a noise level comparable to that of washing machines – between 44 and 45 dB.
• Fully integrated built-in dishwashers are hidden after installation. This is ideal if you have a specific kitchen design, but can cause problems if the dishwasher is not working or if you want to take it with you when you move. With a freestanding dishwasher, you do not need to worry about a special layout, as the appliance simply slides into its space.
• When selecting a dishwasher, you need to pay attention to the type of dishes you use and choose a machine with the appropriate washing programmes. For instance, if you use glasses on a daily basis, a dishwasher with a gentle cycle is a must. The programme is designed for drying and rinsing fragile dishes. Washing baby bottles in a dishwasher has a special hygiene function.

Other commonly used functions:

• Intensive mode – for very dirty dishes with stuck-on food residues.
• Eco – a special mode that saves water and electricity.
• Short wash – for lightly soiled dishes that do not need intensive washing.

The range of dishwashers is growing, with countless modes on offer; however, it is worth remembering that energy efficiency is improved when selecting an appliance with the programmes that you will use every day.

• If you have the option of washing dishes separately by basket, this should be used when filling the dishwasher to capacity isn’t possible.
• Most of the power consumption in dishwashers comes from heating the water, which is why you should use lower-temperature and short cycles for washing your tableware.
• After washing the dishes, it is essential to open the dishwasher door to prevent the retention of moisture and formation of mould.
• Dishwashers are very good at washing and drying dishes, provided that you put them correctly onto the racks, as the manual requires you to.
• Slightly dirty dishes can be effectively washed at a temperature of 40 degrees and on shorter washing programmes. On the other hand, programmes with a higher washing temperature, for example, 70 degrees, and a longer cycle are suitable for dirtier and grimy dishes.
• When using a dishwasher, it is recommended to choose an economical washing programme, as water consumption can be reduced by up to two times during one cycle.

• It is recommended to clean the dishwasher filter and wash it under running water every few washes, as it tends to accumulate food residues. Instructions on how to do this can be found in the user manual of the appliance.
• Citric acid can be used to remove limescale deposits by adding two packets of citric acid to the liquid detergent compartment and turning the appliance on in standard mode. At the end of the cycle, you are recommended to rinse the device again.
• Special dishwasher detergents must be used as specified in the user manual or on the label.
• It is advisable to clean the water spray nozzles of the dishwasher recurrently, as food residues can block them. A bristle brush may help to do this.
• To remove any accumulated dirt in the door seals, the seals should be cleaned regularly with a damp cloth.

There are two types of cooker hoods; they differ in the way the air is expelled after cooking. Suction hoods expel the air out through a ventilation shaft, while recirculation hoods filter the air and return it to the kitchen. The installation of a suction hood requires an outlet duct, and the absence of a wide range of models compared to that of recirculation hoods can also be considered a disadvantage, but the devices require less maintenance.

• In the event of a gas cooker, the productivity of a hood must be at least 400 m³/h, while even 200 m³/h is sufficient for an electric cooker.
• It is also important to pay attention to the energy label of the hood.
• The hood must be at least as wide as the hob. This will improve its extraction performance when the air rises.
• It is best to install a cooker hood that is slightly larger than the hob – approximately 1.5 times wider.
• Hoods equipped with LED lighting will have lower energy consumption.
• In 2016, new fire safety requirements came into force that prohibit the addition of cooker hoods to natural ventilation ducts. Extractor hoods, which collect vapours and oily particles from food in the kitchen and then carry them out of the home, are intended for use where there is a duct specifically designed for this purpose. Thus, the rules say that if you want to install a cooker hood, you must have two ventilation ducts in your home.
• The noise levels of cooker hoods range from 40 to 70 decibels on average. When you buy a new appliance, the noise level is indicated on the energy label, but it may vary depending on the mode you have installed. The higher the installed operating speed, the louder the cooker hood will run. For quieter operation, a silencer is available on some cooker hood models.
• Built-in hoods are available to match other elements in the kitchen, but wall-mounted options are available in a wider range of options.

• It is advisable to consult the user manual and have a specialist check the hood before installing it.
• The cooker hood is essential to keep the kitchen free of unwanted odours and smoke, which is why it is important to have the right distance between the hob and the cooker hood. Depending on the type of cooker, the height will vary – up to 75 cm for a gas cooker, 60 cm for an electric cooker. The user manual provides more specific distances for each model.

• It is critical to clean the filters of the hood promptly because filters covered in grease are not as good at cleaning the air – they must be left on for longer periods of time, consequently, increasing the electricity consumption.
• Kitchen cleaners specifically formulated to treat certain surfaces, such as stainless steel, are the best choice for cleaning the cooker hood. They can be used to clean different surfaces of the cooker hood.
• If the cooker hood filter is cleaned regularly, it can be easily cleaned with hot running water or by soaking the filter in water.
• If the filter of your cooker hood is difficult to clean, you can make a paste by mixing baking soda with water. The resulting paste is applied to the stains where it is left to act for half an hour or longer if necessary, and then cleaned with a damp cloth.
• The stove hood filter can also be washed in the dishwasher by adding the same detergent used for dishes.

• The choice of a microwave oven can depend on the interior design of the kitchen and the available space. If you prefer convenience and easy portability of the device, a freestanding model with a simple set-up is the best option. Built-in appliances, on the other hand, are designed to fit into a pre-planned kitchen design. Please note that some types of microwave oven may require the assistance of a professional during installation.
• A corner microwave oven with a capacity equivalent to a conventional microwave oven is suitable for particularly small spaces.
• The power of microwave oven operation varies from 600 to 1200 watts. Larger microwave ovens usually have more power and will be more expensive. Budget models, on the other hand, are usually less powerful. To be able to cook different types of products, it is preferable to buy appliances with adjustable power level.
• A convection microwave oven uses heating elements and a fan that are similar to those used in convection ovens to circulate the heat. A convection microwave oven can usually bake and roast in a similar way to a conventional convection oven.

• Install the microwave oven further away from the refrigerator, as this will prevent an increase in the electricity consumption of the refrigerator.
• A microwave oven is the most efficient appliance for heating food. Compared to an oven, a microwave oven can do the job much faster and cheaper – with less electricity consumption.
• The appliance also has other functions for cooking. It can be used to defrost food, steam vegetables and cook a variety of other dishes.
• As food cooks faster in a microwave, it is important to specify how long the particular food should be cooked for.
• Always check before cooking, whether your food and utensils are safe to heat in a microwave oven.

• The microwave can be cleaned with a variety of household cleaning agents – lemon, soda, etc.
• Regular wiping of the inside of the microwave with the use of a soft cloth or a paper towels is recommended, including the sides, door, top and bottom of the appliance.
• Make sure that no liquid leaks into the vents, as this can cause mechanical problems in the future.

• The capacity of the kettle for boiling water should be chosen in accordance with the needs of each family. The volume of electric kettles ranges from 0.5 l to 2.5 l.
• If you do not want to wait for long for the water to boil, you should choose a high power kettle that can boil water quickly. A more powerful kettle will add the required amount of energy in a much shorter time. The power of standard kettles ranges from 1,000 W to 3,000 W.
• The water level gauge is an essential part of the kettle, as controlling the amount of water allows you to make the most efficient use of the kettle. For the efficient use of water, you can choose a kettle that has a level indicator in tea cups, so you can see how much water you need to add to make tea or coffee for one, two or three people.
• The material used for the body of a kettle affects its durability, thermal conductivity, aesthetic appeal, as well as care.

• Kettles with Spiral heating elements are common, but they sometimes fail to heat all the water evenly, as well as they get calcified faster.
• Kettles with a heating plate embedded in the base of the kettle work more efficiently. Heating plates have a larger surface area that comes into contact with water compared to spiral heating elements. Such increased surface area ensures better heat transfer, enabling the water to heat up faster and more efficiently.
• Temperature control option is one of the features that should be considered for several reasons. First, you can choose the temperature to which the water is heated – the higher the temperature you choose, the longer it will take for the water to heat up to the desired level. Secondly, choosing a lower temperature will reduce your electricity consumption. Thirdly, a longer lifetime. Overheating the water can cause limescale to build up in the kettle over time, which can reduce the efficiency and lifespan of the appliance.

Safety functions

• Auto shut-off: this ensures that the kettle automatically shuts off as soon as the water has boiled. This prevents the risk of overheating. The kettle also switches off automatically if it has not been filled with enough water or none at all.
• It is important to pay attention to the material of the electric kettle’s handle. It must be made of heat-resistant material to avoid burns. Some electric kettles have a locking mechanism on the handle that allows you to close the lid safely during use.

• Electricity consumption is reduced if only the required amount of water is boiled in the electric kettle, and not the maximum possible amount. On the other hand, boiling less water than the amount specified for the particular kettle can cause the appliance to overheat, potentially resulting in damaging or even short-circuiting it.
• If the kettle has temperature control modes, the degree of water heating must be selected according to the particular beverage. Most electric kettles have different temperature settings for specific drinks such as tea, coffee and hot chocolate.
• Make sure the lid of the electric kettle is closed when boiling. This will prevent unnecessary heat from escaping into the room.
• The kettle must be unplugged, when not in use. Leaving a kettle in standby mode consumes energy even when it is not in use. Electric kettles with additional features, for instance, remote water heating, maintaining the desired temperature etc., as well as kettles with a digital display usually have a standby mode. One of the indicators that shows that the kettle is consuming energy in standby mode is the indicator light that stays on after the water has boiled.

• Before cleaning, it is essential to unplug the electric kettle and allow it to cool down completely.
• It is recommended to wipe the outside of the kettle regularly with a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust from its surface.
• The heating element of the kettle must be decalcified regularly, as a 1 mm layer of calcification increases the consumption of electricity by 10%.

Different methods for getting rid of limescale

• With the use of citric acid

Add a packet of citric acid (50 g) in the electric kettle, fill to the maximum amount with water and bring to the boil. Then switch off the kettle and wait for the limescale to soften slightly. Bring the water to the boil again and then pour it out of the kettle. Clean the residues from the walls of the kettle with a sponge. Afterwards, rinse the kettle thoroughly with clean water. This cleaning method can be used regularly for ordinary kettles, but no more than once a month for electric kettles, as the citric acid reacts with the non-ferrous metals in the tubular electric heater, causing them to gradually break down.

• With the use of lemon juice and baking soda

Fill the kettle with water to the maximum mark and add 2–3 tablespoons of lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Bring to the boil and let the solution stand for 30 minutes. Afterwards, pour the liquid from the kettle and rinse it thoroughly with clean water.

• With the use of special descaling agents

Special kettle decalcifying agents are available from commercial outlets and must be used according to the instructions for use.

Before buying a coffee machine, you should answer the question: do you favour a pour-over coffee and just want to get rid of the grounds, or are you a coffee enthusiast, who wants a really great espresso that has become famous worldwide?

• The power of the machine determines not only the strength of the coffee but also how quickly the machine makes the drink. The lower the power and the lower the brewing speed, the stronger the drink, as the water needs time to fully absorb the aroma and oils of the coffee beans. A 1,000 to 1,500 W coffee machine is suitable for home use.
• Regardless of the conditions of use of the coffee machine, choose a machine that has an automatic cleaning function. In this case, the coffee machine will eliminate limescale deposits, coffee grounds and oils by itself and you will enjoy its operation for a long time.

• Like other appliances, the coffee machine continues to consume a small amount of electricity in standby mode. Turn off the machine when it is empty, as there is no need to heat it anymore, and you will reduce your electricity consumption.
• Over time, deposits accumulate in the water tank, affecting the heating function of the device. Keeping your appliance clean will reduce the consumption of electricity.
• It is recommended to clean the coffee machine at least once a month.

• Juicers can be broadly divided into three groups: low power (up to 500 W), medium power (700–1,000 W) and high power (1,000–1,500 W). The higher the power, the easier it is to squeeze the juice from harder fruits and vegetables. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to buy the most powerful device – a medium power device is perfectly adequate for everyday use. A low-powered appliance will be fine if you need to prepare 1–2 glasses of juice per day but a more powerful juicer is recommended for a large family.
• The principle of the citrus juicer is as follows: half a citrus fruit is placed on the curved part of the juicer. When you press on the nozzle, it starts to rotate and the juice is removed from the pulp.
• Centrifugal juicers crush fruit and vegetables with blades. They perfectly handle both softer and harder fruit and vegetables. However, the blades generate heat as they work, much of the juice remains in the flesh of the fruit or vegetable, and the juice loses some of its nutritional value. For this reason, juice made with this juicer should be drunk immediately. If the juice is stored, it loses its valuable properties.
• The operation of a fibre juicer (auger or slow-speed juicer) is similar to that of a meat mincer – it operates at lower speeds. The use of a low-speed juicer can result in producing a high-quality, nutritious and vitamin-rich drink which, incidentally, can be stored in the fridge for up to 48 hours. There are also special fibre machines that enable you to enjoy a thick juice that is rich in fibre and other valuable nutrients. Some models enable the processing of whole fruits and vegetables; for other models, you need to make them into smaller pieces beforehand. 

What to do with the pulp?

• Mix the pulp with flour, season with salt and pepper or, if you prefer a sweet version – sugar and vanilla, and bake juicy vegetable meatballs or fruit pancakes.
• If you do not want to waste the pulp, it can be frozen and added to sauces and soups later.

• It is recommended to choose an appliance with power of at least 500 W, since a less powerful blender will heat up quickly and need to rest after a short while.
• But power is not the only parameter – speed is also important, i.e., how fast the blade is spinning. The more revolutions, the faster the products are blended. This doesn’t necessarily mean that a blender with a higher speed will chop products better.
• The stronger the blade, the harder the products that you can chop. Serrated blades are the strongest and most durable.
• Care should be taken to position the blades as close to the base of the jug as possible, as this will ensure more homogeneous and higher-quality blending.
• Four cross-shaped blades are optimal for a smoothie blender, but there are also models with six blades. If the number of blades is smaller, it is preferable to have them curved rather than straight, as they will chop the food better.
• A blender should not be run at its maximum power or speed for too long, as this can overload the motor. The time allowed varies for each model and is specified in the user manual. More expensive models have a special motor overload protection that switches off the appliance if the motor overheats.
• Hand blender It is easy to hold and fits into tight kitchens, as it takes up little space; furthermore, you can choose any available container for blending. A hand blender can also be used to blend very small quantities of products, which is sometimes more difficult with a table blender.
• tationary or tabletop blender This blender takes up a lot more space in a kitchen, but its main advantage is that it can run on its own while you do other things. Furthermore, a tabletop blender blends products more homogeneously and quickly, especially if the quantity of products to be blended is large.
• Mix and go, or the sports and travel blender A handy tool if you want to take your drink with you – the jug-sized blending container can be removed, the lid can be put on it and you are ready to go.
• Regardless of how often you plan to use the blender, it is important to consider whether the model you choose has switches that are convenient enough. If the switch has to be manually held on until the products to be chopped have reached the right consistency, it will not be convenient to work with.
• For a hand blender, appreciate its handle to make sure it doesn’t slip out of your hands easily. Some models have non-slip rubber-coated handles.
• Preferably, the blender should also have a pulse button, which is used to stir food, for instance, when mixing flour into biscuit dough or blending hot food.

• Before buying a deep fryer, you should carefully consider whether it is necessary. You also need to consider the size of the appliance that you require – depending on whether you want to cook small quantities of food, such as french fries for family dinners, or larger meals, including whole cuts of meat for parties, servings of fried fish or chicken.
• Fryers typically have a power between 1,800 and 2,200 W. The more powerful the appliance, the faster the oil will heat up.
• All models have a thermostat that tells you when you can start cooking. Digitally controlled models are also available, but their costs are higher.
• We recommend choosing a fryer with a removable oil compartment, a leak system or automatic oil filters that will filter out the used oil, enabling it to be reused.
• The capacity of the fryers is 1.5 to 25 l (larger models with one tank). Professional use requires a more spacious appliance; furthermore, fryers with two frying tanks are the most common, which enables you to cook large quantities or different dishes at the same time.
• Before buying a deep fryer, make sure you check the height of your kitchen cabinets and plan where you will place your new appliance.
• When choosing a deep fryer, it is important to choose an appliance that is easy to clean and disassemble. Preferably, all parts except the control unit should be dishwasher safe (must be indicated on the packaging); however, the parts of such a fryer may also be washed in the sink, of course.
• Pay attention to the filtration system of the fryer. Regular fryers are equipped with filters to absorb grease and unpleasant odours. Units with replaceable filters as well as built-in filters are available; built-in ones are easier to maintain.

Cooking, including deep frying, is an art, but as with any other cooking method, safety is always important!

• To prevent an oil spillage, avoid using water near the fryer, wipe the fryer thoroughly after cleaning, and dry produce (e.g., by using a paper towel), before immersing it in oil.
• Use only oils with a high smoke point. Fuming is a sign that substances in the oil are starting to break down into hazardous compounds. For different oils, the smoke point can vary from 160 °C to 230 °C. Oils with a smoke point above 180 °C, such as vegetable oils (rapeseed, sunflower, etc.), are suitable for frying; olive oil is not recommended and butter cannot be used for frying either.
• Try to keep the oil temperature even. As the temperature drops, the outside of the food may get overcooked and the inside – undercooked. Therefore, do not fill the baking tray too densely; it is better to cook in small portions. Meanwhile chilled or thawed products should be allowed to come to room temperature before deep frying.
• Parts of a high quality fryer: reservoir (tank) that is easily removable from the body, removable coil from the oil reservoir; having a built-in filter in the lid is preferable to prevent the spread of frying aromas.
• When using a deep fryer, place it on a gas or electric hob and turn the cooker hood on full blast – this will reduce the spread of cooking smells throughout the house.

• It is no surprise that cleaning fryers is no fun. Although most models offer the option of washing the basket and strainer in a dishwasher, the most unpleasant job of emptying the appliance of used oil – remains.

• First, you should consider what you want to use it for, how often and what kind of meals you will cook in it. An air fryer may resemble a multi-cooker in terms of appearance, but a multi-cooker is more suited for stewing and boiling, while an air fryer is more suitable for frying.
• When choosing an air fryer, particular attention should be paid to the volume of the appliance. The larger the volume, the higher the capacity of the appliance. It also determines how many products you will be able to cook at a given time and at the same time. Smaller air fryers (1.2 litres) are suitable for 1–2 people, medium sized (3–4 litres) are recommended for a 2–3 person household and larger (6 litres or more) are suitable for larger families of 4–6 people.
• Note that a smaller volume air fryer will also mean quicker meal preparation, as the hot air reaches the food faster and more frequently than in a larger volume fryer, where the air has to circulate in a larger space.
• At the same time, the capacity of the appliance should be assessed to determine how quickly the particular device will reach the required temperature – the faster it heats up, the less electricity it will consume.
• There are different models on the market that will perform the same basic functions, but there is a choice of appliances with manual temperature and cooking time setting, as well as automatic time calculation; these devices are equipped with a touch-screen and other additional functions, therefore individual preferences and features should be taken into account when evaluating the offer.

• Air fryers can cook most of the foods you would normally cook in a deep fryer or an oven, including meat, fish, vegetables and baked goods. Note that when using racks, it is not advisable to place products in a dough casing in the fryer, as the dough will fall off. It is advisable to choose dry seasonings, as less moisture will give a crispier result.
• Knowing that this is a healthy alternative to a deep fryer, the addition of oil is not needed for most meat products. If the food is juicy enough, just add salt and your favourite spices. For leaner cuts of meat, however, a little vegetable or rapeseed oil with high heat-resistance should be added (preferably by sprinkling). If you want to add a sauce to your meal, do it in the last few minutes of cooking.

• Always unplug the appliance and make sure it has cooled down before cleaning!
• It is recommended to clean the air fryer after each use.
• Most cooking baskets and racks of air fryers can be cleaned in a dishwasher. However, if this is not possible, it is recommended to use a damp sponge or soft cloth to access all the nooks and crannies of the basket and rack.
• If oil has accumulated in the cooking compartment after cooking, it should first be wiped with a paper towel.
• Be gentle and do not clean too vigorously, avoid abrasive (too sharp) cleaning tools, as many air fryer baskets are coated with a non-flammable coating that can easily be rubbed off. •If the basket or rack attached to the appliance is difficult to clean, soak it in warm water for about 10 minutes and then wash, as well as wipe thoroughly.
• After cleaning, dry the appliance thoroughly with a dry cloth or towel.

• Carefully consider the capacity and performance of the appliance, which depends on the number of family members and cooking habits. Multi-cookers range from 500 W to 1,400 W in power and from 1.5 l to 8 l in terms of capacity. For a larger family (4 people or more) or if you are cooking for several meals, a multi-cooker with a 5–8 litre capacity and 900 W (or more) is suitable, while for 1–2 people a 1.5–3 litre appliance with up to 900 W of power is sufficient.
• At the same time, keep in mind that the more powerful the appliance, the quicker a meal will cook, but it will also use more electricity.
• Generally, the more features a model has, the higher the cost; therefore, we urge you to be prudent and make sure that at least most of the features will actually be used. • As for the settings, it is important that the model has a steam release valve that can be manually turned to release the steam at the end of cooking.

• The settings of a multi-cooker allow you to adjust the time required to cook different dishes. The higher the pressure, the shorter the cooking time. But don’t forget – the longer the cooking time, the better the taste.
• The possibility to set different modes makes it easier to use the multi-cooker. Some models have pre-programmed settings for different types of meals, such as roasts, rice and other dishes.
• Note that a meal taking an hour to cook in an oven will take 6–8 hours to cook in the multi-cooker on slow cook mode.
• It is more efficient to use a microwave or a hob to heat the meal rather than a multi-cooker. Meanwhile, if you know that your meal will be enjoyed in a short while, use the special keep-warm function.

• Check the pressure valve regularly to make sure there are no food residues in it.
• Regularly remove and clean the silicone rubber gasket – soak the gasket in soda water (baking soda mixed with water) to remove unwanted odours.
• Leave the lid up for storage, otherwise, the gasket will warp and its service life will be shorter.
• Use a towel to open the pressure relief valve to protect your hands.
• Every part of the appliance must be easy to disassemble and clean, and then reassemble. For optimal and safe use, it’s recommended to clean the appliance after each use. Note that cleaning a stainless steel exterior is generally more time-consuming.

• Depending on the number of people in your household and your lifestyle, you need to choose the right size of cooker and the right number of shelves. Larger households will require a larger model – around 10 litres. If you regularly organise family events, you should definitely buy an appliance that is large enough to cook for all your guests. Meanwhile, a 1.8-litre model will be suitable for everyday use by smaller households.
• The power of steam cookers typically range between 500 W and 1,500 W. Higher power means a more powerful heating element, which results in faster heating and steaming, but also – higher energy consumption. Smaller capacity steam cookers are suitable for small portions of food, while more powerful steam cookers can cook larger meals and are ideal for large households.
• The operating temperature of the steam cookers that is required to produce steam is between 100 °C and 130 °C. However, some steam cookers may have adjustable temperature settings that enable different cooking methods to be used, such as steaming vegetables at lower temperatures or cooking meat at higher temperatures.
• Steam cookers should be selected in accordance with the needs of the family, taking into account the required steaming options and functions, such as for cooking vegetables, fish, meat, rice and other dishes.
• To protect not only the appliance but also its users, choosing a steam cooker with overheating protection and water evaporation protection is recommended, which automatically switches off the appliance when the water level drops too low.
• Some steam cookers have a heat maintenance function that keeps the cooked food warm until serving.
• Using a timer allows you to keep track of cooking times and avoid overcooking.
• To make cleaning easier, there are dishwasher-safe steamers available, and some models have removable parts and special shapes to make maintenance easier.

• As with other kitchen appliances, it is important not to overload the steam cookers, so consider the amount of food you need carefully. This will save both time and electricity and potentially reduce food waste.
• Make sure that the products are as evenly sized as possible and that there are small gaps between them to ensure the maximum access of steam.
• Cooking for too long wastes energy and can also affect the quality of the food, which is why it is recommended to use the timer function.
• The steaming basket allows you to cook several dishes at the same time, thus saving energy and time.
• Water should be added as required. Too much water causes the cooker to use more electricity to heat the excess water.

• It is advisable to follow the instructions of the manufacturer in taking care of the steam cooker.
• You should clean the steam cooker as often as you use it – after each use.
• It is recommended to wipe the inside of the cooker with a damp cloth and let it dry thoroughly before using it again.
• The steam cooker may require more thorough cleaning from time to time, for instance, descaling the water tank and cleaning the external surface. The frequency of such cleaning depends on the intensity of use of the steam cooker and the content of minerals in the water used.
• Although any part of the food steam cooker can be cleaned, avoid using abrasive cleaners as they can damage the appliance.
• To clean the steam cooker, fill the water tank with a mixture of water and lemon juice (1:1), leave for one to two hours and then rinse with clean water.