Wolf Appliance Range Recall

Wolf Appliance, Inc. is recalling 24,000 gas ranges due to delayed ignition in the 18″ oven that can cause flames to shoot towards consumers when the oven door is opened.

These gas ranges were sold under the Wolf brand name. The Wolf logo can be located on the front of the large oven door. These 48-inch, with model numbers: P48, PS48 and R48 were sold from January 1998 through June 2008.

Consumers are advised to stop using the 18″ oven and contact the manufacturer to schedule a free, in-home repair. Reports indicate only the 18″ oven is affected and the top burners and large oven may be used.

For more information can contact Wolf Appliance toll-free at (866) 643-6408 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.wolfappliance.com.

September 2, 2008

Hitachi Refrigerator

Hitachi makes some pretty interesting refrigerators.

Their R-X6000 Model claims to have the world’s first vacuum compartments and power assisted drawers. It also has a quick freeze drawer, mold-proof door gasket, nano titanium filter, variable size ice maker with automatic cleaning and an automatic door closer.

In their latest model, the R-Y6000, Hitachi unveils new technology to spray your food with Antioxidant Vitamins to help preserve freshness and combat odors. Apparently Vitamin C helps meat keep it’s color longer and also slows down nutrient loss in vegetables and fish.

I might trust it to extend the life of fruit and vegetables but I personally wouldn’t take any chances with meat.

August 21, 2008

Preparing for a Storm

If people make a run on emergency supplies and the store shelves are empty try these little tips.

Your top-loading washing machine can be used as an extra cooler. The built-in drain is very convenient.

Heavy appliances like the oven and dryer are great for storing items you can’t pack up. Just remember to take them out before the next time you turn the oven on.

Solar powered garden lights are a great way to light your home at night without adding heat.

Putting a hot water bottle out in the sun during the day will give you warm water to wash your face.

Your SUV may use a lot of gas but it makes a great make-shift tent for sleeping.

Lastly, the number one thing people forget to stock up on…condoms. Remember all the hurricane babies after Charley?

August 7, 2008

European Linear Gas Cooktop

I have a love/hate relationship with the great people who write for the Appliancist blog.

They feature some of the coolest products, like this gas cooktop from Neff. The problem is that most European appliances are not made for export to the US.

European appliances are not like automobiles. You can’t fly over, buy them and ship them back. They won’t work.

There are two basic standards for voltage and frequency in the world. One is the North American standard of 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, which uses plugs A and B, and the other is the European standard of 220-240 volts at 50 Hz, which uses plugs C through M.

Using a 50 Hz appliance here means anything with a motor will run faster.

Yes, if you have the know-how, you can attempt to install transformers. However, it is my understanding that this should only be attempted with small power-consuming eclectic items like mixers. Electronic items will not function properly at all with a converter.

Your local building code may not allow it either. I don’t suggest you take the risk.