Purchasing your first home is an exciting, big life event. But it can also be overwhelming with many new responsibilities that come with owning a house.
One of those is buying necessary appliances for your new home. This article will cover the most essential household appliances you should have in your home. Most household appliances are covered under a home warranty. What does a home warranty cover? Home warranties are service contracts that cover repairs or replacements of household systems and appliances. They are designed to help offset the cost of unexpected repair bills and provide peace of mind for homeowners. Every company has their own coverages so be sure to educate yourself with whoever you pick as a home warranty provider.
Refrigerator
Often, one of the first appliances purchased by new homeowners is a refrigerator. Without a fridge, most other household items are of no use.
Purchasing an energy efficient refrigerator can help tenants save on electricity costs. Having cost-effective appliances that are less likely to break down can increase rental yields.
Time is valuable, and having major appliances like a washer and dryer, a dishwasher, and a refrigerator can save people time from performing mindless chores such as filling ice cube trays, hanging clothes on the line to dry, and scouring silverware.
Stove or Cooking Range
While both ovens and ranges are essential kitchen appliances, you should decide which option best suits your cooking habits. Ranges are the most popular choice because they combine both an oven and stove top into one appliance.
A range can be gas, electric or dual-fuel. It can be installed in a freestanding position or built into the wall.
A cooktop is a freestanding appliance that can be purchased in many different styles and materials. However, it is important to keep in mind that a cooktop requires more maintenance than a range.
Dishwasher
Many homeowners find that a dishwasher helps reduce stress by allowing them to avoid the pile of dirty dishes that can build up in the kitchen sink. Dishwashers also help keep the kitchen and dining areas clean and free of clutter.
Dishwashers are typically made from steel or stainless steel and are available in a variety of finishes to match your home’s style. They can include a third rack for large items, bottle jets to wash baby bottles and water bottles, sanitation cycles and dishwashers that run quieter than traditional units. Some models come with features like adjustable racks, a silverware tray, soil sensors and wash zones.
Range/Cooktop
A range is an all-in-one kitchen appliance with exposed burners on top and a built-in oven underneath. They are available in gas, electric and dual-fuel models.
Ranges are an all-in-one option that’s easy to install. They can be freestanding or slide-in, with controls in front for a sleek look.
Cooktops are smaller than ranges and can be built into countertops for a seamless appearance. They can have multiple burners and are easier to personalize. They can also be installed with a wall oven for added functionality. They are available in a variety of sizes, from tiny 20-inch apartments-sized models to 60-inch gourmet behemoths.
Microwave
A microwave is an essential appliance for any kitchen, helping families save time when heating up snacks or meals. Look for features like quick-cook keys that can add 30 seconds or minutes to cooking settings, and oven sensors that automatically defrost food or cook items at the perfect temperature.
Choose from countertop models that sit on the counter or over-the-range units that vent through the ceiling and exhaust smoke and odors outside. Or, get a built-in look with a trim kit that makes most models appear to be installed into your cabinets.
Coffee Maker
If you’re a serious coffee lover you’ll want to invest in a premium coffee maker. Some models connect to your home water line, making it easy to brew hot tea and other beverages as well. Other models feature a reservoir that requires you to refill manually. These are often preferred for single serve, smaller households and shared workspaces like offices and college dorm rooms. For a premium brewing experience you can’t go wrong with the Breville Precision Brewer. This model has six brewing modes and a customizable temperature setting to make your ideal cup of coffee every time.
Blender
Whether you’re making smoothies, milkshakes or margaritas, a blender is an essential appliance for any kitchen. Look for a model with multiple personal cups with drinking lids if you want the versatility of blending one-person smoothies or pesto, and for models with additional attachments like dough hooks and discs for shredding or grating ingredients if you’re cooking for a crowd.
