Appliances 101

Single Door vs. French Door Refrigerators

Refrigerators often hold the most important ingredients in your kitchen. French door or single door models may seem like a superficial detail but can actually make a big difference in how you use it. French Door Refrigerators Having two doors swinging out instead of one allows for better clearance in tighter kitchen areas. Since the freezer on French door refrigerators are located below, you have immediate access to your necessities–no more leaning down to see if you have any milk. They also tend to be more energy efficient than their single door counterparts, since you can open one door instead of the whole fridge, preventing cold air from escaping. French door refrigerators take advantage of the entire fridge width. You can easily store a full pizza in one of the tiers or drawers. However, French Door refrigerators often come with a more expensive price tag than a single door would. All the extra space means the door shelves tend to be more narrow, which may make it more difficult to store large pitchers or bottles on the doors. Single Door Refrigerators Single door refrigerators are favorable for their cheaper price. It may not have the fanciest features but if you need a fridge within a budget, the single door may be the way to go. They also are easier to clean, less handles means less work for you! Single door refrigerators are easier to close compared to French doors. French doors have to be closed with a good push, which can be a risk if you’re used to letting the door swing back closed on its own. If you’re looking for a statement piece in your kitchen, a single door wouldn’t have much to offer. Due to its larger door width these refrigerators need a lot of room to open. This can be an issue in smaller kitchen areas or apartments. Looking for a French Door Refrigerator? Check out the Cosmo COS-FDR225RHSS EXPLORE Source: Kitchn

Taking Care of Your Stainless Steel Appliances

Stainless steel is one of the sleekest modern finishes any appliance can have. As a matter of fact, it’s the most popular among dishwashers, ranges, and refrigerators sales. But as you may soon learn, stainless steel attracts fingerprints, smudges and streaks. There are many stainless steel cleaners on the market to bring the shine back to your appliances. But we’ve compiled some tricks if you’re looking for other cost saving alternatives. It’s always a good idea to refer to your product’s user manual on any cleaning recommendations. Always avoid scouring powders, steel wool, bleach, or ammonia as these can damage your appliance’s finish. Dish Soap. You can actually mix a mild soap detergent and warm water to help clean your stainless steel. Use a microfiber cloth and rub the solution into any marks, going with the grain of the stainless steel. Rinse with cold water and dry immediately with a clean cloth after. Mineral Oil. Apply a light coating of mineral oil and buff with a cloth to avoid any tacky buildup. Steer clear of any food-based oils such as vegetable or olive oil. These kinds of oils can turn rancid. Glass Cleaner. Spray a soft, dry cloth with a glass cleaner that is ammonia and vinegar-free to buff out any pesky fingerprints that may persist. Wipe the surface clean after. Baking Soda. Create a paste of baking soda and warm water, then apply to a soft cloth or sponge. Always remember to go with the grain of your appliance. Wipe with a clean wet cloth and dry with a towel. For any remaining scratches or stains you can utilize a stainless steel cleaner to the area. Sources: Good HouseKeeping , Consumer Reports Looking to learn more? Follow us on our Facebook and Instagram. 

Ducted and Ductless Range Hoods–What’s the Difference?

All range hoods are not created equal. It’s important to know the differences when deciding which range hood would work best for your kitchen. Searching through the options, you may come across some terms you’re unfamiliar with: ducted and ductless. To better understand these functions, let’s establish the main function of a range hood: moving odors, smoke or fumes away from your kitchen when cooking meals. Ducted Range Hoods Ducted range hoods require a duct inside a kitchen that connects to the outside. The range hood pulls the air up through the duct and away from the kitchen. The main restriction here is the location of the duct, and how the kitchen is built. If you’d like to have your range hood in another location where there is no duct available, then a ducted range hood may not work for you. Humidity is a key difference here. Since the air is being moved outside, you would have a dryer air quality than a ductless option. Ductless Range Hood Ductless range hoods recirculate air back into the kitchen. They require an additional filter, usually carbon activated. One of the biggest advantages of ductless use is that they can be placed anywhere in the kitchen. Ductless range hoods can contribute to higher humidity and heat levels in kitchens since the same air is remaining in the area. Filters do have to be replaced, usually once or twice a year, which can lead to additional costs. Ductless range hoods often require more power to recirculate the air, which may create higher noise levels. At Cosmo, we offer both ducted and ductless options in our range hoods so you have the option in deciding what’s best for your needs– without sacrificing aesthetics. Check out all our range hoods here. Looking to learn more? Follow us on our Facebook and Instagram.

Appliance Talk: Difference Between a Rangetop & Cooktop?

When remodeling your kitchen, or designing a brand new one, then you’ll need to think about which appliances you need. There are essential appliances every well designed kitchen needs and this includes a cooking appliance such as you range or a cooktop to cook on. Will you choose a range top or cooktop? To make your purchase with confidence we have decided to break it down for ya! In this comparison between the range top vs cooktop, you will discover the similarities and differences between these two kitchen applications. First, Let’s discuss the similarities. Rangetops and cooktops have either gas or electric models, and either one offers the ability to have a more flexible kitchen layout, so oven and rangetop or cooktop can be placed separately. Now, on to the differences. The major difference between rangetops and cooktops is the control features and installation method, which will determine how your countertop and cabinets are designed. The Pros of a Range Top These are the perks: A rangetop is very much like a hybrid of a range and a cooktop. rangetop slides into an opening directly into your countertops Range tops are sturdy and can handle heavy use. Range tops can either be powered by electric or gas. Range tops have knobs and controls on the front, which come in handy when trying to manage you’re cooking with multiple items on the burners. Range tops have a larger cooking surface. Range tops typically come with more professional features than others of its kind on the market. Like the sound of these Pros? CLICK HERE The Cons of a Range Top These aren’t exactly cons but these are a few things to consider. The front knobs and controls of the range top may be a safety concern where small children are concerned.  Range tops may be too large and bulky for smaller kitchens. The Pros of a Cooktop Cooktops have their pros too that make them a popular choice among many people. Cooktops are available in electric, gas, or induction cooking methods.  In general a Cooktop are smaller than Rangetops so they take up less space in your kitchen. The knobs and controls of cooktops are found on top of the unit. This allows an increased level of safety since they are more difficult for young kids to reach. Cooktops are often easier to clean. Like the sound of these Pros? CLICK HERE The Cons of a Cooktop Cooktops have they’re drawbacks, too! Cooktops are more compact, with less room or space to move around. Cooktops often come with less professional features than range tops do. Rangetops are going to require more space but they are perfect for those who do a lot of cooking and want the normal grates and feeling of a stove top. On the other hand, if space, efficiency, and simple is what you are after, then a cooktop may be your ideal appliance. When determining which one is right for your kitchen before you waste your money, consider the following: The size of your kitchen is going to have a great impact on which one you choose. You will need to determine the space available and how much of it you are willing to give up. Determine the amount of cooking you typically do you are going to need something hefty, sturdy, and large to withstand your level of use. Think about the method of cooking electric, gas, or induction? What level of professional features are you looking for, do you prefer something simpler or more advanced for your needs? Getting a new appliance for your kitchen is always exciting. However, it is important to remember that appliances are not the type of item you buy on a whim. They require installation and space, in addition to the purchase itself.

Father’s Day Gifts for the Man Who Loves to Cook

Hey Family, Father’s Day is coming up. Yey! Sure, typical Father’s Day gifts generally get the job done – think golf clubs, tool set and even a stylish tie – but what about the dad who enjoys spending time making magic in the kitchen. Don’t forget him. Give him the tools he needs to succeed, whether he’s baking for the big game, preparing a meal for the family, trying out a new recipe or seeking to master the perfect steak. Reaching one’s fullest potential in the kitchen requires the right equipment, so put the best gear in his hands (or on his counter) and up his culinary experience with these ideas from Cosmo Appliances. From a Portable Induction Cooktop Burner to an Airfryer turn his Kitchen countertop into a versatile powerhouse, give your food-savvy dad what he needs to up his culinary game. For more Father’s Day gift inspiration visit cosmoappliances.com. A Super Range for a Super Dad Dad deserves tools as bold and innovative as his culinary creations. Featuring Gas or Dual Fuel Ranges that combine modern styling with high-performance cooking technology. Dad will appreciate the authentic professional appearance with a robust profile. With high performance sealed burners that deliver exhilarating precision while the convection oven provides consistent heat for perfect roasting, baking, and broiling. These one-of-a-kind Ranges are sure to take his culinary prowess to a whole new level. Previous Next BUY THIS RANGE Chef on the Go For those warm summer weekends, camping is a fantastic activity that provides hours of enjoyment and a welcome opportunity to connect with loved ones and nature. After a day full of outdoor activities, Dad will want to prepare something easy, simple and very fast. Upgrade your camping cuisine with a portable Induction cooktop. Thanks to induction technology, electromagnetic currents generate heat from within the metal in the cookware for extremely fast and even heating. Boasting impressive safety features unlike burners with flammable and combustible vapors, our system remains cool to touch until cookware is placed on it. It’s sleek, compact design allows him to enjoy cooking anywhere he goes. BUY THIS COOKTOP Guilt-Free Crispy Fried Food  Made popular by claims air frying is a healthy alternative for frying food; because it replicates the wonders of deep-frying in a healthier way so Dad can still indulge in his fave fried foods like French fries. The Air Fryer, uses rapid air technology to fry, bake, roast or grill your food with only a tablespoon or less of oil. Think of it as a hi-tech counter-top convection oven. For recipe ideas click here BUY THIS AIR FRYER Bonus Gift for Dad who Loves Wine For those wine enthusiasts that insist on professional grade wine refrigeration, for at home use Cosmo has combined advanced technology and our signature sleek appearance for you to enjoy quick access to cold drinks and your favorite wine. Our 24 inch wine cooler delivers exactly the right temperature, with a single zone temperature that can be set at an ideal temperature to allow your wine to mature properly. BUY THIS WINE COOLER

Kitchen Ventilation: Downdraft vs. Island Hood

Before you decide which type is best for your home it is important to learn about the difference between downdraft vs. hood fan ventilation. Island Hoods Island hoods are installed in a space where the stove does not have any adjacent walls. The vent is connected to a duct that is fixed to the ceiling — thereby transferring the smoke away. If you have an island layout for a kitchen, these are the best options. They look good and give your space an aesthetic appeal. There are different styles like these units by Cosmo Downdrafts A downdraft ventilation system, or pop-up vents use proximity ventilation to pull smoke and grease downward, versus traditional ventilation which captures exhaust as it goes up. Downdrafts look different than a larger hood aesthetically. You can see the whole kitchen. Downdraft vs. Island Hood Functionally, island hoods are considered to be better for a few reasons. What are the pros of an Island hood fan? More effective: Island Hoods are generally larger and more powerful and clean the air better, especially if you cook large meals often. Keep in mind, smoke rises so it simpler to redirect where it is already headed Visual interest: Today’s range hoods are not only functional, but they are beautiful as well. Oftentimes, a stylish, stainless-steel range hood can be the focal point of your kitchen.  CFM: The max power on a downdraft is 1,000 CFM versus 1,500-1,800 on an island hood. There are limitations because Downdraft vents only work for cooktops unless you specifically buy a downdraft range.          Capture area: Smoke is first channeled, filtered and then exhausted. An island hood has plenty of capture area, but there is almost none in a downdraft. If you grill or wok, the downdraft will not be able to handle the smoke and grease. What are the pros of downdraft ventilation? While downdraft vents aren’t the ideal ventilation system for all kitchens, they can be an effective solution for certain situations. People like downdraft ventilation ranges for these reasons: No ductwork needed: You simply install the range and you’re done. Downdraft ventilation is invisible: Except when in use, a simple push of a button makes the vent rise and fall. Those looking for a sleek, minimal kitchen vibe will enjoy this feature. Pop-up vents take up less space: In a small kitchen, they can make room for more upper cabinets. Easy to Clean: Downdraft vents are easier to clean than full range hoods. In conclusion, adequate ventilation helps to remove excess heat and moisture from the room for superior comfort and temperature control.  Downdraft ventilation is discreet, sophisticated, and effective in some instances. It’s perfect for those looking for an uncluttered seamless kitchen, and for providing ventilation for kitchens where traditional ventilation isn’t possible. There’s no denying that Island Range Hoods provide many important benefits like protection from toxins and unpleasant odors. An Island hood is an important asset to your home and your health. Shop Island Hood

5 Pro Tips for Remodeling Your Home

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic many Americans have spent a lot of time at home over the past few months, there have been plenty of opportunities to think about how that living space could be improved. While this may not be the ideal time to tackle a full gut and renovate project, it may still be possible to do some smaller scale remodeling projects that update and improve your home. For example, simple cosmetic repairs like painting and replacing vanities can make a noticeable difference with minimal work or investment. Or if you’re hesitant about bringing contractors into the house, outdoor projects like replacing fencing, adding paver stones or constructing outdoor living spaces may be a benefit for your family. Before you take on a project, consider these tips from Robi Kirsic, MCKBR, UDCP, chairman of the board of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and co-CEO of TimeLine Renovation & Design. Define the Purpose The first consideration whether you’re making changes for yourself or for future resale is the purpose of your project. This determines everything from the budget to the materials you select. Remember projects in the kitchen and bathroom typically bring the greatest return on investment. It’s also a good idea to plan how you’ll use the renovated area. When possible, incorporate elements of universal design that don’t change how the space looks but will change how it works. For example, in the bathroom, install a curbless shower, taller toilet and block in walls to allow future installation of grab bars. Stick to a Budget Another early decision is your budget. It’s fruitless to spend time looking at materials and making design decisions based on products that exceed your budget or, conversely, fall below the quality level you prefer. Having a professional involved can help keep you from overspending and identify areas you may want to splurge or pull back. Select a Remodeler Friends and family can be great resources when it comes to choosing a remodeling contractor since they’re likely to give detailed and candid opinions about their experiences. When you begin interviewing companies yourself, verify they’re licensed and insured, and ask what they offer above those minimum requirements. Are they certified or accredited? Do they specialize in the type of work you’re considering? Also be sure to request and check references and search online for reviews. Conduct Virtual Meetings While some projects may require an in-person assessment, many planning sessions can be conducted virtually. You can even shop products to be used in your project virtually since online catalogs typically show a variety of colors and finishes along with prices. For items you need to see or feel to choose, like flooring, request samples to test in your home. To make your virtual meetings most productive, prepare by providing a detailed scope of work and be ready to provide measurements and show the space cleared of clutter. Keep it Safe For some families, sticking to outdoor projects may be more comfortable in the short term. For those who are ready to bring contractors inside, there are numerous steps you can take to create a safer working environment. Examples include asking everyone involved to wear face masks and gloves and using plastic at doorways to keep the work area separate from the living area. Regular disinfecting and a thorough cleaning at the end of the project are also important preventive steps. Find more remodeling resources, including certified contractors in your community, at RemodelingDoneRight.com SOURCE: National Association of the Remodeling Industry

How to Load a Dishwasher 101

There are several essentials tips to keep in mind for the best way to load a dishwasher. Depending on the brand a dishwasher has different racks and internal workings, meaning each has a unique loading pattern. Consult your manufacturer’s instructions about how to load your dishwasher to ensure you get the most effective cleaning. Pre-rinse any dishes that will sit in the dishwasher for a while before you run a cycle. Some items — like cast iron cookware — should never go in this machine. Make sure you know what not to put in the dishwasher. Don’t stack dishes, as this prevents the sprayer from reaching everywhere. Make sure plastic items are secure, so they don’t get knocked loose. If they are unsettled and get too close to the heating element, they can melt. Avoid crowding the dishwasher, as this can lead to dishes getting broken or not being washed effectively. Loading Silverware in a Dishwasher Loading silverware in the dishwasher should be a no brainer, You just drop it in, right? Well, there’s a bit more to it. When possible, mix forks, spoons and knives to prevent them from nesting. Load some utensils — like forks and spoons — with handles facing down. Knives should be loaded with the handles facing up so that you don’t cut yourself. Keep silver-plated utensils and stainless steel utensils separate to prevent damage to your good silver. How to Load Large Items Larger dishes like plates, casserole dishes, dishwasher-safe baking sheets and mixing bowls should be loaded on the bottom rack. But there are a few things you might not be aware of. Make sure the largest items are positioned towards the sides and the back of the rack. (This will allow the water to circulate more evenly.) Load dishes so that the side that is dirty faces the sprayer. Space out larger items to ensure they’re properly cleaned. . Many non-stick pots and pans should be washed by hand, don’t assume they are dishwasher safe, it’s best to always consult the care instructions. How to Load Smaller Items in Your Dishwasher As it goes, the top rack is reserved for smaller items, such as coffee mugs, small bowls and glasses. Make the most of each dishwashing cycle with these tips. Place items in between the tines on the rack to prevent water spots. Load cups and mugs at an angle — with the inside of the cup facing the sprayer — to help limit pooling. Unload the bottom rack first so that any liquid that has puddled in cups or mugs doesn’t splash on clean dishes. Skip the dishwasher when it comes to cleaning wine glasses, as their delicate globes and stems can easily break. Load dishwasher-safe plastic food storage containers and other plastic items on the top rack — and far away from the heating element — to help prevent warping and buckling. Need to upgrade your current dishwasher? Consider the Cosmo Built-in Dishwasher. SHOP HERE For more great recipes, tips and appliance news, follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

High-Powered Kitchen Ventilation with Cosmo’s QS75 Under Cabinet Range Hood

Why is it on So Many Best of 2020 Lists? “A convertible model that features a digital control panel and remote control.” Spruce.com #3 on Review Tube’s Range Hood: Best Range Hood 2019 (Buying Guide) watch here  “The Cosmo QS75 is another model that got included primarily for two reasons: power and no noise. The little machine has many surprises hidden inside it.” –architecturelab.net The QS75  modern professional under cabinet range hood perfect for homeowners and builders with limited space. Fits easily into an existing cabinet, has premium brushed stainless steel that matches seamlessly with existing kitchen appliances for a modern upscale look.  Let’s start with what most people say they love about this range hood. Rapid ventilation with seamless and noise-free operations, the Cosmo QS75-30 is certainly a little beast.  Its twin centrifugal motors in the unit provide an impressive airflow of 900 CFM. Its power can remove all the pungent and heavy smells from the kitchen within minutes after the cooking.  A key feature of this model is that it is convertible that means it can also be used ductless. An optional Carbon Fiber Kit that’s required as a substitute can be bought separately.       Overall the QS75 is a user-friendly kitchen appliance. It comes  with easy-to-operate 3-speed option controls. Operating this system is clean, safe, and convenient. The unit has Arc Flow permanent filters that save you money year after year and are dishwasher-safe for added convenience, the process of cleaning is a breeze. Even installing this unit is far less of a hassle compared to the average under-cabinet range hoods. The QS75 Range Hood offers many design features including energy saving 3 Watts LEDs that illuminate the cooktop surface, It has a modern design that gives your kitchen a sleek edge. The canopy design on this under cabinet is also elegant. Premium 430-grade stainless steel makes way for a durable and aesthetically pleasing kitchen range hood.  PROS POWERFUL YET QUIET: 500 CFM range hood with backlit touchscreen, remote control, 4-speed fan, twin centrifugal motors. Quickly ventilate your kitchen without the noise of competing range hoods EASY TO CLEAN FILTERS: Cosmo’s ARC-FLOW Stainless Steel Permanent Filters are dishwasher-safe and extremely durable. Range hood can be used ductless with optional Carbon Filter Kit (Purchase Part # CFK5) POWERFUL ENERGY EFFICIENT LIGHTS: The energy-efficient, 1.5-watt LEDs are long-lasting and provide bright, high lumen LED lighting for better visibility at night CONTEMPORARY MODERN DESIGN: Commercial pro-style canopy range hood is both elegant and powerful adding sophistication to your kitchen. Made of premium 430 grade, 18-Gauge thickness stainless steel. 7.5″ Round Top Vent 5 YEAR LIMITED : Our customer support team is based proudly in the USA. Product Dimensions: 29. 5 x 22 x 10 inches Electrical Requirements: 120V/60Hz, 3 Prong Plug. Round duct 7. 5 inch I WANT THIS RANGE HOOD

Cosmo’s Dishwasher: Save Time and Free Your Hands from Endless Scrubbing!

Choosing a Cosmo professional Dishwasher means you’ve chosen a product that is high performance, and energy conscious. As the hardest working appliance in your home Cosmo’s dishwasher is remarkably quiet, reliable, and easy to load. Capacity  The 24 inch Cosmo built-in dishwasher has a large capacity storage with adjustable racks that adds more usable space and can hold 12 place settings. Features an upper rack with fold-down tines to accommodate large or irregular-sized dishes and a large capacity lower rack that easily accommodates plates, bowls and cookware. Cleaning and Drying This dishwasher’s system is equipped with multiple wash cycle functions ranging from: Pots & Pans, Normal Wash, China Crystal, Quick Wash, Rinse Only, Air Exchange, Steam Wash, Vortex Wash, Heating Dry, Sanitize, and Hi Temp Wash ensures your dishes are spotless. Capabilities The dishwasher’s built in vortex arms with powerful hydraulic pressure holes provide high speed and high pressure sprays around a full 360 degrees. Quiet Cleaning “I need a quiet dishwasher” we hear this a lot and we are proud to say this dishwasher will quietly clean all your dishes.  Reaching just 45dB, this ultra-quiet stainless steel built in dishwasher can run almost unnoticed. Safety Controls We gave our dishwasher a built in child lock, along with overflow, leakage, and heater protection to provide complete peace of mind. Powerful Dish Washer This gentle yet effective dishwasher machine efficiently removes grease, dirt and oil from your tableware using high temperatures to kill bacteria. Premium-Grade Stainless Steel Exterior The Cosmo dishwasher has intuitive design, with all touch-enabled controls and a hidden away when the door is closed for a clean aesthetic packaged in professional 430 grade stainless steel. Previous Next PROS 24 in. top control built-in tall tub dishwasher in stainless steel Clean modern aesthetic with hidden control panel Fingerprint and smudge resistant stainless steel finish Touch-enabled control panel at top of door makes operation effortless, easy access and wipes clean Multiple filter system saves water and energy by separating soiled and clean water Upper rack with fold-down tines to accommodate large or irregular-sized dishes. Large capacity lower rack easily accommodates plates, bowls and cookware. Stainless steel tub Dishwasher accommodates up to 12 place settings to wash multiple dishes at once Maximum noise: 45 db. exterior sound insulating pads pre-installed 120-Volt / 60 Hz, power cord not included Energy Star Certified, UL Listed, NSF/ANSI 184 I WANT THIS DISHWASHER