A wonderfully retro red wall phone from Smith Gear.
Lots of other colors and styles available too!
The perfect accessory for the retro kitchen.
Peggy
Monday, June 29, 2009
OOOOh Retro Red Wall Phone
Browsing today netted this find:
A wonderfully retro red wall phone from Smith Gear.
Lots of other colors and styles available too!
The perfect accessory for the retro kitchen.
Peggy
A wonderfully retro red wall phone from Smith Gear.
Lots of other colors and styles available too!
The perfect accessory for the retro kitchen.
Peggy
Antique Stove Mania
I received an invitation today, from Jenn of collectorsquest.com, to browse by for Kitchenalia Week. Thanks Jenn!
I am enchanted by the antique stove collection on display there as Stoves through the years.
They were collected by Jimmy, a cowboy (I've always had a soft spot for cowboys), from Albuquerque, NM.
The collection would be better if it were in a kitchen instead of a barn...But who's complaining?
Here are a few of his beautiful finds, with his permission:
See more at Jimmy's site. Thanks Jimmy!
Peggy
I am enchanted by the antique stove collection on display there as Stoves through the years.
They were collected by Jimmy, a cowboy (I've always had a soft spot for cowboys), from Albuquerque, NM.
The collection would be better if it were in a kitchen instead of a barn...But who's complaining?
Here are a few of his beautiful finds, with his permission:
See more at Jimmy's site. Thanks Jimmy!
Peggy
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Range Hood Q & A
Q.
Peggy,
I stumbled across your blog when googling 'range hoods'. I have a few questions about range hood size and power.
1. I have not been able to find any clear directions/advice about what minimum cfms a hood needs to pull to safely and effectively vent a kitchen range.
A.
Directions and advice on recommended hood CFMs and size come from the manufacturer of your chosen range. If you don't see such specifications on their web site - call them and ask them. These are always minimums as range makers don't want to discourage purchase of their products by specifying larger and more expensive hoods than absolutely necessary (especially if they're not selling the hood).
Q.
2. Are there different recommendations about minimum cfms for gas and electric ranges? Removal of the various cooking odors, smoke, and grease aside, intuitively, I would think there might be a minimum expectation for gas due to the combustion process that occurs during cooking (as opposed to electric).
A.
You are correct that gas combustion creates byproducts that are best exhausted out of your home. However, since these byproducts are created along with the steam, grease and odors of cooking, they too are exhausted with a proper ventilation system.
Q.
3. What is the minimum/maximum distance above a range that a hood needs to be installed to function properly or is that a vent specific specification?
A.
Hood manufacturers specify this distance in their installation instructions. Optimum is usually stated at 24-27" above the cooking surface. Again, each manufacturer will specify for their own products.
Q.
4. Is there a rule of thumb about the proper size of the hood opening to effectively and safely vent all of the burners of the range below?
A.
We designers skirt the issue of the hood being too low at 24-27" by using larger hoods to capture the ever-spreading column of steam and grease coming off a pan on the range surface. I typically specify a 42-48" hood over a 36" range because of this issue. The rule of thumb I use is that a column of hot steam coming off a pot or pan on the cooking surface spreads at a rate of 3" in 30" of ascent. This requires a minimum 6" in extra width for each 3" of height over the recommended maximum.
I presently have a 30" standard opening in the counter top with room for a stand alone range. Above that is a microhood combo that vents outside at 90 degrees. Oddly, I also notice that the microhood also recirculates some of the exhaust back into the kitchen.
Thanks for your help!
Stacie
A.
With your present situation, you are limited to a 30" hood over a 30" range. In that case you should choose a hood with the deepest canopy possible and mount it at the manufacturers recommended height from the cooking surface to capture most all of the heat, steam, grease and odors of cooking.
If you plan to replace your cabinetry, then you can choose a wider hood to raise it higher.
I can't imagine why your present micro-hood is vented out the back and also recirculating at the same time, since it is always either/or when it comes to hookup. I suggest you turn on the hood and go outside to see if there is any air at all coming out of the vent cap. It may be that the installer simply set it up to recirculate and abandoned the existing exterior vent. A poor choice, but not uncommon, because it is easier.
Many installers simply take the easiest route when it comes to these things. You have to demand that products be installed in the optimum way for function rather than just the easiest way. You also need to check to make sure that your instructions, or your designer's specifications, are followed to the letter.
Ventilation pipes are almost always hidden in the walls and/or attic. That puts them in the province of "what you don't know can hurt you". Manufacturers always specify the type and size of ducts; how long they can be before function is impacted; and how many turns can be made. The performance of your carefully selected and properly mounted hood can be severely impacted by poorly installed ductwork. If you can't see what's in the attic or walls, ask your installer to furnish you with digital pictures showing installation as specified.
In your particular case, since the hood is being installed on an outside wall, a hood that has the option to vent directly out the back would be the best choice for funtion. Broan makes hoods with this option.
Peggy
Peggy,
I stumbled across your blog when googling 'range hoods'. I have a few questions about range hood size and power.
1. I have not been able to find any clear directions/advice about what minimum cfms a hood needs to pull to safely and effectively vent a kitchen range.
A.
Directions and advice on recommended hood CFMs and size come from the manufacturer of your chosen range. If you don't see such specifications on their web site - call them and ask them. These are always minimums as range makers don't want to discourage purchase of their products by specifying larger and more expensive hoods than absolutely necessary (especially if they're not selling the hood).
Q.
2. Are there different recommendations about minimum cfms for gas and electric ranges? Removal of the various cooking odors, smoke, and grease aside, intuitively, I would think there might be a minimum expectation for gas due to the combustion process that occurs during cooking (as opposed to electric).
A.
You are correct that gas combustion creates byproducts that are best exhausted out of your home. However, since these byproducts are created along with the steam, grease and odors of cooking, they too are exhausted with a proper ventilation system.
Q.
3. What is the minimum/maximum distance above a range that a hood needs to be installed to function properly or is that a vent specific specification?
A.
Hood manufacturers specify this distance in their installation instructions. Optimum is usually stated at 24-27" above the cooking surface. Again, each manufacturer will specify for their own products.
Q.
4. Is there a rule of thumb about the proper size of the hood opening to effectively and safely vent all of the burners of the range below?
A.
We designers skirt the issue of the hood being too low at 24-27" by using larger hoods to capture the ever-spreading column of steam and grease coming off a pan on the range surface. I typically specify a 42-48" hood over a 36" range because of this issue. The rule of thumb I use is that a column of hot steam coming off a pot or pan on the cooking surface spreads at a rate of 3" in 30" of ascent. This requires a minimum 6" in extra width for each 3" of height over the recommended maximum.
I presently have a 30" standard opening in the counter top with room for a stand alone range. Above that is a microhood combo that vents outside at 90 degrees. Oddly, I also notice that the microhood also recirculates some of the exhaust back into the kitchen.
Thanks for your help!
Stacie
A.
With your present situation, you are limited to a 30" hood over a 30" range. In that case you should choose a hood with the deepest canopy possible and mount it at the manufacturers recommended height from the cooking surface to capture most all of the heat, steam, grease and odors of cooking.
If you plan to replace your cabinetry, then you can choose a wider hood to raise it higher.
I can't imagine why your present micro-hood is vented out the back and also recirculating at the same time, since it is always either/or when it comes to hookup. I suggest you turn on the hood and go outside to see if there is any air at all coming out of the vent cap. It may be that the installer simply set it up to recirculate and abandoned the existing exterior vent. A poor choice, but not uncommon, because it is easier.
Many installers simply take the easiest route when it comes to these things. You have to demand that products be installed in the optimum way for function rather than just the easiest way. You also need to check to make sure that your instructions, or your designer's specifications, are followed to the letter.
Ventilation pipes are almost always hidden in the walls and/or attic. That puts them in the province of "what you don't know can hurt you". Manufacturers always specify the type and size of ducts; how long they can be before function is impacted; and how many turns can be made. The performance of your carefully selected and properly mounted hood can be severely impacted by poorly installed ductwork. If you can't see what's in the attic or walls, ask your installer to furnish you with digital pictures showing installation as specified.
In your particular case, since the hood is being installed on an outside wall, a hood that has the option to vent directly out the back would be the best choice for funtion. Broan makes hoods with this option.
Peggy
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Ditch Your Bottled Water/Save the Planet
I received the following email from Melissa at Whirlpool about World Water Monitoring Day (September 15, 2009):
World Water Monitoring Day is an international education and outreach program that builds public awareness and involvement in protecting water resources around the world.
As a reminder, August is National Water Quality month, so there has never been a better time to explore the use of filtered water.
Refrigerators with water and ice dispensers not only offer convenience, but also can help save money and reduce waste by removing the need to consume bottled water.
In one year, refrigeration systems can filter the equivalent of 3,000 bottles of water. Making the switch to filtered water can prevent wasting these bottles so they don't end up in landfills. *Refrigerator water filters are also good for consumers' wallets and can save people up to $600 each year versus bottled water.
Filtered water is one of the most effective ways to get clean, pure water at a lower cost and reduced impact on the environment. NSF International, the leading organization for standards on consumer products, suggests that home water treatment systems can help provide protection against many common contaminants like mercury and lead found in drinking water.
While many consumers embrace filtered water, there is a lack of understanding that a refrigerator water filter needs to be replaced every six months. Even though it might look, smell and taste good, impurities can still exist.
Many refrigerators have an easy-access system, located conveniently at the bottom in the grille or just inside the refrigerator, to make changing the filter quick and easy. For added convenience, Whirlpool has a subscription service that automatically sends a filter to your home every six months.
*Based on two 6-month 200 gallons filters vs. purchasing the same amount of 16 oz. bottles in 24-packs units.
Melissa may be creatively marketing water filters for her employer. But I have spent the last several years trying to break my husband, who sometimes buys bottled water, when we have great Hetch Hetchy water from the Sierras that is further filtered and chilled right at our refrigerator door!
It's really easy to fill a re-usable, stainless steel, water bottle in the kitchen to take on outings where bottled water is needed.
Just think of women in Darfur. Who have to walk for miles and risk their lives to carry water back to their families. I'm sure they would give ANYTHING to be able to push a button and have pure, fresh water pour into a bottle.
Think about it.
And Melissa, I think it would be really great if Whirlpool would donate a bunch of logo-bearing stainless steel water bottles to be sold on the World Water Monitoring Day web site alongside the T-shirts and pencils. Thanks for the tip.
Peggy
World Water Monitoring Day is an international education and outreach program that builds public awareness and involvement in protecting water resources around the world.
As a reminder, August is National Water Quality month, so there has never been a better time to explore the use of filtered water.
Refrigerators with water and ice dispensers not only offer convenience, but also can help save money and reduce waste by removing the need to consume bottled water.
In one year, refrigeration systems can filter the equivalent of 3,000 bottles of water. Making the switch to filtered water can prevent wasting these bottles so they don't end up in landfills. *Refrigerator water filters are also good for consumers' wallets and can save people up to $600 each year versus bottled water.
Filtered water is one of the most effective ways to get clean, pure water at a lower cost and reduced impact on the environment. NSF International, the leading organization for standards on consumer products, suggests that home water treatment systems can help provide protection against many common contaminants like mercury and lead found in drinking water.
While many consumers embrace filtered water, there is a lack of understanding that a refrigerator water filter needs to be replaced every six months. Even though it might look, smell and taste good, impurities can still exist.
Many refrigerators have an easy-access system, located conveniently at the bottom in the grille or just inside the refrigerator, to make changing the filter quick and easy. For added convenience, Whirlpool has a subscription service that automatically sends a filter to your home every six months.
*Based on two 6-month 200 gallons filters vs. purchasing the same amount of 16 oz. bottles in 24-packs units.
Melissa may be creatively marketing water filters for her employer. But I have spent the last several years trying to break my husband, who sometimes buys bottled water, when we have great Hetch Hetchy water from the Sierras that is further filtered and chilled right at our refrigerator door!
It's really easy to fill a re-usable, stainless steel, water bottle in the kitchen to take on outings where bottled water is needed.
Just think of women in Darfur. Who have to walk for miles and risk their lives to carry water back to their families. I'm sure they would give ANYTHING to be able to push a button and have pure, fresh water pour into a bottle.
Think about it.
And Melissa, I think it would be really great if Whirlpool would donate a bunch of logo-bearing stainless steel water bottles to be sold on the World Water Monitoring Day web site alongside the T-shirts and pencils. Thanks for the tip.
Peggy
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Viking 36" & 48" Refrigerator Recall
NEWS from CPSC
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 16, 2009
Release # 09-242
Firm's Recall Hotline: (888) 345-2650
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908
Viking Range Corporation Recalls Built-In Refrigerators Due to Injury Hazard; Doors Can Detach
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Viking Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator/Freezers and Refrigerators with Bottom Freezers
Units: About 45,000
Manufacturer: Viking Range Corporation, of Greenwood, Miss.
Hazard: The refrigerator's doors can detach, posing an injury hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Viking has received about 57 reports of doors detaching, including four reports of injuries involving bruises, broken toes/fingers, and strains. Also, several incidents of minor damage to floors and counters have been reported.
Description: This recall involves Viking built-in 48-inch wide side-by-side refrigerator/freezers and the built-in 36-inch wide refrigerators with bottom freezers with model and serial numbers with date codes listed below. The refrigerators come in stainless steel and various colors and wood finishes and are built into the kitchen cabinetry. "Viking" is written on the front of the refrigerator. The model and serial numbers are located either behind the produce drawer or on the ceiling of the interior of the refrigerators. The 42-inch wide or freestanding refrigerators are not included in this recall.
Model Numbers Starting With --- Date Codes
VCSB481, VCSB482, DDSB482, DFSB482, DTSB482, DDBB362, VCBB360, VCBB362, DFBB362, DTBB362, DTBB363 --- All units
VCSB483, DDSB483, DFSB483, DTSB483 --- Date codes before 030104
VCSB483D, DDSB483D, DFSB483D --- Date codes before 030105
VCBB363 --- Date codes before 102005
DDBB363 --- Date codes before 112305
DFBB363 --- Date codes before 041006
The first six numbers in the serial number are the manufacture date of the unit in [mm][dd][yy] format, e.g., serial number 051903G0000000375 was manufactured on May 19, 2003 and serial number F01250210170 was manufactured on January 25, 2002.
Sold by: Appliance and specialty retailers nationwide from July 1999 through April 2006 for between $4,725 and $6,400.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers with recalled refrigerators should contact Viking immediately to schedule a free in-home repair. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled refrigerator if the door isn't sealing properly, is sagging, or fails to open and close properly. If the door is functioning properly, consumers may continue to use the refrigerator until it has been repaired.
Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Viking toll-free at (888) 345-2650 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit Viking's Web site at www.vikingrange.com
To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recall product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09242.html
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 16, 2009
Release # 09-242
Firm's Recall Hotline: (888) 345-2650
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908
Viking Range Corporation Recalls Built-In Refrigerators Due to Injury Hazard; Doors Can Detach
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Viking Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator/Freezers and Refrigerators with Bottom Freezers
Units: About 45,000
Manufacturer: Viking Range Corporation, of Greenwood, Miss.
Hazard: The refrigerator's doors can detach, posing an injury hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Viking has received about 57 reports of doors detaching, including four reports of injuries involving bruises, broken toes/fingers, and strains. Also, several incidents of minor damage to floors and counters have been reported.
Description: This recall involves Viking built-in 48-inch wide side-by-side refrigerator/freezers and the built-in 36-inch wide refrigerators with bottom freezers with model and serial numbers with date codes listed below. The refrigerators come in stainless steel and various colors and wood finishes and are built into the kitchen cabinetry. "Viking" is written on the front of the refrigerator. The model and serial numbers are located either behind the produce drawer or on the ceiling of the interior of the refrigerators. The 42-inch wide or freestanding refrigerators are not included in this recall.
Model Numbers Starting With --- Date Codes
VCSB481, VCSB482, DDSB482, DFSB482, DTSB482, DDBB362, VCBB360, VCBB362, DFBB362, DTBB362, DTBB363 --- All units
VCSB483, DDSB483, DFSB483, DTSB483 --- Date codes before 030104
VCSB483D, DDSB483D, DFSB483D --- Date codes before 030105
VCBB363 --- Date codes before 102005
DDBB363 --- Date codes before 112305
DFBB363 --- Date codes before 041006
The first six numbers in the serial number are the manufacture date of the unit in [mm][dd][yy] format, e.g., serial number 051903G0000000375 was manufactured on May 19, 2003 and serial number F01250210170 was manufactured on January 25, 2002.
Sold by: Appliance and specialty retailers nationwide from July 1999 through April 2006 for between $4,725 and $6,400.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers with recalled refrigerators should contact Viking immediately to schedule a free in-home repair. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled refrigerator if the door isn't sealing properly, is sagging, or fails to open and close properly. If the door is functioning properly, consumers may continue to use the refrigerator until it has been repaired.
Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Viking toll-free at (888) 345-2650 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit Viking's Web site at www.vikingrange.com
To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recall product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09242.html