Award

FEBRUA RY 2019 | 29 Appliances Appliances are entering a new era of creativity and connectivity by LAURIE JONES T he options for appliances in 2019 address a broad range, from advances with technological Smart systems to retro styling giving a quintessential something for everyone. The selection of heat-pump dryers and cold-water washing machines that pair with them at Coast Wholesale Appliances use far less energy than tradi- tional laundry machines. "Heat-pump dryers use nearly 50 percent less energy because they recycle the hot air rather than pumping it outdoors," says Greg Purgavie, Coast Wholesale Appliances. "They're also significantly smaller than traditional units, and as such, they're an excellent option for urban condo dwellers." Blomberg was among the very first to bring inno- vative ventless heat pump technology to the market. It's the ultimate solution for compact spaces and dwellings where it's impractical or impossible to vent to the outside. The dryer uses a closed loop heat exchange system to dry at lower temperatures, sav- ing money on energy bills and providing superior protection for clothes. "Since heat-pump dryers don't require venting, and their cold-water washer counterparts only need one water line, these machines are also a great option for those who want to install a second laundry area in their home, such as in a guest suite without a major renovation," Purgavie explains. Jenn-Air's new professional range line-up, avail- able at Trail Appliances, includes over 30 models allowing today's luxury consumer to choose the range that best suits their design and cooking prefer- ences. "The ranges are available in the modern, sleek Noir design expression as well as the refined tra- ditional Rise design expression that features brass accents," says Richard Broderick, director of pur- chasing. "Ranges are available in all gas or dual fuel options and come in 30-inch, 36-inch and 48-inch sizes. A number of options meet the most discerning consumers' needs, including the ability to integrate a grill or griddle into the range's cooktop and utilize steam-assist in the oven, which helps retain food's flavour and nutrients." Broderick notes that the oven features dual fan true convection to ensure even heat throughout the oven cavity, and three flat-tine smooth-glide racks that allow for better trans- fer of heat and easier cleaning. "All new Jenn-Air professional ranges are Wi-Fi connected allowing you to start, stop, and monitor cooking from afar through the Jenn-Air app on your smartphone or tablet," he says. The app also features the Jenn- Air culinary, which customizes each cooking cycle based on the owners' preferences and cooking vessel to ensure perfect results. Midland Appliance's offering for 2019 is the Wolf 30-inch E Series convection steam oven. With 10 modes to make cooking meals easier, the unit installs flush with cabinetry to create a seamless, luxury look. "One of the great features of this E Series oven is the steam factor," says Timothy Navarro, appliance specialist. "Meals can be cooked with steam, roasted, or baked, or the user can do a combination of modes." These tech- nologies are currently being used by top chefs in restaurants around the world. Navarro says using a steam oven also has health benefits because this cooking method retains the nutrients and vitamins in food, and, he adds, it just makes the dishes taste better. "Unlike micro- waves that can change the consistency of food when reheated, this oven uses gentle steam to refresh the food and make it taste like it was made the same day." The E Series oven is over 25 percent larger than simi- lar units, and features an easy access water tank that provides 90 minutes of steam cooking. Canadian Appliance Source has seen a significant growth in interest in induction cooking. "Consumers have more understanding about how it works," says Terry Robar, director of sales. "While early mod- els only had certain areas on the stove that would initiate the induction process, the flex zone on the Thermador Freedom design works with a variety of cooking vessels. Rectangular dishes or square-style cast-iron frying pans can work because the active surface isn't just a round area." Robar says the other big thing that's coming in 2019 for appliances is colour. "This year Whirlpool has launched a colour called Sunset Bronze, which will have a champagne tone. Black stainless has come into the market in a big way for other manufacturers. The Magic Touch Blomberg's ventless heat pump technology from Coast Wholesale Appliances. Wolf 30-inch E Series convection steam oven from Midland Appliance.

• Cover