Over 3 million built-in appliances are sold every year - but choosing kitchen appliances that are right for your kitchen can be a real challenge.
Kitchen appliances normally represent a large chunk of any new kitchen budget, so before choosing kitchen appliances work out your available space, your budget, the style you like and what kind of kitchen appliances you want.
Cooking | Cooling | Washing |Dish washing
One decision that has a huge bearing on the finished look is whether you go for built-in kitchen appliances or free-standing kitchen appliances. You can take the latter with you when you move on, but if you are planning to do this then remember that prospective buyers may be put off as they'll have to buy new kitchen appliances as soon as they move in.
Slim-line kitchen appliances
Struggling for space? If you install a full size dishwasher, oven, washing machine and fridge freezer, they will use a huge amount of space - around 240cm in width! So your best bet may be to opt for slim line appliances. I had a slim-line dishwasher for years and it was a lifesaver with my hectic lifestyle and small kitchen!
Options for slim line kitchen appliances include 45cm wide dishwashers, 38cm wide multi-functional, built-in ovens, 70cm wide range cookers, 6 place setting dishwashers and slim top-loading washing machines.
Top tips for choosing kitchen appliances:
Buying kitchen appliances can be made easier by considering:
- Save space with multi-purpose appliances
- Stack appliances in a column - to save space
- Boiling water taps provide instant hot water - no need for a kettle
- Pure water taps - a good option for health conscious people
- Show off your wine in a wine chiller
- Save your back - fit appliances at shoulder height!
- Make sure you have power points in the right places
- Measure the width, depth and height of appliance space and add 5cm
Photo: Combination kitchen appliance - toaster and microwave in one!
What are appliance 'energy labels'?
Kitchen appliances are graded A (a green arrow meaning energy efficient) to G (a red arrow meaning that a lot of electricity is used). Labels and manufacturers' leaflets will clearly explain the grading system alongside the allocated letter, read our guide on appliance energy ratings.
Choosing kitchen appliances will be largely dependent on the size of your budget and the size of your family. Let us know your thoughts on which kitchen appliances you would recommend, or any tips on choosing kitchen appliances you'd like to share - click on "comments" below.