Next Kitchen Appliance to Upgrade: Replacing Old Favorites and Adding New Essentials
Understanding Your Existing Appliances
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and with it comes a variety of appliances that make our lives easier. Currently, my space includes a gas hob and oven, a fridge and freezer, and a stick blender. All of these appliances are relatively new, having been replaced within the last five years. However, this doesn't mean that I will avoid upgrading in the future. Let's dive into the potential candidates for replacement and the ones I might add to my kitchen.
Considering the Cooker and Fridge/Freezer
When thinking about what to replace first, two appliances stand out: the cooker or the fridge/freezer. While neither may break down in the near future, I find that the current fridge is rather annoying due to its inefficiency. I actually have a superior model in the garage, which makes this a tempting swap. However, the challenge lies in finding affordable labor to move these hefty appliances around, whether I assist or not. This task requires both logistical planning and budgeting for potential moving costs.
Evaluating the Insta-Pot Multifunction Pressure Cooker
Another potential upgrade is the Insta-Pot, a versatile pressure cooker. My Gourmia appliance recently developed a serious issue as a counterweight fell out and the manufacturer doesn't offer replacement parts. At 6 quarts, it was just about adequate for occasional use, but with plans to replace it, I aim for an 8-quart model for more efficient cooking.
Replacing the Blender
The necessity to replace my blender is due to an unfortunate incident. My husband used it and complained about a strange smell while it was running. Upon investigation, I couldn't find the blender; it seemed he had disposed of it. Therefore, my next purchase will indeed be a new blender, ensuring that I have a reliable tool for blending and preparing various recipes.
Upcoming Changes and Future Plans
Currently, my kitchen is a streamlined environment, with all appliances under five years old. This reduces the immediate need for replacements. However, in the distant future, around five or more years from now, I have a plan to remodel and replace everything. Additionally, while not actively planning for it, I strongly believe a dishwasher will be an excellent addition to our kitchen, enhancing the cleanliness and efficiency of our household routine. Moreover, the possibility of adding a new stove should not be ruled out, especially if the current one experiences significant functional issues, such as a malfunctioning electronic display panel, which is the case with my current stove that is over 30 years old.
Concluding Thoughts
While I am not actively planning to replace any appliances in the near future, the looming questions revolve around how to efficiently plan for such upgrades when the time comes. Remodeling and additions, like the dishwasher or a new stove, will make our lives more comfortable and practical in the long run. Carefully considering the needs and costs associated with each upgrade will ensure that when the time comes, we are well-prepared for these changes.