A WSJ post

By ANJALI ATHAVALEY

For its new fridge, Whirlpool Corp. spent months inventing a shelf with microscopic etching so it can hold a can of spilled soda.
The technology is just one weapon against a dirty kitchen secret: Most Americans clean their fridges only once or twice a year.

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Whirlpool

Microscopic etching in Whirlpool's new fridge creates surface tension so liquids bubble up around the shelf perimeter instead of spilling over.

Now, appliance makers like Whirlpool, Viking Range Corp. and Sub-Zero Inc. are tackling the messy fridge problem with a host of new features including souped-up shelves, bacteria-killing devices and better lighting. General Electric Co., for example, says it is rolling out new refrigerators in May with 10 lighting sources inside instead of its usual three—so food that might be forgotten in a corner and spoil will be easier to spot. The new GE models sell for $1,599 or $1,799 for stainless steel.
Manufacturers aiming to create a cleaner, tidier fridge are likely facing an uphill battle: Currently, most Americans don't clean their fridges until something triggers them to act, such as a spill or a pungent odor. They also don't devote much effort to the task, even when they come home with bags of new groceries. In Whirlpool's 2005 refrigerator habits survey of 2,571 consumers, 33% said they don't spend any time cleaning the refrigerator before grocery shopping. In order to make room for items just purchased, 27% reported shoving everything in and not worrying about organization.
Whirlpool hopes that increasing the amount of storage space might help. The company's new shelves—to be released later this year—are 25% roomier than previous models. And the microscopic etching creates surface tension, causing liquids to bubble up around the perimeter instead of spilling over, it says. Currently, shelves in Whirlpool's refrigerators have a plastic rim to help contain spills. Unfortunately, the rims have "the side effect of crud getting stuck in there," says Carolyn Kelley, brand manager of Whirlpool refrigeration. The new shelves—available on new Whirlpool models that cost from $1,199 to $1,499—would eliminate that problem because they don't require a rim to stop leaks.
But having more room won't necessarily limit clutter. People often don't store things properly anyway. Four years ago, in an effort to understand how people organize their fridges, Sub-Zero bought a week's worth of groceries and asked a group of 12 customers to put away the items in refrigerators at the company's research facilities in Madison, Wis.
What ensued was chaos. People put meat and soda cans in the crisper drawers, which have a temperature and humidity meant for veggies. They put their milk in shelves on the door. While the door shelves seem to be a perfect fit for a carton of milk, Sub-Zero says the area is the worst place to store dairy products because it's the warmest part of the fridge.
And most folks had no clue what to do with the special cheese compartment. "What we found is that most people don't know what they are doing when they pack the refrigerator," says Paul Leuthe, the company's corporate marketing manager.
Sub-Zero decided education was the next step. The company started including with its latest built-in models an instructional card that shows the various regions of the refrigerator, from "coldest" to "cool," and gives tips on how long certain foods should be stored. It also indicates which foods should be allowed to ripen on the counter before being placed into the refrigerator (pears and avocados are examples).

Anatomy of a Fridge

Photo Illustration by Jeff Mangiat

Messy...

• Milk and eggs are on a shelf on the door. This is the warmest part of the refrigerator and shouldn't house highly-perishable items.
• Raw meat is on the top shelf and isn't securely wrapped. Dripping meat can contaminate the food below.
• Apples and carrots are next to each other. Apples produce ethylene, a substance that can cause some foods (including carrots) to spoil sooner.
• Spills abound, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.

Neat...

• Only condiments (salad dressing, ketchup etc.) and other items that don't perish quickly are on the door's shelves.
• Vegetables are wrapped in plastic and placed in the crisper drawers. This is one of the coldest parts of the fridge and the humidity is set to keep vegetables fresh.
• The fridge isn't too tightly packed, allowing for good air flow, which helps keep food cold.

Since people tend to throw out appliance manuals without reading them, Sub-Zero placed the card in a prominent spot in the fridge: the inside of the door. "It's not in your face, but it's pretty conspicuous," Mr. Leuthe says.
Indeed, when consumers are told how to organize their fridges, they tend to tidy up. In a 2005 study, Pennsylvania State University researchers inspected fridges in the homes of 28 consumers in Centre County and Huntingdon County, Pa. They found temperatures were on average about three degrees higher than the recommended 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Fridges were also packed so tightly that air flow, which is necessary to keep food cold, was impeded. And then there was the "ick" factor: In one home, researchers found that a study participant's dog was licking the bottom shelf when the door was open.
During that first visit, researchers told study participants about harmful bacteria that could exist in the fridge and gave tips on how to keep it clean. When the researchers returned to the same homes a month later, they found that things had improved markedly. People had spread out their items, and air flow had improved. People also said they intended to clean their fridges more often.
But the hassle factor can override even the strongest good intentions. "It's a pain" to clean the refrigerator, says Catherine Cutter, associate professor and food safety extension specialist at Penn State. "It is a daunting task to get in there, clean and sanitize."
And the task is too easy to avoid, says Debra Johnson, training manager at Merry Maids LP, a cleaning service headquartered in Memphis, Tenn. The mess is "out of sight, out of mind when the door is closed."
Ms. Johnson has seen all levels of refrigerator nastiness. "It could be things that have been left in there that look like a science project because it's covered with so much mold," she says. Broken eggs can be a pain to clean, too. The yolk hardens and can be tough to scrub off.
Ms. Johnson recommends that people explore the depths of their fridges once a week for food that needs to be tossed. She suggests cleaning one shelf at a time so that the task is less overwhelming. People should also be sure to clean what is often the dirtiest part of the fridge: underneath the bottom drawers where spilled liquid usually ends up. "It's going somewhere," she says. "It doesn't just evaporate."
A dirty fridge isn't just an aesthetic problem. Spills and food residue can carry health risks, too, says Penn State's Ms. Cutter. Consumers especially have to be careful with leaks from packages of raw meat, which can contaminate other food. If the meat contains E. coli, for example, the bacteria in the drippings could end up on food like fruits and vegetables, which are often eaten raw. Ms. Cutter also advises cleaning places that may harbor bacteria, such as the door handle and the drip tray located under the ice and water dispenser.
At least one manufacturer is rolling out bacteria-killing technology. Last year, Viking Range released a built-in model (priced from $6,600 to $8,800) that contains Sharp Electronics Corp.'s Plasmacluster Ion Air Purifier. The device, located at the top of the fridge, generates positive and negative ions that break down bacteria, mold and mildew, says Sue Bailey, the company's director of major appliance product management. In a test conducted by an outside firm hired by Viking Range, the Plasmacluster killed 99% of the bacteria in the fridge.
Even the most high-tech solutions can be thwarted by consumers who have a hard time throwing away food. Jennifer Smith, a digital marketing director in Bronxville, N.Y., says her husband, who grew up on an organic farm, has tried to salvage everything from moldy cheese to old salad dressing. "He doesn't like to throw things out," Ms. Smith says. "I think we should."
She says, "I have to go behind his back and look at some of the condiments and throw them out." Luckily, he doesn't notice.

It's tough to put a price on the happiness

While a good return on your investment is important in every remodeling project, experts say that the most important factor in your decision should still be whether the project improves the way you live in your home now.

When looking into any kind of home improvement, a home-owner needs to plan in advance exactly what they hope to achieve by making improvements.

SouthEnd has developed a program that shows homeowners the cost versus value for each remodeling project. We will show homeowners which project they should consider for repairs, improvements or replacement. And, which project has the highest priority with the quickest return on investment. 
"The fact of remodeling is that you never get your money back instantly," says Finley Perry of F.H. Perry Builder in Hopkinton, Mass. "If you're undertaking a project because you're going to stay in your home awhile, and it will enhance your lifestyle, then great -- do it. It's tough to put a price on the happiness many young families get from fixing up their house and truly enjoying it for the next 20 years."

Overall, home owners recouped an average of 63.8 percent of their investment in 33 different home improvement projects, according to REALTORS® who responded to the survey.
 
Since the peakremodeling year of 2005, exterior replacement projects have gone to the top of the chart. Front entry doors rank the highest in the return on investment along with siding and window replacement. Why? Because these types of improvements not only increase the curb appeal of the home but can also make your home more energy efficient while improving the decor inside the house.
 
On average in 2008, households whose homes had appreciated by at least 100 percent over the previous decade spent over 2.5 times more on improvements than those whose home values increased less than 50 percent.
 
At the end of the day, be happy that you have the best quality that you can afford. Cheap fittings and finishes certainly do not have the same durability as guaranteed good quality ones, and cutting price by opting for low quality doesn't always pay, as the work will deteriorate and lose value quicker than had the work been performed with better quality materials.
 
What you are trying to achieve is getting the best value for money that you can, and often the cheapest option isn't the best.
 
It's tough to put a price on the happiness, but you can consult an expert to discuss your options. 
 
 

Mark Whitlock

 

Greening the Kitchen

Expert Offers Tips for ‘Greening’ the Kitchen

Falls Church, VA — There’s a color sweeping the nation…and it’s green! Many people are beginning to understand the impact, or carbon footprint, that their lifestyle choices make on the planet. As a result, they’re starting to seek ways to reduce their impact. One way they can do so is by turning their attention to their kitchens and tweaking what products they use in there.
“The good news is that [changes made in the way people use their kitchens and to what products are used there don’t] have to break the bank. People don’t have to do a 180º overnight. Making small changes here and there can add up to big results, over time,” says Chef Paul F. Magnant, dean of culinary at Stratford University, here.
Here are a few tips from Chef Magnant to help you start greening your kitchen:

• Start with what you bring into the kitchen. Buy as much food that is locally produced as you can so that fuel isn’t wasted trucking it to you. And forgo the paper-or-plastic debate by sticking to reusable bags you take to the store.
  
• Skip the disposables. Whether it’s for a picnic or a party, opt for utensils, dishes and bakeware that can be reused to save on resources. Invest in a set of cloth napkins, and turn old sheets, towels or clothing into rags for cleaning by cutting them into small pieces.
  
• Keep it going. Stick a wicker basket in your kitchen to contain all of the items destined for recycling. Once the day is over or the basket is full, just take it to the larger bins to be sorted.
• Recycling saves a lot of items from heading to landfills, and reduces the amount of garbage at your curb each week. You can also reuse your raw vegetable left-overs and scraps by setting up a composting system and using the collected matter in your garden.
  
• Drink home water. Skip buying the bottles of water and invest in a water-filtration device for your kitchen. You’ll save a lot of money in the end and will avoid adding to the water-bottle problem our country faces.
  
• Clean green. Save money by using natural cleaning supplies and keep unnecessary chemicals out of the environment at the same time. Take a spray bottle and put equal parts water and distilled vinegar in it; this can be used as an all-purpose cleaner for everything from counters to sinks.
  
• Think big. When it’s time to buy new appliances, opt for ones that are energy-efficient by specifically looking for the ENERGY STAR endorsement. ENERGY STAR is a government-backed initiative that ensures you’re buying an energy-efficient product. Bigger isn’t always better, especially if you don’t need the extra room. Smaller appliances will shave money off your bill each year.

“Nobody is going to make all these changes overnight,” adds Magnant. “But making a couple each year will have your kitchen as green as can be before you know it. We what save, saves us!”

Stratford University’s culinary arts program offers several degrees, including concentrations in baking and pastry, as well as advanced culinary arts. The school also offers non-degree public one-day culinary courses covering such topics as beginner baking, knife skills, vegetarian cooking and cake decorating, as well as parent-and-child cooking.

Image via Wikipedia

Project Case Study

By Andrea Girolamo

January 2010

Westport, CT — There’s something fishy about this kitchen, and that may be what truly sets it apart from other kitchens Rebecca Reynolds has designed in the past. Reynolds, a veteran designer and principal of New Canaan, CT-based New Canaan Kitchens, LLC, says the large tropical fish tank quickly took center stage and the surrounding design was created to showcase it.
“I think the fish tank was the inspiration for me; it dictated that the kitchen design reflect a natural, organic feel,” she says.
Homegrown Design
Reynolds says the clients’ personalities informed the design.
“The homeowners began diving on vacations years ago and now it’s a shared passion,” she says. “They wanted to bring that into their home as a focal point, as a unique element.”
The fish were the inspiration for the color and texture choices, which the designer selected to create a warm, organic look. But Reynolds adds, “While the tank is certainly a focal point, I did want to establish that the rest of the kitchen would have its own beautiful flow.
“The kitchen cabinetry is solid alder in two different stains: a deep honey on the perimeter and a stain two shades darker for the island,” she continues. She selected granite for the countertops. “It has beautiful greens and blue-greens as a base, with muted pistachio green and bronze/copper veining throughout. When I found this granite, I knew it was complementary for the space and wouldn’t compete with the fish tank.”
Repeating the subtle notes of bronze and copper in the granite, the bronze/brushed stainless steel hood from RangeCraft Manufacturing sits above a 48" Viking dual-fuel gas cooktop. Between them is a mosaic tile backsplash in shades that further set off the blues and greens in the granite.
“The main ‘working’ part of the kitchen is a large L-shape that begins with a 48" Viking refrigerator near the kitchen table, ending at the 30" double oven cabinet, also from Viking,” adds the designer. “At the far end of the kitchen is a 30" nook where we added some Sub-Zero 700 series refrigerator drawers so the children would have easy access to drinks and snacks. Above that nook is a bookcase with wine cubbies for everyday wine storage.”
The island mimics the kitchen’s overall L-shape, with radius cabinetry at both ends. Reynolds specified a lowered wood tabletop for casual dining on one side, while the other side is all business. Within the island is a second dishwasher, trash pull-out and microwave, Franke’s Beach sink, plus additional storage space.
“Off the kitchen is an informal dining area with seating for six and, beyond that, a homework nook for the children with two different work areas and wall cabinets for homework projects and art supplies,” says Reynolds.
She also addressed the needs of a modern, busy family by adding a desk/work station beside the fish tank.
Tank Talk
As for the fish tank, Reynolds observes, “It’s certainly a conversation piece.” And it was certainly a challenge, as well.
“From an experience standpoint, I went into this project with a lack of knowledge about designing cabinetry around salt water fish tanks of this magnitude,” Reynolds says. The local fish tank company that sold the homeowners the tank didn’t add much in the way of clarity on the subject, Reynolds notes, so the approach was to imagine all of the worst case scenarios and provide built-in solutions.
“The structural details for the support of the tank was on the shoulders of the architect, but we needed to work very closely with him to ensure every 1/16th of an inch was accounted for,” she adds. “With a fixed floor, a dropped steel I-beam above and a huge glass fish tank weighing tons when filled in between the two, it became obvious that the cabinetry and millwork surrounding had to be done on-site.”
The custom cabinetmaker who did the work on the perimeter and island also did the millwork panels around the tank, to ensure consistency throughout the space.
The tank and surrounding floor-to-ceiling cabinetry eventually amounted to a kind of feature wall, separating the kitchen from the family room. “Some of the base cabinetry had to be accessible to service the pump, in case there was a problem with it. Likewise, some of the cabinetry above the tank needed to be easily accessed for daily feeding and cleaning,” Reynolds says of the solutions devised for the tank. “That ‘A-ha!’ moment is common in this line of work.”
A Better Butler
The final room Reynolds was responsible for was a formal butler’s pantry adjacent to the dining room. Describing the room’s aesthetic as “luxury and sheer elegance,” the designer chose a Sub-Zero full-height wine refrigerator from the company’s 700 series, which became the focal point.
“The room was challenging to design because it had two entries, but was only 12'x6' and had no access to natural light,” she says. To give the illusion of space, Reynolds painted the cabinetry a buttercream shade and added a glaze; she also added a few glass doors to add depth.
Both the countertops and the mosaic tile backsplash are a honey-colored onyx; the backsplash also features a burnt umber glass rail in a slight arch, designed to mimic the arch in the cabinet above the sink and set off the dark bronze faucet.

Project Highlights

• Rebecca Reynolds, principal of New Canaan Kitchens, LLC of New Canaan, CT, created the design for this large, multi-entry kitchen, which centers around a large fish tank. The tank provided both the inspiration for the design as well as the biggest challenge to it.
  
• The presence of life the tank created within the kitchen led Reynolds to select earthy elements and colors. She specified granite countertops in a pastiche of muted pistachio green shades and deep azure, with bands of bronze veined throughout. Custom alder cabinetry is featured in both base and wall-hung cabinetry in two different stains: deep honey on the perimeter, and a stain two shades darker on the island.
  
• The designer specified a variety of appliances for the clients, a busy pair with young children, including a Viking 48" dual-fuel cooktop, with a bronze/brushed stainless steel RangeCraft hood above it; a 48" refrigerator, also from Viking; a double-bowl “beach” sink from Franke, and a variety of products from Sub-Zero’s 700 series, including refrigerator drawers and wine refrigeration within the butler’s pantry, which Reynolds also designed. Two sets of dishwashers were included, as well as two trash pull-outs, and two microwaves, all split between the perimeter workspaces and the functional island.
  
• The butler’s pantry features a third dishwasher, onyx countertops and a Linkasink hammered copper bar sink crowned by a weathered bronze faucet.

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Bidding is really not the way

Image by Usonian via Flickr

I hear so many contractors and remodeling business owners say that they do not want to compete on price. My question is, “Why are you?”

Why is it so many contractors invest more time in running bids, instead of in presenting proposals? I was working with a client of mine Paul Klassen, owner of Pinnacle Renovations. Paul is perfecting a very professional process for the first meeting with his ideal client. It starts with a meeting in his showroom. This is a great way to bring your ideal customer to you and focus on their needs, build a relationship and get away from bidding. I never did like the word “bid.” What is a bid? Is this when a homeowner wants you to join a long list of competitors and just line up and deliver your best price and they chose the one they want based on price? I offer detailed proposals for your home investment, and if you are looking for a “bid,” my professional remodeling company may not be the right fit for you.

If you cannot separate yourself from your competition, your customers will do it for you. And how will they do that? They will do so by price and price alone. A good friend of mine, John Jantsch, author of Duct Tape Marketing, always says, “If you compete on price, someone else is always willing to go out of business before you are.” That’s what bidding does. Bidding gets you in a price competition and not where you want to be. Instead of competing on price, separate yourself from your competition and be unique. Many contractors don't realize they are in sales and need to continue to educate themselves and improve their skills in this area.

Always meet a potential client to review the final proposal. Do not mail or e-mail a proposal. If you “mail it in,” you will never see their reaction, answer their questions, and in return, may never see or hear from them again. In addition, it shows they are a bid and not important. It doesn’t speak to being special at ALL! Always ask for all the decision makers to be present. Don’t you value your time? Don’t you want them to value your time? “When can we meet to review our proposal for your home investment? I would like to request that I meet with both of you, so this way I can address any questions and thoroughly discuss this investment with both you. Would you expect any less? I owe that to you.” Take the time make the homeowners feel confident by presenting your company’s process for the entire relationship.

Do you pride yourself on communication? If you do, it starts here. After all, didn’t you just invest quite a bit of time on this? Don’t you owe it to yourself to have the best opportunity to get the project? Being successful is about doing all the little things properly. Don’t compete on price. Try to be unique and make your customer feel the difference between you and your competition. It will pay dividends, literally.

This is a Fuego modular outdoor cooking unit. All pieces are separate and ordered that way to be configured on site. Accessories also.

Ok, so Here I am going to post the pictures of some of the appliances I tried to post earlier next to the text but did not work correctly. Soooo Her I go! The first one is from Aga, it's their "classic" model. Not very popular in Florida unless you have client that relocated from somewhere like West Virginia and want to recreate that mountain living feeling. I mean that in the nicest possible way.



These are the built in units from Gaggenau, it's 12 inches wide as opposed to Wolfs 18" and Mieles 15". Nice alternative if space is tight. Steamer, deep fryer, electric grill and induction.

High-tech gadgets and gizmos are a part of everyday culture, and consumers stand at the ready to learn about the next “big thing” that will push the technology envelope. While kitchen appliances may not come to mind when consumers first think about technology, they are actually among the “smartest” products on the market today. As a result, once these items have been taken for a test drive, they become a must-have in the home.

Designers continue to look for products that will make a statement in the kitchen, while offering high functionality and a wide range of color and customization options.

On this and the next six pages, Kitchen & Bath Design News presents its annual guide to kitchen appliance manufacturers and their products, designed to keep readers abreast of the latest products and services available today.

KBDN's 2009 Appliance Guide

2009 Appliance Guide

July 2009

Abbaka

P.O. Box 215
Bodega Bay, CA 94923
Tel: (800) 548-3932
Fax: (800) 548-3930
E-Mail: fpaone@abbaka.com
Web Site: www.abbaka.com
Contact: Frank Paone
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Channels of Distribution: Display program; color brochures and literature.
Special Services: Detailed quotations; design consultation.
Major Product Features: Abbaka offers 12 exclusive, hand-built kitchen range hood designs, as well as custom designs. Each hood is seamlessly welded, using stainless, copper or brass in polished, brushed or antique finish. Also offered are XL Professional range hood inserts and ventilation systems with built-in, attic (in-line) or remote ventilators from 600-1400 CFM.

Aga

1050 Fountain Street N. Cambridge, ON
Canada N3H 4R7
Tel: (519) 650-5775
Tel: (616) 650-9612
Web Site: www.aga-ranges.com
Types of Appliances: Dishwashers, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, undercounter refrigeration, ventilation/hoods/fans, wine storage.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Channels of Distribution: Display incentives.
Channels of Distribution: On-site training; training materials; technical and warranty support.
Major Product Features: The Classic Aga Cooker and Range employs cast iron construction and energy-efficient heating. The units are available in a variety of enameled colors. They are now enhanced with complementary undercounter refrigeration.
/Whirlpool Corp. 2000 M-63 North
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Tel: (800) 253-3977
Web Site: www.insideadvantage.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, laundry products, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Channels of Distribution: The Inside Advantage Program offers strong brands, innovative products, targeted services and consumer insight to support building and design professionals.

Arcelik/Blomberg

Karaagac Cad No. 216
Sutluce 34445
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: (630) 235-8879
E-Mail: Bernievdl@aol.com
Web Site: www.blombergappliances.com
Contact: Bernie von der Lieth
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, laundry products, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, undercounter refrigerators, wine storage.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Channels of Distribution: Regional and periodical rebates; floor display promotion; truck load programs.
Channels of Distribution: Technical consultation.
Major Product Features: Blomberg appliances are RoHS compliant, Energy Star or EnerGuide qualified. Dishwashers have stainless steel tubs, 3-way euro filtering system, and three layers of insulation. Special features include auto-wash program, half-load and turbo-fan drying. Refrigerators have no-frost cooling system and silver coating on interior walls for maximum sanitation.

Asko Appliances

P.O. Box 940609
Plano, TX 75094
Tel: (800) 898-1879
Web Site: www.askousa.com
Contact: Sandra Fields
Types of Appliances: Dishwashers, laundry products.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Channels of Distribution: Asko D5223 XXL dishwasher $100 rebate until 10/31/09.
Major Product Features: All Asko dishwashers are Energy Star rated, and use less water, energy and detergent.

Bertazzoni

Via Palazzina, 8, 42016, Guastalla, Reggio Emilia, Italy
Tel: (866) 905-0010
Web Site: www.bertazzoni-italia.com
Types of Appliances: Ovens/ranges, ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: The Dual Fuel professional ranges come with a main oven, precision temperature settings for convection and high-efficiency gas burners. The triple-ring burner features separately controlled flames based on a high-efficiency technology that generates up to 15,000 BTUs and a dedicated simmer burner for delicate cooking.

Best

926 W. State Street
Hartford, WI 53027
Tel: (800) 558-1711
Fax: (262) 673-8619
E-Mail: webinfo@broan.com
Web Site: www.broan.com
Contact: Scott Kirkendall (retail)
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: Broan range hoods are Italian inspired and formed one at a time. The hoods feature state-of-the-art performance and a variety of ventilation solutions for any cook surface location – wall, peninsula or island.

Bosch Home Appliances

5551 McFadden Avenue
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Tel: (800) 944-2904
Web Site: www.boschappliances.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, laundry products, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Channels of Distribution: The Bosch green resource center at www.boschappliances.com provides rebate offers.
Major Product Features: Bosch offers entire product lines of Energy Star qualified dishwashers, washers and refrigeration. Bosch dishwashers have earned the highest ranking in J.D. Power and Associates Major Home Appliance Customer Satisfaction Study for three consecutive years.
.

Broan

926 W. State Street
Hartford, WI 53027
Tel: (800) 558-1711
Fax: (262) 673-8619
E-Mail: webinfo@broan.com
Web Site: www.broan.com

Types of Appliances: Disposers/compactors, ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: Broan offers a full line of range hoods and trash compactors; choose from an extensive selection of styles, sizes, applications and finishes. Broan Elite and Broan HVI-certified range hoods offer quiet operation, halogen lighting, dishwasher-safe filters and Heat Sentry. The Broan Elite trash compactors feature a compact ratio of 6-to-1 bags and odor control system.

Capital Cooking Equipment

13211 Florence Avenue
Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
Tel: (562) 902-1168
Fax: (562) 903-1167
E-Mail: surjitkalsi@msn.com
Web Site: www.capital-cooking.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, outdoor grills/BBQs/rotisseries, ovens/ranges, warming drawers.
Channels of Distribution: Kitchen/bath distributors.

Cook-N-Dine International

2137 NE 123rd Street
North Miami, FL 33181
Tel: (305) 893-1560
Fax: (305) 893-1561
E-Mail: info@cookndine.com
Web Site: www.cookndine.com
Contact: Klaus Gebhardt
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, outdoor grills/BBQs/rotisseries.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Channels of Distribution: Display program.
Major Product Features: Cook-N-Dine offers the CDS Electric Teppanyaki Grill, Built-In Flat Top or Free Standing Round Table. The center concaves down slightly when on, forming a shallow pit. When off, the center reverts to flat for dual duty as extra workspace.. Made of food-grade German stainless steel, it heats up to 430 degrees F. Offered for indoor/outdoor use.

Dacor

1440 Bridge Gate Drive, Second Floor
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
Tel: (800) 793-0093
Fax: (626) 403-9519
Web Site: www.dacor.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, microwave ovens, outdoor grills/BBQs/rotisseries, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers, microwave-in-a-drawer.

Diva De Provence

885 Don Mills Road, Suite 207
Toronto, ON Canada M3C 1V9
Tel: (416) 256-2646
Fax: (416) 256-7121
E-Mail: inquiries@divainduction.com
Web Site: www.divainduction.com
Contact: Thierry, Diane
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, ovens/ranges.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Channels of Distribution: Special display allowance.
Major Product Features: Diva De Provence was the first manufacturer to relaunch the induction technology in North America, in 2002. The company specializes in induction cooktops and ranges.

Electrolux Major Appliances

250 Bobby Jones Expressway
Augusta, GA 30907
Tel: (706) 651-1751
Web Site: www.electroluxappliances.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, disposers/compactors, laundry products, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, refrigerator/freezers, undercounter refrigeration, ventilation/hoods/ fans, warming drawers, wine
storage.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers.
Major Product Features: Each Electrolux appliance has been designed for optimal performance and aesthetic detail: racks move with the touch of a finger, cooking surfaces are unobtrusive and clean easily and refrigerators and dishwashers work quietly.

Elica

222 Merchandise Mart Plaza,
Suite 947
Chicago, IL 60654
Tel: (312) 410-7343
Fax: (312) 410-7392
E-Mail: v.schwellenbach@elica.com
Web Site: www.elica.com
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Retailer Incentives: Cash spiffs; volume rebates; display product discounts.
Special Services: U.S. distribution center; nationwide in-home service; two-year warranty.
Major Product Features: Elica offers Star, an imaginative concept that utilizes the patented All-in-One Evolution System, which decorates, illuminates and ventilates. The spherical shape is dressed with hundreds of tiny cascading glass prisms. Hygiene is guaranteed by Evolution’s filter system.

Elmira Stove Works

285 Union Street
Elmira, ON Canada N3B 3P1
Tel: (800) 295-8498
Fax: (519) 669-1774
Web Site: www.elmirastoveworks.com
Types of Appliances: Ovens/ranges, refrigerator/freezers, ventilation/hoods/fans, microwave ovens, warming drawers, dishwasher panels.

Evo

8140 SW Nimbus Avenue
Beaverton, OR 97008
Tel: (503) 626-1802
Fax: (503) 213-5869
E-Mail: sales@evoamerica.com
Web Site: www.evoamerica.com
Contact: Bob Shingler
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, outdoor grills/BBQs/rotisseries.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: With Evo’s circular cooktops, users can prepare any meal while enhancing the occasion with its convivial design and iconic style.

Faber

P.O. Box 435
Wayland, MA 01778
Tel: (508) 358-5353
Fax: (508) 358-5730
E-mail: info@faberonline.com
Web Site: www.faberonline.com
Contact: Matt Avery
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: Faber hoods have been manufactured in Italy for over 50 years of high quality stainless steel.

Fagor America

1099 Wall Street West, Suite 387
Lyndhurst, NJ 07071
Tel: (201) 804-3900
Fax: (201) 804-9898
E-Mail: infoappliances@fagoramerica.com
Web Site: www.fagoramerica.com
Contact: Sara De La Hera
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, laundry products, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, ventilation/hoods/fans, built-in coffee machines.
Channels of Distribution: Kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Retailer Incentives: Financial incentives; display programs.
Special Services: Marketing support; trade and consumer advertising; collateral materials.
Major Product Features: Fagor appliances feature product details constructed from materials that combine energy efficiency and eco-friendly operational attributes. The line includes: induction, gas and radiant cooktops, refrigerators, Energy Star rated dishwashers and washing machines, convection ovens, built-in coffee machines and range hoods.

Fisher & Paykel Appliances

5900 Skylab Road
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Tel: (949) 790-8900
Fax: (949) 790-8911
E-mail: scott.davies@fisherpaykel.com
Web Site: www.fisherpaykel.com
Contact: Scott Davies
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, laundry products, outdoor grills/BBQs/rotisseries, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, undercounter refrigeration, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers, wine storage.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: The Fisher & Paykel and DCS brands offer professional and contemporary indoor and outdoor appliances including CoolDrawer, CookSurface and the Liberty Collection, while the Elba brand offers home appliances for the kitchen and laundry.

FiveStar Range

P.O. Box 2490
Cleveland, TN 37320
Tel: (800) 553-7704
Fax: (423) 476-6599
Web Site: www.fivestarrange.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, ovens/ranges, ventilation/hoods/fans.

Four Seasons Metals

2109 Dutch Valley Drive
Knoxville, TN 37918
Tel: (800) 514-6491
Fax: (865) 219-5983
E-Mail: info@fourseasonscorp.com
Web Site: www.fourseasonsmetals.com
Contact: Jeff Antone
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Major Product Features: Four Seasons specializes in creating custom copper ventilation hoods. Fabrication capabilities include a variety of decorative copper finishes and polishes, with choices including patina, hammered or oak leafed copper.

Franke Consumer Products

3050 Campus Drive, Suite 500
Hatfield, PA 19440
Tel: (800) 637-6495
Fax: (800) 789-6201
Web Site: www.frankeconsumerproducts.com
Contact: James Hutchinson
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Retailer Incentives: Display programs; sales associate incentives; co-op.
Special Services: Lead generation; drop shipments.
Major Product Features: Swiss-inspired, Italian-designed range hoods are the latest breakthrough from Franke. These sleek, high-grade, brushed stainless steel hoods are designed to efficiently handle the extra ventilation capacity of today’s pro-style ranges.

Fuego North America

1500 Sansome Street, Suite 100
San Francisco, CA 94111
Tel: (415) 558-7151
Tel: (415) 544-9805
E-Mail: info@fuegoliving.com
Web Site: www.fuegoliving.com
Types of Appliances: Outdoor grills/BBQs/rotisseries.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, direct to consumers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, big box retailers.
Major Product Features: Fuego designs and manufactures luxury outdoor products designed by former Director of Industrial Design at Apple, Robert Brunner. The product line includes the Fuego 01, Fuego 02 and 02 Electric, Fuego Modular and most recently the new Element by Fuego line that features smart design.

Fuji Industrial USA

16300 Christensen Road, #212
Seattle, WA 98188
Tel: (888) 547-9880
Fax: (206) 835-9876
E-Mail: sales@fujioh.com
Web Site: www.fujioh.com
Contact: Frank Brese
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors, kitchen cabinet manufacturers.
Retailer Incentives: Spiffs.
Special Services: Free consultation on design; free drawings to eliminate problems during installation; custom liners, rangehoods and colors available.
Major Product Features: Fuji Industrial offers no fingerprint stainless steel liners and blowers, a three-year in-home parts and labor warranty, and custom colors and sizes. All blowers, standard liners and range hoods are in stock for immediate shipment.

Gaggenau

5551 McFadden Avenue
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Tel: (877) 4GAGGENAU
Fax: (714) 845-2695
Web Site: www.gaggenau-usa.com
Types of Appliances: Beverage refrigeration, cooktops, dishwashers, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers, built-in coffee makers.

GE Consumer & Industrial Appliances

Appliance Park
Louisville, KY 40225
Web Site: www.geappliances.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, disposers/compactors, microwave ovens, outdoor grills/BBQs/rotisseries, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers, washers/dryers, water filtration products.

Haier America

1356 Broadway
New York, NY 10018
Tel: (212) 594-3330
Fax: (212) 594-3434
Web Site: www.haieramerica.com
Types of Appliances: Dishwashers, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, ventilation/hoods/fans.

Heartland

1050 Fountain Street N.
Cambridge, ON
Canada N3H 4R7
Tel: (519) 650-5775
Fax: (519) 650-9612
E-Mail: heartlandinfo@heartlandapp.com
Web Site: www.heartlandapp.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, ventilation/hoods/fans, wood cookstoves.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Retailer Incentives: Display incentives.
Special Services: On-site training; training materials; technical and warranty support.
Major Product Features: Heartland Appliances designs and manufactures premium gas and electric kitchen appliances, including wood burning cook stoves. Modern appliances include the Classic, Legend, Paragon and Toledo designs.

Imperial Cal. Products

425 Apollo Street
Brea, CA 92821
Tel: (800) 851-4192
Fax: (714) 990-3350
Web Site: www.imperialhoods.com
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: Imperial Cal. Products kitchen ventilation systems come with heat sensors, halogen lighting, baffle filters and power levels up to
1300 cfms, plus a five-year in-home warranty.

Independent Inc.

3663 Barron Way
Reno, NV 89511
Tel: (800) 7-NEVADA
Fax: (775) 358-8288
E-Mail: independent@kitchenhood.com
Web Site: www.kitchenhood.com
Contact: Steven Williams
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.

Indesit Appliances – Ariston

Viale Aristede Merloni 47
60044 Fabriano
Ancona, Italy
Tel: 39 0732 6611
Fax: 39 0732 662501
E-Mail: marco.darsie@indesit.com
Web Site: www.aristonappliances.us
Contact: Marco D’Arsie
Types of Appliances: Beverage refrigeration, dishwashers, coffee center, laundry products.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers.
Major Product Features: Ariston offers dishwashers and laundry products, including condensation dryers and washer/dryer combos. In addition, its deluxe coffee center with sleek styling (less than 12" deep) and easy to use features comes in plumbed and unplumbed versions. Wine and beverage center fits flush to cabinet with no visible grate in toe kick area.

InSinkErator

4700 21st Street
Racine, WI 53406
Tel: (800) 558-5712
Web Site: www.insinkerator.com
Contact: Michelle Gross
Types of Appliances: Disposers/compactors, instant hot water dispensers.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.

Jenn-Air/Whirlpool Corporation

2000 M-63 North
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Tel: (800) 253-3977
Web Site: www.insideadvantage.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, disposers/compactors, microwave ovens, outdoor grills/BBQs/rotisseries, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, undercounter refrigeration, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers, wine storage.
Channels of Distribution: Kitchen/bath distributors.
Special Services: The Inside Advantage Program offers strong brands, innovative products, targeted services and consumer insight to support building and design professionals.
Major Product Features: Jenn-Air has added a new collection of premium appliances to its offering. The line includes wall ovens with advanced LCD touchpad controls, powerful convection elements and downdraft cooktops available in a unique, duct-free configuration.

KitchenAid/Whirlpool Corp.

2000 M-63 North
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Tel: (800) 253-3977
Web Site: www.insideadvantage.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, disposers/compactors, microwave ovens, outdoor grills/BBQs/rotisseries, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, undercounter refrigeration, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers, wine storage.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Special Services: The Inside Advantage Program offers strong brands, innovative products, targeted services and consumer insight to support building and design professionals.

KOBE Range Hoods

11775 Clark Street
Arcadia, CA 91006
Tel: (626) 775-8880
Fax: (626) 775-8885
E-Mail: info@koberangehoods.com
Web Site: www.koberangehoods.com
Contact: Jenice Lau
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Retailer Incentives: Generous margin; display program; periodic promotion program.
Special Services: Two-year warranty parts and labor.
Major Product Features: KOBE Range Hoods’ kitchen ventilation products include the Copper Hood Series and Copper/Brass Backsplash Accessory Line. KOBE hoods are seamless and powerful, and include the QuietMode feature.

Küppersbusch

1883 Massaro Boulevard
Tampa, FL 33619
Tel: (813) 288-8890
Fax: (813) 288-8604
Web Site: www.kuppersbuschusa.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, ovens/ranges, ventilation/hoods/fans.

LG Electronics USA

1000 Sylvan Avenue
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
Tel: (800) 243-0000
E-Mail: Us.LGservice.com
www.lgusa.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, laundry products.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers.
Retailer Incentives: Display allowances; advertising and promotional funding; volume rebates.
Major Product Features: LG Electronics offers products that combine smart technology and trend-setting design. Products include refrigerators, dishwashers and a broad array of cooking appliances, as well as laundry systems.

Liebherr

1015 Sutton Drive
Burlington, ON Canada L7L 5Z8
Tel: (905) 319-8835
Fax: (905) 319-9336
E-Mail: appliances@liebherr.com
Web Site: www.liebherr-appliances.com
Contact: Thorsten Platt
Types of Appliances: Refrigerators/freezers, wine storage.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: Liebherr’s SBS 2413 and its stainless steel counterpart, the SBS 243, are side-by-side comprised of a full 24" refrigerator tower with BioFresh and a full 24" freezer tower. Both towers are Energy Star rated. Premium features include LED lighting and SoftSystem door closing technology.

Lynx Professional Grills

5895 Rickenbacker Road
Commerce, CA 90040
Tel: (323) 838-1770
Fax: (323) 838-1778
E-Mail: info@lynxgrills.com
Web Site: www.lynxgrills.com

Types of Appliances: Outdoor grills/BBQs/rotisseries, undercounter refrigeration, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: Lynx offers a complete line of outdoor kitchen equipment and accessories, which are designed, manufactured and precision assembled in Los Angeles, CA.

Marvel

1260 E. Van Deinse Street
P.O. Box 400
Greenville, MI 48838
Tel: (616) 754-5601
Fax: (616) 754-0970
Web Site: www.marvelindustries.com
Types of Appliances: Refrigerators/freezers, undercounter refrigeration, wine storage.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Retailer Incentives: Display incentives.
Special Services: On-site training; training materials; technical and warranty support.
Major Product Features: Marvel offers a complete line of luxury undercounter and outdoor refrigeration products including wine storage and beverage refrigeration, refrigerated drawers, refrigerators/freezers and ice machines. Both the Sentry System found in the Chateau Collection models and the MicroSentry System safeguarding the Luxury Series adjust and maintain optimum temperature for wine storage.

Maytag/Whirlpool Corp.

2000 M-63 North
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Tel: (800) 253-3977
Web Site: www.insideadvantage.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, disposers/compactors, laundry products, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Special Services: The Inside Advantage Program offers strong brands, innovative products, targeted services and consumer insight to support building and design
professionals.

Metallo Arts

4685 Shaffers Church Road
Glenville, PA 17329
Tel: (717) 739-1088
Fax: (717) 739-1089
E-Mail: info@metalloarts.com
Web Site: www.metalloarts.com
Contact: Nathaniel Taintor
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, direct to consumers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Retailer Incentives: Retailers discount.
Special Services: Lifetime guarantee; Vent-A-Hood Pro Series blowers; customization and full installation.
Major Product Features: Metallo Arts manufactures architectural pressed metal range hoods. Each piece is customized to exact standards, with a choice of seven style frame structures, 120 standard finishes, nine metal patterns and three accents. The company recently introduced a new collection of zinc and pewter slip cast range hoods.

Miele

9 Independence Way
Princeton, NJ 08540
Tel: (800) 843-7231
E-Mail: moreinfo@mieleusa.com
www.miele.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, laundry products, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers, wine storage, built-in coffee systems, steam ovens, speed ovens.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.

Northland

1260 E. Van Deinse Street
P.O. Box 400
Greenville, MI 48838
Tel: (616) 754-5601
Fax: (616) 754-0970
E-Mail: sales@northlandnka.net
Web Site: www.northlandnka.com

Types of Appliances: Refrigerators/freezers, wine storage.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Retailer Incentives: Display incentives.
Special Services: On-site training; training materials; technical and warranty support.
Major Product Features: Northland offers a versatile line of full-size refrigerator/freezer systems, wine cellars and beverage refrigerators. Products are available in widths from 18" to 72". Products feature all-metal interiors in stainless steel or arctic white.

NuTone

926 W. State Street
Hartford, WI 53027
Tel: (888) 336-3948
Fax: (888) 336-6148
E-Mail: ask@nutone.com
Web Site: www.nutone.com
Contact: George Ebner
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: NuTone and NuTone Premier range hoods feature quiet operation, halogen lighting, dishwasher-safe filters and Heat Sentry.

Peerless-Premier Appliance Co.

119 South 14th Street
Belleville, IL 62220
Tel: (800) 858-5844
Fax: (618) 825-0635
E-Mail: info@premierrange.com
www.premierrange.com
Types of Appliances: Ovens/ranges.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, direct to consumers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors, builders/developers.
Retailer Incentives: Volume discounts on quantities purchased; special promotional allowances on many models; prepaid (freight) shipments.
Special Services: Factory-installed power cords on electric ranges; option for LP or natural gas settings on gas ranges; color options for most ranges; customized P.O.S. for retailers available free of charge.
Major Product Features: Gas ranges can be lit with a match during an electrical power outage. “Natural Convection” oven design delivers optimum baking results. Electric ranges have “up front” controls. Special models designed for the elderly.

Perlick Corp.

8300 West Good Hope Road
Milwaukee, WI 53223
Tel: (800) 558-5592
Fax: (414) 353-7069
E-Mail: cac@perlick.com
Web Site: www.perlick.com

Types of Appliances: Refrigerators/freezers, undercounter refrigeration, wine storage, beer dispensers, outdoor refrigeration, ice makers.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: Perlick’s line of premiere residential undercounter refrigeration in 15", 24" and patented 48" and 72" configurations is complete with industry-exclusive stainless steel interiors, full-extension shelves, a variable speed compressor and a complete outdoor refrigeration line.

Rangecraft Manufacturing

4-40 Banta Place
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Tel: (800) RC-HOODS
Fax: (201) 791-4494
Web Site: www.rangecraft.com
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, direct to consumers, kitchen/bath dealers.
Major Product Features: RangeCraft specializes in manufacturing custom-designed metal range hoods. The made-to-order hoods are available in an innovative variety of shapes and sizes in copper, brass, stainless steel and decorator colors. RangeCraft also offers universal inserts for kitchen ventilation. All products are designed and manufactured in New Jersey.

Samsung Electronics America

105 Challenger Road
Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660
Tel: (800) SAMSUNG
Fax: (973) 601-6001
Web Site: www.samsung.com
Types of Appliances: Dishwashers, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers.

Scotsman Ice Systems

775 Corporate Woods Parkway
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Tel: (847) 215-4500
Fax: (847) 913-9844
Web Site: www.scotsman-ice.com
Contact: Larry Lozar
Types of Appliances: Refrigerators/freezers, undercounter refrigeration, wine storage, undercounter ice machines.
Channels of Distribution: Kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: Scotsman’s new Brilliance residential ice machines produce over 50 lbs. of gourmet ice per day.

Sharp Electronics Corp.

One Sharp Plaza
Mahwah, NJ 07495
Tel: (800) BE-SHARP
Fax: (866) RANGE99
Web Site: www.sharpusa.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, direct to consumers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: Sharp offerings include the Insight and Insight Pro lines, which include ranges, microwave drawer ovens and warming drawer; and the multi-purpose SuperSteam Oven with microwave capability.

Sirius S.P.A.

6590 W. Rogers Circle, Suite 6
Boca Raton, FL 33487
Tel: (303) 800-5697
E-Mail: lynnhammond@siriushoods.com
Web Site: www.alventdistributors.com

Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, direct to consumers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors, kitchen and bath designers, construction purchase agents.
Retailer Incentives: Spiff program for qualifying dealers.
Special Services: USA national service program.
Major Product Features: Sirius has a new collection of award-winning kitchen ventilation range hoods melding form and function.

SMEG USA

150 East 58th Street, 7th Floor
New York, NY 10155
Tel: (212) 265-5378
Fax: (212) 265-5945
E-Mail: info@smegusa.com
Web Site: www.smegusa.com

Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Retailer Incentives: 40% off display; spiff; different terms for projects.
Special Services: After sales; in-house delivery NY/NJ; 24-48 hour deliver NY/NJ.

Stanisci Design and Manufacturing

14823 32 Mile Road
Romeo, MI 48065
Tel: (586) 752-3368
Fax: (586) 752-3293
E-Mail: sales@wood-hood.com
www.wood-hood.com
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen manufacturers.
Major Product Features: Stanisci Design is a leading wood hood manufacturer that offers 19 unique wood range hood designs, with custom hoods also available. Stanisci has in stock full stainless ventilation units with halogen lighting and blower units from 600 cfm to 1,500 cfm. New this year is a value liner with 350 cfm.

Sub-Zero

4717 Hammersley Road
Madison, WI 53711
Tel: (800) 222-7820
Fax: (608) 270-3339
E-Mail: szmktg@subzero.com
Web Site: www.subzero.com

Types of Appliances: Refrigerators/freezers, undercounter refrigeration, wine storage, ice makers.
Channels of Distribution: Kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: Sub-Zero offers the built-in 600 Series, the 700 Series of point-of-use refrigeration units and a variety of wine storage models.

Summit Appliance

770 Garrison Avenue
Bronx, NY 10474
Tel: (718) 893-3900
Fax: (718) 842-3093
E-Mail: sales@summitappliance.com
Web Site: www.summitappliance.com

Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, laundry products, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, undercounter refrigeration, ventilation/hoods/fans, wine storage, ADA refrigeration.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers.
Major Product Features: Summit Appliance offers built-in undercounter refrigerators, freezers, wine coolers and beverage coolers, including ADA models, locking models and UL-approved for outdoor use. Cooktops start at 12" wide, and include induction, electric, gas pilot and gas electronic.

Thermador

5551 McFadden Avenue
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Web Site: www.thermador.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers, wine storage.
Channels of Distribution: Kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Retailer Incentives: One-Two- Free offer, which encompasses buying two specified appliances and getting a third free.
Major Product Features: Thermador offers luxury appliances that combine state-of-the-art cooking functionality with American style.

TurboChef

6 Concourse Parkway, Suite 1900
Atlanta, GA 30328
Tel: (866) 54-ENJOY
Fax: (678) 987-1761
Web Site: www.turbochef.com/residential
Types of Appliances: Ovens/ranges.

U-Line Corp.

8900 North 55th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53224
Tel: (414) 354-0300
Fax: (414) 354-7905
Web Site: www.u-line.com
Types of Appliances: Undercounter refrigeration.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers.

Vent-A-Hood Ltd.

P.O. Box 830426
Richardson, TX 75083
Tel: (800) 331-2492
Web Site: www.ventahood.com
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.

Viking Range Corp.

111 Front Street
Greenwood, MS 38930
Tel: (662) 455-1200
Fax: (662) 455-3127
Web Site: www.vikingrange.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, disposers/compactors, microwave ovens, outdoor grills/BBQs/rotisseries, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, undercounter refrigeration, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers, wine storage.
Channels of Distribution: Kitchen/bath distributors.
Special Services: Consumers who use Viking Certified installers receive an additional two-year warranty on products.
Major Product Features: Viking Range Corp. has intro-duced enhancements to the Viking Quiet Cool Built-In Performance Refrigeration. The exclusive PlasmaCluster Ion Air Purifier uses ions to eliminate airborne bacteria and mold spores, remove odor and enhance food preservation, and never needs to be replaced. Also included is the ProChill Temperature Management System with variable speed DC Overdrive Compressor.

Whirlpool Corp.

2000 M-63 North
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Tel: (800) 253-3977
Web Site: www.insideadvantage.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, dishwashers, disposers/compactors, laundry products, microwave ovens, ovens/ranges, refrigerators/freezers, undercounter refrigeration, ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Special Services: The Inside Advantage Program offers strong brands, innovative products, targeted services and consumer insight to support building and design professionals.

Wind Crest by CNP Industries

351 Thor Place
Brea, CA 92821
Tel: (714) 482-2320
Fax: (714) 482-2337
E-Mail: windcrest@windcrestcnp.com
Web Site: www.windcrestcnp.com
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Type in 271 on E-Inquiry Form.

Wolf Appliance

4717 Hammersley Road
Madison, WI 53711
Tel: (800) 332-9513
Fax: (608) 270-3339
E-Mail: szmktg@subzero.com
Web Site: www.wolfappliance.com
Contact: Steve Dunlap
Types of Appliances: Cooktops, microwave ovens, outdoor grills/BBQs/rotisseries, ovens/ranges, ventilation/hoods/fans, warming drawers, rangetops.
Channels of Distribution: Kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: Wolf Appliance offers gas, electric, traditional and professional appliances. The firm’s product offerings include professional-style cooktops and ranges.

Zephyr

2277 Harbor Bay Parkway
Alameda, CA 94502
Tel: (888) 880-8368
E-Mail: contact@zephyronline.com
Web Site: www.zephyronline.com
Types of Appliances: Ventilation/hoods/fans.
Channels of Distribution: Appliance retailers, home centers, kitchen/bath dealers, kitchen/bath distributors.
Major Product Features: Teaming with today’s leading designers, Zephyr’s kitchen ventilation hood product lines include the Arc Collection, by industrial designer Robert Brunner; the Cheng Collection by Zephyr, by designer Fu-Tung Cheng; the Europa Collection of Italian-made hoods, and the high-performance, space-conscious Power Series.

While I personally do not endorse any manufacturer that sells to the big box stores, I do recognize the need for the consumer to have the lower priced options. That is the reason some of the larger ones were left on this list. I also want to note that Franke is better known for their sinks and faucets than the appliances. That being said, if they make the appliances with the same quality and craftsmanship they do with their sinks...Then they must be good!

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One of my favorite things to do is Host an Event in the showroom. We did one for Indian River Education Foundation and brought in a professional chef, did a raffle and a 50 50 auction. Not only did it help to raise awareness of a good cause, but it also let the community at large know we were there for them, and helped to raise the profile of our showroom. We continually ask the Chamber to use our facility, any of a number of charities, and local builders are encouraged to invite their clients to an appreciation "party" here. Huge PR results!