Summer 2008

Did You Know?

The microwave oven did not come about as a result of someone trying to find a better, faster way to cook. During World War II, two scientists invented the magnetron, a tube that produces microwaves. Installing magnetrons in Britain’s radar system, the microwaves were able to spot Nazi warplanes on their way to bomb the British Isles. By accident, several years later, it was discovered that microwaves also cook food. Called the Radar Range, the first microwave oven to go on the market was roughly as large and heavy as a refrigerator. The idea of using microwave energy to cook food was accidentally discovered by Percy LeBaron Spencer of the Raytheon Company when he found that radar waves had melted a candy bar in his pocket. Experiments showed that microwave heating could raise the internal temperature of many foods far more rapidly than a conventional oven. The first Raytheon commercial microwave oven was the 1161 Radarange, which was marketed in 1954. Rated at 1600 watts, it was so large and expensive that it was practical only for restaurant and institutional use. In 1967, Amana, a division of Raytheon, introduced its domestic Radarange microwave oven, marking the beginning of the use of microwave ovens in home kitchens. Although sales were slow during the first few years, partially due to the oven’s relatively expensive price tag, the concept of quick microwave cooking had arrived. In succeeding years, Litton and a number of other companies joined the countertop microwave oven market. By the end of 1971, the price of countertop units began to decrease and their capabilities were expanded.

Going Green

The GE tankless gas water heater has arrived, providing what no old-fashioned, tank-style unit ever could: a continuous flow of precisely heated hot water. There’s no tank to run empty, or take up space. This new compact design allows installation indoors or out- in a closet, in a garage, even tucked away under the stairs.  Operating a GE whole home tankless gas water heater rather than a standard 40 gallon tank model could help save up to 25% in water heating costs on your energy bill annually. There is no more constantly keeping the water in the tank heated. The heating system activates only when the hot water tap is opened, and turns the heater off when the tap is closed. It is capable of providing continuous hot water even when multiple showers, tubs, sinks or appliances are in use at the same time. This energy “green” unit comes in Natural Gas or LP gas.

Cleaning Tip

Many people hesitate to purchase stainless steel appliances because they feel it is too hard to clean. With today’s cleaners, just the opposite is actually true. For example, when cleaning a stainless steel refrigerator (which should be done once a month) use a clean, soft cloth or sponge and either mild detergent and water or a solution of white vinegar and water. Clean the unit wiping with the grain making sure that your cleaner does not contain bleach, then rinse and dry. To polish and help prevent fingerprints, follow with a stainless steel polish. Our favorite is Weiman’s stainless steel cleaner and polish which can be found in most any grocery store. You would just rub the polish on the unit with a soft cloth. You can use this once a week to keep down the amount of finger prints.

Featured Product

There are many new technological advances in the appliance industry today. The latest and greatest is the new steam washer. It has new steam technology that will revolutionize the way you do your laundry. In addition to being an energy star washing machine and doing laundry at a huge water and electric savings,  they now have added a stream fresh cycle that makes it possible for you to refresh and reduce wrinkles in up to 5 garments at one time. Running late for work with no time to iron? Load a cotton blend shirt into the steam washer and you will be ready to go in 20 minutes.