Refrigerators : Helpful Tips

With the summer setting in, our dependency on refrigerators goes up. In order to take best use of the same, we need to be careful on some aspects.

First of all, we must understand that our refrigerator is our cooling assistant to preserve our food and other eatables. We often forget this fact and treat it like a water cooler or an ice factory or as a cold storage. This machine is simply our ASSISTANT and nothing beyond that; therefore if we will treat it like that it will give us good return by its service. We may do so by following some simple steps.

Adjust The Thermostat Setting: Depending upon the ambience temperature and the quantum of stuffing inside the refrigerators, you may adjust the thermostat between Minimum to Maximum.

In double door refrigerators you should adjust the airflow between freezer and the refrigerator compartments by turning the knob given in the freezer section, depending upon the kind of stuffing in both the chambers. You may choose from the options like High Freezer, High Refrigerator or Balanced which would have been mention there like A, B, C etc.

Give Time to Your Refrigerator: Please do not expect instant cooling from your machine. Give it some time to work for you and in the mean time if you will check it very frequently then it will result in loss of heat (cooling) only.

Ensure that the Door is Shut Properly: This is a big problem to which most of us very ignorant. The door of your refrigerator may not shut properly because of balancing, alignment, inadequate stuffing in the door shelves, and improper gasket besides your negligence. Simple take care of that and you will be free from major loss of potential heat which may put load on the compressor also and may result in compressor failure.

Use Proper Utensils/Trays for Making Ice: Please use shallow utensils for making ice. It will not only give you ice faster but you may get that frequently too. Putting a milk bucket or polythene packets in the freezer is not going to give you much ice.

Cleanliness: Keep your refrigerator clean for the simple reason that you stuff eatables into it. This will also avoid the problem of cockroaches getting into it because of loose gasket.

Monitor Voltage: Normally, our refrigerators may take care voltage fluctuations to some extent but if there is some inordinate fluctuation or low voltage problem then use of Voltage Stabilizer is recommended. This will reduce pressure on the compressor and will give you the desired cooling.

By understanding and working this way with our refrigerator we may get better output from it in terms of cooling and preservation. Nonetheless, it saves our electricity bill too.

Electrical Geysers

Geyser is an important installation in any household especially in winters. There are various options available in this product category. The scope of this post is electrical geysers only. One should look at following two factors while purchasing a geyser:

1.Types of Geysers: One may choose between Instant Geyser and Storage Geyser depending on one’s need. Instant geysers come with very high wattage like 2000W and 2500W to give you warm water instantly. These are especially useful where there is constant electric and water supply. Besides, these are a boon in kitchen for doing the utensils.

Storage geysers, as the name suggests, store water in a tank fitted into and then heat it. Because of its superior heating coils these machines give you water that is quite hot as compared to instant geyser. Intermittent water and power supply doesn’t prevent you from getting hot water from your storage geyser any time you need the same.

2.Capacity of Geysers: Storage water heaters normally come in capacities from 5 ltrs to 50 ltrs. Sizes of 20 ltrs to 35 ltrs are most popular. These days there are many good options available in the market that come with features like anti-scaling through ceramic coils, dry tap protection and colourful outer body. Selecting star rated products will help in energy conservation and hence will result in saving of money.

One should check for the features like metal body or fiber body, copper or steel inner tank, fuse plug, vacuum release, valve, pressure release valve, thermostat and auto cut off etc. It’s important to enquire about ease of serviceability while making the purchase decision. Proper installation of the product is essential for the best use of the product. The price range for an instant heater is around Rs. 2000/- where as the storage heater ranges from Rs. 2500/- to Rs. 10,000/- depending upon size and features. The leading brands offering this product are Racold, Bajaj, Singer, Birla Lifestyle, Lexus, Inalsa, Symphony, Crompton Greaves, Haier and Venus etc. While selecting a local brand one must ensure that it is ISI certified.

Room Heaters

The chilly winter and cold wave has converted every place into a hill station. Staying warm is important in such a season. Market has several solutions in terms of Room Heaters. There are various types of heaters available and one may choose as per one’s requirement.

1. Reflectors – These work on the simple principle where a heating coil or filament is heated openly or I halogen tubes and then it reflects the light to the whole room to generate heat instead of air being heated. These provide instant heating by the press on a button. The price range is from Rs. 300/- to Rs. 1500/-

2. Warmers – These are most commonly used heaters that transfer heat from the heating coil through a fan or a blower. These work on the principle of Convection. These heaters normally come with 2 or 3 wattage options viz 500W. 1000W and 1500 W with 2 or 3 varying speed of blower. Some of the models have thermostat control to set a particular temperature in the room. The leading players are Usha Lexus, Symphony, Gryphon, Black & Decker and Bajaj etc. If you are going for a local make then please ensure it has ISI mark. The price range is from Rs. 1000/- to Rs. 2000/-. The local ones with ISI mark are available from Rs. 700/- onwards.

3. Quartz Heaters – This works on the principle of Infrared. The heating element is kept in quartz tube. The element reaches high temperature and the quartz tube helps by insulating it. Almost entire heat it produces is kept inside the quartz tube. When it reaches the right temperature, the infrared radiation flows out of the quartz tube without heating it. A negligible amount of heat is absorbed by the air it flows through. Most of the infrared radiation is absorbed by nearby people to keep them warm. The price range for these heaters is between Rs. 500/- to Rs. 2000/- depending on features and quality.


4. Oil Filled Heaters – These heater work on a different principle i.e. radiation. There is oil filled in the fins of these heaters which gets heated and then radiates heat due to which it doesn’t burn the moisture in the air and hence air doesn’t get dry. This is free from the noise of a fan and the heating element inside need not to be continuously on, which means its energy efficient too. More the number of fins, more the oil into it and more is the heating capacity. The thermostat may help you set the desired temperature in the room. These heaters are available with two options in 1000 W and 2000 W approximately. The major brands available are Lloyd, Whirlpool, Gryphon, Vox etc. The price range is between rs. 3000/- to Rs. 6000/- depending upon the brands and the features.

Please check about the serviceability of the product at the time of purchase so as to avoid any service problem later. One should be little cautious while using the heaters towards safety measures. Firstly, be careful about its placement and upkeep of the electrical sockets. Secondly, you should not completely seal the flow of fresh air in the room. One should check about the features like auto tip over, cool touch cabinet, safety grill etc. for one's safety. Nonetheless, one should know when to switch it off so as to avoid any adverse effect on the health.

Haier Double Drive Washing Machine

World appliance major Haier has a technology acclaimed to be ‘The Fourth Type of Washing Machines in the World’ to its credit. Company claims it to be a new invention after the three established technologies of Pulsator, Agitator and Tumble wash.

The machine works on the principle that it applies force from two different directions in order to generate turbulence to remove the dirt from the fabric. There are two separate gear mechanisms which provide motorized forceful action to the washing drum. One force rotates the pulsator and the other force rotates the drum itself in the opposite direction producing an effect that optimizes the entire operation to save on resources. This technology has won the prestigious Golden Award in French Repin International Invention Exposition, Paris.

The washing machine comes in two sizes – 6.5 kg and 7.5 kg. This is a feature rich machine which can be customized by the user in a large spectrum. It has a Fuzzy Logic Control, Digital Display, 12 Water Levels, 8 Wash Programmes, Quick Wash, Multi Level Spin Tub, Child Lock and Overflow Rinse. Its Tub Dry Technology, gives almost dry clothes, which is of great convenience in rains and winters.

Company’s statistics show that this machine reduces Abrasion Rate by 70%, with standard washing time saving by 50%, almost 50% water consumption as compared to common washing machines and a 50% less power consumption.

The machine is available in attractive combo colour schemes. The price range is approximately Rs. 16000/- . It’s an ideal buy in this segment for those who intend to buy a top loading model with enhanced features.

SONY Cyber-Shot Digital Camera Model DSC-T90

Sony’s DSC – T90 digital camera is world’s slimmest camera which has got a special feature called ‘Optical Image Stabilizer’. This is in real sense an up market product and is extremely elegant. It comes with a 12.1 Mega Pixel resolution and has a 4x zoom.

This classy cyber-shot model helps eliminating the chances of images getting blurred completely with its Double Anti-Blur Solution. This is enabled with face detection technology that automatically adjusts the exposure and focus to give you a clear natural looking portrait of your dear ones. It has high precision Carl Zeiss lens and the intelligent auto focus function that gives you high quality picture without any hassle.

Now lets imagine that Million Dollar Smile! Remember the amount of hard work that is to be put in to take a smiling picture of you kid. It’s so easy with Sony’s smile shutter feature. You just need to focus your camera on the face of the person and its super smart technology detects when the person is smiling and fires the shutter just at the right moment. It’s done much before you could even think of it. Its 7.6 cms wide touch LCD screen gives you all the ease and viewing pleasure.

What else? It’s enabled with HD Movie too. The price is approximately Rs. 17500/-. Please don’t forget to check from your dealer if any scheme is running or not? You might be lucky enough to get a carrying case, memory stick or a pair of batteries absolutely free.

LG Fully Automatic Washing Machine : Model WF-T8519PV

LG’s top loading Fully Automatic Machine model WF-T8519PV comes with distinct features that are contemporary and beneficial for the customers. This machine comes with a capacity of 7.5 kg which is sufficient to take care of all washing needs of a medium and large size family. The higher capacity is useful to wash linen and other heavy stuff easily.

The machine comes with Speech Technology. It has a powerful turbo drum and is equipped with i-sensor to take care of the washing requirements. It has got a digital display panel and has a memory backup too so that in case of power failure the machine may start from the point where electricity switched off. This will save time, water and power consumption. The other features like water level selection, wash load selection and time adjustment for wash cycles etc. is available in this model.

The machine is available is premium dark red finish and the price is approximately Rs. 19000/-. Please check with the dealer about the exchange offer and zero percent interest finance scheme which means that customers need not to pay any interest and they may buy the product on easy installmets.

Haier Bottom Mounted Refrigerators : Its Different

The Chinese consumer durable major Haier has introduced innovation in refrigerator segment with its Bottom Mounted Refrigerator(BMR) range. BMRs have freezer chamber at the bottom side of the refrigerator where as refrigerator chamber is at the upper side. Haier is probably the pioneer company in India to offer consumers with such a product differentiation.

The technology behind the refrigerators is that of a Frost Free refrigerator. In India, the consumption of frozen food is not much in practice and therefore the usage of freezer chamber is restricted to make ice and stuff ice creams etc. Keeping this in mind, Haier has given this refrigerator so that housewives need not to bend unnecessarily to use refrigerator section. It’s at the top and is quite convenient to use.

The product provides a distinct snob appeal and adds value to the lifestyle statement. It’s a feature packed refrigerator that comes with toughened glass shelves, honey comb crisper, VC fresh technology and larger vegetable box with double humidity control. It has a 4 star energy efficiency rating and is available in attractive colours with premium finish.

The sizes available are 240 liters, 275 liters and 300 liters with freezer section consuming approximately 20% to 30% of the total space. The price starts from Rs. 16000/- onwards and for those who have this much budget, the product is a good buy in this category.

Washing Machines : Useful Tips

In order to get a trouble free support from your washing machine, you need to give a little attention to it. It’s a universally accepted rule that a care always pays back. So, don’t forget to get your reward. The important tips for a better washing and simple maintenance are given below –

1. Always ensure that your machine is balanced properly on the surface. This will reduce wear & tear and will increase the life of spare parts.

2. Use enzyme based detergent powder. All the leading FMCG brands sell such detergents and it’s mentioned on its packing. In hand wash we may apply more force to remove the dirt wherever necessary. However, a washing machine follows standard washing procedure. Therefore, the enzyme based detergent helps separating dirt from the fabric because of the ‘principle of surface tension’ and gives proper cleaning.

3. Add stain removers as per the specified quantity to get rid of those stubborn spots instead of rubbing the clothes by hand and then putting it back into the machine.

4. Clean your lint filter regularly. It’s easy to take it out and put it back. Learn it from the company technician when the person comes to give you product demonstration.

5. In fully automatic machines, clean you water inlet filter using any brush (e.g. old tooth brush) to ensure proper flow of water.

6. Always adjust water level depending upon your wash load to optimize water consumption.

7. Who can deny importance of cleaning? So, clean your machine regularly.

Above will help you getting best results for a long time from your very own washing machine without any hiccups.

Care is the key.

Nokia : Chrismas & New Year Consumer Offer

Leading mobile handset company Nokia, has come up with a Christmas & New Year Offer this winter. ‘Joy For Everyone’ as they call it ensures a gift on select mobile handsets when you but it from a Nokia Priority Dealer.

Nokia is offering a Reebok Sling Bag absolutely free with its model 6303C. If you buy some other model, you will get either a Reebok watch or an original Nokia accessory totally free. The other models are N86, E71, E63, 6700C, 5800 Xpress Music and N97 MINI.

This is a special promotional campaign from the company for a limited period to multiply its customers’ joy during the New Year and to give some impetus to its exclusive outlets. The scheme closes on January 7th, 2010.

Hurry up, if you plan to buy a new handset. Just remember that you have to visit a Nokia Priority Dealer to avail this benefit.

Side By Side Refrigerator : A Great Lifestyle Statement

Side by Side refrigerators simply add value to your lifestyle statement. These machines complement any modern house through a contemporary comprehensive refrigeration system. With the prices of entry level models hovering at Rs. 50000/- these machines have come very much with the reach.

A side by side refrigerator takes complete care of your needs. You may attach it directly to running water supply along with your RO system to get that clean chilled drinking water straight to your glass. This dispenser will give you ice cubes and crushed ice too. The beverage station adds real glamour to it and gives you the feel of a bar.

The refrigerator has spill proof tampered glass shelves, digital display & control, multi air flow, separate storage space for dairy products, moisture rich vegetables, fruit drawer, deodorizer and cooling zones etc. depending upon your model.

These are available in various shades and pre-designed textures to give it a premium look. Contrary to the earlier times, the companies have a huge range in this category for their customers to select. You may check the interest free finance option with your dealer to but the product on easy EMIs.

The capacities in this category normally vary between 580 ltrs to 752 ltrs with a price range between Rs.50,000/- to Rs.1,50,ooo. LG and Samsung have a broad range in this premium segment whereas Whirlpool, Godrej and Videocon also offer selective but impressive models. In metropolitan cities you may find the products from Siemens, White Westinghouse, Hitachi and General Electric etc. too.

Look at it, this will add personality to your home.

Samsung CE103VD Model : Cook Indian Recipes By the Press of A Button

Samsung Microwave Oven model CE103VD is the latest addition in company’s existing huge range. The highlight is that this model comes with 12 pre-programmed auto cook Indian Recipes. So, you can cook that delicious gazar ka halua, your idli & dhokla and that fish fry and lemon chicken just with the convenience of your microwave by pressing a single button. What more? Even your morning breakfast omlette is just the press of a button away.

It’s a 28 ltr convection model that comes with ceramic enamel cavity and power defrosts. It has an 800 W microwave power, 1250 W grill power and 1850 W convection power which are apt for Indian cooking needs.

There are two colour variants in this model, White and Black, which look very attractive. The operating price of White coloured model is approximately Rs. 9500/-. However company is charging a premium of Rs. 1000/- for the Black model.

Please remember to check your accessories and gifts, which are announced from time to time, from the dealer and insist that a live demo is arranged at your place to your satisfaction.

Washing Machines : A Necessity for Every Home : How to Select Right Model

This is the age of nuclear family and women empowerment. A house without a Washing Machine misses one count to be a ‘Home’. The Washing Machines have advanced a lot and deliver satisfactory results. Washing in these machines takes place as per one of the three principles of washing technology to provide turbulence to the clothes in order to separate dirt from the fabric using centrifugal force. These are :

A. Pulsator Wash
B. Agitator Wash
C. Tumble Wash

All these types are available in Indian Market. Different manufacturers endorse any or all of these depending upon the technology available with them and as per their marketing communication and sales strategy.

There are four options available in the market :

1. Washers : These are single drum machines which only wash the clothes with the detergent and remove dirt. Everything else has to be done manually. Its availability is low. Available Capacity : 3.0 Kg. Price Range : Rs. 2000/-

2. Semi Automatic Washing Machines : These are twin chamber machines which offer total solution from wash to rinse and then drying. As the name suggests being semi automatic, these require manual intervention in shifting the clothes from one chamber to other and changing the flow of water etc. You may select your wash cycle depending upon the clothes you are washing viz gentle, normal, heavy or denim. These may be used effectively even if there is irregular water supply. Pulsator and Agitator models are available in this category. Available Capacity : 3.5 Kg to 9.0 Kg. Price Range : Rs. 3500/- to Rs. 9000/-

3. Fully Automatic Machines : These are total rejoice. The principle is ‘fill it, close it, forget it’. You have to put your clothes and detergent into it only to get dried clothes approximately in an hour’s time. That’s the convenience. These machines also come with memory back up to handle irregular power supply as these may start again from the point where power tripped. You may effectively control these machines using the programmable options to suit your requirement in terms of wash cycle, rinse cycle, timing, load, water level etc. Normally, top load Pulsator and Agitator models are available in this category. Available Capacity : 5.0 Kg to 8.0 Kg. Price Range : Rs. 8000/- to Rs. 15000/-

4. Front Loading Washing Machines : These are also fully automatic machines with two differences. One, that the clothes are loaded from the front and not from the top. Two, these work on tumble wash principle. These are supposed to be the premium machines and some customers claim to have experienced best wash quality in these machines because of its technology being near to the hand wash technique. Available Capacity : 5.5 Kg to 6.5 Kg. Price Range : Rs. 18000/- to Rs. 26000/-

Some models from GE and Siemens etc. are also available in Top Load Tumble Wash in capacities around 6 Kgs and price around Rs. 20000/-

For a family of 2+2 a washing machine with 5.0 to 6.0 kg capacity is sufficient to take care of that occasional weekly/fortnightly/monthly load of towels, sheets and curtains etc. besides the regular washing. Choose the models depending upon your budget and requirement. With these machines at home you will never go by your watch for washing and will never feel tired.

The leading brands widely available in India are Whirlpool, LG, Samsung, Godrej, Videocon, IFB.

Washing Machine in all sense is a companion.

Microwave Oven in Winter : How to Select Your Model

Microwave Ovens are value for money in Winters. The question is how to choose a model that suits the requirement of my family?

There are three classifications in MWOs :

Solo Microwave Ovens : These are complete ovens and serve the full purpose except grilling. These machines are perfect for re-heating. All the cooking that does not involve grilling can be done at ease with it. One can cook rice, boil eggs/potatoes, prepare vegetables, roast papad and make idlis.

Grill Microwave Ovens : These have the additional feature of grilling. This is very useful when you bake a cake. The grill adds that special brown colour to your cake. You can grill your paneer, tomato, sausage and meat into it. You may roast brinjal and potato and can toast your bread too.

Convection Microwave Ovens : These are the top end models. These have got a fan above the grill for uniform distribution of heat in the oven chamber. If you are a non vegetarian and love cooking your dish, this is the answer. You may roast and grill the dishes to your complete satisfaction similar to that roasted in a tandoor.

These ovens are available in various sizes starting from 17 liters to 34 liters. The prices for these small home utilities start for a Solo Microwave Oven of 17/19 ltr from as low as Rs. 2200/- up to a Convection Model of 34 ltrs at Rs. 18000/-. A good Grill model is available for Rs. 4000 – Rs. 5000 and Convection range starts from Rs. 8000/-.

Look at your family size and take a decision. For an ideal family of 2+2 a 24 ltr is sufficient enough, however if your budget permits then go for a little bigger one to ensure a complete enjoyment when your guests visit you. Don’t forget to insist your dealer for a demonstration by a company trained chef at your place when you buy it.

Keep all the cooking stuff and ingredients handy when the chef visits you. Let him cook some 3-4 different types of dishes so that you get a complete flair to use the machine.

The leading brands widely available in India are LG, Samsung, Godrej, IFB, Kenstar, Whirlpool.

You are now ready to impress everyone with your cooking.