Kitchen Stand Mixers Machines

Since I've started baking and cooking a lot more in my new kitchen, I've decided to invest in a kitchen stand mixer. At first glance, the Kitchenaid Artisan is so retro and stylish! Plus they come a wide range of colours e.g. tangerine and boysenberry pictured below. However the price is too high for me! RM2799! And it only functions as a stand mixer.

Decided to get Kenwood instead and they have a whole range of kitchen machines to suit different needs.

Their basic & compact model for light everyday usage is the Kenwood Prospero (pictured below). Available in 3 different models : KM260, KM262 and KM264. 

The KM260 is the most basic model. It has a liquidiser attachment included. The KM262 has additional citrus juicer and food processor. The KM264 has additional mincer and centrifugal juicer. 

The retail price range is from RM1259-RM1699 at Robinson's. 

I ended up with the KM262 as Harvey Norman was having a special promo on all Kenwood kitchen machines. The KM262 is currently selling at only RM899! What a steal! I paid an extra RM89 for additional 2 years warranty on top of the 1 year warranty provided.

The specs for the KM262 :

Wattage : 700W

Weight : 5kg

Colour : White body with Silver dial.

Body material : plastic

Mixing bowl capacity : 4.3L

Tools : whisk, K-beater, dough hook

Attachments : liquidiser, food processor and citrus juicer

Comes with a free CD-ROM with 90 recipes and an introductory video.

Lebensstil Kollektion Designer Cooker Hood Review

The cooker hood in action! The model above is the LKCH 9300 by Lebensstil Kollektion.

There are three suction power levels to choose from : low, medium and high. Just press the speed button to adjust accordingly. There's also a light button to illuminate the cooking area.

I find the cooker hood is effective in sucking up the cooking fumes and grease. When deep-frying, the kitchen floor was a tad bit oily but not as bad as without using a cooker hood. Most of the oil fumes were condensed inside the hood. The grease was mainly inside and on the filters. Had to clean the hood with soapy water after frying. However it was very easy to clean as the material is glass.

2 easily removable filters located inside the hood. Just pop them into the dishwasher and they come out clean and ready to for next use.

Overall, I like the design of the hood as it allows more 'head-room' above and also the good suction power plus easy maintainance.

Bosch Dishwasher Review

Here's how the Bosch SMS50E12EU Free standing dishwasher looks like under the kitchen countertop. My kitchen designer removed the top cover of the dishwasher so that it could fit under the counter and appear integrated.

Very easy to use. Just load all the dishes into the pull-out baskets.There's also a cutlery basket not shown in the photo. I removed it to make space for the other bulkier items.

Fill the rinse-aid compartment on the left and the detergent compartment on the right. Recommended powder detergent is Finish. The dishwasher comes with 2 free tablet detergents which can be used in the detergent compartment as well. Refill the rinse-aid whenever the indicator lights blink. But for the detergent, refill for each wash cycle  and the quantity according to load.

Once everything is loaded, close the door and just turn the dial to select the preferred program function. I usually use the 'lightly-soiled' function which washes at 45 degrees celcius. It washes very well and the dishes come out squeaky clean, dry and warm. The intensive load (washes at 70 degrees celcius) works very well with dirty pots and pans. Everything came out beautifully clean! Other functions include the eco function which saves water and electricity. The auto function allows a sensor to select the best cleaning mode for the items in the dishwasher.

Half-load function is good for washing a small amount of dishes. Vario-speed cuts down the washing time into half. These optional choices on the right hand side of the control panel can be selected once the main program is selected.

Am very impressed with my dishwasher although I initially had some wiring problems with it. The model came with a 2-pin plug which needed to be changed to a 3-pin plug.  I didn't know that so I was happily using an adapter. My wireman said it was dangerous to do so as sparking occurs around the adapter. So my wireman changed the plug for me and I also checked with the technician from Bosch. However with the change of plug, my entire condo unit's power kept on tripping as soon as the dishwasher was switched on. The Bosch technician, Mr. Tan came to check and said the fusebox should be re-set to a higher level as it was too sensitive. Once the necessary change was made, the dishwasher was functional again.

Installation of DC Heater

The plumber came this afternoon and successfully installed the brand new DC Heater by Seers. As he entered the door he was asking me whether it's Joven or Alpha. Then his eyes set upon the huge box..... he was really surprised. He said he has never installed a DC Heater before. Anyway he checked the manual and said OK no prob - it's similar to the other storage tank water heaters. 

He took about 2 hours to complete the installation. Had to drill holes on the wall in the plaster ceiling to support the water heater. The heater took about an hour to heat up the water. So far so good! Nice hot water in the shower, bathtub and mixers in the master bathroom.

DC-Heater

I mentioned in one of my earlier posts that I bought 2 Stiebel Eltron instant water heaters. I passed them to my ID and instructed the electrician to ensure that the wiring is changed accordingly to enable the water heaters to work. However, the electrician did not change the wiring...... although he claimed he did. After the plumber installed the water heaters, one of them couldn't work. Then I called the condo management to take a look instead. They sent 2 electricians and after checking they said that the wiring has not been changed to support the water heaters. In order to change the wiring, the existing 4mm wire needs to be removed and replaced with 6mm and 10mm wires respectively. Even the amperage is not enough. The maximum amperage is 20Amp but the water heaters need 32Amp and 45Amp. Unfortunately, all this changes would require hacking and a lot of work. 

The condo management facilities manager came over to have a look too and she suggested that I purchase the storage tank water heaters as the bathrooms are designed for storage water heaters. She also mentioned that there were 2 cases whereby the owners also installed Stiebel Eltron water heaters without changing the wiring (they were also conned by their electricians!) and what happened was the wires connecting the water heaters melted and power supply tripped.

I've requested for a compensation from my ID because of her electrician's fault. My ID apologized and said she will send me another new electrician to check on all other wiring. I've since ordered another water heater from Bathroom Gallery Seapark PJ - just one unit for the master bathroom to try out first : Creation DC-Heater - horizontal type 40L for RM1500. The DC-heater is a storage tank water heater but consumes very low amounts of electricity. For complete info do check out their website : dc-heater.com

LCD TV

Purchased my Sharp Charisma 32" LCD TV from D'Legend SS2 during their canopy sales just before Chinese New Year. Price was lowest amongst all other electrical shops : RM999. My DVD player is also brand new from Sony (lucky draw prize)

Wall-mounting the TV on a standard bracket costs RM180. Adjustable bracket costs RM260, inclusive of labour.

After the installation - our TV looks like this but I don't quite like the wires sticking out from the DVD player. So, we did this :

Only downside is to access the DVD player, we have to open the cabinet door but other than that, it looks much better - more minimalistic!

M&E works

The electrician has just started the M&E works. Everything is moving at a very slow pace. Hopefully all will be completed by year end.

Steam Grill Microwave Oven by Panasonic

My old combination microwave, grill and convection oven by Panasonic  malfunctioned a week ago. To cut a long story short, I needed a new oven....

Panasonic has just launched its Cooking Magic roadshow this month at various venues within the Klang Valley. I happened to be at Ikano Power Center one day and Harvey Norman was having the roadshow showcasing Panasonic products (the roadshow ends 31st October 2010). There are many more roadshows and cooking demos scheduled for the rest of the year at different locations e.g. Carrefour & Jaya Jusco.

I decided to buy this particular model at RM899.00 (RRP: RM1399.00). I added RM159.00 for extended warranty of 5 years. It's the basic model with steam, grill and microwave cooking functions. No convection cooking function in this model but it's OK cos I already bought a built-in convection and grill oven. 

Since it's a roadshow, I received an ecobag, a Thermos jug and some notepads as free gifts. I can also attend a complimentary cooking class by The Cooking House just by showing my oven's warranty card. I've since called them up to register for a class "All About Pies". The class is worth RM120 and the duration is 4 hours.

INVERTER STEAM MICROWAVE OVEN NN-GS597M

• 1000W Microwave Power
• 1600W Heater Power
• 25L Oven Capacity
• Infrared Ray Sensor
• Stainless Steel Oven Cavity

• 4-Way Speedy Cooking
  1) Microwave Cooking
  2) Powerful Grilling
  3) Combination Cooking of Microwave/Grill
  4) Combination Cooking of Steam/Microwave/Grill
• Inverter Power Delivery System
• Auto Cooking Menu: 9 Categories
• Sensor Reheat (Infrared Ray Sensor)
• Desired Cooking Control
• Child Safety Lock
• Stainless Steel Oven Cavity
• Aluminium Face
• Accessories: Wire Rack, Glass Tray

Tankless Water Heaters by Stiebel Eltron

A tankless water heater heats water directly without the use of a storage tank. So, they do not need extra energy to 'standby' hot water in the tank or to boil water in the tank.

There are 2 types of tankless water heater : one which is powered by electricity and the other, gas. When cold water travels through the pipe into the unit, the electric elements or a gas burner heats the water.

Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters. They also have a life expectancy of more than 20 years. In contrast, storage water heaters last 10 – 15 years.

I purchased 2 tankless water heaters by Stiebel Eltron at Ga Hing Trading, Off Old Klang Road. The larger one costs RM900 and the medium size one costs RM800. The water heaters will be used to heat up water in the bathrooms.

Mitsubishi Folio Multi-door Fridge

Mitsubishi Electric has a wide range of multi-door fridges. Folio is their premium range which is fully made in Japan. One of the latest models is the Z series - pic above - in crystal white. RRP is RM8299. Most stores are selling it between RM7299-RM7999. I am planning to get this particular model for my kitchen. I was keen on Sharp's double french doors fridges but this latest model by Mitsubishi has bowled me over!

Firstly, it's white and it has such a sleek modern design - perfect for my all-white kitchen and overall white home decor. It has the inverter-driven technology and is rated 3 stars for energy efficiency. It's also very quiet at 14 decibels. I like the way the compartments are arranged. Freezer at the bottom plus a separate ice drawer. Nett volume is 645 liters. 

There are 4 LED lights : 

1) LED i-see sensor - freezes food in their ideal condition sealing in the flavours

2) LED Sunlight - to increase the vitamin content of vege and fruits

3) UV LED Light anti-bac & active vio deodorizer

4) UV LED ice maker - creates ice crystals which lasts longer than the conventional ice cubes. Select between crystals or conventional.

There's also an eco mode which is energy saving when going outstation for holiday. The electronic control panel is hidden inside the fridge. Other similar multi-door fridges are available by Hitachi and Panasonic.

Ceiling Fans at Homedec 2010

When I first set my eyes on this fan the first thought that came into my mind was "It's my dream fan!" It's called the Haiku Kotuku ceiling fan - newly launched in Malaysia and making its debut at Homedec 2010. Priced at RM1250 each, it's pretty steep.... but it's design and outstanding features make it a good buy. I paid up RM200 deposit to book 2 units of the fan. Current special promotion price at Homedec is RM995 each. The Kotuku fan is only 6kg in weight with an award-winning design. Only 3 fan blades at 60" in length. Only available color is white. Comes with timer and sleep mode. 7 different fan speeds, the lowest speed only uses 4W of energy while the highest, 30W. This is very energy-efficient compared to other fans. I intend to place both my Haiku fans in the living and dining area. Delivery and installation are inclusive.

For my master bedroom, I've purchased a ceiling fan from Alpha, at a special promotion price of RM224. Only 3 blades and length is 56".  No timer/lights on fan. Quite a basic model.

For both the other bedrooms, I purchased 2 smaller fans for RM297 each. More expensive as there are more blades but they are shorter, 40" in length. It's sufficient as the bedrooms are only medium size. No timer for this model. All fans in white - to match my minimalist home decor. Installation and delivery inclusive, plus received 3 free golf umbrellas and a notebook. Took part in the Homedec contest again and hoping to win something!

Washing Machine

Decided on Panasonic's latest washer. Have not purchased yet but will do so once the renovations are completed. 4 models available. The following is the specifications for the top of the range model NA168. Retail price is RM3099.

• Washing capacity : 8kg
• Intelligent Inverter Technology - 30% energy saving
• 1600rpm spin speed (9 spin speed selection)
• Auto Power Off
• 10° Titled Drum - 70% water saving. The tilt also reduces the physical stress involved in getting your laundry into and out of the washing machine.
• 12 standard programme
• LED screen
• World's first 3D Sensor Wash detects how the drum moves and intelligent inverter uses that information to finely adjust motor operation.
• Rapid 15 Programme - wash 2kg of lightly soiled garments in only 15 minutes with a complete wash programme.
• Sportswear Programme - specially design for sports wear, socks and other item with stubborn mud or grass stains
• Memory Programme - you can save your favourite wash programme for quick and one-touch start-up
• Auto Power Off -saves energy
• Aqua Protection System - when water is draining out, a sensor detects if there is any leakage and responds by shutting off the water supply
• Mid Wash Add Function- can add laundry any time during the washing programme
• Wide Angle Shower
• Temperature Sensor
• Inverter Brushless Motor
• Delay Start up to 24 hrs
• Child Lock 

Bosch Free-standing Dishwasher

The most expensive item in my new future kitchen - the dishwasher!!! Gosh - didn't realised that I would spend RM3799 for this kitchen appliance by Bosch. I don't quite like to slave over the dishes at the sink after each meal plus I don't have a maid.... plus I've got sensitive skin....... just a few of the 101 excuses to BUY a dishwasher. Anyway, I hope the $$$ spent will be justified. 

This Bosch free-standing dishwasher in white (model : SMS50E12EU) has the following features:

1) Energy efficiency A, Wash performance A, Drying class A

2) Half Load Feature available

3) 5 programs : Intensive, Economy, Auto, Quick Wash, Pre-Rinse

4) Self-cleaning filter system 3 fold corrugated

5) Height adjustable top basket with cutlery rack & cup shelves

7) 2 Foldable plate racks on bottom basket plus cutlery basket

8) Capacity : 12+1 place settings

9) 4 cleaning temperatures

10) Aquastop

Warranty 2 years.

French Door Refridgerators

I've decided to go for a french door refridgerator - it's more energy efficient than those side-by-side ones plus there's ample storage space inside as there's no 'divider' in the center. Since you only open a smaller door, less cool air escapes thus saving power. I also prefer the ones with the freezer located at the bottom

Here are a few models of french door fridges with bottom freezer:

Electrolux RRP : RM7299

Samsung RRP : RM5499

Sharp - planning to get this model! Price about RM3700 (from D'Legend SS2). Here are the features:

• Wide and Deep Body Allows Large Food Items and Containers to be
• The Stylish Look with the Crescent Shape Door Design Adds Greater
• The Twin Fan Cooling System Enhances the Effect of Multi-Air Flow,
• Cool Front Shower in the Freezer for Efficient Cooling of the Door Pocket
• Twin-Chilled Compartment with Two Different Temperature Zones
• Extra Durable Tempered Glass Shelves Rear Up to 100kg of Weight and Provide a Clean, Neat-Looking Interior.
• Adjustable Shelves for More Effective Use of Space
• Fruit and Vegetable Case is Divided into Two Drawers for Neat and Tidy Food Separation.
• Utility Case with Slide-Open Cover
• Large Door Pocket with Bottle Stopper Holds Three 2.0 PET Bottles.
• One-Twist Ice Cube Makers

Induction Hobs

I've purchased my induction hob & vitroceramic hob at Perfect Livin Home Fair 2010. Both are from Fagor: package deal of RM4600. The retail price of the induction hob is RM3599 & the vitroceramic hob is RM2499, for a total of RM6098. That's about 25% off the retail price. Plus I can redeem a non-stick pan suitable for induction cooking from Fagor.

So, what's an induction hob? Read on to find out more!

In an induction hob, heat is generated through a magnetic field, created under the glass when a ferrous magnetic pan is placed above.

Induction is the fastest way of cooking as heat is transmitted directly to the base of pan, minimizing the losses of heat and reducing the time of cooking. It saves up to 40% of electricity consumption compared to other systems. Induction hobs incorporate an intelligent system which automatically recognises the size and diameter of the pan, providing the right amount of energy, so that no energy is wasted with constant regulation of energy and thus more uniform heat distribution. Energy is only transmitted when a suitable recipient is situated over the cooking zone. If the recipient is removed, the power stops (Zero energy consumption).

As the vitroceramic crystal heats less, spills and splashes do not become incrusted. Thus cleaning in general is not so laborious with induction hobs and the use of a scraper is seldom needed.

Heat is transmitted directly to the pan base. This way, the glass does not reach high temperatures, just that produced by the heat of the recipient. Induction zones are protected against excessive heating of the electronic system. Lastly, induction hobs also detect certain voltage variations and compensate for them, extending in this way the working life of the hob.

Only stainless steel, cast iron and enamelled steel pots and pans are suitable for induction cooking. To check for compatibility, just use a magnet at the base of the pan - the magnet should stick. 

Lebensstil Built-in Oven

I purchased my lebensstil oven together with my cooker hood for a special package deal : RM4750 at the Reno Expo 2010 earlier this month. The built-in oven is as pictured above : model LJBO-1004SS. Specs: 56L, 7 cooking funtions, double glazed door and energy class A. At the recent Perfect Livin home fair, Lebensstil has just launched a new model : LKBO-1007CT. This new model is only available end September 2010. I decided to upgrade to the new model instead : just top up RM200. The features : 56L, 8 cooking functions, triple glazed door, energy class A, child lock, push-pull knob, catalytic self-cleaning system on both inner walls etc.

Designer Cooker Hoods

I've been scouting around for the perfect cooker hood for my kitchen. No more canopy or slim-line hoods with recycled air for me - those do not work at all. Extraction hoods are the way to go. I don't fancy those with a chimney or funnel shape but what caught my eye was this design - wall-mounted with perimetric extraction. Looks futuristic and modern!

There are a few brands selling this particular design:

Baumatic Dance Partner Hood RRP: RM4999

Teka DV80 Stainless Steel RRP: RM6800

Fagor 3CFT-TILE RRP : RM4999

Lebensstil Kollektion LKCH 9300 : RRP is RM3599

My choice was the Lebensstil Kollektion hood as the price is lowest as the product is locally assembled in Malaysia (parts are from Germany). Fagor's hood is assembled in China but parts are from Spain. Another important factor that I connsidered was the suction power and Lebensstil's hood suction power is 1300m3/h which is also the highest. So I decided to not partition my kitchen into wet and dry.

The hood is made from black tempered glass which makes it easy to clean compared to stainless steel which requires special cleaning agents. The filters are quite the same in all the above models. Easy cleaning too - just soak them in warm soapy water or put them in the dishwasher. All the hoods also have touch control panels & LED lights for ease of use. 

I bought the hood from Benova during the Reno Expo 2010 for a special price! The promotion price was RM3100 inclusive of FREE installation/ducting. I decided to top up my order with a built-in oven from Lebensstil also and received an additional 5% off my purchase! More about the oven in my next post.