1. Refrigerator Buying Guide

Capacity:

In most homes, the refrigerator is the high-traffic area. As a family focal point, it's important to buy the right refrigerator for your needs, including the right capacity.

A good, general rule for calculating capacity is to assume a family of two needs about 8-10 cubic feet of fridge space, then add one cubic foot for each extra person in your family (maybe two if you have teenage boys). Remember, maintaining an empty refrigerator wastes energy while overstocking a too-small refrigerator is frustrating at best.

Style:

Refrigerators typically come in four styles.

Top-mount - this is the classic refrigerator design with the freezer compartment above the refrigerator. Each door swings open the full width of the refrigerator, so there must be sufficient kitchen space for them.

Bottom-mount - the freezer is below on this style.

Side-by-side - The freezer and refrigerator are adjacent. Designed for smaller kitchen space, this style can be a great space saver.

Compact - these are smaller fridges designed for dorm rooms, garages or basements.

2. Dishwasher Buying Guide

You know that a dishwasher can save you time, but did you also know that it can save you money? Most modern dishwashers actually use less water than hand washing. Thanks to energy efficient design, dishwashers use a minimal amount of water to keep your dishes clean.

Look for a model with a built-in food disposer to keep bits of food from getting stuck in your machine. Next, check the size of the holes on the washers - the smaller the holes, the greater the scrubbing power. Finally, choose a dishwasher with a thick level of insulation. The thicker the insulation around the dishwasher tub, the quieter the machine will be.

3. Range/Stove Buying Guide

Most families need an oven that provides at least 4 cubic feet of baking and roasting space. When you're replacing a range, you'll most likely replace it with the same type, but you may want to switch between electric and gas.

Electric ranges are often easy to clean and give an even heat distribution when you're cooking. But safety must be a concern, especially with small children. When electric stove heating elements are hot, they turn a hot orange color, making them easy to spot. However, as the elements are in the process of heating up initially or cool down after being hot, they will be the same color as the other cool ones and not as apparent that one or more may still be hot to the touch. Many a young child has burned his hands on an electric stove heat element that appeared to be off.

Meanwhile gas ranges allow you to cook during power outages and, some cooks say, give you greater control over your cooking. Gas ranges can also pose a threat in houses with small children. Make sure your children understand the importance of safety when it comes to gas stoves and not playing with the knobs.

Finally, no matter what appliance you buy, make sure it's rated as an energy-efficient appliance. Products with these ratings will help both the earth and your checkbook while maintaining convenience around your kitchen activities.