November 2004

Would you steel your appliances? That is a question many
consumers are now asking themselves. ————— The “in”
style Stainless steel household appliances are the “in” style
right now. People are being drawn to the clean look of stainless
steel for their kitchens. Stainless steel has become the fastest
growing sector of household appliances. Not only for major
appliances such as refrigerators and ranges, but even for small
items like toasters, kettles, and bread makers. There seems to
be no end to the demand for the steel look.

So if a kitchen-remodeling project is in you’re near future then
steel may be something you are considering. ————— Pros
and cons

Steel can provide the consumer with a feeling of strength,
simplicity, elegance, and durability, all at the same time.

Part of its appeal is the commercial or professional look it
suggests to people. We are fascinated with, and drawn towards,
all things shiny and metallic. To this generation steel
suggests: expensive - professional — status.

Consumers like the idea that stainless steel appliances always
appear clean, when properly maintained. Also stainless steel is
a very durable product. Hence, the reason it is the standard in
the commercial area, including restaurants. Stainless steel is
becoming the new “white”. That is, it will go with just about
anything else in the kitchen. It will match most finishes of
cupboards, countertops, and flooring you have chosen. You can
match a classic design kitchen with an ultra-modern looking
stainless appliance. This is a positive feature that has been
discovered by both consumers and designers. One negative about
stainless steel is that it is very expensive to produce. So if
junior decides to scratch the appliance door you should be
prepared for a large repair bill.

Also, some people dislike the idea of having to work to maintain
the clean look. Stainless steel does require persistent
cleaning. Fingerprints have always been a problem. Special
cleaner is used to alleviate this problem. It leaves a light
oily residue on the steel, which resists the fingerprints.

Rumors say that General Electric and Sears are both about to
introduce a new stainless finish they claim will resolve this
problem. It will involve the bonding of a transparent vinyl
coating to the steel panels. If true, this will be a major
marketing advantage for these companies, and a boon to
consumers. —————————- Steel, chromium, and
nickel Stainless steel is steel to which has been added chromium
and nickel. This results in steel with a very hard surface that
will resist both pitting and rusting. The chromium gives it the
characteristic shiny surface layer and the nickel gives it the
non-magnetic character. So when your refrigerator magnets do not
stick, blame the nickel. If scratched, stainless steel can in
fact self heal. A new layer of oxide will be produced that can
cover over small scratches. But, since the surface layer is
extremely thin rust can result if the scratch pierces this layer
and exposes the base steel. ——————————
Stainless considered high end Most manufacturers offer stainless
steel appliances as part of their high end product lines.
General Electric calls their stainless series Profile or
Monogram. Frigidaire calls theirs Pro Gallery. Maytag,
Whirlpool, and LG also offer stainless steel versions of their
products. Frigidaire has recently upped the stakes with the
introduction of an even higher priced series called Icon. The
Icon is an all steel finish that stresses clean and contemporary
lines while maintaining all necessary functionality. Other
manufacturers will be responding. —————— Fad or
functional Do you remember green, yellow, or brown
refrigerators? How about turquoise stoves, or black washing
machines? At one time these were all considered the “in” thing.
So is the stainless steel appliance just another fad? I don’t
think so. Stainless steel appliances are a style that has
captured the public attention and will continue to do so. A
style of appliance that continues to attract consumers in ever
increasing numbers each year. So, whatever the reason that
people love stainless, it would appear they will remain on
consumer wish lists into the foreseeable future.