CJRA wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> We're completely renovating an 1890s house. That means new wiring,
> plumbing, etc. Also ripping out the old kitchen and replacing
> everything. Fortunately the kitchen is big enough to play with.
>
> My question involves recommendations for appliances. We're doing all
> Energy Star. But cost is of course an issue.
>
> Refrigerators- we want bottom freezer, and only 18-20 cu ft. Been
> looking at the Amana ones, which are substantially cheaper than all
> others (by at least $500 up to $2000 less). DOes anyone have
> experience with Amana? I'm wondering why they're *so* much cheaper.
> These are their highest rated energy star models. We're not doing
> stainless steel because the price is just prohibitive for us, I'm just
> wondering if they're really as good as all the others.
> Kenmore and Maytag have some in a closer range, but still more
> expensive.
>
> Cooktops/ovens - Will be gas. Any comments on having the cooktop
> separate from a built in oven? I'm kind of leery of built-ins, just
> because if something goes wrong, fixing/replacing is a PITA.
>
> Dishwashers - any suggestions helpful? It's not something we use much,
> but will install because it's a resale issue. We want as energy
> efficient as possible.
>
> And anyone who's familiar with tankless water heater systems or solar
> heating, would love to hear from you!
>
> Thanks!
Gas cooktop and built-in electric oven. Did that when I did my kitchen and
have never regretted it.
I also have an 'instant' hot water appliance under the sink. It has a .9
gallon tank and delivers almost boiling water. It has worked well - my only
criticism is it's flow is slow - possibly just a function of my setup.
As to solar hot water a Google search "solar hot water" returns many hits.
The first (sponsored link) is
http://www.apricus-solar.com/index.htm
This is the type of collector you should be considering. Very efficient
almost anywhere regardless of climate or latitude and not all that
expensive.
Regards.
Ken.
--
http://www.rupert.net/~solar
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