We may not be flying around in cars, like the Jetsons, but it seems like everything around us is getting more technologically-based by the minute. Our kitchens are no exception! While some prefer the “retro” look in a kitchen, “smart kitchens” are becoming the new, up-and-coming fad in home design. Just browse around any kitchen appliance stores, and you will see new ways to innovate and automate your cooking space. But, is it the best idea for your kitchen area? What are the pros and cons of smart appliances, and what are some examples of what they can do?

Benefits of Smart Appliances

It seems like with each passing day, there is less time to get things done. The appeal of a “next-gen kitchen” or any smart appliance is for those looking for ways to simplify, shorten, and save on cooking time and technique. Most smart appliances these days can be controlled from the one device we always have with us: our cell phones! With a touch of a button, you are able to control the power of your kitchen, the temperature of your food, and any other variable you wish to control. These technological advances allow you to be more in direct control over the time and temperature of your kitchen appliances, which can help save you from forgetting the turkey in the oven or the popcorn in the microwave. If multi-tasking isn’t your forte, you are able to set and forget your appliances for future meals, cook with different settings at one time, and get a diverse use out your kitchen gadgets. Also, these may also help you save water and energy, as you can control every aspect of your output in the kitchen. Overall, a technologically advanced kitchen can help save you time, effort, money, and some sanity!

Drawbacks of Smart Appliances

However, with these new appliances, there can be some major downfalls. Of course, for an appliance to be a “smart appliance,” it usually needs some sort of connection to the internet, so that is a must. As things become more automated, the more reliant we are on technology and its ability to work without flaws. All of this technology is fairly new, so systems can still have bugs or issues within them, causing you more headache than you need. This can make your repair costs for any of your smart appliances skyrocket, should any of them malfunction! A specially trained technician in the mechanics of smart appliances would need to fix the problems that you might have  Just like a computer, they will need to be updated with the latest software and improvements. However, due to the newness of these products, they may not be immediately available.. And in another comparison, just as computers can get hacked, the fear that these appliances could also be hacked by outside parties is a true concern of many. In summary, a smart kitchen can push you forward into the future and into a place of automation control, and peace-of-mind, but it can also cause you some strife due to the technological aspect of the machines. The decision is up to you!

Now that just about everything in our lives is technologically-based, it is no surprise that our appliance developers are heading in the same direction. Just imagine—getting home from work and the oven is preheating, the fridge has let you know that you are running low on milk, and your dishwasher is completing its customized cycles. Nothing is beyond reach! Here are just a few examples of some smart appliances, and how they can help you in the kitchen:

• Smart Fridges
  • Internal cameras to view without opening
  • Personalized cooling options
  • Internet access for use as a TV or to search recipes
  • Touchscreen to write notes or flip through recipes
  • Connectivity to speakers, TVs, etc.
  • Listing capability of groceries needed from within
• Smart ovens
  • Remote power on and off
  • Personalized settings and timers
  • Preheat settings for specific times
  • Phone notifications on items in the oven
  • Voice control by Google Home or Alexa devices
  • Internal cameras to view without opening
• Smart cooktops
  • Multiple types of burners and sizes
  • Connectivity option to fans and/or lights
  • Digital flame production for aesthetics
  • Verbal command capabilities
• Smart dishwashers
  • Touchscreen interface and inside view
  • Smart Assist linkage for vocal commands
  • Remote power on and off
  • Adjustable racks
  • Food particle filtering systems
  • Specific cleaning cycles based on types of dishes or level of cleanliness
  • Alerts for low detergent
  • Customized cleaning cycles, times, and processes
• Smart microwaves
  • Touchscreen and inside view
  • Remote start and stop
  • Barcode scanning for timing setup on foods
  • Customization for most heated items
  • Convection oven options
  • Power-saving modes
  • Alternate opening locations

When deciding on whether to update and upgrade your kitchen, weigh the pros and cons of these appliances, and make the decision that is right for you and your family’s needs. If you need advice or assistance with the newest and latest appliances on the market, stop by Facets of Lafayette! We will be happy to show you into the future world of kitchenware!