Solar power is a renewable energy source that can help you save on your monthly bills or reduce your carbon footprint and may be used for a vast array of applications including cooking. Whether you are camping or just experimenting for fun, building a solar oven can help you understand the science behind solar power, and it makes a fun project for all ages. Read on to learn how to make a solar ...
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Blog Posts in 2019
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How to Make a Solar Oven Science Project
December 23, 2019 -
Winter Warm Up: Your New Favorite Dutch Oven Bread Recipe
December 17, 2019 There is no scent that is more familiar, enticing, or comforting than that of freshly baked bread, but for many, the process of mixing and kneading the dough and then waiting for it to rise may seem intimidating. The best way to enjoy the taste and aroma of a warm loaf straight from the oven without all the fuss is with Dutch oven bread—a perfect alternative to a more traditional dough that is ...Continue Reading -
Microwave No More: How to Make Popcorn on the Stove
December 10, 2019 Microwave popcorn may be quick and convenient, but it is no match for the taste and quality of traditional stovetop popcorn. By itself, popcorn is a relatively healthy snack, and making popcorn on the stove allows you to control the amount of fat and salt you consume which can benefit those with health concerns or dietary restrictions. If you have ever read the label on a package of microwave ...Continue Reading -
Create Something Together: Helpful Tips for Baking with the Kids
December 3, 2019 One of the many challenges of parenting is finding fun activities to keep your kids engaged. In the summer, it’s easy to spend afternoons at the park, but during the winter, you may be cooped up inside. If you’re short on ideas, Mr. Appliance® is here to help! How about creating something in the kitchen together? There’s no better way to spend time with your kids on a cold and/or snowy day than ...Continue Reading -
Be Smart About Laundry—Invest in a Smart Washer, Dryer
November 26, 2019 Whether you love it or hate it, laundry is a chore that you can't avoid—but the right appliances can help to make the process much less daunting while saving you valuable time and energy. When it comes time to replace your laundry equipment, a smart washer dryer combo is a great option that gives you the flexibility and freedom to control your equipment from wherever life takes you using any wi-fi ...Continue Reading -
How Does an Air Fryer Work? Your Appliance Explained
November 19, 2019 Deep-fried foods are undeniably delicious, but high levels of fat and cholesterol can render them an unhealthy option for health-conscious individuals, or anyone who is watching their weight. Although it was once a near-impossible task to mimic the crispy exterior and juicy interior of foods that have been cooked in hot oil, air fryer technology has leveled the playing field—but how does an air ...Continue Reading -
The Pros and Cons of a Ventless Dryer
November 12, 2019 According to the Statista.com , close to 81% percent of Canadian households are equipped with a clothes dryer. Whether homeowners choose a gas or electric dryer, nearly all are vented to the outdoors—but there is another option. A ventless dryer is the ideal solution in a number of applications, but if you're on the fence about whether or not one is right for you read on to learn everything you ...Continue Reading -
What a Smart Refrigerator Could Do for Your Kitchen
November 5, 2019 For decades, refrigerators have served the critical purpose of keeping perishable food cold. Many of today’s modern appliances feature smart technology to make life even easier! Explore how a wide array of smart refrigerator features can take your kitchen to the next level. Smart Refrigerator Features Smart refrigerators have a large touchscreen interface and connect to the internet via Wi-Fi. ...Continue Reading -
What to Do When Your Washing Machine Won’t Drain
October 29, 2019 A functional washing machine is an effective tool for getting dirt, sweat, and stains out of clothing. The exact way the washer cleans your clothes depends on the precise settings you choose, but the basic premise is the same: first, the drum fills with water when you hit “Start.” After the wash cycle, the drum drains, and the first spin cycle begins. Then, the drum refills to rinse the clothes ...Continue Reading -
How Long Do Microwave Ovens Last? The Lifespan of a Microwave
October 22, 2019 While earlier versions of the microwave oven were met with cool reviews due to concerns over safety, size, and price, today, According to a December 2012 study released by Statistics Canada, (the Canadian agency tasked with collecting and publishing statistics) 94.2 percent of households own a microwave oven. This versatile, compact device saves both time and energy on tasks such as cooking and ...Continue Reading -
Dryer Not Drying, Heating, or Spinning? Here’s What to Do
October 15, 2019 With an average lifespan of about 14 years, you can expect to enjoy years of reliable service from your dryer, but a lack of maintenance or old age may cause it to underperform or periodically break down. You can avoid downtime and costly repairs by paying close attention to warning signs and knowing when to call the experts. Read on to learn what to do if your dryer won't spin, heat, or dry, from ...Continue Reading -
How Long Do Dishwashers Last?
October 3, 2019 Dishwashers are a modern convenience that can be found in most kitchens across the nation, and like other common household appliances they have a relatively predictable lifespan. Learn what to expect from your dishwasher and some helpful tips on how to maximize your investment, with expert advice from Mr. Appliance®. How Long Should a Dishwasher Last? There are a number of variables that can ...Continue Reading -
My Dryer Won’t Start – What Do I Do?
October 1, 2019 So you’ve found yourself saying, “Help! My dryer won’t start!” This is a frustrating situation, but the solution may not be too difficult. Whenever an appliance fails, it’s best to start by looking for common (and simple) problems first. Try a few easy troubleshooting tips, like checking for a tripped circuit breaker or a broken door latch. Chances are, you can go from “Noooo, my dryer won’t ...Continue Reading -
How to Be a Good Host or Hostess
September 24, 2019 Your home is an intimate space that reflects your personal taste and style, and while it may be the place that you feel most comfortable the same may not always hold true for your guests. Whether you are having extended family over for an impromptu game night or hosting friends for a formal dinner party or informal backyard barbecue, Mr. Appliance® has some great tips on how to be a good host to ...Continue Reading -
The Best Gifts for Cooks
September 17, 2019 For some, cooking is merely a means to end but for others, it is a passion. Whether you know a well-seasoned chef or one who is just starting to learn, each will have their own unique sense of style and flair when it comes to creating a meal. While this can make it challenging to shop for these individuals around birthdays or holidays, the kitchen experts at Mr. Appliance® have a number of great ...Continue Reading -
How to Become a Soup Kitchen Volunteer
September 17, 2019 Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community in which you live and can be a valuable and rewarding experience. By becoming a soup kitchen volunteer you can help to provide hot, healthy meals to those in need and make a real difference regardless of how much time you have to spare. Read on to learn how to get started, with helpful information and tips from the dedicated team of ...Continue Reading -
Grandparents Day Gifts | Tips, Ideas, and Inspiration
September 3, 2019 In addition to signalling the start of the school year and the first days of fall, September is also a time to honour grandparents. As this special day approaches and you are searching for the perfect Grandparents Day gifts, the team of dedicated professionals at Mr. Appliance® has some great ideas to help inspire you. What is Grandparents Day? The origin of Grandparents Day dates back to 1973 ...Continue Reading -
How to Separate Laundry to Prolong the Life of Your Clothes
August 27, 2019 If you're like most, you have a love-hate relationship with your washer and dryer—where you love the idea of having freshly laundered clothes but hate the mishaps and disasters that can ruin your most cherished or expensive items. The best way to avoid damage and help your clothes to last longer is by taking the time to sort your laundry before you begin and setting the correct temperature in ...Continue Reading -
How to Clean an Ice Machine (and Why)
August 27, 2019 There is nothing more refreshing than an ice-cold drink, and the best way to preserve the quality and taste of your ice is with regular cleaning and maintenance. Read on to learn how to clean an ice maker and discover why it is such an important part of any cleaning routine. Signs You Need to Clean Your Ice Maker Once you've chosen the best ice maker to suit the needs of your family and lifestyle, ...Continue Reading -
How to Clean a Deep Fryer and Say Goodbye to Grease
August 13, 2019 Deep frying adds a unique flavor and texture to food that is impossible to replicate and is one of the main reasons that restaurant food is so appealing. You can achieve similar results at home with an electric or stovetop deep fryer, but it's important to ensure it is cleaned properly on a regular basis. Read on for some deep fryer cleaning tips from the experts at Mr. Appliance® to stop grease ...Continue Reading -
Troubleshooting Tips for When Your Dryer Won’t Start
July 30, 2019 Have you discovered that your dryer won’t start up? There are several possible reasons that a gas or electric dryer won’t turn on; hopefully, it’s a simple issue such as a tripped breaker, a broken switch, or a defective latch. These straightforward troubleshooting tips will help you pinpoint the problem and take appropriate action. You may be able to fix the problem yourself, but more complicated ...Continue Reading -
What Is an Icebox? A History Lesson
July 23, 2019 Have you ever heard your grandma refer to the freezer as the “icebox?” She didn’t coin this phrase herself—she may have actually had a legitimate icebox in her home as a kid! This was an early method of refrigeration that people utilized to keep food cold before the modern refrigerator. Learn what role the icebox played in refrigeration history and how it helped lead to modern fridges and ...Continue Reading -
Know Your Appliances: What in the World Is a Garburator?
July 16, 2019 Modern conveniences are designed to save space, time, and money by performing any number of unpleasant household tasks quickly and efficiently. One such item that can be found in homes across the globe is a garburator, and while you may not know what one is you may be surprised to find that you have one in your kitchen. What's in a Name? Travelling the world is a great way to expand your horizons, ...Continue Reading -
Which Is Correct: Laundry Mat or Laundromat?
July 9, 2019 Like vacuuming, dusting, and dishwashing, laundry is a normal part of every household routine. Whether or not you own your own washer and dryer or have access to a communal laundry room in your building, chances are you have used a coin-operated facility at one time or another to clean bulky items or to stretch your wardrobe while on vacation. The question is, do you refer to this type of business ...Continue Reading -
Why Is There a D in "Fridge" but Not in "Refrigerator"?
July 2, 2019 The English language is full of oddities and inconsistencies that don't always make sense and periodically result in unusual spellings or pronunciations. While this can make English a difficult language to learn, even those who are fluent may find themselves searching for answers every now and then or relying on spellcheck for assistance. The appliance world is no exception when it comes to these ...Continue Reading -
DIY: How to Make an Apron at Home
June 25, 2019 Whether you’re cooking, gardening, painting, or doing any other messy task, an apron is a great way to keep your clothing clean. Don’t want to spend money on a new apron? With some fabric and a sewing machine, you can create your very own custom apron suited to the task at hand. Here are the DIY tips you need on how to make apron at home. Benefits of Wearing an Apron First and foremost, wearing an ...Continue Reading -
How to Play the Washboard as a Musical Instrument
June 18, 2019 In the musical realm, there are few instruments that capture the historical charm and whimsical percussion of the washboard. This once popular laundry tool was considered effective at removing most dirt and stains from clothing and linens given the right soap and some vigorous scrubbing, but it has since been replaced by the modern convenience of the automatic washing machine. Today these vintage ...Continue Reading -
An Easy, DIY Play Kitchen for Your Little Chef
June 11, 2019 It’s said that the kitchen is the heart of the home. If you’re a parent who spends any time there, there’s a high likelihood you’ve had offers to help from little hands which are also near and dear to your heart. From helping crack eggs to playing drums on the floor with pans, children love feeling like they’re part of cooking meals. In fact, this CBS News story shared research results showed that ...Continue Reading -
How to Make Slime with Laundry Detergent and Shampoo
June 11, 2019 When it comes to school science, experiments slime ranks number one, giving students a hands-on way to learn about chemical reactions, polymers, and viscosity. Creating slime at home is even more fun and can provide you and your children with hours of enjoyment using just a few common ingredients. Put away the electronics and get back to basics with these tips on how to make slime with laundry ...Continue Reading -
The History of Baking: From Ancient Egyptians to Today
May 28, 2019 From bread and pie to pastries and cakes, baking has a long history that has satisfied the hunger of countless people from worldwide civilizations for thousands of years. The next time you bake a culinary masterpiece—or simply pop a frozen pizza in the oven—think of this history of baking. Ancient Baking The oldest known ovens were unearthed in Croatia in 2014. They are estimated to be 6,500 years ...Continue Reading -
Super Cool Refrigerator History
May 21, 2019 It's hard to imagine your home without a refrigerator, but as little as 100 years ago Canadians relied on alternative methods of food preservation according to the type of food and the surrounding climate. Read on to learn more about the evolution of this modern-day marvel courtesy of the seasoned professionals at Mr. Appliance®, from the old-fashioned icebox to the technologically advanced smart ...Continue Reading -
When Was Ice Cream Invented? A Short, Sweet History Lesson
May 14, 2019 There is nothing like a cold scoop of ice cream on a hot summer day, but if you're like most people you have given little or no thought to the history of this wildly popular treat. Read on to learn all you ever needed to know about the origin and evolution of ice cream including the best way to store it, from the team of professionals at Mr. Appliance®. When Was Ice Cream Invented? Icy treats can ...Continue Reading -
Create a Timeless Kitchen with Antique Appliances
May 7, 2019 For several generations now, kitchens have included appliances to make life easier. Long gone are the days of stoking the fire, hauling ice to the ice chest, and washing dishes by hand. There’s no arguing the convenience of appliances—the problem is they’re simply an eyesore. If you’re put off by gaudy appliances disrupting the beauty of your carefully selected shaker-style cabinets, butcher block ...Continue Reading -
The Best Range Hoods to Keep Your Kitchen Ventilated
April 23, 2019 Ventilation is a key factor in the quality of your indoor air and the cleanliness of your home. When you consider that the kitchen is one of the most often used rooms and that which produces the most odours, grease, and steam, it's imperative that you choose a range hood that not only looks good, but also performs well. With so many different types of range hoods to choose from it can be hard to ...Continue Reading -
Retro Kitchen Appliances Are Back in Style
April 16, 2019 Retro Kitchen Appliances are Back in Style Retro style kitchen appliances give you modern performance with a vintage, but timeless look. If you're interested in the retro appliances trend you will want to know a little about their history, today's modern twist on retro, how to integrate them into your design and most importantly, making sure your new appliances comply with safety standards. We ...Continue Reading -
Coloured Appliances in the Kitchen: Yes, Your Oven Can Be Purple
April 9, 2019 For most people, the kitchen is the heart of the home. It's where meals are prepared and shared, where stories are told, where childhood boo-boos get a bandage and a kiss better. Cold, heartless stainless steel has been at the top of the design list for American kitchens for many years, but perhaps it's time to infuse a little warmth and colour to our favourite spaces with coloured appliances in ...Continue Reading -
The Great Debate: Front-Load vs. Top-Load Washing Machine
April 2, 2019 Who comes out on top in the fight against loads and loads of dirty laundry—a front-load or top-load washing machine? If you ask around, you may find that some people with strong opinions will try to steer you in one direction or the other. You may recall that top-load machines ruled the roost while you were growing up, but by the turn of the century, front-loading washing machines took center ...Continue Reading -
Can You Put Styrofoam in the Microwave? Reheat Food Safely
March 26, 2019 Microwave ovens are a useful addition to any kitchen and in most circumstances, they are considered to be a time-saving alternative for heating, cooking, and defrosting a variety of foods. One of the most common uses for this technology is the reheating of leftovers which poses the question, "Can you put styrofoam in the microwave?" This popular material is often used by restaurants and fast food ...Continue Reading -
How to Clean Front-Load Washer Mould
March 19, 2019 Front-load washing machines are famous for being quiet, efficient, and gentle on clothes, but they’re infamous for accruing nasty mould and mildew. Here’s how to clean front-load washer mould, along with tips to limit the machine’s susceptibility to future growth. What Causes Front-Load Washing Machines to Mould? Front-load washers are all the rage, but their design makes them more prone to mould. ...Continue Reading -
Does Stainless Steel Rust? (Stainless Isn’t Always Rust-less)
March 12, 2019 Stainless steel is used in any number of applications including medical equipment, automotive parts, and indoor and outdoor appliances. There are several misconceptions about this versatile material—the biggest one being that it doesn't rust when exposed to water or the elements. While stainless steel may not corrode in the same manner or at the same speed as ordinary steel it can happen under the ...Continue Reading -
Are Microwaves Safe or Dangerous?
March 5, 2019 When microwave ovens were first introduced in the late 1960s they revolutionized the way people reheat, defrost, and cook their food. While they were once considered a luxury item, they can now be found in nearly every home across the country. But like most modern conveniences it's important to learn all you can about how microwave ovens work and whether or not they are a safe alternative to more ...Continue Reading -
Freezing Baby Food 101: How to Freeze Baby Food
February 26, 2019 Caring for a new little one comes with many questions and concerns. How should you dress your baby? What temperature should you keep your baby’s nursery? What baby food should you buy? Your questions are never-ending, but fortunately, there’s often more than one right answer. For instance, many parents choose to make their own baby food and freeze it for later. This is a healthy and cost-effective ...Continue Reading -
Can You Put Hot Food in Your Refrigerator?
February 19, 2019 If you're like most people food safety is somewhat of a mystery. Unfortunately, the consequences associated with improper food handling and storage can be dire, ranging from mild stomach upset to severe illness or even death—prompting a need for strict adherence to food safety guidelines. One of the most common dilemmas that homeowners face is whether or not to put hot food in the refrigerator, ...Continue Reading -
What Is Freezer Burn? Causes and Prevention of Freezer Burn
February 15, 2019 Freezing food is a great way to reduce waste, spend less money on groceries, and save time by preparing meals in advance . Of course, if you’re not diligent, food can go bad in the freezer, too, from a condition called “freezer burn.” Now’s your chance to learn what causes freezer burn and how to prevent it. What is Freezer Burn? While freezing food has some amazing benefits, the biggest downside ...Continue Reading -
How to Install a Garburator
February 12, 2019 A new garburator can enhance your lifestyle, saving you time while helping to reduce your impact on the environment. Whether you need to replace your old or worn out appliance or you are installing a new garburator as part of a kitchen remodel or renovation, it's important to follow the proper procedures to ensure optimal performance and safety. The experts at Mr. Appliance® are pleased to provide ...Continue Reading -
Grow These Indoor Plants You Can Eat
February 5, 2019 There is no question that organic or locally grown produce has a number of significant benefits over varieties which have been genetically modified, or laden with pesticides. Unfortunately the healthier version of fruits, vegetables, and herbs come with a heftier price tag, and may be hard to find at your local grocer. The solution? Start your own indoor garden, and have your favourites at your ...Continue Reading -
Does Coconut Oil Need to Be Refrigerated?
February 5, 2019 Coconut oil has gained popularity over the past decade among those looking for a healthier alternative for cooking, grooming, skin care, and more. With so many different applications and benefits, it's easy to see why coconut oil has become a staple in homes across the country—but while many people can name a dozen different ways to use it not everyone knows the right way to store it. Take the ...Continue Reading -
How to Hide your Kitchen Appliances in Plain Sight
January 22, 2019 Regardless of whether your kitchen is decorated in a modern, traditional, or contemporary style, nothing can ruin the overall appearance more than your kitchen appliances. One of the best ways to enhance the look and feel of the most often used room in your home is by hiding your appliances, both big and small, in plain sight—but how? The team of professionals at Mr. Appliance® has a number of ...Continue Reading -
Clever, Easy Ways to Hide a Washer & Dryer
January 15, 2019 The washer and dryer may be two of your most treasured appliances, but that doesn’t mean you want to stare at them all day. Unfortunately, not every home or apartment is lucky enough to have a dedicated laundry room. Avoid airing out your dirty laundry for all to see with these ways to hide a washer and dryer. Places to Hide Laundry Room Appliances Every living space is unique. Some layouts don’t ...Continue Reading -
Small Laundry Room Ideas and Design Tips
January 8, 2019 It’s easy for the laundry room to become cluttered, especially if you have a small space to work with. The key is to design the room strategically so it stays organized week after week. You also want to introduce some personal flair to make this part of your home more inviting. Here are some small laundry room design ideas to help you make the most of the space. Colour Scheme Begin by assessing ...Continue Reading -
Commercial Kitchen Layout Tips
January 2, 2019 The kitchen is not only the heart of the home but also the heart of any restaurant or food service venue. While the quality and variety of equipment you choose will help determine your success, equally as important are the kitchen design and layout. Whether you in the planning stages for a new restaurant or would like to improve the workflow and efficiency in your existing establishment Mr. ...Continue Reading