With the arrival of winter, South Africans are preparing themselves not only for colder temperatures, but also the inevitable strain that using more electricity will place on their household budgets. But this does not have to be the case, says Samsung Electronics South Africa.

“By using energy efficient products, especially in the kitchen, consumers will be able to compensate for their increased reliance on heaters and other appliances during those extra hours spent cosily indoors,” says Rajan Gungiah, business leader for Digital Appliances at Samsung Electronics South Africa.

“In fact, we might be surprised just how much time is spent in the kitchen, irrespective of season. So it only makes sense to choose appliances that are designed to not only allow us to create culinary masterpieces, but also do not put an extra burden on the already pressurised power grid of the country.”

A well-stocked kitchen is home to some of the most draining electrical products and with different options available for the aspiring chef, the challenge comes in deciding on the primary choice of heat – gas or electric – each with a unique set of benefits to suit every lifestyle.

Gas ranges have long been the choice of professionals, who prefer to use the open flame. The flame is used for more than cooking as you can give food an impromptu char, ignite flambés, or even toast a marshmallow.

Gas offers great flexibility and instant heat, and by its very nature means that when the dreaded load shedding happens, it will not impact your cooking or therefore interrupt those important family meals.

Electric ranges, also known as radiant electric ranges, are familiar to many home cooks, featuring a glowing coil that transfers heat to cookware. Improved efficiency combined with added safety and easy cleaning.
Models with multi-purpose zones can be modified to accommodate your cookware, ensuring no unnecessary energy wastage.

“On average, consumers spend 50 minutes a day cooking and your stove is arguably the most important appliance in your kitchen so no matter which range you choose, it should meet all your cooking needs from simply warming a pot of soup to handling a large dinner party.

“There is no reason to dread the kitchen as there are more than enough cooking appliances available to suit your tastes, lifestyle and pockets this season,” concludes Gungiah.