Appliance hell

[pscot]

Several months ago the top half of our double wall oven gave up. The bottom oven still worked, but has been beeping like a demented imp. Yesterday the thing finally died. It's an older GE and parts are no longer available, so we're shopping for a replacement. Has anyone bought one of these recently? Consumer reports seems to like Frigidaire, but I've seen some really negative comments on the brand. I'm leaning toward Whilpool, but I hate the thought of spending 2 Large on something ruled by a digital control panel that may die if it gets an adverse horoscope. That relentless beep, beep, beep is still ringing in my head.

[katkat]

1. beep beep

I had my old microwave debeeped by a friend. It was a horrible version that would beep forever, not just a few times, when it was done until you opened the door.

When it needed replacing, I asked the store to do it on one I liked and they told me it would void the warranty. So I bought one that supposedly was beep free but turned out not to be. I was too lazy to return it.

They ought to have some magic turn off the beeps sequence you can key in on microwaves, like some GE dishwashers have.

For those wanting to debeep their GE dishwashers, this works on some: Press the heated dry pad 5 times within 3 seconds. A triple beep will sound to indicate the end-of-cycle beep option has been toggled. A power failure will reset this to beeping.

[morningglory]

2. All I know is never buy a GE appliance. I feel that a problem in the modern

world with piles of garbage comprised of a lot of computer parts, we need a box with replacable parts. We can do upgrades and switch parts ourselves. Anyone wanting to make a new cpu board should have to make it compatible with one style of box. Just wishing...

[Warpy]

3. I'm going to fit my kitchen with Kenmore appliances

if I end up staying in this country. That might be sooner rather than later since the Monkey Ward's oven door is telling me it's tired and it's time to go to appliance heaven. It's really too bad, the poor battered thing has the only well calibrated oven I've ever used.

While it's nice to dream of high end gourmet stuff, what I really need is something durable with decent longevity that won't exceed what else is around this neighborhood.

Kenmore is always at or near the top of the list for good value for money.

[phantom power]

4. I found the same thing, but it depresses me.

Because I've had significant trouble with two of my kenmore appliances (fridge and microwave).

Reminds me of that old saying "The optimist believes we are living in the best of all possible worlds -- the pessimist fears that this is so"

[pscot]

5. Longevity and durability are outmoded concepts

in the world of appliance design. All modern ovens are controlled by complicated digital circuitry that doesn't seem to handle extreme temperature changes very well. Using the automatic cleaning cycle, where temps get up to about 500 C, seems to be particularly deadly. Replacing a control panel (if you can find one) can cost anywhere from $200 to $600. You're lucky if the device lasts ten years. If you're unlucky it may malfunction from the gitgo. Kenmore's ovens are made by Whirlpool. Brand names don't mean what they used to. All this is enough to make a person just a tad cynical, not to say depressed.

[katkat]

6. I almost suggested

that pscot find himself a restored old stove. I sure miss mine from my previous house.

Does it get any better than this? I think not:

[pscot]

7. The pinnacle of appliance perfection

There was one of those in a rental we lived in about a hundred years ago. It probably still works.

[catnhatnh]

8. 2 large is frightening....

how about a built in single, a carpentered shelf, and a half pan professional or large home convection unit? A nice half pan (approx 10x12x9 inch cavity) will take up to three cookie sheets or two 3 inch deep hotel pans and can be had in nice shape on E-bay for about $200... A nice new home convection starts at about the same. My thing is I hate all in one appliances and when the first half gets flukey, the WHOLE thing sucks...and almost no one needs two "full size" ovens.

[pscot]

9. On its face, your argument makes perfect sense

Mrs. pscot, however, finds it unconvincing. We have a double-oven sized hole, therefore a double oven is required to fill it. Besides, if the Canadians ever invade, we may need to cook for a regiment.

[catnhatnh]

10. The Canadians-OH MY GOD...

They'd force us to watch hockey and drink Molsens and actually give health care to EVERYONE!!! Oh, wait....maybe I'll cook a large batch too.

[pscot]

11. Costco to the rescue

Found a very nice GE double oven with convection for about $500 less than the cheapest online seller. GE has apparently made too many expensive, stainless steel units for which there is not enough demand. I had a couple of local guys install it this morning. It has a control panel like a 747. I hope it's as reliable.