What to Look for When Buying a Cooker in Kenya

Choosing the right cooker makes a huge difference in your kitchen, ensuring your cooking experience is both enjoyable and efficient. In Kenya, a market filled with many brands and options, picking the ideal cooker can become overwhelming. This blog post simplifies the buying process by guiding you through critical things to consider when shopping for a cooker.

Types of Cookers

Understanding the different cooker types is the first step in narrowing your search. Here’s a breakdown of common types:

• Gas Cookers: Gas cookers remain a popular choice in Kenyan homes. Their instant heat and precise control make them perfect for various cooking techniques. They are also a great option if you experience frequent power outages.
• Electric Cookers: Electric cookers provide a sleek look and their ceramic hobs are generally easier to clean. They offer even heat distribution, making them excellent for baking and simmering.
• Dual Fuel Cookers: These cookers provide the best of both worlds, combining a gas hob for quick heating and an electric oven for consistent baking results.

What to look for when buying a cooker in Kenya

Size and Capacity

Consider your household size and cooking habits to determine the ideal cooker size. For smaller households, a 50cm-60cm cooker with four burners will suffice. Larger families cooking more elaborate meals may want a 90cm cooker with additional burners or even multiple ovens. Remember to factor in your available kitchen space for installation.

Fuel Type

The debate between gas and electric often depends on personal preference and resource availability:

• Gas: Do you experience frequent power cuts? Do you prioritize instant heat control? Gas cookers may be the ideal choice.
• Electric: Desire the ease of cleaning and consistent heat of an electric oven? Go for an electric cooker.

Features

Modern cookers come with various features to enhance your cooking experience:

• Auto-Ignition: Forget fiddling with matches or lighters. Cookers with auto-ignition are convenient and safe to use.
• Grill: A separate grill compartment adds versatility to your cooking, perfect for grilling meats or vegetables.
• Timer: A timer helps you keep track of cooking times, preventing the risk of burning your food.
• Multiple Ovens (if applicable): This feature allows you to cook different dishes simultaneously at different temperatures, particularly useful for larger meals.

Safety

Safety should be a top priority when it comes to household appliances:

• Flame Failure Device (FFD): This feature is vital for gas cookers, automatically cutting off the gas supply if the flame goes out, preventing gas leaks.
• Child Lock: Some ovens feature child locks which prevent accidental operation.

Energy Efficiency

The electricity grid in Kenya may be strained from time to time. Opt for a cooker with a good energy efficiency rating. This will not only save you money on electricity bills but is also better for the environment.

Brand and Warranty

Invest in a reliable brand known for quality and durability. A good warranty guarantees peace of mind, protecting you against manufacturing defects for a specified period. Popular brands in Kenya include Ramtons, Von Hotpoint, Mika, Bruhm, and more.

Additional Considerations

• Cleaning: Ease of cleaning plays a big role in the overall cooker experience. Electric cookers with ceramic hobs are generally easiest to maintain.
• Design: Consider aesthetics and pick a cooker design that complements your kitchen style.
• Budget: Determine a workable budget and stick to it, factoring in installation costs as well.

Where to Buy a Cooker in Kenya

There are several options for purchasing a cooker in Kenya:

• Electronics Stores: Major electronics stores like Hotpoint and appliance showrooms offer variety and the ability to physically inspect the cookers before purchase.
• Online Marketplaces: Online platforms like Jumia offer convenience and competitive pricing.
• Supermarkets: Large supermarkets sometimes carry a selection of cookers.
• Kitchen.co.ke: Kitchen.co.ke specializes in kitchen appliances and offers a wide range of cookers from trusted brands. They are known for their excellent customer service, competitive prices, and often provide flexible payment options.

Why Consider Kitchen.co.ke

Here are a few reasons why Kitchen.co.ke stands out as a great place to buy appliances in Kenya:

• Wide Selection: They boast an extensive collection of cookers from leading brands like Ramtons, Bruhm, Mika, and more, ensuring you find the ideal fit for your needs.
• Expert Knowledge: Their staff are well-informed about kitchen appliances and can guide you in selecting the cooker that best suits your requirements and budget.
• Price and Convenience: Kitchen.co.ke offers competitive prices and the ease of online ordering. They frequently have promotions and deals.
• Customer Support: They have a responsive customer support team dedicated to addressing questions and making your shopping experience smooth.

Super important Reminders

• Customer Reviews: Before buying, read online reviews from verified buyers to get an idea of the cooker’s real-world performance and user experience.
• Installation: Unless you have the necessary expertise, arrange for professional installation of your new cooker, especially for gas cookers.

Tips for Maintaining Your Cooker in Kenya

Your cooker is a significant investment, and proper maintenance will ensure years of reliable service:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean spills immediately and follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to prevent buildup and maintain good hygiene.
• Gas Safety: Regularly inspect your gas cooker’s hose and regulator for signs of wear and replace them if needed. Always check for gas smells and if you detect a leak, turn off the gas supply and open windows to ventilate.
• Proper Use: Utilize the correct burner sizes for your cookware and avoid excessive weight on any one burner.
• Professional Servicing: Consider booking annual servicing with a qualified technician to ensure safety and longevity.

A Note on Second-Hand Cookers

While purchasing a second-hand cooker can be cheaper, exercise caution. Thoroughly inspect the cooker for damage, wear and tear, and insist on testing all the functions before committing to the purchase. If possible, get a short warranty from the seller.

Top Cookers in Kenya

Wrap!

Choosing the right cooker in Kenya takes some research and consideration. By prioritizing the factors discussed above – type, size, fuel, features, safety, energy efficiency, brand, additional considerations, where to buy, and maintenance – you can confidently select a cooker that meets your needs and enhances your culinary adventures.

I hope this comprehensive guide simplifies the decision-making process. Happy kitchen shopping!

Read also:

• Nutricook in Kenya: What You Need To Know
• Top Built-In Kitchen Appliances in Kenya You Must Have