!: A Wolf Appliance Shopping Guide, Part 1

Economic downturn be damned, you've decided to move ahead with the kitchen re-design and you're considering buying a Wolf kitchen appliance package. Congrats, you're not alone - I keep meeting wave after wave of appliance shoppers who have decided to deal with the housing crisis by sitting tight and investing in their existing home. People have told me that they are doing this with the hope of selling in 2-4 years, or, you have the other folks who figure they are staying in their homes for another 5 years or more, are entertaining at home more than going out, so they want to make the crib as comfy as possible.

And you know what? A lot of folks are digging the Wolf ovens and Wolf ranges..again.

Last year wasn't easy when it came to selling any high-end appliances. Sure, you had certain individuals who needed a SubZero to replace an old one that was dying, and there were a handful of folks who weren't feeling the financial pinch so the K appliance purchase was still a reality. But for many, many folks, purchasing premium appliances became a pipe dream

But like I said, suddenly there's been a seismic change and Wolf appliances seems to be an early winner. People are starting to get more comfortable spending money and investing in their homes, and I feel that there is a belief in the marketplace that Wolf makes the BEST cooking appliances in the business. So you're not buying a Wolf. You're making an investment. That resonates with people nowadays. They like the fact that Wolf is still a family-owned business. They like the fact that all Wolf appliances are made in America. They like the idea that the Wolf gas range has a decades-old legacy in many commercial kitchens.

So if you're looking at Wolf appliances, here's a quick guide to make you somewhat dangerous for your next trip to appliance showroom, this way you won't have an appliance sales guy talking over your head with technical jargon. These questions are based on the most popular queries I receive regarding Wolf appliances.

Question #1. I can't decide between a Wolf gas range or dual fuel range.

Simply put, the dual fuel range offers self cleaning and an electric oven. It also has an electronic control panel on the front of the range. Do you bake alot? Does a stabler oven temp mean something to you? Then buy the Wolf dual fuel range, but realize that it's about 00 more than the comparable gas version.

Question #2. What is the difference between a framed and unframed oven and is there a price difference?

On the framed oven, the oven glass does not meet the edge, it has a border. Unframed, the opposite, glass goes all the way to the side. Same price.

Question #3. Why do I need a riser in the back of my Wolf range?

Well technically, you don't need one, but I can guarantee that if you don't put one back there it's going to at the very least look...incomplete. Do you want a gaping space in the back of your range? Doesn't make any sense. Plus, there's something about the riser being beneficial if the back wall area is combustible...someone may have mentioned that to me or I dreamt it...I'll have to re-check that for you.

Question #4. But I am tiling my wall in the back of the range, I DON'T WANT A RISER (foot stomping ensues)

Then don't buy the riser. Go with the island trim which fills in the hole and only comes up about 2". Plenty of room for your tile to be appreciated.

Question #5 Why doesn't anyone have Wolf appliance prices on their websites?

'Cause Wolf says so.

Question #6 How good is the Wolf double wall oven?

You mean the Wolf D030FS? That's a beauty. I love that piece. My aunt bought one and I go to their home and cook with it frequently. It's a pleasure to use, quiet, the oven holds the heat perfectly - thanks to two fans, no cold spots. And capacity is HUGE. You can stuff a Pterodactyl in there, let alone a good-sized turkey.

Question # 7 I was thinking of buying a Thermador or DCS oven instead. They are less expensive.

You're right they are. And those are both great wall oven producers. If the Wolf double oven is out of your budget, then run, don't walk to either DCS or Thermador (actually Monogram makes some nice wall ovens as well).

But if the Wolf is in your financial reach, you have to do it. Like I said, that particular model, the Wolf D030FS is absolute work of art. And it cooks damn well to boot.

I'll add more questions when time allows as I am exhausted from snow shoveling. In the meantime, if you have any questions about Wolf ovens, wolf ranges, wolf appliances in general, email me or call Wolf. And if you live near one of their design center's check it out. Good stuff, smart people there talking the product. They may even make you something yummy to eat.