By Nathan Weber
CHICAGO–While most of the appliances found at this week’s show are of the small electrics variety, there are some notable major appliance items to be unveiled as well. Here are a few highlights.
De’Longhi
De’Longhi is introducing two environmentally friendly portable air conditioners, models PACA 120E and PAC W130E. Both units, reflecting the manufacturer’s concern with “going green,” incorporate the refrigerant gas R410A, which contains no ozone-depleting substances. The units also feature a 24-hour energy-saving timer, adjustable thermostat, electronic display with remote control and non-drip technology. The PAC W130E features water-to-air technology and offers a turbo power function to generate the most comfortable room conditions in a brief amount of time.
Ronco Corp.
Ronco, celebrating its 50th anniversary on television, is introducing its Showtime Standard rotisserie and barbecue. The company pioneered direct marketing on TV a half century ago by selling items such as the Pocket Fisherman and Veg-o-Matic food-prep appliance. The rotisserie includes a non-stick spit rod, basket and grate cover. Accessories like a flavor injector, self-turning kabob rods, and dual-heating tray and lid make the rotisserie suitable for fowl, meat and fish.
Sanyo
Sanyo, North America’s largest maker of compact refrigerators, is showcasing its SR-1031 W/S, a 60-inch frost-free appliance it defines as “apartment size.” Energy Star-efficient, it has a capacity of 10.3 cubic feet. Food spoilage from accidental spills are no worry here, thanks to three adjustable spill-proof shelves and a glass crisper. A full-width freezer component holds an ice tray, and a dial-control thermostat keeps food at just the right temperature. It is available in white and stainless steel.
In addition to its refrigerators, Sanyo is showing an advanced lineup of microwaves that range from compact to a 1-cubic-foot convection grill with full features. The EM-S5120W, for example, sports a three-color digital display and has a generous capacity of 1.2 cubic feet. It provides eight direct-access menu keys for everything from soup to popcorn, 10 power levels, a kitchen timer and two defrost keys. For special protection of kids, it also comes with a child lock-out function.
Vinotemp International
Vinotemp introduces its ECO-SERIES, a line of environmentally friendly home wine coolers. Utilizing thermo-electronic technology, it eliminates the need for ozone-destroying chlorofluorocarbons and hydrochlorofluorocarbons. Further, with the exception of a built-in fan, the series uses no moving parts, guaranteeing far less vibration—known to damage wine—and very little maintenance. The coolers have a black body, stainless-steel doors and trim, and double-paned glass.