Q: What are the disadvantages of having a 24" range? We're trying to maximize cabinet and counter space and those 6 extra inches would really be helpful. What's the downside?

We cook a lot and often use all 4 burners at once. Thanks for any thoughts.

Sent by S More

BlueStar has always been a source for great-looking and professionally-functioning gas ranges. But now they're introducing a new line of appliances aimed at us - the city cook -that are all a mere 24" wide: More

Do you use a microwave? Microwaves have enjoyed a boost of foodie cred the last couple years, thanks to praises from Harold McGee, Mark Bittman, and others who have debunked some of the myths surrounding microwave cooking. But that hasn't changed the microwave oven's footprint ‐ it is still one bulky appliance. Here are six smart ways to get it off the countertop. More

When it comes to making dinner on busy weeknights, the freezer is my not-so-secret weapon. I use the weekend to blanch and freeze greens or make extra batches of grains and beans that I store in the freezer. So I'm probably way too excited about the Washington Post's tremendously helpful one-page guide on safely and effectively freezing, storing, and thawing foods. More

Conventionally, the kitchen range is installed against a wall. And for good reason: it makes it a no-brainer when it comes to the ventilation hood: just run it up the wall. But then something happened in kitchen design: the range (or just the cooktop in some cases), was given the freedom to be located on an island in the center of the kitchen. But what about the hood? Here, we've gathered some options and examples: More

A friend of ours recently lamented the layout of appliances in her kitchen, which required the performance of an awkward dance every time she wanted to retrieve something from the refrigerator. She felt resigned to this annoyance ... until someone pointed out a simple yet revolutionary solution: change the direction of the refrigerator door! More

We recently went refrigerator shopping and saw model after model with ice and water dispensers installed in the doors. It's not something we want because of the look, the fact that these dispensers often need repair, and the $50 price tag on replacement filters. A great alternative to consider: More

With counter space seemingly always at a premium and all that stove top real-estate just sitting there, have you ever asked yourself if having four burners is really necessary? More

Q: I'd like to install a 2-element drop-in induction cooktop in a small NYC apartment.

Any suggestion for best value — price, quality?

Sent by Geoffrey More

Q: I am hoping that one of you or a reader knows this. How do I properly use the adjustable humidity controls for my fridge's produce drawers? While I do tend to stuff in the produce in the way it fits best I suppose that I might as well know what I should be doing. Thanks!

Sent by Allison More