The EnergyGuide label on new refrigerators will tell you how much electricity in kilowatt-hours (kWh) a particular model uses in one year. The smaller the number, the less energy the refrigerator uses and the less it will cost you to operate. In addition to the EnergyGuide label, don't forget to look for the Energy Star label. A new refrigerator with an Energy Star label will save you between $35 and $70 a year compared to the models designed 15 years ago. This adds up to between $525 and $1,050 during the average 15-year life of the unit.

We recommend having at least 1 high quality non-stick saute pan. It makes cooking eggs and delicate items like fish a breeze. It also cuts down on the amount of fat necessary to effectively saute. The best place to buy such pans is from a restaurant supplier.

Traditionally, a springform pan has been defined as a round pan, that with the aid of a clamp, has removable sides and bottom. Generally used for cheesecakes, these pans allow cakes or tortes to be easily extricated from the pan.