Samsung Updates Kitchen, Laundry Line

By Alan Wolf On May 17 2010 - 4:01am

NEW YORK — In a major line refresh, Samsung Electronics America has introduced a new collection of side-by- side refrigerators, a newly configured four-door fridge, an updated dishwasher platform, an extra-large-capacity frontload laundry pair, and what it describes as the first hybrid induction range.

The side-by-sides, touted as among the most energy efficient on the market, feature stronger, more precise humidity and temperature controls and improved shelf organization. The platform’s proprietary insulation system, electric temperature sensors, LED tower lighting and twin cooling system brings their energy consumption down to as much as 30 percent below Department of Energy minimum standards, Samsung said. The line is available in black, white, stainless steel and stainless platinum at suggested retails ranging from $999 to $1,799.

The RF4287 French door refrigerator has a counter-height fourth drawer with four independent temperature settings and a flexible divider to help organize the space. Available in stainless platinum, stainless steel, black and white, the fridge is priced to retail for $2,699 to $2,999.

The dishwashers, led by the $899 DMT800, feature soundproofed motors, rotating spray jets and, for tough food challenges, a “StormWash” wheel with a powerful built-in nozzle, tilted racking system and ample stacking height.

In laundry, Samsung is launching a stylish 5.0-cubic-foot capacity front load washer/dryer pair (WF520 and DV520) that features the company’s vibration reduction technology (VRT) to reduces rattling and noise, and a function that alerts users to clean the machine with a special hot-water cycle after 40 washers. The pair is available in stainless platinum or white at suggested retails ranging from $1,599 to $1,499 for the washer and $1,399 to $1,549 for the dryer.

In cooking, Samsung introduced the FE-N500 and FE-N300, Samsung’s hybrid induction and electric radiant ranges, which are reportedly the first to offer both induction and radiant electric elements in one cooktop. The FEN500 is available in stainless steel for $1,799, as is the FE-N300 for $1,499.

In addition, the company brought out a new freestanding electric range, model FER300, with 5.9-cubic-foot cavity, hidden bake element, and SteamQuick cleaning feature. The FER300 has two dual 9-inch and 6-inch elements and a pair of 6-inch elements, and is available in stainless steel for $699, and black and white for $599.

Commenting on the new introductions, James Politeski, home appliance sales and marketing senior VP, said: “We make it a point to listen to families and develop products that address their needs.”