International Builders' Show Product Preview: Whirlpool SteamClean Ranges

When it comes to appliances, steam is, well, hot. We’ve recently tested washers, dryers, and dishwashers with steam modes. (Steam-mode improvements ranged from barely to noticeably better than the cycles we regularly test. But other nonsteam cycles might also perform better as well, as we found on this LG dishwasher, for example.) Whirlpool is the latest appliance maker to unveil a steam-equipped product, launching new electric ranges in September.

Whirlpool claims the SteamClean cycle on its ranges will clean grime off the oven interior and that routine use of the new feature will eliminate having to run the self-cleaning cycle. To run a SteamClean cycle, you pour 12 ounces of water onto a tray at the bottom of the oven, close the door, and push a button. After 20 minutes, according to the manufacturer, you simply wipe the oven clean. The SteamClean ranges will cost $700 and up.—Kimberly Janeway

Essential information: If you’re in the market for a new range, read our buying advice and latest report.

Comments

[James Kelso]

We bought a dish washer and a stove from Lowes that will be two years old in September, both Whirlpool's. The dish washer fell apart , sounds like an airplane, the stove , the paint is falling off parts of the finish. The washer is under an extended waranty, luckely. The stove's warranty does not cover cosmetic , paint and etc. So that will be our expense. We paid 1600.00 for the two. They are made in Mexico so that explains the shody work. You that are contemplating buying Whirlpool procucts that are made in Mexico should think twice. I have been told about LP appliances that are made in Germany. This info came from appliance repairman that says the product is far superior and less expensive. I will turn my complaint to BBB consumor protection, any other agncy's I should know of? James Kelso of Tulsa