\nBefore using any appliance, it\u2019s always a good idea to:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Read any instructions provided in your kitchen.<\/li>\n
- Keep appliances clean and report faults through Home at Halls.<\/li>\n
- Never leave cooking unattended.<\/li>\n
- Switch appliances off after use (except fridges and freezers).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
You can also find full appliance manuals and guidance on our electrical Items page<\/a>.<\/p>\n
Ovens and hobs<\/strong>
\nDifferent accommodation areas have different types of cookers, including gas, electric and induction hobs. Some Darwin College flats (C\u2013K) and other accommodation areas now include induction hobs<\/strong>, so it\u2019s worth checking what type of cooker you have before you arrive.<\/p>\nElectric hobs<\/strong>
\nElectric hobs heat up more slowly than gas but also take longer to cool down. Always remember that the surface may still be hot even after you switch it off.<\/p>\nGas hobs<\/strong>
\nIf you have a gas hob, make sure flames stay underneath the pan and never leave cooking unattended.<\/p>\nInduction hobs<\/strong>
\nInduction hobs work differently from traditional hobs because they use magnetic technology to heat the pan rather than the surface itself. They only work with induction-compatible cookware. A quick way to check if your pan works is to hold a fridge magnet to the base \u2013 if it sticks, it should work on an induction hob.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/blogs.kent.ac.uk\/accommodation\/files\/2026\/09\/UNISTUDENTS208-1.jpg\")
<\/p>\nMicrowaves<\/strong>
\nMicrowaves are included in all accommodation kitchens and are great for quick meals.
\nA few top tips:
\n\u2022 Always check cooking instructions
\n\u2022 Cover food loosely to avoid splashes
\n\u2022 Make sure food is piping hot before eating
\n\u2022 Never put metal or foil inside the microwave<\/p>\nKettles<\/strong>
\nTea, coffee, noodles \u2013 your kettle will probably become one of the most-used appliances in your kitchen!
\nRemember to:
\n\u2022 Fill between the minimum and maximum lines
\n\u2022 Use cold water
\n\u2022 Keep the base dry
\n\u2022 Take care when pouring as the kettle will be hot<\/p>\nFridges and freezers<\/strong>
\nTo keep your kitchen fresh and food safe:
\n\u2022 Store raw meat on the bottom shelf
\n\u2022 Check use-by dates regularly
\n\u2022 Clean shelves with warm soapy water
\n\u2022 Label your food if you share a kitchen with others!<\/p>\nPlease note that mini-fridges are not permitted in bedrooms unless approved for medical reasons.<\/p>\n
Irons<\/strong>
\nIrons are available in accommodation kitchens.
\nWhen using an iron:
\n\u2022 Check the temperature setting for your clothing
\n\u2022 Empty any remaining water afterwards
\n\u2022 Allow it to cool before putting it away
\n\u2022 Never leave it unattended while switched on<\/p>\nVacuum cleaners<\/strong>
\nVacuum cleaners are provided in shared kitchens to help keep your accommodation tidy.
\nTop tip: Never use a vacuum cleaner to clean up liquids \u2013 this can damage the appliance.<\/p>\nNeed more help?<\/strong>
\nYou can find appliance manuals, troubleshooting guides and safety information on our Electrical Items and Appliance Manuals<\/a>.
\nIf an appliance isn\u2019t working, report it through Home at Halls as soon as possible so our Maintenance Team can investigate. Please don\u2019t replace or dispose of University-provided appliances yourself.
\nGetting used to new appliances can feel a little confusing at first, but you\u2019ll be making late-night pasta, morning coffees and microwave meals like a pro in no time!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"