CATA Appliance Advice & Buying Guides

Everyday Living with CATA

Everyday Living with CATA is centred around real homes and real life. We share practical advice, simple ideas, and inspiration to help you get more from your kitchen.

Our guides are here to make everyday decisions easier - from choosing the right appliances to using them with confidence.

Because your kitchen should feel easy to live with, every day.

Expert Kitchen Advice, Buying Guides & Fixes - Made Simple

Explore our latest kitchen advice, troubleshooting guides, and buying tips designed to help you get the most out of your appliances. From solving common issues to choosing the right products for your home, our expert-led articles make everyday kitchen decisions simple.

Microwave Wattage Conversion Chart for Cooking Times

Convert microwave cooking times for any wattage with our chart and formula. Adjust 800W, 900W and 1000W instructions and decode ready-meal categories A to E.

How Long Does a Dishwasher Cycle Take? Wash Times Explained

How long does a dishwasher cycle take? Most run 1.5 to 4 hours. See typical times for quick, eco, auto and intensive programmes, and why modern cycles last longer.

How to Bake an Even Cake in a Fan Oven

Learn how to bake a level, evenly cooked cake in a fan oven. Get the right temperature, shelf position, tin tips and cake-strip tricks to stop doming and dry edges.

How to fix a dishwasher that won’t drain

Nine times out of ten a dishwasher that will not drain is a blocked filter, kinked hose, or clogged waste. Here is how to clear it yourself, safely and fast.

Why is only one ring on my hob not working?

A single dead hob ring is often the cheapest fault to fix, and sometimes no fault at all. Here is how to find the cause and sort it fast.

The magnet test: how to check if a pan works on induction

Cast iron works, aluminium does not. Use the simple magnet test to check if any pan is induction ready in seconds, and learn what a weak grip really means.

Can You Use a Dutch Oven on an Induction Hob?

Yes, most Dutch ovens work on induction, including cast iron and Le Creuset. Try the quick magnet test and learn how to get the best results.

What is a half-load setting and does it save money?

What does a half-load setting actually do, and does it save money? The honest answer on water, energy and when a full load wins.

Why Is the Bottom of My Cake Burning but the Top Raw?

Bottom burning, top raw? Your cake’s base is getting too much heat too fast. Here are the causes and the simple fixes, from shelf height to tin choice.

Expert Advice for Smarter Kitchen Living

Everyday Living with CATA brings together inspiration, advice, and practical ideas for modern homes. From understanding induction vs ceramic hobs to exploring vented hob technology or choosing energy-efficient ovens, our guides are here to make everyday decisions easier.

We focus on clear, jargon-free advice to help you choose, use, and enjoy your kitchen with confidence. Whether you’re updating your space, settling into a new home, or simply looking for better ways to cook and live, we’re here to help.

Browse our latest appliances, explore our vented induction hobs or discover our built-in ovens.