Top X
Top 5 Features to Look For in Range Hoods
Not all range hoods are created equal — and in this episode of Top X, we break down the five most important features to look for when choosing ventilation. From blower efficiency and filter technology to smart automation and ultra-quiet performance, we spotlight the technologies that actually matter in real kitchens.
Beyond the Blower
What Actually Makes a Range Hood Work
A powerful blower isn’t enough. If your customer thinks CFM is the only thing that matters in a range hood, they’re missing the bigger picture. From filter design to hood size and airflow efficiency, the right setup makes all the difference. This week we break down what actually determines hood performance — and why a well-matched system always beats just chasing the highest CFM number.

Top 4 Most Versatile Range Hoods for Installation
This week on Top X, we mention the most installer-friendly range hoods across premium, mid-tier, and budget categories. Whether you’re dealing with complex remodels, tricky ducting, or fast-moving projects, this episode highlights the hoods that deliver clean installs, flexible configurations, and zero headaches.
The Best Hood Can Fail
Why Installation is Everything
A hood with bad ducting is like a sports car stuck in traffic—it won’t go anywhere. Even the most powerful ventilation system can fail if it’s not installed correctly. This week we’re covering the biggest mistakes that kill performance: restrictive ducting, incorrect mounting height, and ignored makeup air requirements. Learn how to spot and prevent these issues before they turn into customer complaints.
Top 5 Steam Features That Actually Make a Difference
From wrinkle reduction to no-pre-rinse dishwashing, this week’s Top X dives into the steam features that aren’t just marketing fluff — they’re real performance drivers. We’ll break down how steam improves cleaning, protects fabrics, and simplifies oven maintenance, while spotlighting the brands that are putting it to work in smart, practical ways.
Steam Cycles
A Genuine Cleaning Boost or Just an Extra Selling Point?
Steam isn’t just another setting — it’s a game-changer for cleaning. This week we uncover why steam cycles in laundry, dishwashers, and ovens deliver better stain removal, sanitization, and easier maintenance.
Top 5 Burner Performance Drivers
From flame shape to fuel efficiency, this week’s Top X breaks down the five most important factors drive burner performance. We're spotlighting the brands that deliver power with purpose — not just raw BTUs, but smart engineering that makes heat usable. If you're still selling off spec sheets, you're missing the point. This is where real cooking performance begins. [Updated: May 7, 2025 at 2:41pm ET]
BTU Ratings
Are We Selling Power or Actual Cooking Performance?
This week we challenge one of the most overused selling points in the appliance industry: BTU output. We’ll unpack what those numbers actually mean (and don’t), explore how burner design affects cooking results, and give you the insights you need to shift the conversation from spec-chasing to real performance.
Top 3 Induction Performance Drivers
There’s a lot of noise in the cooktop and range conversation — wattage claims, boost modes, flashy features. But when it comes to real performance, only a few things actually move the needle. In this episode, we reveal the top 3 core drivers of induction performance.
More Watts, More Power
Or Are We Measuring Induction Power the Wrong Way?
Higher wattage doesn’t always mean better performance — so why do so many customers (and salespeople) assume it does? This week we break down why not all induction cooktops are the same and what truly defines performance.
Top 5 Smart Oven Features That Make Cooking Easier
Not all smart ovens are created equal — and not every “smart” feature makes life easier. In this episode, we cut through the noise and spotlight five smart features that deliver real, measurable value. From temperature sensors that adjust heat in real time to guided cooking systems that set everything for you, this Top X gives you the tools to start better conversations on the floor.
Smart Ovens
Do They Actually Make Cooking Easier or Just More Complicated?
Smart ovens promise convenience, precision, and better cooking results, but not every customer is convinced. Some wonder if smart features actually make cooking easier or just add complexity to something that used to be simple. This week we separate gimmicks from game-changers and uncover what truly makes a smart oven worth it.
Top 5 Ways to Sell the Value of Auto Detergent Dispensers
This episode breaks automatic detergent dispensers down into five measurable performance categories — showing where they differ, and which brands stand out in each area. From capacity to rinse results, these comparisons are designed to help salespeople start better product conversations, explain features with confidence, and match solutions to real customer priorities.
Automatic Detergent Dispensers
Why It’s the Most Important Feature Customers Don’t Know to Look For
Most shoppers overlook detergent dispensers — but how detergent is released can make or break cleaning performance. This week we break down why automatic dispensers aren’t just a convenience, they’re essential. Learn how this one feature impacts results, protects clothes, and prevents long-term issues with both fabric and machines.
Speed Ovens & Steam Ovens: Top 3 Places to Start the Conversation
In this episode of Top X, we break down the top three places to start the conversation when it comes to speed ovens and steam ovens. Whether it’s fast, efficient cooking or precision steam performance, these options give you a solid foundation to help customers find the right solution for their needs.
Speed Ovens vs. Steam Ovens
Why You Should Never Compare Them
You’ve heard the debate—Speed ovens vs. Steam ovens. But here’s the thing: They’re not even designed to do the same job. So why are customers constantly comparing them? This episode reveals why stacking them head-to-head is a huge mistake—and how to guide the conversation the right way.
Top 4 Features in Counter Depth Refrigerators
In this episode of Top X, we’re breaking down the top 4 features customers should be looking for when shopping for counter depth refrigerators. From food preservation to smart connectivity, we’re giving you the essential talking points to start the conversation and guide your customers to the right choice.
Counter Depth Refrigerators
Why Capacity Isn't Always King
This week we’re tackling one of the biggest misconceptions customers have about counter depth refrigerators: capacity. While everyone’s focused on storage space, there’s a lot more to consider. We’re breaking down what truly matters when guiding capacity-focused customers and how to steer the conversation toward what really makes a difference.
Top 6 Washing Machine Cycles
With so many models and features on the market, it’s not always clear which machines offer which cycles—or where to start the conversation. In this episode of Top X, we follow up on this week’s The Inside Edge by breaking down six key wash cycles, highlighting examples of front load, top load, and compact washers that feature specialized settings. Instead of broad comparisons, we focus on standout innovations in each category, giving sales professionals a clear reference point to confidently guide customers.
Washing Machine Cycles
More Than Just a Spin Cycle
Most customers think all washing machines work the same, but cycle selection directly impacts cleaning performance, fabric care, and efficiency. In this episode, we break down how cycles actually work, why most people use them wrong, and how understanding them can transform customer perception—and sales.
Top 6 Dishwasher Cycles
Understanding dishwasher cycles can be overwhelming — for both customers and sales professionals. In this episode of Top X, we follow up this week's The Inside Edge by presenting the top six dishwasher cycles with highlighted examples of premium, mid-tier, and budget dishwashers that feature specialized cycles.
Dishwasher Cycles Uncovered
The Dirty Truth About Clean Dishes
Customers blindly pick cycles without understanding how modern dishwashers optimize cleaning based on load type. The problem? Salespeople aren’t explaining it either. In this episode, we’ll help you decode dishwasher cycles, educate customers, and prevent post-purchase complaints.