We had a Kenwood toaster for about 12 years which the top got a bit gnarly and burnt but all in all it was OK. This one was the replacement. My wife hated it from day 1. It hums like a sub-station during use, has never evenly toasted anything always burning some part of the item being toasted, sets off the fire alarm on every use and when toasting muffins or crumpets ensures you burn your finger each time due to the lowest of 'high rise' lifts. We were surprised and understandably will never buy a Kenwood toaster again. Waste of money. If you are looking for a toaster this is one to avoid.