Don't buy this timer if you have a hearing problem. Unless you are in a quiet environment, you will not be able to hear the timer alarm. In itself, the timer's concept is great. The fundamental problem is that the alarm is faint. With the refrigerator motor, perhaps television on or perhaps the microwave running you cannot hear the timer ringing. In most cases, it does not take much ambient sound to drown out the ringing of the timer. It is certainly not suitable for the kitchen. I would not recommend this timer's purchase. I have this alarm in my office with two computers running. The alarm is barely perceptible.