TOP RATED RANGES

RANGE INFORMATION

A kitchen nowadays will never be complete without at least one cooking range. Although primitive varieties of the kitchen range used to be fueled by coal and even wood, today almost all ranges sold in appliance stores are powered either by gas or by electricity. This range buying guide is geared towards helping you choose the right cooking range for your kitchen, whether you need a simple and basic one or a more sophisticated model with an impeccable stainless steel finish.

Different types of ranges and their key features

Electric range
Due to their efficiency and cost-effectiveness, electric ranges are generally more popular than their gas-powered counterparts. Since these ranges need electricity to work, and electricity is easily available in all households nowadays, they are also easier to use.

Many models of electric ranges today have multi-function features which make cooking more efficient and a breeze. One of the biggest advantages of an electric range is its ability to provide more even heating, compared to a gas range. Two types of heating features are normally employed by electric ranges. These include the standard coil burner as well as the smoothtop ceramic cooktops with electric elements beneath the surface.

The heat provided by an electric range is even and consistent, resulting in evenly cooked dishes. It is also possible to maintain the lowest heat with an electric range, compared to a gas range, wherein controlling the flame to its lowest degree is often challenging. Since an electricity-powered range has no open flame, it is also considered to be a safer option in the kitchen.

Gas range
Gas ranges offer faster and more flexible heating, especially since many of these gas range models have temperature control features. There are different levels of heat you can choose from when cooking, and there is almost no heat retention once the range is already turned off. This ensures that cooking is stopped once the range is already turned off.

One of the best features of a gas range is the electronic ignition, which automatically lights the gas burners once they are turned on. If you must choose a gas range, make sure that it has an automatic electronic ignition.

Most gas ranges have different types of burners, including burners ideal for quick searing and cooking as well as burners that provide lower heat for simmering sauces. Since most gas range models are more expensive than electric powered ranges, choosing a good model has become all the more important.

Dual-fuel gas and electric range - A dual fuel gas and electric range combines the fast heating of a gas burner and the even and consistent heating of an electricity-powered oven. Many consumers find the flexibility of dual ranges highly useful, and since these types are priced just right, they have become popular choices for the kitchen as well.

Basic features to look for

Choosing between a gas range, an electric range, and a dual
fuel range should be one of your main concerns when shopping for a range. Since different types offer different cooking features, it is important that you know which cooking features you will be able to use on a regular basis. In most restaurants for example, gas ranges are a common fixture.

On the other hand, most households have electricity-powered ranges. If you must opt for the gas-powered variety make sure that natural gas or liquid propane in available in your neighborhood.

The configuration
This needs to be given due consideration. Popular configurations include freestanding, slide-on, and drop-in. A freestanding range stands alone while a slide-in range is best fitted between two cabinets. Most drop-in ranges are fueled by electricity and may also be fitted between two cabinets with a panel is constructed at its bottom, giving the range a more built-in design. While the drop-in ranges are more traditional in appearance, they are still available from select manufacturers today.

The size
Most cooking ranges have a 30-inch width measurement, so make sure that your kitchen has enough space for this. However if your kitchen is large enough to accommodate bigger ranges, there are bigger-sized options too, such as the 36-inch, 40-inch, or 48-inch ranges. More features on the range may also mean in increase in its size, so if you need additional burners or a separate grill oven, you should expect to have a much larger kitchen range. However if your kitchen lacks additional space, you might want to look into the smaller types of cooking ranges, such as the 20-inch or 24-inch units.

Cleaning 

Not all commercial ranges have self-cleaning features however so it is best to make sure that you are getting a unit with an easy cleaning feature. Although ranges that offer this feature are generally more expensive, many consumers appreciate the convenience offered by an easy-cleaning oven.

Final thought

No modern kitchen is complete nowadays without a functional and good-sized cooking range. Feature-rich, easy to maintain, and with various models priced just right, a kitchen range is one of the best purchases you can make for your home. From gas-powered ranges to electric ranges and dual fuel units, the modern consumer is faced with more than one option when it comes to range shopping. From boiling and broiling to simmering and baking, a reliable cooking range will surely be an excellent kitchen companion for years to come.