Guest Blogger #407, Entry #1014, March 14, 2012
So many questions come into play when choosing a new range for your kitchen. Are you replacing an old model and working within the confines of your current cabinets, or do you have the flexibility that a remodel or new build would allow? Is your kitchen equipped for an electric or gas range? Do you need to match other appliances? What kind of cook are you and how much will you be cooking?
There is a seemingly endless supply of quality ranges on the market. Here are a few things to ponder as you make your decision.
Enhance your kitchen with the right range
Image via: Coastal Living
Gas or Electric?
Start with knowing what your kitchen is equipped to handle. Most professional chefs prefer a gas range, but electrics have come a long way. If you are set on having gas, and you don’t already have a gas line, you will have to cover the cost of installing one specifically for your new range. Shop around first though as you might be surprised by some of the features available on new electric models.
What is Your Style?
Next consider the style of your kitchen. Are you after the look of a commercial range? Some of the more professional looking high-end brands to consider would be Wolf, Dacor or Viking. Most of these are stainless steel, but there are some color options if that is what you seek. Stainless steel is quickly being the homeowner’s most popular choice even among the more traditional standard models made by companies like Frigidaire, Kenmore, LG, General Electric, Samsung and others. Most manufacturers still cater to consumers with a broad range of options in black, white and almond as well.
What type of range is right for your home?
Image via: Becky Manning.Pinterest
Three Basic Choices
There are three main kinds of ranges: slide-in, drop-in or freestanding. Slide-in ranges are built with contoured sides and cooktops that rise up a bit above counter level so they may be installed between cabinets and the cooktop can rest on the counter. This makes for a custom-fitted look.
Drop-in ranges are typically custom built right into specially-designed cabinet enclosures featuring cabinet panels below for a built-in look. Both slide-in and drop-in models usually have controls conveniently positioned along the front of the cooktop. This could be a concern for some families as the controls could be within reach if you have small children.
Freestanding ranges simply slide directly into their spot. Freestanding models are usually more affordable even though many are packed with options. You can find models with convenient features like six burners (as opposed to the traditional four), warming drawers and burners, self-cleaning, extra deep interiors, storage drawers, a broad range of temperature options, and even grills or griddle tops.
Most freestanding ranges are built to a standard height, but they may vary in width and depth so it is still important to accurately measure your space before shopping. Even though free-standing ranges typically fit between two cabinets, they may also be used in at the end of a bank of cabinets or in a completely freestanding location.
Choose a range that meets your budget
Image via: Houzz
Convection Option
Another increasingly popular consideration is a range that features a convection oven. Convection ovens use a fan to evenly circulate hot air throughout the oven. Food cooks more quickly and browns more evenly in a convection oven. Convection options are available in all three of the configurations discussed above.
The best advice is to get online or visit your local appliance store to see what’s available today. Know the features you would like to have and start searching! You will likely find a model that incorporates everything you seek across a broad range of price points. Good luck in your search!
Chelsea Garrett is a working mother of 3 living in the Chicago area. She is a fond believer of remodeling kitchens using Drury Design and communicates with them using a business owner network.
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Very good article indeed. Another factor to consider would be aesthetic – we find people are polarised to either contemporary, utilitarian style cookers or to the more homely and comfortable AGA-esque look and feel.
very informative article for someone looking to upgrade their kitchen! Wish I had this guide when I did mine! thanks for the great post!