1: IT'S ABOUT STYLE
Ranges are like a stage for performing and have become the status symbol of the kitchen. There are free-standing or slide-in models, or built-in. Usually you select the same type of replacement range to avoid renovations. The larger professional type ranges add glamour as well as heat. They need better ventilating system and may need fireboards next to adjoining cabinets.
2: COLOR IS STYLE
Most ranges come in white, black, metallic finish and stainless steel. Custom colors are available on many of the upscale models. If the dishwasher and refrigerator do not have custom covers then the stove should match them. Don't assume the metal is really stainless steel, ask.
3: THE FUEL QUESTION
Electric or gas? Both types are reliable and offer a consistent heat source. Electric gives you very low heat, which is not always possible with gas, but it heats up and cools down slowly. Gas allows you to select different levels of heat and when burners are off, cooking stops almost immediately. If you are changing to gas, you will need a gas hookup as well as 120 volt circuit for clocks and electronic ignition.
4: FEATURES AND PERFORMANCE
There are several choices and feature options. Decide which are most important to you and then ask which will best suit your needs. Don't waste money on options that you won't ever use, i.e. melting chocolate on low heat for eight hours. It's great marketing, but very few of us actually do it. Make sure to ask about even baking and custom broiling options. You may want to check out convection baking for superior baking results, low simmer and high heat options on cooktop.
5: CLEANING YOUR RANGE
Ceramic and smooth glass cooktops need specific cleaners and care to maintain their good looks. Burners on professional ranges and those with drip pans require more care. If you hate cleaning your oven, the make sure that your range has self-cleaning options. Most importantly, if you are a total neat freak, please bear in mind that continuous clean will never get your oven immaculate.
6: MEASUREMENTS
Before you make your final decision, be sure that the one you choose will fit into your existing or renovated kitchen. Most freestanding ranges are 30-inches wide, but can vary from 24 to 48-inches. Professional models measure from 36 inches to 60.
Ranges are like a stage for performing and have become the status symbol of the kitchen. There are free-standing or slide-in models, or built-in. Usually you select the same type of replacement range to avoid renovations. The larger professional type ranges add glamour as well as heat. They need better ventilating system and may need fireboards next to adjoining cabinets.
2: COLOR IS STYLE
Most ranges come in white, black, metallic finish and stainless steel. Custom colors are available on many of the upscale models. If the dishwasher and refrigerator do not have custom covers then the stove should match them. Don't assume the metal is really stainless steel, ask.
3: THE FUEL QUESTION
Electric or gas? Both types are reliable and offer a consistent heat source. Electric gives you very low heat, which is not always possible with gas, but it heats up and cools down slowly. Gas allows you to select different levels of heat and when burners are off, cooking stops almost immediately. If you are changing to gas, you will need a gas hookup as well as 120 volt circuit for clocks and electronic ignition.
4: FEATURES AND PERFORMANCE
There are several choices and feature options. Decide which are most important to you and then ask which will best suit your needs. Don't waste money on options that you won't ever use, i.e. melting chocolate on low heat for eight hours. It's great marketing, but very few of us actually do it. Make sure to ask about even baking and custom broiling options. You may want to check out convection baking for superior baking results, low simmer and high heat options on cooktop.
5: CLEANING YOUR RANGE
Ceramic and smooth glass cooktops need specific cleaners and care to maintain their good looks. Burners on professional ranges and those with drip pans require more care. If you hate cleaning your oven, the make sure that your range has self-cleaning options. Most importantly, if you are a total neat freak, please bear in mind that continuous clean will never get your oven immaculate.
6: MEASUREMENTS
Before you make your final decision, be sure that the one you choose will fit into your existing or renovated kitchen. Most freestanding ranges are 30-inches wide, but can vary from 24 to 48-inches. Professional models measure from 36 inches to 60.
About the Author:
Steven M. Fisher is a well known expert in the Home Improvement, Building and Remodeling Fields. Before you make any big purchases for your home, go to the Home Remodeling Portal where you can find information on thousands of products and manufacturers at the click of a mouse, as well as, several informative "6 Things To Know Before You Buy..." articles.
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