1: STYLE IS KEY
Ranges have become the status symbol of the kitchen and many treat them like a stage for performing. There are free-standing or slide-in models, or built-in. It is a smart move to select the same type of replacement range to avoid renovations. Larger professional type ranges add glamour as well as heat, but they need better ventilation and may need fireboards next to the adjoining cabinets.
2: COLOR IS KEY
Custom colors are available on many brands. The rule is that range should match the dishwasher and refrigerator if they do not have a custom cover. These days, the majority of ranges come in black, white, stainless steel and metallic finish which resembles stainless steel. Make sure you ask if the metal is really stainless steel.
3: THE FUEL QUESTION
Both gas and electric offer a consistent source of heat and are reliable. Electric heats up and cools down slowly, but can give you a very low heat which is not always possible with gas. With gas, you can select different levels of heat and when the burner is off, cooking stops almost immediately. If you decide to switch from electric 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 features to choose from. Decide which are most important to you and which you will actually use. Check out convection baking for superior baking results as well as low simmer and high heat options on the cooktop.
5: THE MAINTENANCE CHECK
If you don't want to waste your time cleaning your oven, go with self-clean options. The continuous clean never really gets the oven immaculate. Ceramic cooktops and glass need specific cleaners and care. The burners on professional ranges require considerably more care.
6: MEASURE IT
The most important thing before you buy is to make sure it fits. Freestanding ranges are 30-inches wide, but can vary from 24 to 48 inches. Professional models measure from 36 inches to 60 inches.
Ranges have become the status symbol of the kitchen and many treat them like a stage for performing. There are free-standing or slide-in models, or built-in. It is a smart move to select the same type of replacement range to avoid renovations. Larger professional type ranges add glamour as well as heat, but they need better ventilation and may need fireboards next to the adjoining cabinets.
2: COLOR IS KEY
Custom colors are available on many brands. The rule is that range should match the dishwasher and refrigerator if they do not have a custom cover. These days, the majority of ranges come in black, white, stainless steel and metallic finish which resembles stainless steel. Make sure you ask if the metal is really stainless steel.
3: THE FUEL QUESTION
Both gas and electric offer a consistent source of heat and are reliable. Electric heats up and cools down slowly, but can give you a very low heat which is not always possible with gas. With gas, you can select different levels of heat and when the burner is off, cooking stops almost immediately. If you decide to switch from electric 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 features to choose from. Decide which are most important to you and which you will actually use. Check out convection baking for superior baking results as well as low simmer and high heat options on the cooktop.
5: THE MAINTENANCE CHECK
If you don't want to waste your time cleaning your oven, go with self-clean options. The continuous clean never really gets the oven immaculate. Ceramic cooktops and glass need specific cleaners and care. The burners on professional ranges require considerably more care.
6: MEASURE IT
The most important thing before you buy is to make sure it fits. Freestanding ranges are 30-inches wide, but can vary from 24 to 48 inches. Professional models measure from 36 inches to 60 inches.
About the Author:
Steven M. Fisher has spent several years advising in the Remodeling, Building and Remodeling Fields. Before you make any big purchases for your home, check out the Home Remodeling Portal where you can find information on thousands of products at the click of a mouse, as well as, several informative "6 Things To Know Before You Buy..." articles.
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