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 STYLE
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
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 many programmable options such as delay and time-bake capabilities. 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: 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: 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. - 16759
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 STYLE
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
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 many programmable options such as delay and time-bake capabilities. 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: 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: 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. - 16759
About the Author:
Steven M. Fisher is a well known expert in the Remodeling, Building and Decorating 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.
