Hello DIY home improvers and would-be chefs! If your oven has seen better days, or you're tired of fighting with your stovetop, you're probably in the market for a new kitchen range. As a seasoned repairman, I've been elbows-deep in all types of appliances and am here to brew up some steamy wisdom on all things range-related.
Let’s dish up the Basics
Firstly, let's get the basics out of the way. There are two main types of ranges: freestanding and slide-in.
Freestanding ranges are standard models that sit alone. They can go flush against your counters or sit proudly by themselves. They even have a backguard with knobs or electronic controls.
Slide-in ranges are sleek and fit directly into your countertop. They provide a built-in look, with kitchen controls accessible from the front.
Pick Your Fuel: Gas, electric, or duel?
Your choice mainly boils down to whether you have a gas line installed in your kitchen. Gas ranges provide precise, instantly adjustable heat, but they can be more expensive. Electric ranges heat evenly and are usually cheaper and easier to clean.
If you want to have your cake and eat it too, dual-fuel ranges serve up a gas cooktop with an electric oven for even baking. However, they often come with a heftier price tag.
Size Matters in the Kitchen
Ranges come in standard sizes, with most between 30-36 inches wide. However, some deluxe options stretch up to 48 inches and beyond. The size of your kitchen and your cooking needs should dictate which 'slice' fits you better.
Price is Hot on the List
Ranges run the gamut in prices from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. Be honest with yourself about what you can afford and what features are must-haves. You'll need to balance price, performance, and features.
Features For a Five-Star Chef
Do you want to feel like a chef in your kitchen? High-end ranges may offer you features like sealed burners, a double oven, a convection setting, and an inbuilt griddle or grill. However, if you’re more “weeknight easy meals” than “weekend dinner parties”, a basic range should serve you just fine.
Don’t Forget the ‘Range Hood’
It's easy to forget about the range hood in the act of shopping for a new range. But it is an essential kitchen accessory that removes excess heat, smoke, grease, and cooking odors. Make sure it's proportionate to your range size for maximum efficiency.
Check for the Warranty
Before whipping out your wallet, look into the warranty terms. A typical range warranty lasts one year, but some extend to three or five years.
Read Reviews but Don’t Let them Roast you!
Customer reviews can be your secret sauce to buying a great range. They can provide real-world information about performance, functionality, and durability. However, remember to take them with a pinch of salt. One person's 'too hot to handle' may be your 'just right'.
Shop Smart: The Final Course
When shopping for a new range, bring a list of what you need (and want!), mindful of your budget. It might also be wise to have the delivery and installation included; I can tell you from experience that lugging and hooking up a 220-pound appliance is no piece of cake!
Congratulations, you've now gone from kitchen newbie to range shopping pro! As a wise man (or woman) once said, "The kitchen is the heart of the home." And as a savvy repairman, I’m telling you that the range is the heart of your kitchen. Choose wisely and cook happily ever after!