5 Important Decisions to Make Before Buying a New Stove
Whether you’re remodeling the kitchen or just looking to upgrade, buying a new stove is probably on the agenda. But purchasing a new stove is not a simple matter. You’ve got a few decisions to make before-hand. Specifically, these are the five most important choices you’ve got to make:
Slide-in, Drop-in, Wall or Free-Standing?
Drop-ins and wall ovens are integrated right into the cabinets and give a seamless look, but they require a professional to install. Slide-ins overlap the counter tops on the side, and also integrate seamlessly with the counters. None of these options has the dashboard in the back. The free-standing models do not overlap the counters, which can allow for food particles to fall down in between the range and cabinets.
Separate Cooktop or Combination Range?
Usually, the most practical and space-saving option is an oven-and-cooktop combination range, especially if all you are doing is replacing an old stove. If you’re renovating, you might want to have a cooktop in one area and a range in another part of the kitchen.
Electric vs. Gas
You may not have a choice with this one: If you don’t have access to a gas line, an electric range is your only option; if you don’t have a 220-volt outlet, you’ll want to stick with gas. How to decide? Consider the type of cooking you do most.
Some professional chef’s say that if your do mostly baking or low-maintenance cooking that electric ranges are best because they allow for a more even oven temperature.
On the other hand, if you do a lot of searing, boiling, frying you might prefer a gas cooktop because they allow for more control of the heat.
To Induct or Not to Induct
Induction cooking is the hottest kitchen trend. Induction works by creating a electro-magnetic field with the pot or pan when it makes contact with the cooktop. Induction cooktops offer extremely precise control over oven temperature, and heat the pan very fast. A good choice for those who work primarily on a cooktop.
The Right Range at the Right Price
After deciding on a type of range and/or cooktop, research which brands and features fit your budget. Here at the Stove Critic, we’ve done a lot of the homework for you. We’ve reviewed many of the top ranges and stove, and almost every induction cooktop on the market today.
You might also want to check out our favorite appliance vendors:
HomeEverything: Save $100 on orders over $2,999.99 Use Promo Code SAVE100
AJ Madison: Up to 10% off Home Appliances. Ends Soon.
Related posts:
You might want to check out Abe's of Maine