How to Choose a Range Style

If you’ve decided to upgrade your stove, or are remodeling your kitchen, you may have decided to start shopping for a new range. Besides determining if you want a gas or electric range, the quickest way to narrow down the available options is to identify your preferred style. So, here we will explore the types of ranges available to help you determine which is best suited to your requirements and preferences.

Freestanding

Freestanding ranges are the most common style used in homes. This is likely because they are the easiest to install and the most affordable. This type of range is designed to be placed flush against the back wall with a flat back and features finished sides. Freestanding units are available in a myriad of sizes and designs, so you are sure to find one that will complement your cabinets and overall kitchen décor.

Built-In

Built-in ranges have become part of the fastest growing niches in the appliance industry. This is likely to be due to the growing trend for decoratively tiled backsplashes and functional kitchen islands. Built-in ranges have an unfinished back and sides, as they are designed to be installed between two kitchen cabinets. These types of ranges are typically 30 inches in width and feature a slightly wider top to prevent crumbs getting caught between the range and countertop. These appliances are designed to offer a completely built-in look with burner and oven controls located above the oven door on the front of the range for ease of use.

While most models of built-in range are a slide-in design, some models are a drop-in style. Although primarily very similar, the main difference between these two different styles is that slide-in ranges touch the floor, while drop-in models sit above a cabinet baseboard. Drop-in ranges do look more built-in, but they are also far more difficult to replace due to their height and the limited choice of models.

Pro-style

Although professional or pro-style ranges tend to be the most expensive models in the industry, this type of range is becoming more and more popular, particular in gourmet or high-end kitchens. Pro-style units provide the styling and performance of a commercial range, but the designs are made safer for a home cook.

The burner and oven controls on pro-style ranges are located just above the door on the front of the appliance. These types of models also tend to offer more professional style features such as burners that can reach high temperatures to offer rapid boiling in addition to extremely low temperatures for precise simmering or preparing more delicate dishes. Larger models are available up to 60” wide and provide greater flexibility for the cooking surface, adding built-in grills, griddles and other types of specialty surfaces. They also tend to offer convection ovens that provide intense high temp broiling and more efficient cooking.

Pro-style ranges are usually available in a stainless steel finish, but some manufacturers do offer more distinct colors, so you’re not limited to just white, black or stainless steel.

A new range is an investment in your kitchen and choosing the right model can help make preparing dishes easier and more enjoyable. So, it is well worth taking a little time to assess your options and determine which type of range is best suited to your preferences and cooking style.

No kitchen is complete without a stove or range, but you may be looking for something a little more special for your kitchen. You can explore your options with this online collection of ranges or contact a home appliance specialist for further assistance.