When it comes to cooking, the range is one of the most essential appliances in a kitchen. A range is a combination of a cooktop and an oven, all in one unit. They come in various sizes, styles, and features to suit different cooking needs, budgets, and aesthetics. If you’re in the market for a new range, it can be overwhelming to navigate the options. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best range for your home:
- Fuel Type: Ranges are available in gas, electric, or dual fuel. Gas ranges are more efficient and offer precise temperature control, but they require a gas line and may not heat evenly. Electric ranges heat up quickly and maintain an even temperature, but they may not be as responsive as gas ranges. Dual fuel ranges combine a gas cooktop with an electric oven, offering the best of both worlds, but they tend to be more expensive.
- Size: Ranges come in different sizes, typically ranging from 24 inches to 36 inches. The size you choose will depend on the size of your kitchen, your cooking needs, and your budget. A smaller range is ideal for a small kitchen, while a larger range is suitable for a large family or someone who loves to entertain.
- Cooktop Configuration: The cooktop can be configured in various ways, such as a smooth surface, coil burners, or a griddle. A smooth surface cooktop is easy to clean and provides a sleek look, but it may not be as efficient as coil burners. A griddle is ideal for cooking pancakes, eggs, and bacon, but it may not be as versatile as other options.
- Oven Features: The oven is an essential part of the range, and you want to ensure it has the features you need. Self-cleaning ovens are convenient but may be more expensive. Convection ovens are excellent for baking and roasting, but they tend to be more expensive than traditional ovens. Some ranges come with double ovens, which are ideal for cooking multiple dishes at once.
- Brand: When it comes to appliances, brand reputation is essential. You want to choose a brand that is known for quality and reliability. Some of the top range brands include GE, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, and KitchenAid.
- Price: Ranges can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. You want to choose a range that fits your budget but doesn’t compromise on quality or features. A higher price tag often means more features and better quality, but you can still find a range that meets your needs at a lower price point.
With these factors in mind, here are some of the best ranges on the market:
- GE JGS760 – This 30-inch gas range has a five-burner cooktop, convection oven, and self-cleaning feature. It also has a built-in griddle and a large oven capacity.
- Samsung NE59M6850SS – This 30-inch electric range has a five-burner cooktop, convection oven, and self-cleaning feature. It also has a warming drawer and a built-in storage drawer.
- LG LSE4617ST – This 30-inch electric range has a five-burner cooktop, convection oven, and self-cleaning feature. It also has a built-in air fryer and a large oven capacity.
- Whirlpool WFG535S0JZ – This 30-inch gas range has a four-burner cooktop, traditional oven, and self-cleaning feature. It also has a storage drawer and a fingerprint-resistant finish.