Before You Buy a Stove - 6 Things to Consider

1: IT'S ABOUT STYLE

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: THE IMPORTANCE OF COLOR

These days, most ranges come in white, black and stainless steel or metallic finish resembling stainless. Ask if the metal is really stainless steel. The rule is that range should match the dishwasher and refrigerator if they do not have a custom cover. Custom colors are available on premium brands.

3: FUEL - A VERY IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION

Both gas and electric offer a consistent source of heat and are reliable. Electric heats up and cools down slowly, but can give you a very low heat which is not always possible with gas. With gas, you can select different levels of heat and when the burner is off, cooking stops almost immediately. If you decide to switch from electric to gas, you will need a gas hookup as well as 120 volt circuit for clocks and electronic ignition.

4: 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: LOW MAINTENANCE CLEANING

Ceramic and smooth glass cooktops need specific cleaners and care to maintain their good looks. Burners on professional ranges and those with drip pans require more care. If you hate cleaning your oven, the make sure that your range has self-cleaning options. Most importantly, if you are a total neat freak, please bear in mind that continuous clean will never get your oven immaculate.

6: MEASUREMENTS

The most important thing before you buy is to make sure it fits. Freestanding ranges are 30-inches wide, but can vary from 24 to 48 inches. Professional models measure from 36 inches to 60 inches.

Autor: Steven M. Fisher

Steven M. Fisher is the Editor in Chief of HomeRemodelingPortal.com. Homeremodelingportal.com was created to ease the frustration, anxiety and hours associated with spending large sums of money on building, remodeling as well as exterior and interior decorating. Its patented interface makes finding information lightning fast. For more information, visit http://www.homeremodelingportal.com

Added: January 27, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/