Looking to upgrade your kitchen with a brand-new oven or range? Wondering what features you should be keeping an eye out for? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the top features you should consider when buying a new oven or range. From advanced cooking modes to energy-efficient options, we’ve got you covered. So, get ready to make an informed decision and transform your cooking experience with the perfect appliance for your kitchen.
Capacity
Oven capacity
When choosing an oven or range, one important consideration is the oven’s capacity. The oven capacity refers to the amount of space available to cook your meals. It is usually measured in cubic feet and can vary significantly between different models. If you frequently cook large meals or entertain guests, opting for a larger capacity oven will provide you with the space you need to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously. On the other hand, if you have limited kitchen space or cook for smaller households, a smaller capacity oven may be more suitable for your needs.
Number of burners
Another important factor to consider is the number of burners on the range. The number of burners determines how many pots and pans you can cook on simultaneously. If you often find yourself juggling multiple dishes at once, it may be worth investing in a range with a larger number of burners. However, if you have limited cooking needs or limited kitchen space, a range with fewer burners may be a more practical choice.
Double oven
If you frequently cook large meals or find yourself needing to bake multiple dishes at different temperatures simultaneously, a double oven may be the perfect solution for you. A double oven consists of two separate ovens stacked on top of each other, allowing you to cook different dishes at different temperatures without any hassle. This feature can be incredibly convenient and time-saving, especially during holidays or when hosting dinner parties.
Size
Standard sizes
Standard sizes for ovens and ranges are typically designed to fit the dimensions of most kitchen countertops or cabinetry. These ovens and ranges are usually around 30 inches wide, although some may vary slightly in size. Opting for a standard-sized oven or range ensures that it will fit seamlessly into your kitchen without any need for modifications or customizations.
Compact sizes
If you have limited kitchen space or live in a smaller home or apartment, you may want to consider a compact-sized oven or range. Compact ovens and ranges typically have a width of around 24 inches, making them narrower than standard-sized models. Despite their smaller size, compact ovens and ranges still offer plenty of cooking space and functionality, making them a great option for those with limited space.
Freestanding vs. built-in
When choosing an oven or range, you also have the option of selecting between freestanding and built-in models. Freestanding ovens and ranges offer flexibility in terms of placement and can be installed anywhere in your kitchen. They have finished sides and back, allowing them to stand alone without any additional cabinetry. On the other hand, built-in ovens and ranges are designed to be seamlessly integrated into your kitchen cabinetry, providing a sleek and streamlined look. Built-in models offer a more customized and integrated appearance but may require professional installation and modifications to your kitchen cabinets.
Fuel Type
Gas
Gas ovens and ranges are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their precise temperature control and quick heat-up times. Gas burners provide instant heat, allowing for faster cooking and more immediate temperature adjustments. They also offer a lower operating cost compared to electric models. However, gas ovens and ranges may require a gas hookup in your kitchen, and you will need to have a natural gas or propane supply to operate them.
Electric
Electric ovens and ranges are another common option available on the market. These models utilize electric heating elements to cook your food. Electric ovens provide even and consistent heat distribution, delivering excellent baking and roasting results. Additionally, electric ranges often come with a smooth glass cooktop, which is easy to clean and provides a sleek aesthetic. Electric models do not require a gas hookup but may have higher operating costs compared to gas models.
Dual fuel
For the best of both worlds, a dual fuel oven or range combines the benefits of gas cooking on the stovetop with the precise heat control and even baking of an electric oven. Dual fuel models typically have a gas cooktop and an electric oven, allowing you to experience the advantages of both fuel types. This option is ideal for passionate home cooks who desire the versatility and performance of both gas and electric cooking.
Cooking Options
Convection cooking
Convection cooking is a feature found in many modern ovens and ranges. It utilizes a fan and an additional heating element to circulate hot air throughout the oven cavity. This circulating air ensures even heat distribution, resulting in faster and more uniform cooking. Convection cooking is especially beneficial for baking, roasting, and achieving crispy textures. If you frequently bake or cook multiple dishes simultaneously, a convection feature can be a valuable addition to your oven or range.
Broiling
Broiling is a cooking method that involves exposing food to direct radiant heat from above. Most ovens and ranges come equipped with a broiler, which is a separate heating element located at the top of the oven cavity. This feature is particularly useful for browning the tops of dishes, melting and crisping cheese, and achieving a charred or caramelized finish. Broiling can add versatility to your cooking options and is a convenient way to quickly achieve desired textures and flavors.
Grilling
Some high-end ovens and ranges offer a built-in grilling feature, allowing you to enjoy grilled flavors and textures without an outdoor grill. These models often feature a dedicated grilling element that produces intense, direct heat. Grilling is an excellent option for cooking meats, vegetables, and even sandwiches, providing you with a delicious and charred finish. If you enjoy grilling but want the convenience of indoor cooking, a range with a built-in grilling feature may be worth considering.
Steam cooking
Steam cooking is a healthier and more flavorful cooking method that is gaining popularity in many kitchens. Steam ovens and ranges use steam to cook food, allowing it to retain more nutrients and natural flavors. This cooking technique is particularly effective for vegetables, seafood, and delicate meats. Steam cooking helps to preserve the texture and color of your dishes, resulting in moist and tender results. If you prioritize healthy cooking and want to explore new culinary possibilities, a steam cooking option might be the perfect addition to your kitchen.
Control Type
Manual controls
Traditional ovens and ranges often feature manual controls, typically in the form of knobs or dials. These manual controls allow you to adjust the temperature and cooking settings manually. While they may not offer the same level of precision as electronic or touchscreen controls, many people appreciate the simplicity and familiarity of manual controls. If you prefer a more hands-on approach to cooking or are accustomed to this type of control, a range with manual controls may be the right choice for you.
Electronic controls
Electronic controls have become increasingly popular in modern ovens and ranges. These controls feature digital displays and touch-sensitive buttons, providing a sleek and contemporary look. Electronic controls offer precise temperature adjustment and often include additional features such as timers, programmable settings, and pre-set cooking modes. These controls make it easy to fine-tune your cooking settings and ensure consistent and accurate results. If you prefer more precise and advanced control options, ovens and ranges with electronic controls are worth considering.
Touchscreen controls
For a cutting-edge and intuitive control experience, some high-end ovens and ranges feature touchscreen controls. These controls eliminate the need for physical buttons or knobs and instead rely on a touch-sensitive screen for operation. Touchscreen controls are not only visually appealing but also offer enhanced functionality and ease of use. With a simple tap or swipe, you can adjust temperature settings, access pre-programmed cooking modes, and even browse recipe suggestions. Touchscreen controls provide a modern and user-friendly interface that can elevate your cooking experience.
Smart controls
With the advancement of technology, many ovens and ranges now come equipped with smart controls. These smart appliances can be connected to your home network, allowing you to control and monitor them remotely using a smartphone or voice assistant device. Smart controls offer convenience and flexibility, as you can preheat your oven, adjust cooking settings, and receive notifications all from your smartphone. Some smart ovens even feature compatibility with virtual assistants, allowing you to control them with voice commands. If you enjoy the benefits of home automation and want to streamline your cooking process, a smart oven or range is worth considering.
Safety Features
Child lock
A child lock is an essential safety feature, especially for households with young children. This feature allows you to lock the oven’s controls, preventing accidental or unauthorized use. With a child lock in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that your children will not be able to turn on the oven or make any adjustments that could potentially cause harm.
Automatic shut-off
An automatic shut-off is a safety feature that turns off the oven or range after a specified period of inactivity. This feature is particularly useful in case you forget to turn off the oven or accidentally leave it on. Automatic shut-off helps prevent accidents and reduces the risk of fire or other hazards. Having this safety feature ensures that the oven or range will automatically power down, providing additional peace of mind.
Cool-touch doors/handles
Ovens and ranges can reach high temperatures during operation, posing a burn risk if accidental contact occurs. To mitigate this risk, many ovens and ranges now come equipped with cool-touch doors and handles. These features are designed to stay cool to the touch, even when the oven is in use. Cool-touch doors and handles provide an added layer of safety, allowing you to open and close the oven or range without worrying about being burned by hot surfaces.
Energy Efficiency
Energy Star rating
When shopping for an oven or range, it’s worth considering models with an Energy Star rating. The Energy Star label indicates that the appliance has met or exceeded stringent energy efficiency standards. An Energy Star-rated oven or range typically consumes less energy than standard models, which can help reduce your utility bills and minimize your environmental impact.
Insulation
Insulation plays a crucial role in the energy efficiency of your oven or range. Proper insulation helps to retain heat within the oven cavity, preventing unnecessary heat loss and reducing the need for excessive energy consumption. When evaluating potential oven or range options, look for models with high-quality insulation to ensure optimal energy efficiency and cooking performance.
Self-cleaning features
Self-cleaning ovens are not only convenient but also contribute to energy efficiency. Traditional ovens require manual cleaning, which often involves using chemical cleaners and consuming valuable time and energy. Self-cleaning ovens employ a high-temperature cleaning cycle that burns off food residue and grease, resulting in a clean oven cavity without the need for harsh chemicals. By eliminating the need for manual cleaning, self-cleaning features can help save energy and make oven maintenance more convenient.
Cooking Performance
Heat distribution
Even heat distribution is essential for achieving consistent and reliable cooking results. Uneven heat distribution can lead to undercooked or overcooked food, affecting both the taste and texture of your meals. When choosing an oven or range, look for models that have advanced heating systems or features that ensure even heat distribution, such as convection technology or multiple heating elements.
Temperature accuracy
Accurate temperature control is crucial for achieving precise cooking results. Ovens and ranges with temperature accuracy features ensure that the displayed temperature is consistent with the actual temperature inside the oven. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking and allows you to rely on the set temperature for your recipes. Consider models with temperature accuracy features to ensure that your dishes always come out perfectly cooked.
Cooking modes
Different cooking modes can greatly expand your culinary capabilities and simplify your cooking process. From baking and roasting to broiling and dehydrating, having a variety of cooking modes at your disposal allows you to experiment with different recipes and cooking techniques. When researching ovens and ranges, explore the available cooking modes and select the ones that align with your cooking preferences and aspirations.
Maintenance
Removable burner grates
For easy cleaning and maintenance, opt for ovens and ranges with removable burner grates. Removable grates make it simple to clean up any spills or food particles that may have fallen onto the burners during cooking. Being able to remove the grates allows for a more thorough and efficient cleaning process, ultimately keeping your appliance in excellent condition.
Easy-to-clean surfaces
When it comes to oven maintenance, easy-to-clean surfaces can be a real time-saver. Smooth and sleek surfaces, such as glass cooktops or stainless steel exteriors, are not only visually appealing but also easy to clean. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to restore these surfaces to their original shine. Opting for models with easy-to-clean surfaces can help simplify your cleaning routine and keep your oven or range looking its best.
Self-cleaning features
As mentioned earlier, self-cleaning features are not only energy-efficient but also contribute to easy maintenance. Self-cleaning ovens use high temperatures to burn off food residue and grease, transforming them into ash that can be easily wiped away. This feature eliminates the need for manual scrubbing or using harsh cleaning chemicals. Investing in a range with self-cleaning capabilities can save you time and effort when it comes to oven maintenance.
Design and Aesthetics
Stainless steel vs. other finishes
Stainless steel ovens and ranges have long been a popular choice in kitchens due to their sleek and timeless appearance. Stainless steel finishes complement a wide range of kitchen styles, from modern to traditional. These finishes are also resistant to fingerprints and smudges, making maintenance and cleaning easier. However, if you prefer a different look or want to match your existing kitchen decor, many manufacturers offer ovens and ranges in various finishes, such as black, white, or even custom colors.
Backsplash and control panel design
The design of the oven’s backsplash and control panel can greatly impact the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Backsplashes are typically found on freestanding ranges and provide a decorative element behind the cooking area. Consider the material, color, and design of the backsplash to ensure it complements your kitchen’s style. Additionally, the control panel design should be intuitive and user-friendly, allowing you to easily access and adjust the oven or range’s settings.
Knob vs. touch controls
The choice between knobs and touch controls often comes down to personal preference and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve in your kitchen. Knobs provide a classic and tactile feel, allowing for easy adjustment of temperature and cooking settings. They are often preferred by those who appreciate a more traditional or retro look. On the other hand, touch controls offer a sleek and minimalist appearance, with buttons or sliders that respond to a gentle touch. Consider your personal style and preferences when choosing between knob or touch controls for your oven or range.
In conclusion, buying a new oven or range is an important decision that should be based on your individual needs and preferences. Considering factors such as oven capacity, number of burners, double oven feature, size, fuel type, cooking options, control type, safety features, energy efficiency, cooking performance, maintenance, and design aesthetics will help guide you towards selecting the perfect oven or range to enhance your cooking experience in the kitchen. By carefully evaluating these features and choosing the options that align with your cooking habits and lifestyle, you can ensure that your new oven or range becomes a valuable and enjoyable addition to your home.
