Finding the right appliances can be just as important as picking the right wall color and decor as a homeowner. With the right appliances, your home can feel more welcoming, become more productive and serve your needs, and can make all the difference to you and your family. Of course, your range is one of the most vital appliances you will own in your home. From the type of range to the size, shape, color, and features, knowing what you want and need from your range can help narrow down your choices when shopping. Let’s go through a few key qualities of a range that you will want to have in mind when doing so:

Type/Fuel Type

One of the most important aspects of choosing a range is knowing what type of range you need or want. There are three main types of ranges, based on their field type:

1. Gas Ranges
2. Electric Ranges
3. Induction Ranges

Gas ranges are the classic type of range. Having been around for centuries, many cooks and homeowners prefer gas ranges because of their consistent and controllable heating elements and how quickly the heat builds up. This type of range does require a gas line to operate, so make sure that your kitchen has that capability prior to purchasing.

Electric ranges are quite useful, especially if you want something easy to clean. Nowadays, many electric ranges include a ceramic or glass range top that may be easily wiped clean once it has cooled–although a special cleaner may be needed. They are popular among households who do not have access to a gas line since they require an electrical outlet instead of a gas connection. 

Induction ranges are a little bit different than gas and electric ranges. Instead of heating the cookware from a flame or heating element, induction ranges employ electromagnetism to heat the cookware. This ensures that the range top stays cool during the cooking process. Induction range proponents claim that it creates a more uniformly heated cooking surface and allows for more accurate temperature control.

Size and Style

Whether you are renovating your kitchen or starting from scratch, the style of your kitchen can bring life into your space with color and feel. If you are considering a retro kitchen, you may want to consider a gas stove depending on your kitchen’s hookup situation. If you are going for a more modern approach, try an electric or induction range!

Of course, one of the most crucial things to consider while purchasing is the size of the range you require. Choose from 24-, 30-, 36-, or 48-inch models, each with a different number of burners in varying sizes, depending on how much cooking you do.

Capacity

A range oven’s standard oven capacity is about 5 cubic feet, whereas a conventional wall oven’s capacity is around 3 cubic feet. If you just cook for one or two people, a 3 cubic foot oven should be enough. If you have a large family or frequently entertain, an oven with a capacity of 5 cubic feet or more is a must.

Features

Features on cooking ranges are a dime a dozen! There are so many upgrades and technological features to choose from now more than ever. Be sure to keep your eye out for features that will help you and your family save time and effort in cooking meals, especially if you are a larger family or like to entertain guests often. Here are some of the most popular range features on the market today:

• Stainless steel finishes
• Convection settings
• Air-fry settings
• Self-cleaning modes
• Broilers
• Delayed or Timed Start Functions
• Wi-Fi Connections

Whether you are designing your first dream kitchen or remodeling your current one, a range is one of the most important, if not the most important, appliances to consider in your budget and planning. There is certainly a range (or two or three!) out there that is perfect for what you, your family, and your home need. 

If you are looking for a home appliance store near you, stop by Facets of Lafayette! With a wide variety of ranges and other kitchen appliances, their trained staff will be glad to assist you in choosing the perfect range!