Range Cookers – A Rough Buyers Guide!

If you are mad on cooking then a range cooker has to be the obvious choice – but what type of range cooker is best for you? Here’s a breakdown of the basic things to consider:

Gas, Electric or Dual Fuel?

An all gas range cooker provides great heat control on the hob and means that the oven areas heat up much quicker than electric. However, cooking time in the oven will be longer as gas ovens are not fan –assisted. To view gas range cookers click here

An all electric range cooker may have solid plate or a ceramic hob and a fan assisted and/or multi-function oven. For some, the disadvantage of an electric hob would be the slower response in terms of heat control. To view electric range cookers click here

Dual fuel ranges are a very popular choice as they combine the controllability of the gas hob with the efficiency and multi-functionality of the electric oven. To view dual fuel range cookers click here

Consider the Width

Many range cookers are 90cm which is 30cm wider than most standard cookers – this doesn’t take up much extra room in your kitchen but it makes so much difference with regards to oven space! If you have the room 100cm and 110cm wide range cookers are also available.

Oven – One or Two?

Many range cookers come with one oven – check the internal dimensions as some look bigger from the outside than they are inside! Those with one oven will have an integral grill.

Many range cookers will have two ovens (one conventional and one fan-assisted) and this gives you the benefit of being able to cook items at different temperatures.

Many ovens will be fan-assisted which means that your temperature can be 10-20 degrees lower and items will cook evenly as it circulates the hot air.

How many people are you cooking for and what do you cook?

If you have a large family or do lots of entertaining, a range cooker with two ovens may be what you need. If you like to grill food, you may find an integral grill inconvenient as you cannot use the oven if you are grilling – so in this case you would need a range with a separate grill. Some ranges will also have an extra space for warming plates and dishes, which again is great if you enjoy entertaining.

Extra Features to Consider for the Hob

All range cookers will have 5 or 6 gas/ceramic rings. Many will have a wok burner and/or space for a fish kettle/griddle. Again, think about what you will mostly be cooking on your hob.

Extra Features to Consider for the Oven

Ovens now have many extra features that you might want to consider:

Multifunction – a multifunction oven gives you the option to choose between different cooking methods

Conventional cooking with top and bottom heat only – ideal for pastry or baking

Fan assisted cooking for fast and even cooking – time saving with little or no preheating and reduced cooking times – ideal for cooking sweet and savoury dishes at the same time

Pizza setting – for the perfect pizza with a crisp and brown base and a melted topping

Fast grilling – heats up in less than 30 seconds

Fan defrost – defrost food safely as it does not begin to cook as happens when defrosting in a microwave

Full or half width grill – save energy by only using one half of the grill if cooking for one

Hoods and Splashbacks

To complete the look of your new range cooker, you will need to purchase a chimney hood that matches the style and size of your range. As well as looking stylish, it will reduce steam in your kitchen and keep the smell of your favourite curry wafting all over the house! To view range hoods click here

A splashback is well worth considering as an alternative to tiles as it is much easier to clean those spills and splashes. To view splashbacks click here