Buyer's Guide: Best Freestanding Ranges for Your Home
Introduction
When it comes to updating your kitchen, one of the biggest decisions you'll face is choosing a new range. Freestanding ranges offer a versatile and affordable option that can fit into a variety of kitchen layouts. However, with so many different models on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which one to choose. This article will provide some helpful tips for choosing the right freestanding range for your kitchen.
Consider Your Cooking Needs
The first step in choosing a freestanding range is to consider your cooking needs. Think about the type of meals you typically cook and the features that would be most useful for your needs. For example, if you frequently bake and roast, you may want to look for a range with a large oven and powerful burners. If you often cook multiple dishes at once, you may want a range with multiple burners or a griddle.
Choose the Right Size
Another important factor to consider when choosing a freestanding range is size. You'll want to make sure the range you choose will fit comfortably in your kitchen, both in terms of physical dimensions and overall aesthetic. Measure the space where the range will go and be sure to leave enough room for proper ventilation and easy access to the controls.
Decide Between Gas and Electric
Freestanding ranges are available in both gas and electric models, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Gas ranges are generally preferred by professional chefs for their ability to provide precise, instant heat control. However, they require a gas line to be installed in your home, which can be a significant expense. Electric ranges, on the other hand, are more affordable and easier to install, but they may not provide the same level of heat control as gas ranges.
Consider the Oven
The oven is one of the most important parts of a freestanding range, so it's important to choose one that will meet your cooking needs. Most freestanding ranges have a standard-sized oven, which is typically large enough for most cooking tasks. However, if you frequently cook large meals or bake multiple dishes at once, you may want to look for a range with a double oven or a convection oven, which can cook food more evenly and quickly.
In addition to the basics, there are many extra features that can make your freestanding range even more convenient and efficient. Some ranges come with a built-in warming drawer, which can keep food warm while you finish preparing the rest of the meal. Others have a self-cleaning function, which can save you time and effort when it comes to cleaning the oven. Consider what extra features would be most useful for your cooking needs and look for a range that includes them.
Conclusion
Choosing the right freestanding range for your kitchen can be a daunting task, but with some careful consideration and research, you can find the perfect one for your needs. Consider your cooking habits, the size of your kitchen, and the type of oven and burners you need, and be sure to look for extra features that can make your cooking experience even better. With the right freestanding range, you'll be able to cook delicious meals for your friends and family with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why are slide in ranges more expensive than freestanding?
Slide-in ranges are generally more expensive than freestanding ranges due to their sophisticated design that seamlessly integrates with existing kitchen cabinets. They offer advanced features and functionality, making them a premium option for those seeking a sleek and seamless look in their kitchen.
2. Are freestanding ovens better?
Freestanding ovens offer the advantage of being a multifunctional appliance that can fit neatly into any kitchen space. They serve as a focal point in the kitchen and can be easily matched to the kitchen's decor. However, they may require more effort to clean compared to other options.
3. What are the pros and cons of freestanding stove?
Freestanding stoves have the benefit of being standalone units, but they may not provide a seamless appearance in the kitchen design. They can be a focal point in the kitchen but may require extra effort for cleaning. For a more integrated and seamless look, a standard wall oven may be a better choice.
4. Does a freestanding stove need a vent?
While a vent is not mandatory for a freestanding stove, it is recommended, especially for electric stoves. A vent hood can help improve indoor air quality by cleaning the air and removing odors. A range hood with a minimum airflow of 600 CFM is recommended for electric stoves.
5. Can you use a slide in stove as freestanding?
In most cases, slide-in ranges are not suitable for standalone installation as they typically lack finished sides. They are designed to be installed between cabinets for a seamless and finished look in the kitchen. Using a slide-in stove as freestanding may not provide the desired aesthetic and may not be practical.
6. What are the disadvantages of a slide-in range?
One disadvantage of slide-in ranges is that they are not recommended for standalone installation. They have unfinished edges and are designed to be installed between two counter sections. Using a slide-in range as freestanding may disrupt the overall kitchen design aesthetic and can be more prone to damage.
7. Does a slide-in range need countertop behind it?
The positioning of a slide-in range may vary depending on the manufacturer. Some models will sit flush with the cabinets, while others may be slightly deeper. It is generally desirable to have the range, excluding the door, flush with the kitchen cabinets. If it is not flush, a countertop strip may be needed in the back.
Editor's Notes
During our freestanding range research, we found 24 freestanding range products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,694 customer reviews through our big data system to write the freestanding ranges list. We found that most customers choose freestanding ranges with an average price of $1,419.74.
The freestanding ranges are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of freestanding ranges, including Avanti, Forno, Kenmore, Empava, NXR. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,139 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.
