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Range Buying Guide

Before you buy a Kitchen Range take a few moments to read our range buying guide for some important tips and ideas.

A range is essentially two appliances in one. A set of burners sits on top of the unit with an oven integrated below.

Electric Range Most models provide consistently good performance and flexible features for multiple cooking purposes and are generally less expensive than comparable gas models. They allow you to maintain very low heat which is not always possible on some gas models. It can be more difficult to regulate temperature with electric heat than with gas. Electric ranges use two types of cooktop heat:
	Standard Coil Burner. The coil sits above the range top surface or into a recessed cavity. The coils are more vulnerable to spills but drip pans capture spills and are generally easy to access, remove and clean. These units are usually less expensive.
	Smooth-Top Electric Ranges. The radiant elements are installed beneath a glass surface presenting a sleek integrated appearance. These cooktops are easy to clean. The radiant elements heat quickly and evenly.
Gas Ranges Gas range burners allow you select different levels of heat which can cool down or heat up cookware almost instantly, offering more precise temperature control. They are typically more expensive than comparable electric models, but are usually cheaper to operate.
	Higher quality gas ranges offer special burners for fast high output heat for quick boiling or searing. They also offer burners that hold a gentle low heat for simmering sauces and liquids. Many models feature sealed gas burners which make clean-up easier and prevent food from being trapped under the burners. You will need a gas hookup to either a natural gas source or to a LP (liquid propane supply tank)
	Duel-Fuel Gas and Electric ranges Dual fuel ranges combine the instant response of gas burners and the even heat of an electric oven.
	Commercial Style Home Ranges Commercial style ranges are becoming increasingly popular and offer a variety of options catering to the needs of even the most demanding cooks.
Ventilation Ventilation is a key consideration when purchasing a range. The vent can be a microwave hood combination, but, higher performing ranges may require an overhead hood with internal or external blowers. Browse our Selection of Ranges

	Consider the number of people that you typically cook for. If you cook frequently or for large numbers, a large capacity range and oven may be your best choice. Ranges are available in multiple sizes for just about any cooking requirement. Heat Output: Most gas ranges have four or more burners whose output measured in Btu/hr (British thermal units) A range with at least one high output burner is recommended (Approx 15,000 or more Btu/hr.) Medium and Low Output burner options are also available to cover a variety of cooking needs. The output of electric burners are typically measured in Watts. The higher the number the faster your food will cook. Ranges come in a variety of sizes. 30 inch ranges are standard although larger commercial style ranges come in widths or 36, 48, or even 60"
Freestanding ranges do not need to be fitted into cabinetry and have finished sides. Slide-in ranges fit into the space between cabinets and do not have finished sides. Drop-in ranges also fit into cabinetry and usually rest on top of a toe kick plate matching the rest of the cabinetry. At US Appliance we offer a tremendous variety of beautiful kitchen ranges with stylish and sophisticated looks, innovative features and real cooking performance.
Today's Ranges offer a wide selection of features. Here are some to consider.
Electronic temperature controls allow for more accurate cooking temperatures Self-cleaning ovens eliminate the need for strong smelling sprays and scrubbing. Programmable timing options allow you to preset your oven to automatically turn on and off to cook your meals even when you are not present. Convection Ovens cook about 30% faster than conventional ovens. Fans in the oven circulate the heat around foods to cook them faster. Simmer burners provide low, gradual heat when required for a variety of cooking needs such as preparing soups and sauces. Once a draw-back when cooking with gas, better gas ranges offer precise low temperature control. High-heat burners instantly provide cooking heat allowing you to quickly boil or sear foods as required, dramatically cutting down on cooking time. On some high-end ranges you can find burner output exceeding an incredible 17,500 Btu/hr. Warming drawers store cooked food, keeping it warm and moist until you are ready to serve. Warming features in ovens and on cooktops also serve a similar purpose. Dual element burners: Some electric ranges feature an inner ring for smaller pans and a large outer ring for larger pots and pans. A flick of the switch turns on the preferred size. Bridge Element. An extra element between two main elements on a smooth-top cooktop that can be turned on to create a large surface for large pans such as griddles. Adjustable oven racks allow you to adapt your oven to your particular cooking needs. Multiple broil settings allow you to broil different types of food at optimal temperatures Seamless or continuous grates allow you to easily slide heavy pots between burners without doing any lifting. Optional Configurations. Some manufacturers allow you to customize their range cooktops with accessories such as grills, griddles, wok rings and more. Hot surface indicator lights are available on some electric models alert you that a surface may still be hot even though it is powered off. Large oven windows and lighting allow you to easily view your oven contents without opening the door.

	Make sure it will fit! Measure the space that you have available for your range. Know the height, width and depth of the area you want the new model to fit into. If selecting a Gas Range you will need a gas hookup to a natural gas source or to a LP (liquid propane supply tank). You will need an electrical hookup for both types of ranges.


	At US Appliance we offer a selection of some of the finest Kitchen Ranges available at unbeatable prices. From the occasional cook to the professional chef, we offer range models that cater to every need. Take advantage of our industry-leading $69 white-glove delivery service. (Flat-fee no matter how many appliances your order)
	If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact one of our knowledgeable sales associates. Call toll-free: 1-877-628-9913 (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Eastern Standard Time.)