CHECKLIST FOR BUYING A RANGE
Aug 10 '00 (Updated Apr 13 '01)
The Bottom Line Purchasing a new range can be an expensive investment. Checking out the various types of ranges and their features can be time well spent.
The first thing to consider when buying a range is whether or not you want the gas or electric type. With the drastic increase in natural gas prices recently, many people are changing to electric appliances. If you are simply replacing your existing range, this is no problem. If, however, you wish to convert from gas to electric or vice-versa, you might have to do additional work in your kitchen by adding wiring or gas inlets. Discuss this with your appliance dealer before purchasing.
When you visit the your dealer, take information on measurements and venting requirements for your existing stove. Ask about any other adjustments you will need if you want to purchase a different model from the one you have. If you choose a gas range, consider the pilotless electronic ignition type. This type range usually costs no more than the traditional pilot gas range but is much more energy efficient by as much as 25% over those with pilot lights.
Another money-saving feature for ranges is the oven window that allows you to watch your food cook. Be sure to add this feature since it will decrease the number of times you need to open the door to check food. This saves by eliminating the need for the oven to adjust itself to keep a constant temperature. These windows sometimes cost as much as $40 to $50 more but soon pay for themselves in saved energy costs. However, some of the newer radiant electric ranges suggest cooking certain foods with the door ajar and have even installed devices to hold oven doors open while cooking.
If you are buying a cooktop, the induction, halogen and European types are more attractive and easier to clean than the regular coil-type ranges but you need to carefully research these before you buy since these may not turn out to be the best investment. The initial costs are almost always higher and the repair frequency and expense are also higher for these types.
If you do decide to buy a cooktop, a worthwhile investment is cookware that is completely flat on the bottom. Flat bottoms help food to cook more quickly and evenly. Curved bottoms or old and dented cookware will waste energy and require a longer cooking time. Also, be aware of what size burner you are using with each piece of cookware. Using a pot or pan that is too small or too large for the burner can cause uneven cooking and energy loss.
If possible, hold off buying your range until October, National Kitchen and Bath month. You can save about 25% off regular prices. Finally, when operating your new range, be sure to keep it as clean as possible. Burned-on food and grease deposits will make your range work harder and use much more energy than is required. Even with self-cleaning ovens, check often to make sure that there is not a build-up of ash deposits from the self-cleaning operation.
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