Gas Range Buyers Guide

Gas range stoves can help you save money on your electric bill and make for an overall better stove than an electric model. Not all gas range stoves are made equal, which makes it important to know what to look for before you make a purchase. Before you buy, consider the following in this gas range buyer's guide:

Reliability

When you go to buy a gas range oven and stove, only pick one that is a reliable brand. You don't want to end up with one that will break down in only a short period of time, regardless of the warranty offered. Replacing a gas range is not like sending in your laptop under a warranty. Avoid the hassle and pick brands known to do well for all baking and cooking needs, such as Hotpoint, Kenmore and Frigidaire.

Spend According to Your Needs

If you don't do a lot of cooking, then there's no need to buy a gas range with a lot of bells and whistles. A basic one will do, meaning one that cleans up easily, performs well and has continuous grates. A basic model will have some disadvantages though, such as a small oven window, and because it's a cheaper price, you may not be able to find a cheaper, basic model that's stainless steel. However, if you cook and bake minimally, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages, and if you go with a reliable brand, you would have spent (and saved) your money wisely.

Self-Cleaning Oven

Cleaning an oven is time consuming, and if you use the wrong cleaning products, it can even be toxic. Make sure you purchase a gas range with a self-cleaning oven. That doesn't mean that you'll never have to clean it, but it does keep it to a minimum, freeing you up to do more important tasks. One complaint that owners have about some gas ranges that are supposed to be self-cleaning, is that spills seep in between the oven door. This is particularly true for those with glass panels, and high-end models. Check reviews on the model you're considering to see whether that's the case.

Continuous Grates

This feature may not make or break your decision to buy a certain gas range, but it's a nice accessory that makes for more convenient cooking if you're in the kitchen a lot. Some models have continuous grates made of cast iron so that you can easily slide pots and pans from one burner to another. This will help you prevent more unnecessary burns and spills, and is helpful if you like cooking at a fast pace. If you're able to find a stove with this perk, it would be a nice addition.

Maintain your gas range well, and it can last you for a long time.