How to Choose an Electric Range that is Right for You

An electric range is one of the two most popular cooking devices these days; the other being a gas range. Both are used in many commercial and residential kitchens.  However, there are many benefits to owning an electric range; safety being on top of the list. With an electric range, you won’t run the risk of accidental explosions due to gas leaks as in the case with improperly fitted gas ranges. Also, electric ranges are less expensive and easier to turn on compared to most gas ranges in general. You don’t need to use a match or electric igniters for burners to heat or switch on; this makes cooking less cumbersome.

Today, there are many models and varieties to choose from that offer the features and functions modern cooks need. Below is some helpful information that can help you choose the electric range that’s right for you.

Ranges Equipped with Electric Programmers

New models of electric ranges are now equipped with electric programmers that allow you to program your cooking time, so that you do not need to keep on monitoring your cooking all the time; you can step out of the kitchen for some time and be assured that when you come back, the food will not be overcooked. In addition, such an electric range comes with a preheating feature that will eliminate the warm up time of your burner.

Burners According to Materials Used

There are generally 3 types of electric burners available in the market today namely: ceramic radiant coils, induction burners and heating coils. Ceramic radiant coils are used together with a glass-ceramic top; they are very easy to clean, but their temperature settings can be tricky to regulate. Induction coils on the other hand use cutting edge materials and are very easy to set and regulate. However, they only work best with cooking vessels that come with special surface coatings, such as the ones that have ferromagnetic bottoms. Heating coils are first generation electric burners that are now quickly becoming obsolete. They are, however, built for heavy use and quite easy to replace.

The Easy-to-Clean Ranges

Check for ranges that are easy to maintain and clean; the self-cleaning function now is a standard in most new electric range models.  Also, look for ranges that come equipped with clean liners since they make cleaning stove interiors easier and surfaces made of easy-to-clean materials.

Electric Ranges of Different Sizes

Check the dimensions and space available in your kitchen. Make sure that the electric range that you will purchase would fit your designated area. You also need to consider adequate access to electrical supply. Always choose a range that matches your needs. The rule: the bigger your family is, the bigger the range that you will need.

When buying an electric range, it will be helpful to arm yourself first with as much information as possible. Consider additional features that may be handy to have but will also contribute to the price tag of your new range. These include convection feature, double ovens, warming bins and indoor barbeques. Your final decision should be based upon the style of cooking you do and how much of it you do.