If you haven’t shopped for a new stove in a while, you’re likely to be overwhelmed by all the choices you have. From cost to burner type, ventilation, and more, you might have a difficult time selecting the perfect stove to suit your lifestyle.
To help as you explore all the options you have in this necessary kitchen appliance, we’ve put together a list of things to keep in mind when you’re in the market for a new cooktop.
1. Cost
This is often the most important factor when it comes to choosing a stove that’s right for you. For example, electric ranges tend to be more expensive to purchase and operate than gas stoves. Induction cooktops (which will require the best induction cookware sets you can afford if you don’t already have them) used to be considered high-end appliances. However, advancements in induction technology and increased popularity have made these stoves more affordable for everyone. While cost is certainly a major factor in determining which cooktop is right for you, don’t forget to consider the following points as well.
2. Fuel Type
Obviously, if your home is equipped with only an electric outlet for a stove, you’ll need to shop for an electric cooktop. That is unless you intend to switch over to gas, which is cheaper to operate than electric.
Gas stoves offer instant heat and temperature changes, whereas an electric stove takes a minute or two to heat up or cool down fully. A perk of electric ranges, however, is that they are usually easier to clean than gas burners.
Finally, induction cooktops are becoming very popular in households today as they are more energy-efficient and safer than the two options listed above. Creating heat and cooking food using a current between the burner and the cookware, these cooktops help you prepare food faster. Best of all, once the pan is removed from the burner, the heat is gone.
3. Size
Size matters when choosing a new stove. Depending on where your stove is located, you may need to look for a model that’s a specific size to fit the opening. Most stoves come standard in 30-inch and 36-inch sizes. However, some models can differ by as much as an inch.
4. Burner Style
Lower-end, cheaper stoves will have separate gas or electric coil burners with metal grates covering said burners. If you’re looking for something more streamlined and easier to clean, glass-top electric stoves are an option, as are solid grates that cover all the burners of a gas stove, for an extra charge.
You also have the option to upgrade to an induction cooktop, which is a solid, smooth ceramic surface that’s easy to clean and more energy-efficient than the other options. Which burner style you end up with will depend on the type of cooktop you choose and how much you’re willing to spend.
5. Ventilation
Does your stove have an overhead vent to filter out grease, smoke, and odors? If not, you may want to consider purchasing a cooktop with its own downdraft system. This option is only available with electric ranges, though.
As you can see, you have many options when it comes to choosing a new cooktop for your kitchen. The nice thing is that since you’ve read this article, you’re much better prepared to select the type, style, and extras you prefer. When heading out to begin shopping for your new stove, be sure to take along the measurements of the space you’ll be installing it in to ensure you choose a model that fits perfectly.
