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Gas Vs Electric Vs Convection – America’s Best Cookware Ranges

Cookware ranges are one of the big decisions you will have make when designing your new kitchen.

Gas, electric and convection ranges have many of the same features, but they also have unique qualities as well.

Making your determination depends on various factors, such as family size, how much cooking is done in the home, and available kitchen space. There are also other points to consider that we will touch on below.

Let’s take a closer look at the various cookware ranges that are available:

Gas Range

Despite the fact that utility costs vary greatly across the country, gas cookware ranges are generally less expensive to operate than electric ranges.

You may be looking for a budget friendly type of range. If so, then a gas range is most likely your best bet.

With that being said, this only holds true if you already have a gas line hooked up to your kitchen. If you need to have one installed, that can add a considerable cost to your budget.

You will need to weigh your options on the oven price versus the cost of installing a gas line.

An excellent benefit of a gas stove top, is that the heat can be more precisely adjusted, to avoid scorching and burning. The temperature can be adjusted immediately, where an electric range will cool down slowly when turned down.

Kitchen Design Center

This article states that gas ovens will sometimes have hot spots, which can make food not cook or brown food evenly.

If you are an avid baker, this may be a big drawback. If you just use your oven for simple meals and to cook frozen pizzas, then this issue most likely won’t bother you.

You may decide to purchase a gas range for your home. If you do, invest in a carbon monoxide detector, in case there is an accidental gas leak.

Electric Range

One factor that should not be overlooked is that electric cookware ranges are safer than gas ranges.

With an electric range, there is no risk of a dangerous gas leak, which can put your family and home at risk.

There are also no open flames to worry about, although you still need to use common safety precautions when operating an electric range.

Another enticing option when considering electric cookware ranges, is the ease of cleaning. As described in this article, many of the newer models have a smooth cooktop made of either glass or a ceramic material. All it takes is a damp cloth to wipe away spills.

Convection Range

Both electric and gas cookware ranges are available with a convection option.

If you are the type of person who is limited on time and likes to prepare food in a hurry, then a convection range may be the choice for you.

The convection setting uses fans inside the oven to blow the heated air around the food. This process will give a better results when browning and will cook food more evenly.

Another bonus to using the convection setting, is that it uses less energy because cooking time is reduced. This will result in a lower utility bill in the long run.

Conclusion

Now that you are aware of the different features of each of the cookware ranges, you are more equipped to make the right choice for your home.

Once you have determined the type of range you prefer, then you need to narrow down your choice by choosing a brand and style. All cookware ranges have options you can choose from, for many various cooking needs.

Knowledge is key. Consult with an experienced design professional to find out all of the details and pricing for each type of range. They will guide you to find the right appliance for your home, as well as your budget.

For further reading, check out: How To Work Out Where All Your Power Points Will Go and Where To Find Kitchen Design Inspiration.

Image: Flickr

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