A cooking range is an essential kitchen appliance that is a combination of both a stove and an oven. This appliance is a perfect blend of form and function. Also, most of the cooking ranges these days feature cutting-edge technology that can take your baking and cooking experience to a new level.

Nowadays, there are a wide variety of cooking ranges available in stores and online shops as most of the top-of-the-line kitchen appliance makers like Samsung, Kenmore, and LG have entered the market of cooking ranges.

Given the number of options available, it becomes rather difficult to determine which type of cooking range to opt for. However, with the help of a buying guide, you can find out the factors you need to consider before investing in a cooking range.

Check out our handy guide to help you determine the type of cooking range you should go for.

Fuel type
Before investing in a cooking range, it is essential to ascertain which fuel type to select.

• Gas range
  These types of ranges are energy-efficient and have precise heat control. However, they can be quite difficult to clean and also require a gas hookup.
• Electric range
  Electric ranges can efficiently perform numerous cooking tasks. Moreover, although they use more energy, they are easy to clean and maintain.
• Dual fuel range
  This type of range features the technology of both, the gas and electric range type. It offers superior a cooking experience as it comes with a gas stove and an electric oven.

Design
Another factor that you need to take into consideration before buying a cooking range is the type of design you want, as this factor determines how well the range will fit into your kitchen.

• Slide-in range
  Slide-in ranges come with controls located in the front of the appliance and are easy to install. Also, these ranges are designed in a way that makes them easier to maintain and clean.
• Drop-in range
  Slide-in and drop-in ranges look quite similar; however, the drop-in ones come without a bottom drawer. These ranges require custom-made cabinets and installing them can be a bothersome task.
• Freestanding range
  A freestanding cooking range is easy to install and can fit anywhere in the kitchen. You just need to have an electric or gas hookup at that spot. Also, these ranges can be bought at comparatively lower costs.

Convenient cleaning options
To ensure that your cooking range functions like a well-oiled machine, it is imperative to keep it clean. A well-cleaned cooking range works efficiently and has a better life expectancy.

However, keeping this appliance can be quite a challenge. That is why it is wise to choose cooking ranges that come with a ‘self-cleaning’ feature.

Additional features
Apart from the aforementioned factors, you should also take other features like size, finish, storage and warming drawer into consideration before determining which cooking range to invest in.