Let’s look at ranges, cooktops, and induction!
When you start to look at a kitchen remodel, appliances are one of the things that should be explored. Ranges have changed quite a bit in a very short period. They come in two types: free standing and slide-in.
A freestanding range is just that! It stands on its own. A downside can be a small gap around the edge that can allow crumbs and such to fall in the space. A trim kit is available for most models to fill the gap.
Slide-ins do exactly that. They slide into place and have an edge that protects the space between the counter and range from crumbs. They sit on the countertop for support.
Ranges can have a gas or electric cooktop with a gas or electric oven. You can mix and match cooktops and ovens to create the type of cooking experience you desire.
Gas ranges heat up quickly and the heat is more consistent. Be sure to understand the issues newly discovered about gas cooking. The truth is the indoor air quality is affected and can cause headaches, eye irritation, and respiratory issues. As this knowledge is sweeping the nation, I feel it will be a matter of time before gas ranges will no longer be available.
Another option is a dual oven experience. The top oven is smaller to allow for faster heating and can have convection, toaster, and even an air frier. The lower oven is a standard size for cooking a turkey or multiple dishes at one time. What you lose, however, is the small drawer at the bottom. I feel this is a good exchange for the multiple uses a double oven offers.
Cooktops are another option for the kitchen. They can be gas, electric, or induction. These are best paired with a wall oven/microwave combination. This allows the cooking experience to be spread out, so everything is not all in one area.
The hottest new kid on the block is induction cooking. Induction is a special type of electric cooktop that gets its power and precision from induction technology. This means it generates energy from an electromagnetic field below the glass cooktop surface. This transfers current directly to magnetic cookware, causing it to heat. If you are looking at new ranges, truly consider the induction method.
The last concern that is always brought to my attention is cookware. Some cookware can be used with induction. The surface just needs to have a certain amount of metal to create the connection. How do you know? Simply place a magnet on the bottom if it sticks, you have a winner.
Even if you don’t have an induction cooktop, you can try to buy induction-friendly pots and pans. That way, as the technology becomes more and more common, you’re ready.
If you’re wondering how to choose and put this all together, remember to look at how you use your kitchen and how you entertain. These two questions answer how to build your kitchen. If you are still in need of some guidance, ask your interior designer. They will help ask the questions to give you the answers.