Choosing a Range Cooker
When it comes to giving a kitchen that authentic, homely touch, you simply can’t beat a range oven. As an impressive centrepiece or a discreet nod to timeless style, ranges look fantastic and offer a practical solution to large-scale entertaining at the same time.
Get the look
From retro to minimalist chic, there are range cookers out there to suit all tastes and budgets. The best models tend to be available in a variety of sizes, colours and finishes – including cream, racing green and stainless steel – making it easy to find a style that will fit seamlessly into your kitchen. Each brand has its own individual feel and leading brands include Britannia, Rangemaster and Mercury. Prices can vary from between £1,500 and £8,000 depending on the brand and model.
Made to measure
Size is a key issue when choosing an oven to suit your needs. As well as taking into account the measurements of your preferred model, you should bear in mind that most ranges will need a 50mm safety gap on each side and an additional space of 750mm between the extractor fan and the cooker itself. Range ovens lend themselves to spacious, high-ceilinged rooms, but miniature options are also available for smaller kitchens.
Powering up
Most ranges are dual function, offering the flexibility of a gas hob combined with the speed and ease of an electric oven. Mono-fuel models are a good alternative if you don’t have access to a gas supply or feel a strong preference for one fuel source. For purists who want to hark back to the range cooker’s 19th century origins, traditional providers such as Esse and AGA still sell vintage wood-burning ovens.
Fabulous features
If you’re the kind of cook that likes to knock up Sunday lunch for six on the weekend then your requirements will differ vastly from somebody whose idea of a gourmet meal is beans on toast with melted cheese. Choose a range that reflects your approach to cooking as well as your style preferences. Keen chefs may appreciate a double oven and separate grill, while other specialist features can include a wok burner, rotisserie, griddle and fish burner. Some modern range cookers offer nifty extras such as adjustable feet and triple-glazed doors to minimise noise.
Because of their size and quality, range cookers do tend to be a little on the pricey side. If you’re keen to feature a range in your kitchen then it’s time to think about saving – international banks such as Santander offer many high interest savings options, which will help you save for your interior goals.