Buying a kitchen range? Here’s some hot shopping tips | Business

Are you in the market for a kitchen range?

How do you know if this is a good time? This is what our experts think.

“Fall is often a great time to buy a new range, and the best deals come in November,” according to Dean Brindle, head of management at LG Electronics USA.

“When your range begins to show issues maintaining temperature settings or exhibits uneven cooking performance, it may be time to consider a repair or replacement,” he added.

Jill Notini, vice president, communication and marketing for the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers in Washington, D.C., suggested replacing cooking appliances before the upcoming holidays, when entertaining is a central focus.

“There is nothing more stressful than a service issue during times of high demand,” she said.

Dave Lunden, assistant store manager, Manny’s Appliance store in Westfield, with several locations including Pittsfield, said typically in the appliance industry, “deals begin Nov. 6, which is known as ‘Black November’ — the equivalent of “Black Friday.”

How long does a kitchen range last? Typically between 9 and 12 years, “but with a wide bell curve,” Lunden said.

Consulting a professional to help determine the best product to fit your needs and budget is a good first step. He said there are a number of options a consumer should consider before purchasing a kitchen range.

Size is the first option. Most traditional ranges come in the 30 inch-wide range, though 20- and 24-inch ranges are common for smaller kitchens or apartments, while larger “professional” ranges are in the 36-inch and 48-inch size.

Electric or gas? If it is a gas range, it could be fueled by using natural gas or LP (liquid petroleum gas/bottled gas).

Free-standing” or a “slide-in”? A free-standing range is a traditional size range with a back compared to the slide-in range designed to be placed between two cabinets.

Color is another choice. Finding a white or traditional black kitchen range may be more challenging, since stainless steel models are becoming more popular. The stainless steel models come with a coating, which makes cleaning easier and is more resistant to fingerprints.

With modern technology, there have been several new improvements as well, Lunden pointed out.

These include:

• Open cavities: The oven space is larger, while the stove itself still fits into a 30-inch opening.

• Cooktop surfaces: Powerful electric ranges can have a burner that exceeds 3,000 watts; others with as much as 6,000-plus watts.

• Self-cleaning ovens: A steam-clean feature is faster and more eco-friendly than the traditional high-heat, self-clean cycle.

• Five burners vs. four burners: For electric smooth-top ranges, the fifth burner is found at the center rear of the cooking surface, which serves as a “warming” burner. With some gas ranges, in addition to the fifth burner, there is a griddle plate.

• Convection and air fry: The convection feature is forced hot air circulation, allowing more even and faster cooking. The air fry button option uses the convection fan and heating elements together.

• Double ovens: Basically two ovens in one, one above the other, which allow you to cook two different foods separately or to cook a small meal, using the smaller, faster heating and a more efficient, oven cavity.

• Induction oven: Heats only the cookware, leaving the surrounding area cool to the touch, which enhances safety — especially in homes with children. No preheating results in faster cooking times.

Finally, what is your budget and how much time do you plan to cook?

If you “take-out” a lot, it doesn’t pay to break the bank for a kitchen oven made for Gordon Ramsay.

My final recommendation is to speak to at least two kitchen appliance experts before your purchase. Also, ask the costs for installation, delivery and removal of your old range.

Bon Appétit!

RX TIPS FOR SAVINGS: Check out many of your favorite appliance stores in person and online. Some may be looking to clear up their inventory for newer models and will negotiate with prospective buyers.