In this cooking ranges buying guide section of Hometips for Home Improvement, we learn some of the basics that you need to keep in mind before you buy this cooking appliance for your kitchen.

A range puts all cooking functions in one place in the kitchen. Ranges may be gas, electric, or a combination of both.

When it comes to buying a cooking range, the most common choice is a freestanding range. It is usually the most economical one. A standard model of freestanding cooking range is about 30 inches wide with a cooktop above and an oven below. Some models also include a microwave/range hood at the eye level. Normally, the backsplash includes a clock, timer, and controls.

Then there is slide-in range that fits snugly between cabinets. They have flanges on both side cover and gap between the range and the countertop that allows for easy cleaning. This range has no backsplash, therefore, the wall behind should be covered with a material resistant to heat and moisture.

A drop-in range fits into a cutout in a cabinet. It rests on top of the cabinet base and there is no slide-out storage drawer on the bottom. The top edge of these ranges overlaps the counter surface and eliminates the troublesome space between the counter and the range.

People doing a lot of cooking may be attracted to a commercial range, but there are several drawbacks with commercial cooking ranges:

- they have excessive weight
- can reach dangerous heat
- cleaning is time consuming

Manufacturers of cooking ranges and ovens have developed commercial and residential models suited for home use. They offer power, size, and distinctive stainless-steel finish, self-cleaning feature of the commercial range without the drawbacks. Theses model are little expensive.

Electric coil: These are most economical of electric elements and are also the fastest to heat up. Dual-watt coils allow you to adjust heat according to the size of the pan. Interior coils heat small pots while full rings heat large cookware.

Gas with griddle: Gas burners offer more-controlled cooking methods such as quick sauté or wok cookery. Cooktops customized with a gas griddle include downdraft or backdraft ventilation.

Commercial-style gas: commercial/ residential or pro-style ovens have heavy-duty controls, sealed gas burners that deliver even, steady flames, and center grates that make it easy to shift pans for cooling.

Smooth-top electric: These ranges have radiant ribbons or coil elements that lie beneath a ceramic-glass surface and deliver quick heat. These cooktops have seamless surface that allows for easy cleanup.

• Ranges,Ovens and Stovetops for Kitchen

• Range and Oven Features to look for before you buy this Cooking Appliance

• Convection Oven Buying Guide

• How to Clean a Stove Top or Kitchen Range

• Kitchen Range and Stovetop Repairs