Stainless Steel Range

Stainless steel ranges are just one growing popular item for any kitchen.  WIth the neat and clean look, ease of cleaning and longevity of stainless steel, more people are opting for these appliances in their kitchens.

It used to be that if you wanted stainless steel in your kitchen appliances, people would consider you strange because of the added cost.  However, more options are being made for stainless steel appliances, and especially ranges these days.  The cost is becoming more affordable with some manufacturers even offering stainless steel as a standard option.

The basic answer is a resounding yes!  There are the same options that you can purchase or find in a stainless steel range that you would find in a standard finish range.  Items such as warming trays, storage trays, timers and gas or electric are all standard options.  You can even purchase a dual fuel burning gas range that will hook right into natural gas or propane.

When you are considering stainless steel ranges, just remember that the only thing that is really changing is the outside skin of the appliance.  Almost all of the "normal" things you would find are still going to be there.

Stainless steel is a metal, just like regular steel, however it has special characteristics to it because of a variation of different metals in it. One of the main metals that are in it would be chromium. Wikipedia states:

Stainless steel differs from carbon steel by the amount of chromium present. Carbon steel rusts when exposed to air and moisture. This iron oxide film is active and accelerates corrosion by forming more iron oxide. Stainless steels have sufficient amounts of chromium present so that a passive film of chromium oxide forms which prevents further surface corrosion and blocks corrosion from spreading into the metal's internal structure.

Stainless steel has some great benefits that make it ideal for use in kitchens, such as corrosion resistance, stain resistance (not stain proof!) and a low maintenance finish. There are over 100 different grades of stainless steel that are available, however most fall into 12 catagories for most normal use and applications.

Stainless steel has been around since the 1800's and its popularity has grown tremendously. From commercial kitchen applications to modern architectural designs, the luster and appearance of stainless steel makes items "shine" so to say. With its rust resistance abilities and low maintenance, putting stainless steel appliances in a kitchen just make sense.

So why do stainless steel ranges really make sense? Basically for the low maintenance, no rusting, ease of cleaning that it provides.

Both gas and electric appliances are very similar.  The only difference between them is how they are fueled to cook your food.  The gas range can use natural gas or propane.  Depending upon your needs and what type of fuel you have, you need to make sure that the range you are purchasing has the correct burners for natural gas or propane.  There are some new ranges that are dual fuel burning capable.

Electric ranges are structurally the same, however they use electricity for the burners and heating elements.  Most of the newer electric ranges are flat top ranges these days.  You can still find the "old" style with the element that sits up, however some companies have begun to charge extra for these.

The preference between electric or gas is really up to you.  Gas can heat faster and you have better control over the temperature a lot faster.  Electric is just as reliable, but responds a little slower than gas.

There are many factors to consider when trying to decide between gas or electric.  The costs associated with your electric bill versus gas, environmental considerations, how much you cook and your past experiences with either type.

One good suggestion is if you are thinking of switching styles from gas to electric or vice-versa, you really should ask a friend if you can try their range out first.  There is no good way to discover that you don't like cooking with a new style range, especially when you have made a purchase and it is installed in your home.  I'm sure your friend won't mind you making a little lunch or dinner for them!

There are many different range hoods that are on the market that will go along with your appliances really nicely.

Here are some resources:

Ductless Range Hoods

Range Hoods

One important note about stainless steel ranges is that you want to use caution when cleaning them.  If you use a brillo pad or other scuffing type material, you will scratch the surface of the stainless steel.

There are special cleaners on the market just for stainless steel.  Also you can use a light mixture of simple green with water to help remove stubborn food stains or messes.