Choosing a new gas stove for your home is an important decision that requires careful consideration. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to determine which stove is the safest and offers the best performance for your needs.
This comprehensive guide provides tips and advice for choosing the best gas stove based on safety features, burner types, size, extra functions, brands, special considerations and more. We’ll help you select the ideal gas stove for your kitchen.
Outline of Factors for Choosing a Gas Stove
When shopping for a new gas stove, there are several key factors to consider:
- Safety Features – Auto re-ignition, anti-tip brackets, residual heat indicators, gas leak detectors, flame failure safety devices.
- Burners – Number of burners, burner types (regular, high power, dual wok etc), placement, size, BTU power, simmer control.
- Size – Dimensions, oven capacity, cooktop configuration, depth, clearance.
- Extra Functions – Convection cooking, warming drawer, storage drawer, griddle plate, double oven, induction cooktop.
- Brands – Reviews of top brands like GE, Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, Frigidaire, Kenmore, Bosch.
- Fuel Type – Natural gas or propane.
- Budget – Prices range widely from under $500 to several thousand.
- Style – Finish colors, knobs, digital or analog display.
- Special Considerations – ADA compliant, garage/outdoor installation, ventilation requirements.
Thoroughly researching these key factors will help you select the perfect gas stove for your cooking needs and lifestyle. Keep reading for more details!
The Importance of Safety Features on Gas Stoves
Safety should be the number one priority when operating a gas stove. Look for the following safety features when choosing a new gas stove:
Automatic Re-Ignition
This important safety mechanism automatically re-ignites the burner if the flame happens to go out, preventing the release of gas into your home.
Anti-Tip Brackets
These will keep the stove from tipping over if downward force is applied to an open oven door. crucial for homes with small children.
Residual Heat Indicators
Glowing red spots on the cooker top indicate which areas are still hot to avoid burns.
Gas Leak Detectors
These alert you to any potential gas leaks. Some models feature automatic gas shut off.
Flame Failure Safety Devices
Shuts off gas supply if the flame goes out for any reason. Prevents gas leakage.
Types of Burners to Consider on a Gas Stove
The burners are the heart of any gas stove, so their number, size, power and placement significantly impact cooking performance.
Number of Burners
Basic gas stove models include 4 burners. Larger stoves can accommodate up to 6 or 8 burners. More burners provide greater flexibility for cooking multiple dishes at once.
Burner Types
There are several common burner types:
- Regular Burners: Offer a range of temperatures for everyday cooking tasks.
- High Power/Turbo Burners: Achieve very high heat levels perfect for fast boiling or searing.
- Dual Wok Burners: Designed especially for stir-frying with rounded shape to fit woks.
- Oval Burners: Allow use of multiple pan sizes or griddles.
- Simmer Burners: Maintain very low heat ideal for simmering delicate sauces etc.
Burner Size
Standard burner diameters range from 5 to 10 inches. Larger burners accommodate bigger cookware. Wok burners may be up to 15 inches.
Burner Power
Measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), burner power typically ranges from 5,000 BTUs for a simmer burner up to 18,000 BTUs for high power burners.
Burner Layout
Look for a logical burner arrangement that matches your cooking style. Many stoves offer a central high power burner.
Choosing the Right Size Gas Stove
Consider the dimensions, oven capacity and overall size of the gas stove to ensure it fits your space.
Dimensions
- Standard widths are 30” or 36”. Heights around 36”.
- Depth can vary from 26” to over 30” for double oven models.
- Measure your countertop cutout before purchasing.
Oven Capacity
- Standard single oven capacity is around 5 cubic feet.
- Double oven models offer two smaller oven cavities, like 4.8 and 2.4 cubic feet.
- Larger ovens accommodate bigger meals, while smaller ovens save energy when cooking small portions.
Cooktop Configuration
- Most models have 4 or 5 burners in a row.
- Larger stoves may have an additional center row of burners.
- Consider the cooktop layout that best suits your needs.
Clearance
- A minimum of 30-36” clearance between the top of the stove and combustible surfaces above is recommended.
Special Features and Functions to Look For
Beyond the basics, there are a number of special features and functions available on higher end gas stove models.
Convection Cooking
Uses a fan to circulate hot air around the oven for fast, even baking. Ideal for multi-rack cooking.
Warming Drawer
Provides a heated drawer to keep cooked food warm before serving. Helpful for big meals.
Storage Drawer
Adds an extra drawer for convenient kitchen storage rather than just a blank space.
Griddle Plate
Lets you switch out a central cooktop burner for a flat griddle surface for cooking pancakes etc.
Double Oven
Having both a main and secondary smaller oven allows baking at two different temperatures.
Induction Cooktop
Combines fast, energy-efficient induction burners with a gas oven. The best of both technologies.
Top Gas Stove Brands
Stick to well-known appliance brands to ensure quality and access to replacement parts.
GE
A trusted American brand, GE offers basic to high-end gas stoves lasting for years. Budget to luxury pricing.
Whirlpool
Affordable and reliable gas stoves with standard features. Typically cost under $1000.
Samsung
Known for tech innovation, Samsung gas stoves have smart features like wireless connectivity and air fry.
LG
LG stoves get high ratings for performance, stylish designs and handy functions like an air fryer.
Frigidaire
Frigidaire provides gas stoves with convection baking and continuous grates at mid-range prices.
Kenmore (Sears)
Value-priced Kenmore gas stoves offer decent quality and performance for basic cooking needs.
Bosch
Higher end European brand with precise German engineering and sleek styling. Competes with pro-style brands.
Choosing Fuel Type: Natural Gas or Propane
The vast majority of gas stoves run on natural gas supplied through gas lines. But propane stoves are a good option for areas without gas lines.
Natural Gas Benefits
- Connects directly to gas supply lines. No tanks needed.
- Provides consistent fuel source. Never have to worry about running out.
- Often cheaper to operate than propane.
Propane Benefits
- Don’t need home gas lines installed.
- Portable tanks allow placement anywhere like patios or garages.
- Reliable off-grid fuel source if no gas lines available.
If you don’t have natural gas lines, propane is the next best option for fueling a gas stove.
What’s Your Budget for a New Gas Stove?
Gas stove prices vary widely based on size, features, brand and fuel type. Basic budget options start around $500, while luxury professional models can cost upwards of $10,000.
Here is an overview of average gas stove prices based on quality:
- Budget: $500 – $800
- Mid-Range: $800 – $1500
- High-End: $1500 – $4000
- Luxury: $4000+
Think carefully about your cooking needs and how often you’ll use the stove. An expensive luxury model may not be worth the investment if you rarely cook elaborate meals.
Gas Stove Style Preferences
Beyond functionality, select a new gas stove in a style that matches your kitchen decor. Consider finish colors, knobs and digital vs analog display.
Finishes
- Most come in classic stainless steel, black or white.
- Fingerprint-proof finishes are also available.
- Match any accent colors in cabinetry or backsplash.
Knobs
- Sturdier metal knobs last longer than plastic.
- Spill-proof “push to turn” knobs are a smart safety feature.
- Knob finish/color can tie in with kitchen decor.
Display Panel
- Digital touch screens offer a sleek, modern look and preset cooking modes.
- Classic analog knobs provide a retro appeal.
Special Considerations for Installing a Gas Stove
Keep these other factors in mind when choosing a gas stove.
Ventilation
Stoves producing over 40,000 total BTUs need an external venting hood.
ADA Compliant
For wheelchair access, ensure controls are reachable and oven is at proper height.
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Garage/Outdoor Use
Select models designed for garage installation with corrosion-resistant surfaces.
Natural Gas vs Propane
Factor in what fuel sources are available or preferred. May need propane tank hookups.
Professional Installation
Gas stoves must be installed properly and linked to fuel supply lines.
6 Key Questions to Ask Before Buying a Gas Stove
1. Does the stove have important safety features?
Key safety features like auto re-ignition of burners, anti-tip brackets and gas leak detectors help avoid accidents. Don’t compromise safety to save money.
2. What burner types and how many do I need?
Evaluate your cooking requirements. Frequent wok use calls for a dedicated wok burner. Baking and simmering need different power burners.
3. What size stove is ideal for my kitchen?
Avoid an undersized or oversized stove. Carefully measure your existing cutout or available space. Confirm oven capacity suits your needs.
4. Which extra functions would I use?
Think through special features like convection cooking, warming drawers etc. Useful additions can justify a higher price. Pass on pointless gadgets.
5. Does the brand have a good reputation?
Stick with well-reviewed brands known for reliability and customer support like GE, Whirlpool or Bosch. Beware unknown brands.
6. Can this stove be properly installed?
Consider needs like ventilation, fuel hookup, or ADA compliance. A professional installer should assess the requirements.
Conclusion
Choosing a high-quality gas stove equipped with the right safety features and performance options for your cooking style will ensure many years of gourmet meals and enjoyable time spent in the kitchen. Thoroughly evaluate your needs, kitchen space and budget using this guide before selecting the perfect stove for cooking your family’s favorites. With so many choices on the market, take your time to make the ideal purchase. Focusing on the details like burner configuration, capacity, special functions and brand reputation will help you buy a great stove that meets all of your requirements.
