Choosing a new cooker is a big decision, especially when considering a range cooker. These impressive appliances are not just cooking powerhouses; they’re often a focal point of the kitchen, adding character and functionality. But with so many models available in the UK market, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. This guide will navigate you through the key considerations and highlight some of the best range cookers the UK has to offer.
Understanding Range Cookers: More Than Just a Cooker
Range cookers are wider than standard cookers, typically starting at 90cm and extending up to 120cm or even larger. This extra width translates into more cooking capacity, often with multiple ovens, a separate grill, and a larger hob with more burners or cooking zones. They are available in various fuel types, including gas, electric, and dual fuel, offering flexibility to suit different cooking styles and preferences.
Why Choose a Range Cooker?
Range cookers offer several advantages. Their large capacity makes them ideal for large families, keen entertainers, or those who simply enjoy cooking elaborate meals. Multiple ovens allow you to cook different dishes at different temperatures simultaneously, saving time and effort. The hob provides ample space for multiple pots and pans, and the integrated grill adds further versatility. Range cookers often come with additional features like warming drawers, proving drawers, and self-cleaning functions, enhancing their usability. Beyond functionality, range cookers make a strong aesthetic statement, adding a touch of elegance and professional style to any kitchen. They are available in a wide range of colours and finishes to complement your kitchen decor.
Factors to Consider Before Buying
Before diving into specific models, it’s essential to consider your individual needs and requirements. Think about the size of your kitchen and the available space. Measure the area carefully to ensure the range cooker will fit comfortably. Consider your cooking habits and how often you cook for large groups. This will help determine the size and features you need. Decide on your preferred fuel type: gas, electric, or dual fuel. Gas hobs offer responsive heat control, while electric ovens provide even heat distribution. Dual fuel combines the best of both worlds. Finally, set a budget. Range cookers can range from relatively affordable to very expensive, so it’s important to know how much you’re willing to spend.
Exploring Fuel Types: Gas, Electric, and Dual Fuel
The fuel type of your range cooker significantly impacts its performance and running costs. Understanding the characteristics of each type is crucial for making the right choice.
Gas Range Cookers: Traditional and Responsive
Gas range cookers are a popular choice, especially for those who prefer the instant heat and precise control offered by a gas hob. Gas ovens tend to be less consistent in temperature than electric ovens, but modern gas ovens often incorporate fans for more even cooking. Gas cookers are generally cheaper to run than electric cookers, particularly if you have a mains gas supply. Consider a gas range cooker if you value responsive hob cooking and are comfortable with slightly less precise oven temperatures.
Electric Range Cookers: Even Heat and Modern Features
Electric range cookers offer excellent heat distribution in the oven, making them ideal for baking and roasting. They often come with a wider range of features than gas cookers, such as fan-assisted cooking, programmable timers, and self-cleaning functions. Electric hobs can be either ceramic or induction. Ceramic hobs offer a smooth, easy-to-clean surface, while induction hobs provide extremely fast and efficient heating. Electric range cookers are a good choice for those who prioritize oven performance and advanced features.
Dual Fuel Range Cookers: The Best of Both Worlds
Dual fuel range cookers combine a gas hob with an electric oven, offering the advantages of both fuel types. You get the responsive heat of a gas hob and the even heat distribution of an electric oven. Dual fuel cookers are a popular choice for serious cooks who want the best possible performance. They offer versatility and control, making them a great all-around option.
Top Range Cooker Brands in the UK: A Closer Look
Several brands dominate the range cooker market in the UK, each with its unique strengths and offerings. Let’s explore some of the leading brands:
Rangemaster: A British Icon
Rangemaster is a British brand with a long history of producing high-quality range cookers. They offer a wide range of models in various styles and fuel types. Rangemaster cookers are known for their durability, reliability, and classic design. They often feature multiple ovens, powerful hobs, and user-friendly controls. Rangemaster offers a variety of sizes and colours to suit different kitchens. They are often considered a benchmark for quality and design in the range cooker market.
Stoves: Innovation and Style
Stoves is another well-established British brand known for its innovative features and stylish designs. Stoves range cookers often incorporate advanced technology, such as Zeus timers that allow you to control the cooking process remotely via your smartphone. They also offer a variety of hob options, including induction, gas, and ceramic. Stoves cookers are designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind, making them a popular choice for modern kitchens.
Bertazzoni: Italian Design and Performance
Bertazzoni is an Italian brand known for its elegant designs and high-performance cooking appliances. Bertazzoni range cookers are characterized by their sleek lines, vibrant colours, and professional-grade features. They offer a range of fuel types and sizes, with a focus on delivering exceptional cooking results. Bertazzoni cookers are a statement piece for any kitchen, combining style and substance.
Smeg: Retro Charm and Modern Technology
Smeg is an Italian brand renowned for its retro-inspired designs and high-quality appliances. Smeg range cookers offer a unique blend of classic aesthetics and modern technology. They are available in a variety of colours and styles, adding a touch of personality to any kitchen. Smeg cookers are known for their reliability and performance, making them a popular choice for design-conscious consumers.
Lacanche: Professional-Grade Performance
Lacanche is a French brand specializing in professional-grade range cookers. Lacanche cookers are built to last, using high-quality materials and traditional craftsmanship. They offer exceptional performance and versatility, making them a favorite among professional chefs and serious home cooks. Lacanche cookers are highly customizable, allowing you to choose the fuel type, hob configuration, and oven options to suit your specific needs.
Choosing the Right Size: Matching Capacity to Your Needs
Range cookers come in various sizes, typically ranging from 90cm to 120cm. The right size for you depends on the size of your kitchen and your cooking needs.
90cm Range Cookers: A Versatile Option
90cm range cookers are a popular choice for many homes. They offer a good balance between cooking capacity and space-saving design. They usually have two ovens, a separate grill, and a five-burner hob. 90cm range cookers are suitable for families of four or less and those who occasionally entertain.
100cm Range Cookers: Increased Cooking Capacity
100cm range cookers offer even more cooking capacity than 90cm models. They often have three ovens, a separate grill, and a six-burner hob. 100cm range cookers are a good choice for larger families or those who frequently cook for large groups.
110cm and 120cm Range Cookers: The Ultimate Cooking Appliance
110cm and 120cm range cookers are the largest available, offering the ultimate in cooking capacity and versatility. They typically have multiple ovens, a separate grill, a warming drawer, and a hob with six or more burners. These cookers are ideal for serious cooks and those who entertain frequently. However, they require a significant amount of space and are generally the most expensive option.
Key Features to Look For: Beyond the Basics
While size and fuel type are important considerations, several other features can enhance the performance and usability of your range cooker.
Oven Features: Convection, Fan-Assisted, and Self-Cleaning
Look for ovens with convection or fan-assisted cooking, which ensures even heat distribution and faster cooking times. Self-cleaning ovens are a convenient feature that saves time and effort. Some ovens also have programmable timers and temperature probes for precise cooking.
Hob Features: Burner Power and Configuration
Consider the burner power and configuration of the hob. High-powered burners are ideal for searing and boiling, while smaller burners are better for simmering. Look for a hob with a variety of burner sizes to accommodate different pots and pans. If choosing an induction hob, ensure your cookware is compatible.
Grill Features: Separate Grill or Integrated
Decide whether you prefer a separate grill or an integrated grill. Separate grills offer more flexibility, allowing you to grill food while using the ovens. Integrated grills are more compact and convenient for occasional grilling.
Additional Features: Warming Drawers and Storage
Some range cookers come with additional features such as warming drawers, proving drawers, and storage compartments. These features can add convenience and versatility to your cooking experience.
Installation and Maintenance: Ensuring Longevity
Proper installation and regular maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity of your range cooker.
Professional Installation: A Must for Safety
It’s highly recommended to have your range cooker professionally installed, especially if it’s a gas model. A qualified installer will ensure that the cooker is properly connected to the gas or electric supply and that it meets all safety regulations.
Regular Cleaning: Keeping Your Cooker in Top Condition
Clean your range cooker regularly to prevent the build-up of grease and grime. Wipe down the hob and oven interior after each use. Use a specialized oven cleaner for more stubborn stains. Regularly clean the burners and grates to ensure optimal performance.
Servicing and Maintenance: Preventing Problems
Schedule regular servicing and maintenance for your range cooker to prevent problems and extend its lifespan. A qualified technician can inspect the cooker for any potential issues and perform necessary repairs.
Choosing the best range cooker for your needs requires careful consideration of several factors, including size, fuel type, features, and budget. By understanding these considerations and exploring the top brands available in the UK, you can make an informed decision and choose a range cooker that will provide years of reliable performance and enhance your cooking experience. Remember to prioritize safety and efficiency when making your selection, and enjoy the versatility and style that a range cooker can bring to your kitchen.
What are the key considerations when choosing a range cooker?
Selecting a range cooker involves several important factors. Consider your cooking style: do you frequently entertain, bake extensively, or require specialized functions like a wok burner? Assess your available kitchen space carefully, as range cookers typically require a larger footprint than standard ovens and hobs. Also, think about the fuel type preference; gas offers precise heat control, electric provides even baking temperatures, and dual fuel combines both advantages.
Furthermore, budget is a significant determinant. Range cookers span a wide price range, influenced by brand, features, and build quality. Don’t solely focus on the initial purchase price; factor in running costs, such as gas or electricity consumption, and potential maintenance expenses. Ultimately, finding a balance between your needs, space, and budget is key to selecting the right range cooker.
What are the benefits of a dual fuel range cooker?
Dual fuel range cookers offer a compelling blend of performance and versatility. The electric oven provides consistent and even heat distribution, making them ideal for baking cakes, roasting meats, and achieving perfect results with demanding recipes. The gas hob, on the other hand, offers rapid heat-up times, precise temperature control, and the responsiveness needed for stir-frying and sautéing.
This combination allows you to enjoy the benefits of both fuel types. You can achieve the perfect sear on a steak with the gas hob’s intense heat and then transfer it to the electric oven for a slow roast. Dual fuel cookers are generally more expensive than their single-fuel counterparts, but the enhanced cooking experience often justifies the investment for serious cooks.
How important is the oven capacity of a range cooker?
Oven capacity is a crucial factor, especially if you frequently cook for large gatherings or require multiple dishes to be cooked simultaneously. Larger ovens allow you to easily accommodate large roasts, multiple trays of cookies, or several casseroles. Consider the internal dimensions carefully, as external size isn’t always a reliable indicator of usable cooking space.
If you often prepare multi-course meals or cater to a large family, investing in a range cooker with multiple ovens or a substantial single oven is highly recommended. This eliminates the need to cook dishes in batches, saving you time and effort. For smaller households, a smaller capacity might suffice, but always err on the side of having more space than you think you need.
What hob features should I look for in a range cooker?
When choosing a range cooker, pay close attention to the hob’s features and configuration. Consider the number of burners and their power output. Wok burners, with their high heat output, are ideal for stir-frying, while simmer burners are perfect for delicate sauces. The layout of the burners is also important; ensure there’s enough space between them to accommodate multiple large pans without overcrowding.
Beyond the burners themselves, look at the hob surface material. Gas hobs often feature cast iron pan supports, which are durable and stable. Electric hobs can be ceramic or induction; ceramic hobs are easy to clean, while induction hobs offer rapid heating and precise temperature control. Consider your cooking style and cleaning preferences when making your decision.
What is the difference between induction, ceramic, and gas hobs?
Gas hobs use open flames to directly heat cookware. They offer instant heat and visual temperature control, which many cooks appreciate. However, gas hobs can be less energy-efficient and require proper ventilation. The open flames can also pose a safety risk, especially with children around. Cleaning can be slightly more challenging due to the pan supports.
Ceramic hobs feature a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that heats up via radiant heat. They are easy to clean and offer a sleek, modern look. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down compared to gas or induction hobs. Induction hobs use electromagnetic fields to directly heat the cookware, offering extremely rapid heating, precise temperature control, and energy efficiency. They are also the safest option, as the hob surface itself doesn’t get as hot. However, they require cookware with a magnetic base.
How important is self-cleaning functionality in a range cooker oven?
Self-cleaning ovens can significantly simplify oven maintenance. Pyrolytic self-cleaning ovens use extremely high temperatures to burn off food residue, leaving behind only ash that can be easily wiped away. Catalytic self-cleaning ovens have a special lining that absorbs grease and spills, which are then oxidized at lower temperatures during normal cooking.
While pyrolytic cleaning is more effective at removing heavy buildup, it consumes a significant amount of energy and can produce smoke and odors. Catalytic cleaning is less effective for heavy cleaning but is more energy-efficient and doesn’t produce strong odors. If you frequently cook messy dishes or dislike cleaning ovens, a self-cleaning function can be a worthwhile investment, but consider the trade-offs between energy consumption and cleaning effectiveness.
What are the benefits of having a range cooker with multiple ovens?
Having multiple ovens in a range cooker significantly enhances cooking flexibility and efficiency. Different ovens can be set to different temperatures simultaneously, allowing you to cook multiple dishes at their ideal temperatures without compromising results. This is particularly useful when preparing complex meals with varying cooking requirements.
Furthermore, multiple ovens can prevent flavor transfer between dishes. For example, you can bake a delicate cake in one oven while roasting a savory dish in another without worrying about cross-contamination of aromas. This feature is especially beneficial for those who frequently bake and cook simultaneously, maximizing productivity in the kitchen.