Why Dual Fuel Cooker Range Will Be Your Next Big Obsession
Investing in a Dual Fuel Cooker Range
The investment in a dual fuel range of cookers adds to the overall value of your kitchen and home. If you're thinking of it, make sure your kitchen is equipped to handle two sources of power (gas and electric).
Make an appointment to visit a showroom at Clarke to view a range of dual fuel ranges in full-scale kitchens created by local experts. Features like smooth glide ball-bearing oven racks and StayPut Italian hinges ensure a safe and easy baking experience.
Cooking Options
When you're deciding on a range, you need to select one that matches the style of your kitchen and matches the other appliances you have. But a range's function isn't only about looks. You need a professional-grade oven capable of handling your baking and cooking habits. Many home chefs choose a dual-fuel cooker to make the most of cooking capabilities.
A dual fuel stove is a combination of a gas burner and an electric oven that offers the most efficient heat control and accuracy. Cooks who are dedicated appreciate the quick temperature control on gas cooktops that allows them to experiment with various cooking techniques, like searing and roasting. On the other hand, bakers prefer the consistent heating offered by an electric oven. In addition, some models feature an advanced feature that releases steam at the beginning of the baking cycle to help the bread rise for a smoother texture.
A dual fuel range is fitted with high-performance burners, which are usually powered by liquid propane or natural gas. These burners can produce rapid heat to accomplish a wide range of tasks, including boiling and searing. The convection oven on a dual-fuel professional range is usually powered by an electric fan. It circulates hot air to ensure uniform heating.
Dual fuel ranges are costly, but a great option for cooks looking to improve their culinary skills, or entertain guests in the home. Plus, this type of stove is simple to maintain and can add value to your home should you ever decide to sell it in the future.
If you're thinking of purchasing a dual fuel professional range make sure to speak with an expert in home appliance installation. The person who installs the range will make sure that the range is properly connected to both gas and electric lines and that all safety precautions are followed. An experienced installer can address any issues that might arise during the installation of your new range.
Convenience
A dual fuel range offers the flexibility of gas stovetops and an oven in one appliance. The stoves provide a range of cooking options and are a good choice for homeowners who love to try new recipes and techniques. They are available in different sizes with oven capacities ranging from 4.5 to 6.8 cubic feet. Some models even feature two ovens side by side for larger capacity.
The combination of a gas and electric cooktop in one unit offers the best of both worlds with a quick and responsive heat to adjust, and a precise heat that lets you set the temperature accurately. This precision is essential when simmering soups, or reheating leftovers. Similarly, the electric oven provides a steady heat that can be precisely adjusted to maintain a low temperature for delicate dishes.
Some homeowners prefer dual fuel stoves due to their design and function. These ranges are available in a variety of premium finishes and hardware that will complement any kitchen design, whether it's contemporary or traditional. For example, some dual fuel ranges are available with elegant brass handles or brushed bronze trim, which can add an element of luxury to a French-style kitchen.
A dual fuel range is a wonderful addition to any kitchen. However, it might not be right for all. It typically requires a separate line of gas in the home, which may require you to upgrade your gas hookup or pay for the installation. Additionally, some homes may not have both a gas line and an electrical outlet in the same room, which can make switching between various power sources difficult.
If you're looking for the versatility of dual fuel ranges, but do not want to install a new gas line consider buying a separate electric and gas cooktop and wall oven. This is a less costly option that still gives you the option to cook with either power source, and you can put separate units in the same room in the event of need. You can combine the gas and electric models by selecting a dual fuel slide-in range with an independent gas stovetop, as well as an electrical wall oven.
Efficiency
A dual fuel range is a combination of a gas cooktop with an electric oven. This appliance is highly regarded by professional cooks for its flexibility and value. It has precise temperature control in the oven as well as responsive temperature control on its cooktop for a variety of cooking techniques.
The cooktop component of a professional range that is dual fuel is powered by either natural gas or liquid propane. Gas cooktops let you adjust the temperature quickly and easily, and you can also use advanced cooking techniques, such as charring or roasting. Electric ovens are a trusted and reliable kitchen appliance. They provide constant heating. A majority of models have an air-borne downdraft system that collects particles as well as smoke and odors, without the necessity of overhead ventilation systems.
Dedicated cooks often prefer gas cooktops due to their quick and precise temperature control, which makes it easier to cook onions or boil pasta. However bakers are more likely to prefer an electric oven because it provides a dry heating that allows bread to rise and then brown. Some cooks prefer a hybrid of both sources of heat. Fortunately, this option is available with select dual fuel ranges.
Aside from the versatile, high-performance capabilities of a dual fuel range, these appliances also come with an array of convenient features. Certain models have removable burner grates, and sealed burners to make cleaning easier. Some models have automatic self-cleaning ovens which save you time and effort of cleaning off grease after each meal.
A dual fuel range is more energy efficient than an all-electric model, or one that is all-gas. If your home has a natural gas line the appliance can help you save on your winter utility costs.
Take into consideration your kitchen layout and how often you will cook on the stove when looking for a dual-fuel cooker range. For example, if you only cook twice a week, the cost of a dual fuel range might not be worthwhile for your needs. Additionally the ranges need the installation of a gas line and a cost, which is usually not included in the price of purchase.
Safety
A dual fuel cooker range offers the safety of cooking in comparison to other stove types if properly used. It accomplishes this by combining the precision and even distribution of heat from an electric oven, which is ideal for baking and roasting as well as the instant control of gas burners. This lets cooks switch between the different styles of cooking easily and quickly. In addition, a dual fuel range may also offer the option of slow and low simmer or high-heat searing - giving cooks more options to make their favorite dishes.
Apart from their safety advantages Dual fuel ranges are also easy to clean thanks to their combination of gas and electric components. Gas hobs typically have sealed burners, or cast iron grates with enamel coatings which can be cleaned easily after meals. Electric ovens however is equipped with a self-cleaning function that makes use of high temperatures to burn off any food remnants. Some models with electric ovens have removable oven racks or trays that could be submerged in water or scrubbed for an effective clean.
One of the drawbacks to purchasing a dual fuel stove is that you will likely require both an electrical and gas connection in your home in order to make use of it. This can be costly especially in the event that your kitchen already has gas lines. You'll need a plumber to install an extra electrical outlet. Additionally, older homes may not be wired for gas and electricity and would require an electrician to alter the voltage of the kitchen outlet in order to accommodate the dual fuel range.
Eva Bleyer is a reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab. She has tested over 100 ranges, which include many dual fuel options, in recent years. She also interviews experts from the industry, goes to kitchen appliance showrooms and regularly tests new products. Visit Clarke to schedule an appointment to view a dual-fuel range in action and talk with our experts about whether this model is the ideal option for your kitchen.