freestanding electric stove (a knockout post) Electric Stoves

Freestanding electric stoves make use of electricity to heat and cook food, typically with a flat cooking surface. They are sleek and stylish that is a perfect match for modern kitchen designs.

Some homebuyers prefer the hands-on cooking experience gas ranges offer, whereas others appreciate that electric stoves create less pollution in the air. Some models have Wi-Fi capabilities double ovens, air-frying.

Features

Freestanding stoves integrate the oven and cooktop into one appliance that's distinct from the cabinets in your kitchen. They are cheaper than built-in ovens and they provide greater flexibility when designing your kitchen. They also have a wider oven capacity, which allows you to cook more at once and also save time.

Freestanding electric ranges usually have an oven made of ceramic glass that is more easy to clean than exposed coil surfaces and also heats more evenly. Some models also have storage drawers, large windows for viewing and control panels that are accessible to make it easier to operate. If you're planning to make the transition from gas to electric think about the slide-in (or front-control) model. They are designed to be placed between cabinets for a more integrated style and display controls at the front of the unit so that you can easily access them. They can also be used as a drop-in replacement to a gas range.

Although most freestanding ranges don't have advanced features, there are some models that offer Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring and updates. These connect to an app for mobile devices on your phone or tablet and allow you to check the status of your oven, adjust cooking times and more from anywhere in the house. Some can even work with voice commands and allow you to control your oven using only your smartphone.

A few of the more popular freestanding models we've reviewed come with extras such as five lower-powered elements that are perfect to melt butter or keep dishes warm and flexible zones on the two big elements that you can set to different widths depending on the pot sizes. They also have strong plastic knobs that feel solid and spin smoothly.

Design

Unlike gas stoves, electric models don't have a protective backguard that will protrude above your countertop. They can sit flush and create a seamless transition from counter to cooking surface. It also helps homeowners achieve a more integrated look in their kitchens. A lot of slide-in electric ranges have controls mounted on the front, that look more sleek and are more user-friendly for some people. After comparing over 60 electric slide-in ranges, the GE JS760 is our top pick for its great features and cost. This includes a hidden bake-element, fast and even heating, as well as an air-frying option that does not require heating up prior to use.

You can also narrow down your choices when purchasing an electric stove by selecting either a single or double oven model. Single oven models typically have smaller cooktops than double oven models and tend to be lighter in construction. Double oven models are available with large cooktops in case you want more flexibility when baking and cooking.

When you are comparing models, be sure to consider the size of your kitchen and the amount of space you have available for your stove. You can choose from small models that are as tiny as 20-24 inches or larger options as large as 36 inches wide by 36-40 inches tall.

Some electric stoves are available in a range of top-quality finishes while others are only available in one. You might want a stove that is resistant to fingerprints, has a stainless steel design or an LED screen. Some also prefer an oven with advanced features, like a timer, no-preheat air cooking, and other useful settings, which can be controlled with your smartphone.

In general, you'll notice that freestanding electric stoves are less expensive than gas stoves, but prices can vary depending on the cost of energy and the area you reside in. They also cool and heat faster than gas stoves. This makes them an ideal option for households with a lot of activity. They're also often cheaper to run, although it depends on the local electricity rates and how often you use them.

Power

A lot of stoves consume between 1,000 to 3,000 watts for the oven and the burners. Larger burners require more energy than smaller ones. On average, an electric stove costs around 14C/hour for the oven or cooktop on low heat. This price increases when you use high temperatures and/or the self-cleaning oven.

Electric stoves require their own specific circuit to ensure they can manage the amperage and voltage they require to function. Circuit breakers are designed to work the event of a surge of electricity. If you're planning to install an electric range that is freestanding or replace an older model, make sure your home is equipped with double-pole circuit breakers capable of supporting the appliance's energy demands.

Modern freestanding electric stoves typically run on 240 Volts. Based on the model and manufacturer, they can draw up to 50 amps. These appliances also need an outlet that is specifically designed to handle their power needs. You'll have to replace your old outlets with four-slot outlets with grounded plugs that meet the National Electric Code's requirements for appliances that run at 240 volts. You can connect the outlet yourself or hire an electrician.

Verify the voltage and amp specifications before buying an independent range. You can find these details on the website of the manufacturer or in the manual for the stove. Look at our range buying guide for the best models to fit your family.

Slide-in ranges that are right next to your cabinets, can give your kitchen a more built-in appearance. They might cost more than other types, but they often include more features and higher quality hardware. They are also easier to clean and have more sleek controls on the front than freestanding models.

Induction stoves are more expensive but more efficient and faster than traditional stoves. These use electromagnetic waves to create heat at the bottom of your compatible pans and pots, meaning that they only heat the components of the dish that are that are in contact with them. Induction can also work with a broader range of cooking materials than gas, like aluminum, iron, and glass.

Installation

Installing a stove or a range may seem daunting for a home improvement task however, with the right tools and security measures, it's usually do-it yourself. The process can last up to six hours from start to finish, however, the duration will depend on the type of stove and the installation method.

If you are unsure about the gas connection or electrical wiring it is recommended to seek advice from a professional. The first step when installing the stove or range is to determine the space available and make sure that the appliance is able to fit. Check the owner's manual of the new appliance to determine the amount of space is required between the stove and the wall. This information is important to prevent unexpected problems during the install process, especially if working with a new installation or retrofit.

Connect the power cord of your stove to the outlet once it has been connected. Test the outlet with your multimeter to make sure it's functioning properly at 220 Volts. If it's not then you can test it again by shutting off the power supply to the outlet to ensure safety.

Connect the neutral and grounding wires to the screws on the connector bar. Make sure the connections are secure and the outlet is properly wired to your home's voltage. It is an excellent idea to check that the outlet has stable support to avoid damage in the near future. Finally, you can plug your electric stove in and then restore power to your home.

Freestanding or slide-in models that have uniform oven heating will provide excellent baking. Find models with large-sized viewing windows and a drawer to store cooking utensils and pans. You can cook multiple dishes at the same time and save time thanks to an ample capacity. Explore the best freestanding electric range selection of kitchen ranges by KitchenAid that include features like FlexHeat(r) elements to help you get dinner to the table quickly, and Fan Convection Baking to ensure even baking.