What is the best type of range for a kitchen remodel- gas dual fuel or smooth top?

Evelyn
by Evelyn
  11 answers
  • 3po3 3po3 on Feb 19, 2012
    I prefer gas ranges, as do most of the serious cooks I know. They are more responsive, turning on and off nearly instantly, and it's easier to gauge the heat level by seeing the flame. Many people prefer the look and feel of an electric range. I think you would have to be a pretty intense cook to really get your money's worth out of a dual-fuel model, as they come at a hefty premium.
  • Designs by BSB Designs by BSB on Feb 20, 2012
    pros/cons with both! smooth top - easy to clean being its a flat service, con, if spills get baked on, it gets tough. pro, no fumes so alittle less mess. con, the surface gets hot outside of the burner and can take a while to cool off gas - very responsive! extremely popular among chefs and those that cook a great deal. cons, more nooks to clean Either case, Bon Ami cleanser is the best for cleanup! Ammonia works fantastic on cleaning grates (wrap in zip lock overnite, fumes dissolve the grease) Now if you want to splurge, Induction smooth top will remove any disadvantage previously mentioned for a regular radiant style smoothtop
  • There is no right or wrong answer on this one - it depends on what you are comfortable with and used to. I personally like duel fuel ranges based on the way that I cook... I love the consistent heat of the gas cooktop but since I am a baker, I much prefer the electric oven simply because that is what I am used to. I would recommend going into an appliance store and getting a feel for the different options out there and speaking with an appliance specialist as they can point out specifics based on your needs and wants. Good luck!
  • KMS Woodworks KMS Woodworks on Feb 20, 2012
    to throw a new "option" out is the new induction type cook tops...these are smooth like glass top but use "induction" as the heating mechanism...steel pots and pans, the cooktop does not get hot. I has to admit I'm a bit envious of my brothers...big pro grade 6 burner gas...but my glass top has been serving me fine for 15 years now. I'm thinking a bout an induction when we set up our larger off grid home.
  • 3po3 3po3 on Feb 20, 2012
    As you consider induction cooktops, keep in mind that they only work with magnetic pots and pans, as KMS suggested. It's a one-time expense that's not too big, but if you have beloved ceramic, glass, copper or aluminum cookware that you can't live without. There are also minor considerations, such as if a guest comes with a pot of food for you, you may not be able to heat it up without transferring to your own pot.
  • K A K A on Feb 20, 2012
    If you really like to "cook" and I do. No competition, GAS, but electric oven. You can control gas a whole lot more than electric. Smooth top you also have to be a little careful of what pans you use. Watch the cooking shows they all use gas tops Also for re-sale ( one never knows their future) Gas is a major plus!
  • Ricardo B Ricardo B on Feb 20, 2012
    Would you believe that I enjoy cooking, Evelyn? Yep! In the thirty-five plus years that my Lovely and I have enjoyed doing that together, we both say... Hands-Down, no question... We Love cooking with GAS !
  • Same - gas but dual fuel for electric baking is a good option. I have cooked on the smooth tops are they are awful.....nothing beats a gas cooktop...at least not with serious chefs. Definitely swing by some appliance stores....shop hard and look at Sears Outlets for good pricing.
  • Designs by BSB Designs by BSB on Feb 20, 2012
    Evelyn - just off the Chamblee Tucker exist is www.howardpayne.com ask for Starla Stubbs, she is an awesome lady!
  • Kitty W Kitty W on Feb 24, 2012
    I have dual fuel but it really depends on your preference. I prefer to cook with gas and bake with electric. My mother had a smooth top: she loved it, I hated it. Plus since the power goes out here any time it storms and at least once a year for a few days, the gas has been a huge help although the flame has to be lit with a match/lighter when there is no electric. I wouldn't rely on them entirely for a choice, but check the Consumer Reports reviews to get an idea on the advantages and disadvantages.
  • LindaK LindaK on Mar 16, 2016
    Dual fuel! I did a lot of research before our remodel, and a lot of cooking after. Love my Bosch dual fuel range.