What To Know
- When it comes to choosing an electric range, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want a coil or smooth top.
- If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that is easy to clean and durable, a coil electric range is a good choice.
- If you’re looking for a more efficient and precise range that heats up quickly, a smooth top electric range is a better option.
When it comes to choosing an electric range, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want a coil or smooth top. Both types of ranges have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Coil Electric Ranges
Coil electric ranges are the more traditional type of electric range. They feature coils that heat up when an electric current is passed through them. The coils then transfer heat to the cookware, which cooks the food.
Advantages:
- Lower cost: Coil electric ranges are typically less expensive than smooth top ranges.
- More durable: Coil electric ranges are more durable than smooth top ranges, and they can withstand more wear and tear.
- Easier to clean: Coil electric ranges are easier to clean than smooth top ranges. You can simply wipe up spills with a damp cloth.
Disadvantages:
- Less efficient: Coil electric ranges are less efficient than smooth top ranges, which means they use more energy to heat food.
- Not as precise: Coil electric ranges are not as precise as smooth top ranges, which can make it difficult to control the temperature of your food.
- Can be slow to heat up: Coil electric ranges can be slow to heat up, especially if you’re using a large pot or pan.
Smooth Top Electric Ranges
Smooth top electric ranges are a newer type of electric range. They feature a smooth, glass surface that is heated by induction. Induction is a process that uses electromagnetic energy to create heat, which is then transferred to the cookware.
Advantages:
- More efficient: Smooth top electric ranges are more efficient than coil electric ranges, which means they use less energy to heat food.
- More precise: Smooth top electric ranges are more precise than coil electric ranges, which makes it easier to control the temperature of your food.
- Faster to heat up: Smooth top electric ranges heat up faster than coil electric ranges, even if you’re using a large pot or pan.
Disadvantages:
- Higher cost: Smooth top electric ranges are typically more expensive than coil electric ranges.
- More difficult to clean: Smooth top electric ranges are more difficult to clean than coil electric ranges. You need to use a special cleaner and avoid using abrasive materials.
- Can be scratched: Smooth top electric ranges can be scratched if you use abrasive materials or slide pots and pans across the surface.
Which Type of Electric Range is Right for You?
The best way to decide which type of electric range is right for you is to consider your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that is easy to clean and durable, a coil electric range is a good choice. If you’re looking for a more efficient and precise range that heats up quickly, a smooth top electric range is a better option.
Additional Considerations
In addition to the type of heating element, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing an electric range:
- Size: Electric ranges come in a variety of sizes, so it’s important to choose one that will fit your kitchen.
- Features: Electric ranges come with a variety of features, such as self-cleaning ovens, warming drawers, and convection cooking.
- Brand: There are a number of different brands of electric ranges, so it’s important to do your research and choose a brand that is known for quality and reliability.
Takeaways
Choosing the right electric range for your kitchen is an important decision. By considering your needs and budget, you can choose a range that will meet your needs and provide you with years of trouble-free cooking.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which type of electric range is more energy efficient?
A: Smooth top electric ranges are more energy efficient than coil electric ranges.
Q: Which type of electric range is easier to clean?
A: Coil electric ranges are easier to clean than smooth top electric ranges.
Q: Which type of electric range is more durable?
A: Coil electric ranges are more durable than smooth top electric ranges.
Q: Which type of electric range heats up faster?
A: Smooth top electric ranges heat up faster than coil electric ranges.
Q: Which type of electric range is more precise?
A: Smooth top electric ranges are more precise than coil electric ranges.
Q: Which type of electric range is more expensive?
A: Smooth top electric ranges are typically more expensive than coil electric ranges.
Q: What size electric range should I choose?
A: The size of electric range you choose will depend on the size of your kitchen and your needs.
Q: What features should I look for in an electric range?
A: The features you should look for in an electric range will depend on your needs and preferences. Some popular features include self-cleaning ovens, warming drawers, and convection cooking.
Q: What brands of electric ranges are the most reliable?
A: Some of the most reliable brands of electric ranges include GE, Whirlpool, and Frigidaire.
