Dual Fuel Ranges:
The Best Of Both Worlds
A dual fuel range combines the benefits of a gas cooktop and electric oven for a unique appliance. Learn more about dual fuel ranges with our guide.
Many serious cooks will tell you that they prefer gas cooktops – in addition to their highly responsive temperature control, they also allow you to use more cooking techniques, like roasting or charring peppers. In contrast, baking fanatics are more likely to prefer electric ovens thanks to their dry, even heat.
But what do you do if you’re a fan of both? That’s where dual fuel ranges come in. These combination appliances help you enjoy the benefits of both gas and electric ranges in one. Intrigued? Our guide can help you learn more about dual fuel ranges, their advantages and how to decide if they’re right for you.
What is a Dual Fuel Range?
Dual fuel ranges are ranges that feature a gas cooktop and an electric oven, taking advantage of the strengths of both. Gas cooktops offer immediate heat and improved temperature control versus traditional electric cooktops. Electric ovens evenly distribute heat, making them ideal for baking.
I’m Thinking of Buying a Dual Fuel Range. What are the Advantages?
A dual fuel range can provide a number of advantages based on your cooking preferences.
If you enjoy baking, a dual fuel range’s electric oven gives you:
- Fast pre-heating.
- Controlled heat, thanks to multiple elements that deliver and distribute heat throughout the oven cavity.
- Improved heat distribution.
- Ideal conditions for exceptional baked goods.
- More familiarity for most people (electric ovens are common in residential and professional kitchens).
While you’re making the most of your electric oven, a dual fuel range’s gas cooktop can provide a number of benefits:
- Direct heat from gas flames.
- Highly responsive temperature control.
- Fast cooling burners.
- Potential cost savings (if natural gas is cheaper than electricity in your area).
You can also employ more advanced cooking techniques, like charring, using gas, making them a great option for advanced home chefs.
Are There Disadvantages to Owning a Dual Fuel Range?
Generally speaking, the main downsides of a dual fuel range are their cost and installation. Dual fuel ranges tend to be more expensive than their all gas or all electric counterparts, so it’s important to consider this and comparison shop before making a purchase. Also, keep in mind that a dual fuel range will require a gas hook-up – if you don’t have a natural gas line running to your home already, you’ll need to take this cost into account as well.
Is a Dual Fuel Range Right for Your Home?
As with any appliance, the decision to buy a dual fuel range ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you have gas and electric hook-ups in your kitchen, are interested in investing in a dual fuel option and want a range that lets you maximize your cooking skills, a dual fuel range may be the right choice.
If you’re interested in the benefits of a dual fuel range but don’t know if your kitchen can accommodate one, there is another option. Consider installing a gas cooktop and an electric wall oven – that way, you’ll be able to enjoy both options and make the most of your favorite recipes.
Still can’t decide which range is the best fit for your kitchen? Check out our range buying guide to learn more about different options.
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