Choosing the right cooktop appliance isn’t easy when there are so many different choices. To make the best pick, you need to consider the basic features and decide which ones are important to you. Here’s your guide to making the right choice for your kitchen.

How to Buy the Right Cooktop Appliance

1. Size

Most kitchens use a cooktop with four or five burners. If you have a large family or cook elaborate dinners often, consider splurging on a bigger cooktop. Keep in mind that increasing the size of your range will also reduce the amount of counter space available for prepping.

2. Ventilation

You need adequate ventilation to keep steam and odors to a minimum. That’s why many cooktops have a range hood above them. Alternatively, you can install a downdraft exhaust system to keep the air in your kitchen clean. These systems are installed behind the cooktop and hidden until needed. Generally, the overhead models are more powerful.

3. Fuel Type

In most cases, your kitchen’s current fuel source dictates whether you should buy a gas or electric stove, as it’s cost-intensive to switch from gas to electric and vice versa. However, professional chefs tend to prefer gas stoves because it’s easier to control the amount of heat. On the other hand, newer electric models offer induction cooking, which can boil water in a matter of seconds.

4. Style of Burners

You’ll find coil-style burners in many older stoves, but a lot of modern appliances have a smooth-top surface. Coil cooktops are resilient and affordable, while smooth cooktops are easier to clean.

5. Location of the Controls

A range cooktop typically sticks out compared to the surrounding countertop. With this type of cooktop, the big knobs are always at the front. If you choose a slide-in or freestanding unit, the controls may be at the back of the stove or in the front. Where you want the controls depends on what’s most comfortable for you and if you need to restrict access to them. Having the knobs or buttons at the back of the stove is safer if you have small children in the house.

Buying a new cooktop doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. Salvage Warehouse has a huge selection of household appliances, from washing machines to stoves. They offer up to 70% off the retail price, which includes many name brand stoves. They have locations in Lincoln and Grand Island, NE. Visit the website for more information about their inventory or call (402) 466-8294 today.