Gourmet entertainer or hot plate homey?

Consider your cooking needs. What foods do you cook, and for how many? If you love entertaining family and friends in large or small groups, make sure your oven is large enough for your needs. Another necessary option is a burner that can reach high temperatures (15,000 BTU's or more to get that pasta or lobster water to a quick boil.)

If you do a lot of specialized cooking such as candy and sauces, you'll want a burner that can sustain low temperatures of 150 BTUs. If you cook large portions for freezing, look for burners that are large, or can be combined, or a continuous grate. Are you host to Sunday morning breakfasts? Then a built in griddle is available. Like to grill for your guests? Then make sure you consider a range with a grill.

Do you enjoy having your guests join you in the kitchen while you prepare? Then look for something stylish as well. Keep in mind that although your dishwasher and refrigerator can have custom cabinetry applied to match your kitchen, your range must be safe from fires, and these options are not generally available. The trend is stainless steel but remember that stainless steel is quick to show fingerprints and greasy dirt more than a colored range. Although white is still the color of choice for many, manufacturers are offering 10 to 20 finishes to meet your style needs.