THE BEST RANGES FOR YOUR KITCHEN

HOW TO CHOOSE = The best ranges should have sealed burners, a self-cleaning oven and removable burner pans and caps. Oven windows with black mesh usually offer the clearest view.

A large, well-lit window can prevent overcooking and will reduce the need to open the door in order to check on what you’re cooking.

Check that the oven door opens and closes smoothly. Electronic control panels will offer more features, but are less reliable than knobs. Your choice of the best ranges should be based on your cooking style and design preferences.

Most families won’t need six burners, or a grill. If price is important, don’t buy more features than you’ll use. Stainless steel will run about $200 more than other colors.

THE REVIEW = The reasonably priced Hotpoint RGB745WEHWW gas range is one of the most reliable. This model has fewer features than more expensive ranges, but experts say that with this range, you won’t sacrifice efficiency.

All the standard features are included, including a self-cleaning oven. Like other ranges, the Hotpoint offers a high-powered burner, and one for simmering, but not warming drawer. Reviewers said that the oven window is too small.

Grates are made of heavy steel and the burners are sealed for easy cleaning. This Best Basic Gas Range comes in white, black, and bisque only, and costs about $500.

Other Top Performers Include:

Best basic smooth top electric range = Kenmore 96112 at $530

Best electric coil range = Hotpoint RB757WHWW at $410

Best gas range with convection = Frigidaire Gallery GLGF386DS at about $800

Best deluxe electric range = ElectroluxEW30EF65GS at a whopping $2400.

Best Price found in Nov. ’09 and again in May, '10 = consistently, we found the best prices @ AJ Madison Outlet

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