So, you’re about to remodel your kitchen to accommodate the pro range that you’ve always dreamed of. Likely, the first thing you’re going to do is get on the internet and start reading reviews (and hopefully our blog!) to research which pro range best suits your budget and lifestyle. There are so many options out there that your search can become frustrating, or overwhelming. What is the best pro range out there? What one has the features that best fit my cooking style? What one best fits my budget? These are all reasonable questions that you will ask yourself that can lead you in many directions. Let’s take a look at five ranges that you definitely need to consider when planning your kitchen.
Thermador 48” Pro-Grand Steam Dual Fuel Range (PRD48JDSGU) $14,699
If you want a range that has everything, and I mean everything, then this is your answer. Nicknamed “The Ultimate Culinary Center” because of all of its features, this is one of the most innovative ranges ever produced to date (it was originally introduced to the industry in 2011). The gas top features six star shaped burners, and the option to do a griddle, a grill, or both, if you want to give up two of the gas burners. The full size oven is large enough to handle that Thanksgiving turkey. But, here’s what separates this range from the rest, it also features a steam oven, as well as a warming drawer! Thermador is all about innovation, and aiming for the best cooking results possible. The star shaped gas burners do a wonderful job of producing heat to the inner, and outer portion of the pan. Extra Low is a feature that is specific to Thermador. Its main purpose is the same as a simmer burner, but is able to hold delicate foods for a much longer period of time. It works by having the burner click on for a few seconds, then off for a few seconds, repeating this process to hold temperature without burning the food. With a name like Thermador and all of these features, it is easy to understand how this range got its nickname.
Wolf 48” Dual Fuel Range w/ Infrared Griddle (DF486G) $13,589
Wolf and Thermador tend to be 1A and 1B amongst pro ranges (in no particular order), so this is another strong option that needs to be considered. The main features on this beautiful range are the six dual stacked burners, the 15,000 BTU infrared griddle, and a dual convection main oven. The 18,000 BTU infrared broiler inside the oven offers restaurant quality results when searing your steaks. The signature of a Wolf range is the red knobs, but you can also order your Wolf range with black or stainless steel knobs. A true classic, and a range that many consumers would love to have in their dream kitchen.
JennAir 48” Dual Fuel (JDRP548WP) $10,199
If you like a more modern look, with a bit of a lower price point, JennAir is a viable option. With six gas burners, a chrome griddle that cleans easier than any other, and a 7” touch screen display, this range appeals to many consumers. Another nice feature on this range is automatic convection conversion. Automatic convection conversion will adjust the cooking time for a specific recipe, taking the guesswork out of adjusting the time for using the convection feature. JennAir is backed by Whirlpool, as this is considered to be Whirlpools luxury line that can only be purchased at select dealers.
Blue Star 36” Range (RCS366BVZNG) $4,295
If you are a serious chef, then Blue Star is a range that you are sure to love. The main and unique feature on a Blue Star range is that it has open gas burners. Made in Pennsylvania, and having over 130 years of experience, Blue Star ranges embody performance, style, and customization features that appeal to professional Chefs such as Michael Symon. One concern with the Blue Star is clean ability with its open burners, but the full size pullout tray make cleanup a much easier process than folks realize. Some would argue that cleaning an open burner is simpler than cleaning a sealed burner. The pans near the burners come off and can be washed in the sink, and the pull out tray below the burners can be lined with foil to make clean up a breeze. The perception that this range is hard to keep clean is simply a myth. Also, if you are unsure what an open burner looks like in action, I encourage you to take a look at a YouTube video to see one!
Blue Star 36” Range (RCS366BVZNG) $4,295
A range that you may have never heard of, and is a little newer to the industry is the Signature Kitchen Suites (SKS) 48” dual fuel pro range that features a built in sous vide and induction top. Not only do you have induction at your disposal, but you also have four gas burners, giving you the best of both worlds as far as electric and gas cooking goes. The feature on this range that sets it apart from the rest is the built in sous vide, which seems to be becoming more popular in the cooking industry. A very attractive and modern looking range, Signature Kitchen Suits backs this piece with a three year full warranty, as well as a five day replace or repair promise (visit www.signaturekitchensuite.com for more details on this program).
When putting together your dream kitchen that includes a pro range, let’s be honest, the range will be the focal point of the kitchen to your neighbors and guests. Much like buying a sports car, you’re looking for looks and performance on a pro range. Keeping budget in mind, it is also always a good idea to take a look at which manufactures are offering a rebate or incentive to purchase their range. Some manufactures are willing to offer a free appliance for purchasing their range! At the end of the day, you’d be doing yourself a disservice to not take a look at these five ranges.