Range buying guide for 2025: How to buy a stove
Your range is an essential part of your kitchen, helping you to get dinner on the table night after night. The variety of options available can be overwhelming, and your choice will ultimately depend on the features, fuel type, size and other options you’re looking for. Explore this range buying guide to help determine the best range for your family.
Types of kitchen ranges
When deciding how to choose a stove, there are many things to consider. Ranges come in multiple fuel types, styles and configurations. Learn about freestanding and slide-in ranges, the available fuel types, and double oven options, so you can determine what to look for in a range.
1. Electric ranges
Electric ranges typically require a 220 or 250-volt, 40-50 amp receptacle outlet and do not need a gas line. Always remember to check the specifications for your model and local codes to verify. Electric ranges are designed with various styles and sizes of heating elements to accommodate different cookware dimensions. They usually have 4–6 heating elements.
The heat generated by the electric elements is measured in watts—the higher the wattage, the more heat is produced. The heating elements on an electric range come in different types, such as round metal coils, solid metal disks (also referred to as hotplate burners) and heating elements housed beneath a smooth-top ceramic-glass cooktop. Select models offer two or three ring heating elements in one so you can adjust it to fit the size of your pot or pan. Additionally, some models have low-wattage elements that serve as warming zones.
Shop Whirlpool® Electric Ranges
Electric ranges by Whirlpool brand provide convenient settings to help you get meals to the table with ease, so you can spend time on what matters most. With select Whirlpool® Electric Ranges, get the right settings every time with Scan-to-Cook Technology. Scan a frozen food barcode with your smartphone or tablet and send recommended or customized cooking instructions straight to your oven for dinner done the way your family wants it. Some models also feature Frozen Bake™ Technology, which allows you to skip preheating and cook frozen favorites like pizza in fewer steps with preprogrammed settings.
2. Gas ranges
Gas ranges use natural gas or propane and require a gas line to be installed if you do not already have one.
The heat generated by gas ranges is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units)—the higher the number, the more heat is produced. Gas ranges typically offer 4-6 burners with responsive control over high and low temperature levels.
Depending on the design and burner quantity, gas stovetops offer varying degrees of lower and higher heat options to handle most cooking needs. Household gas ranges typically feature burners ranging from roughly 5,000 to 15,000 BTUs, while professional and commercial-style ranges can have burners with between 15,000 to 25,000 BTUs.
Shop Whirlpool® Gas Ranges
Whirlpool® Gas Ranges come in various capacities and finishes with features on select models like EZ-2-Lift™ Hinged Cast-Iron Grates and the SpeedHeat™ Burner that allows you to get dinner on the table fast by generating the high heat needed to sear and boil quickly. Whether you’re considering a freestanding or slide-in gas model, Whirlpool brand helps simplify mealtime with both the features and capacity to help suit your family's needs.
3. Dual fuel ranges
A dual fuel range provides a combination of gas and electric fuel sources for the cooktop and oven. This type of range is ideal for those who prefer a gas cooktop's quick response and an electric oven's dry heat.
Enjoy excellent temperature control while cooking or baking with a dual fuel gas and electric stove. Combining a gas cooktop with an electric oven, these kitchen appliances give home cooks full control over meals.
4. Induction ranges
Induction ranges—like this induction model from Whirlpool brand—offer induction cooking technology on the stovetop and typically use electric heating elements in the oven cavity. Induction stovetops use electromagnetic energy to create heat directly within magnetic-compatible cookware, minimizing heat transfer to the surrounding cooktop.
The cooktops on these ranges are powered by electricity and offer similar features as electric cooktops, but with added advantages, such as fast cooking, responsiveness and easy cleanup. If an induction range isn’t a good fit for your kitchen, you can also find standalone induction cooktops that install directly into your countertop.
Shop Whirlpool® Induction Ranges
Whirlpool® Induction Ranges generate heat directly within cookware to heat and boil quickly, while keeping the surrounding cooktop area relatively cool. On Whirlpool® Induction Ranges like this one, a large Griddle Zone allows you to connect two individual heating elements to form one larger one, making it easy to cook different foods at once. This Whirlpool® Range also takes preheating off your plate with No Preheat Mode. Simply place your food in the oven and start baking.
5. Freestanding ranges
A freestanding range is a versatile type of stove that can stand alone or fit between cabinets, countertops and other appliances. Freestanding ranges feature finished sides and a built-in rear console, typically with a control panel, allowing flexible installation options. Keep in mind that most ranges are between 30- and 36-inch widths with capacities ranging from 5.0 cubic feet to 6.0 cubic feet.
Shop Whirlpool® Freestanding Ranges
Whirlpool® Freestanding Ranges offer flexibility in both style and installation, allowing you to select the model that works best for both your kitchen and cooking routine. Choose between gas or electric, backguard or front-display configurations, and different finishes, too. Choose a model with Remote Start, which allows you to use your smartphone or tablet to remotely turn your cooking appliance on so it’s heated up and ready to cook meals when you are. Or, cook however you want with a Whirlpool® 7-in-1 Oven, which gives you the flexibility to cook a variety of dishes by combining multiple cooking modes into one oven.
6. Slide-in ranges
Slide-in ranges are built to blend seamlessly with cabinetry, creating a sleek custom look that’s perfect for kitchen islands and other built-in installations. Unlike freestanding models, slide-in stoves do not feature a rear console, making them an ideal choice if you have a decorative backsplash that you want to showcase or plan to install a pot filler faucet behind your range. Like freestanding ranges, slide-in ranges are typically 30-36 inches wide with capacities ranging from 5.0 cubic feet to 6.0 cubic feet.
Shop Whirlpool® Slide-In Ranges
Choose between gas, electric or induction when picking out your next slide-in range by Whirlpool brand. Select Whirlpool® Slide-In Ranges bring technology to the forefront with features like Air Cooking Technology, which allows you to bring variety to mealtime with the dynamic air flow and intense heat of Air Fry and Air Baking. Or, make meals simpler with Multi-Step Cooking that lets you use your smartphone or tablet to send multiple cooking instructions to the oven or microwave all at once.2 The temperature automatically adjusts based on the recipe you enter for great results without having to monitor your meal.
7. Double oven ranges
Consider a double oven model if you’re looking for a range that offers plenty of cooking space and flexibility. With the ability to cook multiple dishes simultaneously at different temperatures and settings, these ranges are an excellent choice for busy kitchens.
Select double oven ranges, like this one from Whirlpool brand, allow you to skip preheating for your frozen favorites like pizza, lasagna, chicken nuggets, fries or pies, thanks to Frozen Bake™ Technology.
Shop Whirlpool® Double Oven Ranges
Double oven ranges have a lot to offer for the true home chef or hostess. With two different oven cavities for cooking multiple dishes at once, Whirlpool® Double Oven Ranges offer versatility with features on select models like Assisted Cooking, Convection Conversion, Rapid Preheat and more.
8. Smart ranges
With the latest smart appliances, such as Whirlpool® Smart Ovens and Ranges, you can take control of your cooking from anywhere. These innovative products allow you to manage meal times remotely using an app, freeing you to tackle other tasks during meal prep.
Shop Whirlpool® Smart Ranges
Whirlpool® Smart Ranges are available in both gas and electric options, as well as slide-in and freestanding models for a variety of kitchen setups. While you’re busy outside of the kitchen, use your smartphone to get dinner started by remotely preheating the oven on a Whirlpool® Smart Slide-in Range. Or, when your hands are full, use your compatible voice-enabled device to check the oven timer with a voice command.
How often should you buy a new stove?
Taking care of your appliance with regular cleaning and maintenance can help ensure it performs for your family for a long time. One key factor to remember is that a well-functioning stove should heat up quickly, so if your range can no longer do that, it might be time for an upgrade.
When it’s time to replace your range, consider select Whirlpool® Ranges that come with various features like the WipeClean™ Coating that lets you skip scraping and intense scrubbing of baked-on foods, making it the easiest-to-clean electric cooktop coating.3
What fuel type should you choose for a kitchen range?
When choosing a fuel type for a kitchen range, several options are available, including gas, electric and dual fuel. Consider the following to help you decide:
Your cooking needs and habits
The availability and cost of different fuel types in your area
Your home’s existing gas or electric hookup (if applicable)
Gas ranges offer responsive stovetop temperature control and fast oven preheating, while electric ranges provide dry, consistent oven heat ideal for browning or broiling.
Dual fuel ranges combine the best of both gas and electric cooking. They typically have a gas cooktop with an open flame and an electric oven for those who love to roast and bake as much as they love to sauté and sear.
The best fuel type for your kitchen depends on your preferences and cooking needs. Consider the factors mentioned above and research which fuel type is right for you.
Whirlpool® Electric Cooktops
Give your cooking space a sleek upgrade
Whirlpool® Electric Cooktops offer easy-to-clean glass surfaces on most models, with high-performance features to help you cook your family’s favorites
What is the average size of a kitchen range?
A range’s typical size is approximately 30 inches wide, with a depth of 27-29 inches and a height of 36 inches. It’s important to note that these measurements often don’t take into account features like the rear console, knobs, handles or grates. A 36-inch wide range may be a better option if you need an extra burner or element.
Since most countertop and cabinet dimensions are standardized, stove sizes usually vary more in width than depth or height. It’s important to ensure that your range fits flush with your countertops and cabinets, with the door sticking out only about an inch or two beyond the cabinets. Read more about stove dimensions in this in-depth guide.
Are larger or smaller ranges available?
Ranges are available in various sizes, including compact, standard and extra-wide models.
Compact ranges typically have a width of 20-24 inches and are great for small kitchens or apartments. Some compact models may have a greater height to compensate for a smaller width.
Standard ranges are 30-36 inches wide. Depths generally range from 25-27 inches, while heights typically range from 36-41 inches.
Extra-wide ranges can be as wide as 48-60 inches.
True Convection with Third Heating Element
Get dinner on the table quickly
True convection cooking helps you cook foods faster by using a third element plus a fan to distribute hot air evenly over, under and around food
Features to look for when buying a stove
There are a variety of features available on modern kitchen stoves to enhance your cooking experience. Some Whirlpool® Range features you might want to consider include:
Power™ Burners: Select Whirlpool® Ranges include high-heat burners that can quickly bring water to a boil and provide intense heat for searing and sautéing.
Convection cooking: Convection cooking uses a fan to circulate hot air around the oven cavity, resulting in even cooking when cooking on multiple racks. Select Whirlpool® Ranges offer True Convection Cooking with an oven fan that circulates hot air from three heating elements to help you cook foods faster.4
Self-cleaning: Many ranges feature a self-cleaning oven that uses high heat to burn off food residue, making it easy to clean the oven interior. Adjustable Self-Clean Technology available on select Whirlpool® Ranges helps you clean without chemicals by running this high-temperature setting according to a preprogrammed cycle.
Wi-Fi connectivity: Some ranges, such as this one from Whirlpool brand, include smart features that allow you to control the oven from your smartphone or other devices.
Flexibility: Many ranges offer flexible cooking options, such as dual fuel ranges that combine gas cooktops with electric ovens or slide-in ranges that fit seamlessly into your kitchen layout.
Griddle and grill options: Some ranges come with a griddle or grill option, which can be used for cooking pancakes, burgers and other foods without needing a separate cooktop. Select Whirlpool® Gas Ranges offer a Center Oval Burner that can easily fit griddles and large grill pans.
Air fry: Some ranges, like this electric option from Whirlpool brand, allow you to air fry your favorite foods like chicken wings, nuggets and fries right in your oven with an included air fryer basket.
Temperature Sensor: This built-in sensor found in select Whirlpool® Ranges monitors oven temperature and adjusts the cooking elements to help food bake evenly.
Automatic Feature Updates: Select Whirlpool® Smart Ranges are equipped with automatic feature updates that help your smart range to get smarter over time with new features and cycle updates.
Reheat: Microwaving can be quick for reheating food, but it doesn’t always deliver the right texture. With this smart slide-in gas range by Whirlpool brand, you can skip microwaving and add crispness to leftovers like pizza with Air Reheat.
Bridge elements: Some stove cooktops—typically induction—allow you to combine multiple elements to help create a larger cooking zone. This 30-inch Whirlpool® Induction Range features a Griddle Zone, which connects two individual heating elements to form one larger one, making it easy to cook different foods at once.
Easy to clean: Ranges that can clean themselves can help ease the load of cleanup after a greasy meal with self clean cycles. Easily clean your Whirlpool® Oven with the adjustable Self Clean cycle that can be customized based on the amount of spills and splatters. For lighter messes, use the Steam Clean setting to quickly and easily loosen residue inside the oven without harsh chemicals or cleaners—just add water, run the cycle and wipe away.
How do you choose a range hood?
When selecting a range hood, it’s essential to consider your cooking surface, kitchen layout and lifestyle to find the best fit for you. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing a range hood:
CFM rating: The CFM, or cubic feet-per-minute, rating measures the amount of air your range hood can move in one minute. Gas stoves typically require a higher CFM rating than electric stoves.
Sound level: Newer range hoods often feature low sound level technology, so consider the noise level when selecting a range hood.
Lighting: In addition to venting, range hoods also help light up your cooktop, so look for models with bright lights that provide ample visibility. LED Task Lighting is a popular choice and included on some Whirlpool® Range Hoods such as this 30" 400 CFM Range Hood with LED Task Lighting.
Ventilation: Depending on your home’s construction, you may need a recirculating hood instead of a vented one. Check local and state codes to ensure compliance and ensure your maximum vent length does not impact performance.
Pairing: Choosing a range hood that is appropriately sized for your cooking surface is important. For best results, choose a hood the same size as your cooking surface (e.g., a 30-inch hood for a 30-inch cooking surface).
Whirlpool® Range Hoods
Help clear your kitchen air quickly and quietly
Range hoods from Whirlpool brand offer your kitchen the ventilation it needs with features and styles to suit every home
Explore Whirlpool® Ranges for your home
Whirlpool® Ranges feature purposeful technology that simplifies meal prep and helps you take on whatever the day brings. Select models have air fry capabilities and Frozen Bake™ Technology to help you get delicious dinners on the table quickly.
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2. Appliance must be set to remote enable. WiFi & App required. Features subject to change. For details and privacy info, visit whirlpool.com/connect.
3. When compared with uncoated cooktop with same heating technology and similar wattages.
4. Compared to thermal-bake cycle on the same model.
