Range cookers
Be inspired by the latest designs and find out what questions to ask before you buy
The defining feature of a classic kitchen, the range cooker tops the wish-list of many period homeowners – and for good reason. Once the powerhouse of the home, providing heating, hot water and a space to prepare food, range cookers could be found in humble cottages to grand houses. Originally designed to be run on solid fuel, the traditional cast-iron range is still in production today, and is a popular option for those living off mains gas. However, with the rise of central heating, the modern range became focused on efficiency and food production. Working the same way as conventional ovens, usually either gas or electricity, they have multiple cooking cavities and plenty of hob space as well as a wide range of specialist additions, from griddles and rotisseries to self-cleaning functionality. Available in every shade of the rainbow, with several companies also offering custom colourways, there is a variety of range cooker designs, styles and fuel types to choose from.
Classic Beaune 900mm in Jaune with twin gas ovens, six-burner gas hob and brushed steel trim, £4,660, Lacanche
QWhich fuel type is right for me? There are four main fuel options to consider when it comes to running your range cooker:
is a favourite for bakers as it offers greater control over cooking. Gas ovens are known for producing moist bakes, while a gas hob provides fantastic control and a traditional look.
is the most popular option for ovens, as it provides even heat distribution for more consistent cooking. There has also been a rise in the popularity of induction hobs as they are fast to heat, highly controllable, easy to clean and safer than gas.
offers a combination of gas and electric and is by far the most popular option for homes on mains gas. It lets you have the flexibility of both a gas hob and an electric fan-assisted oven.
such as oil, wood or solid fuel, are worth considering if you don’t have access to mains gas. However, these models are more specialist and don’t offer the same hi-tech capabilities of electric and dual-fuel designs. Don’t forget to take into account that solid-fuel and wood-burning appliances will require a flue to remove smoke and harmful gases, and you’ll need sufficient covered storage space for the fuel.
QShould I use it to heat the whole house? Many models exclusively offer cooking capabilities but certain models, like those by Esse and Rayburn, are also designed to supply central heating and hot water. If you are not connected to mains gas, then it is definitely worth considering. Some designs, such as the Rayburn 600 Series 699K, are able to heat up to 20 radiators.
QDo I have to keep it on all the time? Traditionally ranges were designed to be on all of the time, providing a constant temperature to the ovens and hotplates, which were ready to cook on at a moment’s notice. However, this makes the kitchen very hot in the warmer months, so these days most owners of classic designs also own a small electric oven so they can turn it off in the summer. Thankfully, there are now many modern range cooker designs that can be turned on and off as needed, with some models allowing each part to be independently controlled.
QHow much does it cost? If you want the aesthetics of a range cooker but the functionality of a conventional oven, then prices start at less than £1,000 for a basic range-style model. Traditional cast-iron ranges are much more expensive, costing upwards of £5,000, but these are investment pieces designed to last for decades.
It is a common misconception that all range cookers are expensive to run. Many modern designs are A-rated for efficiency, meaning running costs are relatively affordable, particularly as they are not required to be on all of the time. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for older ranges, which can be expensive to run, although the excess heat they produce will keep your kitchen warm so reduces the need for radiators in this room.
QAre there extra features that should I look out for? Gone are the days when a range cooker could simply provide basic cooking – today some models include rotisseries, microwaves as well as myriad other functions. So, it’s worth thinking about which features you will actually use. If you are an avid bread maker then a warming draw is a worthwhile addition. Meanwhile, wok rings and griddle plates are great for providing a variety of cooking methods. Also look out for cleaning functions that use steam or pyrolytic technology – which uses extremely high temperatures to burn food residue into fine ash – to save you hours of scrubbing and harsh chemicals.