How to Buy a Glass Top Electric Range
It can be a pain to clean around electric coils on a stove top. Not to mention how nasty the trays get. On the other hand, a glass top electric range is one smooth top and a piece of cake to clean. The only problem is there are so many different brands, sizes and styles to choose from the consumer is left to wonder just which stove would be best for their home. Before making a final decision, follow these steps to find a glass top electric range that's right for you. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Measure the space available in the kitchen. The worst mistake that can be made when purchasing new appliances is to not measure the available space. Suddenly that beautiful stove that cost several hundred dollars doesn't seem so appealing sitting in the middle of the kitchen floor without a place to fit.
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Determine the type of features needed. Glass top electric ranges offer a variety of different features including extra burners and burners that can be set low enough to simmer or melt foods. According to the Range Buying Guide at Lowe's, some even have adjustable elements. To find the exact features needed, take time to look at ranges online and see which features would be the most useful.
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Choose a well-known brand. Appliances are a big purchase. Sure, there may be ranges that cost $200, but is the brand trustworthy? If the range is an unknown brand, you have no way of knowing whether the product is high quality. Stick with the brands you're familiar with and know are trustworthy.
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Compare prices and stores. Some stores offer great everyday prices, while others offer sales that are better than those everyday prices. It's also important to compare the services that the store offers. Some stores offer free haul-away of your old range, while others offer interest-free financing.
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Check the warranty. Glass top electric ranges can scratch or break. It's important to know what the warranty will cover and what it won't cover.
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Read the reviews. It's important to check the reviews before making any large purchase. With glass top electric ranges, it's important to know how sturdy the glass is, if the top is easily scratched and if the range requires special cleaners. More importantly, read to see how well the product performs. CNET Reviews and Consumer Reports both offer impartial reviews.
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Tips & Warnings
Dark-topped ranges won't stain as easily.
Just because a brand is well known doesn't mean that a particular model is high quality.