A range cooker is a cooker that consists of a hob and an oven. It can be a helpful addition to any kitchen and can make a desirable centrepiece.
If a range cooker is electric, it indicates that both the hob and cooker are electrically-powered. You can also get gas-powered and dual-fuel range cookers.
If you are thinking about buying an electric range cooker, there are a number of things you should consider before buying and setting it up. Keep reading to learn the answers to 8 top electric range cooker FAQs.
1. Who can fit an electric range cooker?
An electric range cooker needs to be installed by a registered electrician. They will be aware of wiring regulations and install your cooker safely and correctly.
2. Where can I fit an electric range cooker?
You can install an electric range cooker in most places, as long as it is not in the same room as a bath or shower. Wherever your cooker is, it needs to be in an area with:
- Adequate light
- No draughts
- A good air supply
3. How much space should there be on either side of my electric range cooker?
You can set up most range cookers flush to the sides of your kitchen cabinets. However, it’s good practice to leave a gap between them anyway so that your cooker can be serviced, cleaned and moved if required. The commonly advised space is approximately 2.5mm on each side of your cooker.
Some cookers need even more space than this, otherwise they can harm your kitchen cabinets. If you don’t know how much space to leave for your cooker, you can ask your installer or the manufacturer.
4. How much space should there be between my cooker and the cooker hood?
Range cooker hoods usually should be installed around 65 -75cm above the hob. That said, you should check installation recommendations as some cooker hood styles require installing slightly lower. If you make your cooker hood too high, it will lower extraction efficiency.
5. How high should I make my cooker?
Range cookers generally look good if they’re installed at the same height as the work surfaces they’re next to. Most electric range cookers have adjustable legs so that they can match lots of different surface heights.
If you want your cooker to be the same height as your other surfaces, make sure that your installer knows this before they start work.
6. What depth should my cooker be?
Most cookers have a depth of 60cm. This matches the normal depth of most kitchen cabinets. Even so, you can get cookers and work surfaces that are shallower or deeper.
Range cookers often look best if they match the depth of the surfaces they’re next to. If you want your cooker to do this, measure your surfaces before you go looking for a cooker.
7. Does my cooker need an anti-tip device?
An anti-tip device or safety bracket is a piece of metal with a u-shaped slot. It attaches to your cooker and either the wall or floor to stop your cooker from tipping over.
It depends on how heavy your range cooker is as to whether or not you should use a safety bracket. A fairly heavy cooker will stay in place without one, whereas a lighter cooker may well need one. If your electric range cooker requires a safety bracket, this will probably come with it.
8. Does my range cooker need a plinth?
A plinth is a strong base that your cooker sits on. Lots of cookers come with a plinth included. It raises your cooker up from the ground and makes it easier to use. It also makes your cooker seem in-keeping with your kitchen units if they sit on plinths too.
Nonetheless, a range cooker can also work well and look good without a plinth. If you don’t want one, check that the cooker you want does not come with or require a plinth before you get it.
So now you should know a bit more about electric range cookers and how to fit them. If you want to install one in your home and are looking for an installer, we can help you. Fill in our online form and we’ll connect you with up to 4 local electricians.