Looking to purchase your next stove? Use our guide to learn about stove types and how they will contribute to your home. Shop smarter at Surplus Furniture. 

Comparing Stove Types: Which One is Right for You?   

Buying a stove might not always feel like a pressing concern, but when it’s time to replace an old one, it’s best to know what to look for and what the different types of stoves offer. Understanding the different stove types can help homeowners make smart, cost-efficient decisions that enhance their homes and increase energy efficiency. 

To help you shop smarter for your next stove purchase, we’ve compiled this guide that covers everything from fuel type to finish to cooking experience. Get ready to heat things up as we explore the ins and outs of this important kitchen appliance.

Different Types of Stoves

Stove types vary in style and use different heating methods to cook food. From freestanding and slide-in, to natural gas ranges, electric models, and induction cooktops, discover the different types of stove here:

Freestanding Stove 

Freestanding stoves are designed to stand alone or function as their own unit when installed between cabinets. They have backguards with knobs to control the cooking functions. This type of stove is based on style rather than fuel source, so a freestanding stove can be an electric, induction, or gas range.

Slide-In Stove  

Slide-in stoves offer a more seamless look as they can fit between cabinets or integrate into a kitchen island. To maintain a seamless look, the controls are located on the front, above the oven door, rather than on a backguard.

Gas Stoves   

These stoves require a direct gas line to heat the inside of the oven and power the stovetop. You’ll notice that gas range stoves are quite responsive because the flame can be adjusted instantly, and the heat can change quickly. Because of the open flame, gas stoves are great for those who want to flame-grill, char, or anything else that requires direct use of fire to cook.

Electric Stoves   

Heat on an electric stove is usually generated through metal coil heating elements underneath a flat, glass surface, making it very easy to wipe down after use. The metal coils provide steady, consistent heat, which is optimal for control and reliability. Compared to a gas stove, electric stoves provide steadier and more consistent heat, which is optimal for control and reliability. 

Induction Stoves   

Induction stoves use electromagnetic energy to heat compatible cookware, essentially turning the pan, pot, or dish into its own heat source. An induction cooktop is one of the most popular stove types in Canada for its quick heating and high energy efficiency. 

Dual Fuel Stoves   

This type of stove combines gas and electric range qualities. Users can benefit from the responsiveness of an open flame on the stovetop and the even, reliable heat of electric ovens. For these types of stoves, the stovetop and oven use separate heat sources.

What to Consider When Comparing Types of Stoves

Not all stoves will work in every home, or with every home chef. Before purchasing a stove, consider these factors to make sure you choose the right option for your cooking needs:

Increased Energy-Efficiency    

Look for the EnerGuide label on your stove to evaluate its energy efficiency. This is mandatory on all types of stoves in Canada and should be clearly visible. It will outline the product type, model number, and average energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year. The lower the number, the more energy-efficient the stove.

Additional Features     

There are common features across stove types. For example, most types of stoves come with convection ovens nowadays, meaning that a fan circulates hot air throughout the oven to bake food more quickly and evenly. However, the different types of stoves—gas range, induction cooktop, or electric stove—will determine the characteristics of your appliance and the food it will help prepare. It’s important to know what your must-haves are before you choose.

Optimal Sizing     

Ranges come in multiple sizes depending on available space, intended use, and required functions. Standard ovens for home use typically have four or five burners, but commercial stoves or compact options might have more or less respectively. These different types of stoves mean you can choose the best option for your space and needs.

If you bake often, you might consider a wall oven, which gives you the option of two convection ovens stacked on top of one another. This is convenient if you want to bake multiple dishes simultaneously or bake at two different temperatures. Usually, the lower oven is larger for bigger dishes, and the top oven is smaller for faster heating and small pans.

Favourite Finish      

Your choice of stove can also determine (or be determined by) the finish. Some models come in a range of finishes that affect how easy it is to clean the cooking surface and the appliance’s appearance in your kitchen. Popular choices include stainless steel, cast iron, and sheet iron in white or black. 

Self-Cleaning Options       

Some ovens have self-cleaning functions, which check a huge task off of a homeowner’s to-do list. These self-cleaning models use high temperatures or steam to remove leftover food inside. This can also help lower the risk of smoke from grease left at the bottom of the oven.

Tips for Shopping Stove Types

Wondering how to get started? Here are some helpful steps to follow when replacing your appliance and shopping for your next stove.

• Check Your Space: Take measurements of your current unit, the space it filled, or the new space you have reserved for a stove. Use these measurements to inform your buying decisions.
• Consider Your Needs: Your lifestyle and your needs in the kitchen will determine what you need from a stove. Think about size and the additional functions you need.
• Decide on a Fuel Type: Choose whether you’re shopping for a gas, dual fuel type, electric, or induction stove. Each has different benefits depending on your cooking preferences.
• Look at Aesthetics: This will narrow down your last few options by finish and whether it’s a slide-in or freestanding model. Decide how you want your kitchen to look, as a new stove can transform and elevate the space.

Shop Any Stove Type at Surplus Furniture        

Whether you’re buying a new stove for a home renovation or replacing an outdated or faulty model, understanding the different types of stoves will help you select the best option for you. With so many options to choose from, it’s important to go with a retailer who is committed to the highest-quality at the best prices. 

Surplus Furniture is your partner for all of your home furniture needs. From stove types to living room decor, we’ve got you covered with top quality products at affordable warehouse prices. We have an extensive online catalogue and financing options available to transform your house into your dream home. 

Visit us in store at your local branch today. Browse our home upgrade options and take your kitchen to the next level.