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.
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. 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, we’ve compiled this guide that covers everything from fuel type to finish.
Different Types of Stoves
Stove types vary in style and use different heating methods to cook food.
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 electric, induction, or gas.
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. 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. Compared to a gas stove, electric stoves provide steadier and more consistent heat, 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.
What to Consider When Comparing Types of Stoves
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. The lower the kWh-per-year number, the more energy-efficient the stove.
Additional Features
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. 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.
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. 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.
Favourite 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. 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 your to-do list. These models use high temperatures or steam to remove leftover food inside, lowering the risk of smoke from grease.
Tips for Shopping Stove Types
- Check your space: take measurements of your current unit, the space it filled, or the new space you have reserved for a stove.
- 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, 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.
Shop Any Stove Type at Surplus Furniture
Whether you’re buying a new stove for a renovation or replacing an outdated model, Surplus Furniture is your partner for all of your home appliance needs. We have an extensive online catalogue and financing options available. Visit us in store at your local branch today.
