skip to main content

slide-in vs. free-standing range?

16 years ago

hi,

we're going to go with a dual fuel range with 4 or 5 continuous burners, at least one having a high BTU output, and a convection oven. these are the features that matter most to me, and i don't feel i need a higher end range than that. i like the way the slide-in ranges look (GE profile has one that meets my criteria), but kenmore has a free standing one that does too, for much less money. i don't really like the way these look as much, and you do have to reach over the stove for the oven controls. aesthetics are important to me, but apart from that and the price difference, are there any other particular pros or cons to consider?

thanks

Comments (6)

ashlander
16 years ago
DH wanted a slide-in range because he "cleans up" and he thought it would be easier to clean behind the range...and he was right! We chose a full granite back splash behind the range and it is a breeze to clean...besides looking great!

This was the first opportunity for us to have a slide-in (kitchen remodel). Our previous homes were typical tract homes and so slide-ins weren't an option before.
markw
16 years ago
It sounds to me like you've already discovered the major issues. Slide-in offers a more integrated look, the opportunity to have an unbroken backsplash and so forth but slide-ins are often lower performance and always more expensive than similar free-standing ranges from the same manufacturer. So it's usually a trade-off of style versus performance and price.
Related Discussions
Difference between free standing range and slide in range?
Q
Comments (6)
The top of a slide-in stove lays on top of the countertop stone/material and covers it about 1-1/4 inches on each side and the back. There is no gap between stove top and countertop sides. A slide-in stove does not have "finished" metal sides. Cabinets on either side are required. A free-standing stove is just that...there will be a gap of some size between the countertop and the sides of the stove. A free-standing stove has finished metal sides and it can stand against a wall without any side cabinets.
...See More
Slide in vs. Free Standing Double Oven Range
Q
Comments (10)
I'm planning on the GE Cafe gas range that cluelessincolorado has for my upcoming remodel. In our former home, we had a Maytag Gemini electric range w/ the double ovens and I really enjoyed having that smaller oven, also. Unfortunately, sounds like the GE Cafe's smaller oven does not heat up quickly, unlike the Gemini, due to the former using only a 110 volt circuit. It's one of those tradeoffs that I have decided is worthwhile for this time around, though. Among other things, the Gemini burner configuration squishes all the burners to one side and puts the controls on top, just to the rt of the burners. I am also trying to avoid having the raised back panel, plus I want the 5-burner configuration this time. Other than that, though, I enjoyed my smoothtop electric Gemini.
...See More
No backsplash please - slide-in range or free standing?
Q
Comments (4)
Most slide in ranges come with a stainless filler piece for the space between the range and the wall so you wouldn't need to purchase a piece of counter for that area.
...See More
Free-standing vs Slide-in Range
Q
Comments (9)
Your decision of slide-in vs free-standing will impact the counter installation. Counter material will not impact selection of range style. I switched from a free-standing to a slide-in range a few years ago and the range came with a little strip to fill in the gap behind the range. If I'd installed new counters, I would have had the counter fill in that space instead. The way that my slide-in installs, it may also have been beneficial (though not required) to notch the counters slightly in order to snug the range closer to the back wall. So when you've selected your range, make certain you have all installation instructions available prior to installation of the counters. A 30" range should be just that: 30" wide. You can usually check out installation instructions and specifications online to make certain, but as long as you currently have a 30" range in the space, the wide should be perfect for any other 30" range. Personally, I like the look of no built in backsplash on the range. That was my primary reason to switching to a slide-in. However, I've since found several ranges that are free-standing and have no built in backsplash. So, make certain you look at all of your range options before you make your decision on slide-in vs free-standing.
...See More
jeri
16 years ago
egganddart49 Â Have you seen the new GE CafÃ©? It wont save you any money, but you can get duel fuel, slid-in, and 2 ovens. The only slide-in double oven on the market. The small oven on the bottom is 1.2 cu. Ft. and ranges from 140 (good for a warming drawer) to 450.
tetrazzini
Original Author
16 years ago
thanks, good answers. i went to GE's site to look up the GE cafe and there's a discrepancy in the pictures. one picture shows the range with a low back, and another shows it with no raised back at all. i didn't see mention of 2 ovens, but i'll look into it more. i was trying to talk myself into being practical and saving some money on a free-standing kenmore,, buy these GE ranges are so nice...
jeri
16 years ago
The CafÃ© definitely has 2 ovens and comes in either duel fuel or all gas. There is an optional "back guard" which I thought was silly Â but "to each his own" I guess. It also has a long middle burner and comes with a griddle made just for that burner Â not that you canÂt use it for other things.

If you could use a second oven but only have room for a 30" unit Â this is definitely something to considerÂ
tetrazzini
Original Author
16 years ago
thanks for telling me about this model, jeri. i love the griddle burner.

Sign Up to Comment

Related Stories

KITCHEN DESIGN How to Find the Right Range for Your Kitchen

By KitchenLab Interiors

Range style is mostly a matter of personal taste. This full course of possibilities can help you find the right appliance to match yours

MOST POPULAR 10 Strategies for Keeping Surfaces Clutter-Free

By Laura Gaskill

The universe wants your coffee table to become a clutter magnet — but you can fight back

GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING Breezy and Bug-Free Modern Porches

Screening keeps pests out of these diverse porches across the U.S., while thoughtful designs keep them visually appealing

GARDENING GUIDES Get on a Composting Kick (Hello, Free Fertilizer!)

By Matt Kilburn

Quit shelling out for pricey substitutes that aren’t even as good. Here’s how to give your soil the best while lightening your trash load

BUDGET DECORATING 21 Free Ways to Give Your Home Some Love

By Laura Gaskill

Change a room’s look or set a new mood without spending anything but a little time

LIFE Modern Manners for Conflict-Free Family Visits

By Laura Gaskill

Avoid thermostat wars, pet peeves and the great shower squeeze with these tips for having family as houseguests

DECORATING GUIDES 11 Vignettes to Inspire a Clutter-Free Nightstand

By Shawn Gauthier

Turn that bedside table into a place for the eye to rest at the end of a long day

HOME OFFICES 9 Hacks for a Clutter-Free Home Office

By Natasha Saroca

Use these clever ideas to transform a chaotic study into one that’s more conducive to working

MOST POPULAR 10 Reasons to Get Rid of More Clutter

By Laura Gaskill

From a calmer mind to a more workable closet, the benefits of streamlining are just a few trash bags away

KITCHEN DESIGN Reader Kitchen of the Week: Clean, Modern and Clutter-Free

By Vanessa Brunner

Step inside a sleek remodeled kitchen with tons of storage and a wall that opens to the backyard

Sponsored

EK Interior Design

5 Reviews

TIMELESS INTERIOR DESIGN FOR ENDLESS MEMORIES

More Discussions

Help! V*King nightmare is over. Need input on 36”, 6 burner gas range.

13

Whirlpool CLASS ACTION SUIT

21

refrigerator help please!

10

Speed ovens - how do they affect taste?

4

Wall oven thoughts?

13