Bluestar RCS or RNB

4 years ago

First time home buyer... renovating the first floor in a very old house. I think we’re set on getting a 36” Bluestar range, but having trouble convincing ourselves we should lay out the extra 2 grand for the RNB. Does anyone have experience...

Are the only real differences the oven rack and the higher BTU burners?

Do 22k BTU burners make a big difference in common, practical applications? Would love more power but I know in 10 years of rentals I haven’t used burner over 15k BTU

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M
4 years ago
The difference is noticeable. That's about 50% more. It's the difference between sauteing and frying food. It's a particularly big deal when using a round-bottom wok, as it is so close to the flame and the difference in power output is very immediately reflected in your food.

Is it worth $2000? Hmm, that's a different question. People have managed to cook great food on campfires. So, you don't absolutely must have a great range to cook good food.

If you wanted to save money, I'd recommend going with a 30" range and then spending the money that you saved on getting the RNB. I believe, the 30" RNB costs about the same as the 36" RCS. That would also save you money on a less expensive vent hood and a smaller make-up-air system.

Also, the oven in the 30" range is already slow to preheat (at least 20min). I would expect the 36" oven to be even slower. That's not to say that these ranges don't have great ovens. But they simply are so big, they do take time. And I have a really hard time ever seeing a need for anything bigger than the huge 30" oven.

Alternatively, you could buy aftermarket parts to upgrade the burner heads on the RCS. A replacement burner head (a little difficult to find, but it is out there if you keep looking) and a generic Garland-style jet should cost about $200. Of course, you take your own chances with modifying your new range and this might affect your ability to get warranty coverage.
Joe thanked M
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Bluestar RCS or RNB

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M

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