Selecting a new cooker for your kitchen requires a bit of careful planning and consideration. You may like the look and style of certain models, but functionality should be the main reason for your decision. If you have a small family then chances are you will only need a small cooker, or one with 2 or 4 burners. However, if you have guests round or enjoy entertaining then a double oven with extra hobs will be at the top of your list no doubt.
You will need to choose between an electric, gas or halogen oven. Electric has the advantage of faster cooking times as they are usually fitted with convection fans in the oven. This gives a much more even and consistent cooking to food than gas does. Gas on the other hand is better for hobs and burners because it offers a more consistent heat source. There is no shortage of designs available these days, and retailers like argos stock them by the hundreds. Dual fuel cookers are becoming more common because you get the benefits of having an electric oven with a gas hob. They are a bit trickier to install so get a professional to do this for you.
If you have kids running around the kitchen then look for added safety features on your cooker. The hob controls can be locked or positioned at the back so they are harder for little fingers to touch. The halogen and magnetic induction hobs cool down much quicker than standard burners, which can also avoid any accidents. Grills can come with stops on the end to prevent the grill pan from falling out on you, or the floor. They are a very useful invention that has prevented many accidents to young children. Hob protectors are another safety feature you should consider. They are inexpensive and are widely available from argos direct or even in supermarkets and appliance stores.
The final consideration is the ventilation and the positioning of the cooker. Range cookers will take up more room and need extra ventilation. You may also need to increase the power supply. Stylish hoods can really be a focal point in the kitchen, and stainless steel is very popular. You can match the material to your existing kitchen layout for the best effect.
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