Upgrading to a New Professional Range: How to Choose

Making the choice to upgrade your old stove to a new professional range can be exciting but also challenging. With all the choices you have to make between brands and features, you may wonder when the time is right for you to buy and what range makes the best choice for you and your needs.

If you want to upgrade your old stove to a brand name professional range, such as the ILVE, ZLINE, or Thor gas range, this post walks through what to consider so that you get a range that meets your needs, elevates your kitchen’s style, and exceeds your expectations.

Thor gas ranges

When Is the Best Time to Upgrade?

The best time to upgrade your old stove depends on various factors, including your budget, needs, and the condition of your current oven. Here are some considerations that can help you determine when it might be the best time to upgrade:

  • Age and condition of your current model: If your range is old and showing signs of wear and tear, such as inconsistent heating, broken or malfunctioning parts, or frequent repairs, it might be a good time to consider upgrading. Investing in an upgrade may be more cost-effective in the long run rather than continuously repairing your older range.
  • Cooking needs and preferences: If your cooking needs have changed or evolved, and your current can’t match your skill level, it might be time for an upgrade. Consider whether your current range can keep up with how often you cook, especially if you want or need to cook in large amounts, and whether it has the capabilities to expand your skills. If you want to try new cooking techniques that require specialized features, upgrading to a professional range can enhance your cooking experience.
  • Energy efficiency: If you want to reduce your energy consumption and lower your utility bills, upgrading to a more energy-efficient range can be a smart choice. Newer models often come with energy-saving features, which can help you save on energy costs in the long run.

Ultimately, the best time to upgrade to a Thor gas range or one from ZLINE or ILVE will depend on your specific circumstances, including your cooking needs and the condition of your current range. The next sections help you consider the details you need when upgrading your range.

What Details Should I Consider When Upgrading My Kitchen Range?

Before you upgrade to a Thor gas range or other professional cooking range, don’t overlook the details that impact your everyday needs. Here are some important considerations:

  • Size and configuration: Consider the size of your kitchen and the space available for the cooktop range. Measure the dimensions of the space where the cooktop range will be installed to ensure that the range fits properly. Also, consider the configuration of the cooktop range, such as the number of burners or cook zones, and their layout. Think about your cooking needs and preferences and choose a cooktop range that provides the right number and type of burners or cook zones to accommodate your cooking style.
  • Fuel type: Professional cooktop ranges are available in different fuel types, such as gas, electric, or dual fuel (a combination of gas cooktop and electric oven). Consider the pros and cons of each fuel type based on your cooking requirements, budget, and availability of utility connections. Gas cooktops offer precise temperature control and are popular among professional chefs for their responsiveness, while electric cooktops are known for their even heating and easy cleanup. Dual fuel ranges combine the benefits of both gas and electric.
  • Features and functions: Consider the features and functions offered by the cooktop range. Professional cooktop ranges often come with advanced features such as griddles or induction burners, which can expand your cooking capabilities. Some cooktop ranges also offer special features such as self-cleaning ovens, convection cooking, or smart technology for enhanced convenience and performance. Think about which features are important to you and align with your cooking needs.

Thor gas ranges

How Do I Know Which Professional Range Features I Need?

So you know you need to consider the features of a range, but how do you know which new features will be most useful for you? What you’ll use largely depends on your cooking style, preferences, and needs, and these tips can help you determine which features you may find useful:

  • Assess your cooking habits. Consider the type of cooking you do most frequently. Understanding your cooking habits and preferences will help you identify which features are important to you. For example, if you bake frequently, a range with a convection oven or multiple oven racks may be beneficial. If you need high heat for cooking techniques like searing or stir-frying, a gas range may be ideal.
  • Consider your favorite recipes. Think about your go-to recipes or cooking techniques that you enjoy. Do they require specific features or functions? Consider whether you have recipes you haven’t been able to use because you’re hampered by the lack of features on your current range.
  • Evaluate your kitchen space. Consider the size and layout of your kitchen. If you have limited counter space, a range with a built-in griddle or grill may be a space-saving option. If you have ample space and enjoy cooking with large pots or pans, a range with larger burners or a wider cooktop may be more suitable.
  • Research techniques. You may not cook with these techniques now because you’re hampered by your current range. So are there cooking styles or techniques you’ll enjoy if you have the right features? Researching these techniques can give you an idea of the features that may be beneficial for your cooking needs so you can anticipate features you’ll actually use.
  • Prioritize essential features. Identify the features that are essential for your cooking needs and prioritize them. It's easy to get swayed by a wide range of features offered by professional ranges, but not all of them may be relevant to your cooking style. Make a list of the must-have features and focus on finding a range that meets those requirements within your budget.
  • Read reviews and seek recommendations. Read customer reviews, testimonials, and expert recommendations to gather insights on the features that are commonly used and valued by other home cooks. This can give you an idea of the features you may not have that are practical and useful in real-world cooking scenarios.

Remember that not all features may be necessary or practical for everyone. It's important to evaluate your own cooking needs, habits, and kitchen space to determine which features will be useful for you and prioritize accordingly. By personalizing your preferences and assessing your kitchen’s space and needs, you can find a variety of Thor gas ranges and professional brands that can elevate your cooking and give your kitchen a whole new look.