WHAT IS A DUAL FUEL RANGE?
Dual fuel stoves are ranges that feature a gas cooktop and an electric oven, combining the strengths of both. Gas cooktops offer quick heating and ample temperature control. Electric oven elements cycle in patterns that allow for optimal management of temperatures, making them ideal for baking.
Many cooks will tell you that they prefer gas cooktops: in addition to their highly responsive temperature control, gas cooktops also allow you to use more cooking techniques, like roasting or charring peppers. In contrast, bakers are more likely to prefer electric ovens due to features on select models that offer a steam bread cycle, which releases steam at the beginning of the cycle, allowing bread to gain optimal rise. The steam then tapers off as the cycle progresses. Learn more about the differences of gas vs. electric ranges.
But what do you do if you’re a fan of both? That’s where dual fuel ranges (also called stoves) come in.
HOW DOES A DUAL FUEL RANGE WORK?
Dual fuel ranges work by using both a gas line hookup and an electrical outlet. The stovetop heats cookware with an open flame covered by grates. This allows heat to be easily adjusted by changing the flame size. The electric oven uses heating elements that cycle on and off to help provide precise temperatures within the oven cavity.
DUAL FUEL RANGE ADVANTAGES
A dual fuel stove can provide a number of advantages based on your cooking preferences.
BENEFITS OF AN ELECTRIC OVEN
- Fast pre-heating.
- Controlled heat, thanks to multiple elements that deliver and distribute heat throughout the oven cavity.
- Precise temperature management due to heat cycling.
- Ideal conditions for exceptional baked goods.
- More familiarity for most people (electric ovens are common in residential and professional kitchens).
BENEFITS OF A GAS COOKTOP
- Direct heat from gas flames.
- Highly responsive temperature control.
- Fast cooling burners.
- Potential cost savings (if natural gas is cheaper than electricity in your area).
- You can also employ more advanced cooking techniques like charring.
DUAL FUEL RANGE DISADVANTAGES
Generally speaking, the main downsides of a dual fuel range are their cost and installation. These types of stoves tend to be more expensive than their all-gas or all-electric counterparts, so it’s important to consider this and compare ranges before making a purchase. Also, keep in mind that a dual fuel range will require a gas hook-up – if you don’t have a gas line running to your home already, you’ll need to take this cost into account as well.
WHAT IS A DOWNDRAFT DUAL FUEL RANGE?
A downdraft dual fuel range uses an internal ventilation system that eliminates the need for overhead venting. Ranges with downdraft ventilation typically have a vent on the cooktop surface that helps capture particles and odors from the air around the cooking surface.The air can typically either be vented outside through duct work or filtered and recirculated inside with a duct-free vent accessory.
Another alternative to an overhead vent hood is a downdraft hood. This appliance is installed behind your range and can extend or retract when needed. Maytag brand has a selection of downdraft hoods that can be incorporated into your current cooking setup.
IS A DUAL FUEL RANGE WORTH IT?
As with any appliance, the decision to buy a dual fuel stove ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you have gas and electric hook-ups in your kitchen, are interested in investing in a dual fuel option and want a range that lets you maximize your cooking skills, a dual fuel range may be the right choice.
If you’re interested in the benefits of a dual fuel range but don’t know if your kitchen can accommodate one, there is another option. Consider installing a gas cooktop, like these models from Maytag brand, and an electric wall oven like these options – that way, you’ll be able to enjoy both options and make the most of your favorite recipes.
Still can’t decide which range is the best fit for your kitchen? Compare slide-in vs. freestanding models and check out our range buying guide to learn more about different options.
ARE THERE ALTERNATIVES TO DUAL FUEL RANGES?
You can enjoy the benefits of dual fuel cooking without a dual fuel range. Installing a gas cooktop and a separate electric wall oven allows you to have the responsive burner heat when sauteeing on a cooktop and the precise heat while baking in the oven.
Induction cooktops also offer responsive temperature control similar to a gas option and can be a convenient option for kitchens that don’t currently have a gas hookup.
Explore Maytag® gas and electric ranges
Your range plays an integral role in your kitchen, which is why you trust Maytag® ranges to get the job done. If you’re shopping for a new gas or electric range with dependable cooking performance and advanced features on select models like Power™ burners or true convection with third element, Maytag brand has you covered.
