As a property manager or rental property owner, one of the pivotal decisions you’ll make revolves around selecting the right kitchen appliances to install. The choice between a cooktop and a range is more than just a culinary preference—it influences the layout, functionality, and appeal of your kitchen.
In this post, we’ll break down the differences between a cooktop and a range to help you make an informed decision that suits both your property and your tenants’ needs.
Understanding the Basics: Cooktop Vs. Range
A cooktop is a standalone appliance with burners or heating elements installed directly into the countertop, providing a sleek, integrated look in the kitchen. On the other hand, a range combines both a cooktop and an oven in one unit, which is ideal for tenants who value both baking and stovetop cooking in a single appliance.
Cooktops
Cooktops offer a modern look and a level of flexibility that appeals to tenants who prefer a streamlined kitchen. Here are some benefits:
- Design Versatility: Cooktops can be installed anywhere in the kitchen, offering more freedom in the design layout. This is particularly advantageous in rentals with limited space.
- Ease of Cleaning: With no oven underneath, cooktops are easier to access and clean, a convenience that can be a significant selling point.
- Customizable Options: They come in various types, including gas, electric, and induction, each offering different benefits for cooking precision and energy efficiency.
Ranges
Ranges have been a staple in kitchens for decades, and their traditional appeal isn’t fading anytime soon. Their advantages include:
- Cost Efficiency: Ranges typically cost less than buying a separate cooktop and oven, making them a budget-friendly option for many property owners.
- Simplicity: Offering a two-in-one solution, ranges are straightforward to install and use, which can be ideal for tenants who appreciate convenience.
- Variety of Features: Modern ranges come equipped with a variety of features like self-cleaning ovens, various burner configurations, and smart technology integrations.
Choosing What’s Right for Your Rental Property
Deciding between the two often comes down to the space available in the kitchen and the specific cooking needs of your target renters.
Space and Layout Considerations
One of the main factors in choosing between a cooktop and a range is the layout and space of your rental kitchen.
Cooktops take up less space than ranges, making them a popular choice for smaller kitchens or units where maximizing counter space is essential. Since cooktops are installed directly into the counter, they also allow flexibility for storage space underneath, which can be useful for smaller kitchens.
Ranges, however, can be more suitable for larger kitchens, as they offer both cooking and baking capabilities without needing separate installations.
Ease of Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, both cooktops and ranges have pros and cons. Cooktops, particularly smooth glass or ceramic ones, are typically easier to clean as there are no crevices for food particles to get trapped in.
Ranges, however, can be more practical for tenants who cook and bake frequently, although they may require a bit more effort to keep both the stovetop and oven clean.
For landlords, it’s essential to consider how much time tenants are likely to spend cleaning these appliances and how this could affect the condition of your property over time.
Budget and Installation Costs
Another important factor is the cost of purchase and installation. Generally, cooktops and separate wall ovens tend to be more expensive than standalone ranges, making ranges a more budget-friendly option for landlords with limited budgets.
Additionally, installing a range is typically simpler and more cost-effective, as it requires only one electrical or gas hookup, whereas a cooktop and separate oven may require additional wiring or plumbing work.
Setting the Stage for Culinary Delights
Ultimately, whether a cooktop or a range is best for your rental property depends on your specific circumstances including budget, kitchen layout, tenant demographics, and aesthetic considerations. By evaluating these factors, you can choose an appliance that fits the functional needs of the space and enhances its appeal.
At Ambar Distributors, we offer a range of both cooktops and ranges that can suit any property’s needs, from leading industry brands like LG, Frigidaire, Electrolux, and Hotpoint. Let us help you find the perfect solution that balances cost, functionality, and tenant satisfaction, making your rental property stand out in the competitive market.