When looking and operating properly, a range is the headliner of any kitchen. Whether your range is a freestanding or slide-in model, it can polish any amateur with the confidence of a professional chef. We’ll highlight the pros and cons of a slide-in vs freestanding range and see which one is ideal for you.
Choosing Between a Slide-in vs. Freestanding Range
What’s the difference between a slide-in and freestanding range? While they both carry similar appearances and perform as brilliantly as you allow, they differ in both style and installation. The team at D&T Appliance Service Company has laid out the advantages and disadvantages of each so you can start impressing with your culinary creations.
Freestanding Range Pros & Cons
Appropriately named, freestanding ranges are installed without the assistance of any cabinetry and can fit easily in kitchens, utility rooms, or even outdoors. Their sides guarantee their “plug and play” set-up where they can be positioned by any gas or electrical hookup. The backguard on a freestanding range also helps protect the wall behind it from splashes and spills. Because they provide a more flexible and economical installation, they can be found in 90% of US kitchens and are easier to replace.
Given their bulky backguards, a disadvantage of freestanding models is they don’t pave a promising fit for kitchen islands. Since they lack the counter overlap in slide-in designs, preventing food from falling down its sides can pose more of a challenge. Let’s sum up the freestanding range pros and cons.
Pros of a Freestanding Range:
- More affordable and flexible installation
- Easier to repair and/or replace
- Backguard protects wall from splashes
Cons of a Freestanding Range:
- Risk of food debris falling through seams
- Backguard blocks backsplash
- Not optimal for kitchen island location
Slide-In Range Pros & Cons
What is a slide-in range? Sometimes referred to as built-in or integrated ranges, slide-in ranges can come in many different brands, colors, and styles. It’s generally designed to be placed beneath one or more kitchen cabinets, allowing them to blend into the decor of your kitchen. Its custom installation eliminates the seam between the counter and range, preventing food particles from falling into any hard-to-reach cracks.
When comparing a slide-in vs freestanding range, a commonly asked question is, “Are slide-in ranges more expensive?” To put it bluntly – yes. Their tailor-made, built-in appearances make them more costly than their freestanding counterparts. Along with the downside of added installation cost, slide-in ranges are harder to replace due to the required customization. Let’s review the pros and cons of slide-in ranges.
Pros of a Slide-In Range:
- Sleeker, flushed style
- Easier to clean after use
- Can be used in a center island
Cons of a Slide-In Range:
- Costly installation
- Lack of finished sides
- More difficult to repair or replace
Is a Slide-in vs. Freestanding Range Better?
Aesthetically speaking, slide-in ranges are the clear winners, but that doesn’t mean they’re better at their principal job. The installation distinction between a slide-in vs freestanding range has no bearing on their cooking outcomes. As with any appliance purchase decision, you know your situation best.
If you’re remodeling your kitchen to last for twenty-plus years and have the means, slide-in might be the way to go. If you’re a tenant, first-time homeowner, or your structure won’t allow the required alterations, freestanding models might pair better with your needs. Can you replace a freestanding range with a slide-in? After confirming the countertops will fit and ensuring you have the required backsplash, it’s possible to become a slide-in convert if you choose.
Still don’t know which type to lean toward? We’d be happy to help. For more tips on range styles, gas range maintenance, or if your gas range won’t light, contact D&T Appliance!
