Your Guide to Electric Stoves Optimized for Apartment Kitchens
Apartment living comes with its perks, like affordability and less maintenance. However, limited space can make everyday tasks like cooking more challenging. That's why apartment-sized electric stoves provide the perfect solution for compact kitchens. With the right electric stove, you can serve up flavorful meals without sacrificing precious real estate.
You'll discover the ideal dimensions, essential features, top brands to consider, and expert tips for maximizing performance. Read on to uncover what to prioritize when shopping and how to install your new electric stove for safe, effective cooking.
Typical Size and Dimensions
Standard full-sized electric stoves stretch 30 inches or wider--too bulky for the average apartment kitchen. Instead, the most popular apartment-sized electric stoves range from 20 to 24 inches across.
These narrower models allow more usable counter space on either side. They take up minimal floor space as well, with standard depths around 25 inches. Heights usually stand between 36 to 38 inches tall--enough clearance beneath for larger cookware.
Noteworthy Compact Models
While sizes vary slightly, many major brands offer apartment-friendly electric stove options under 24 inches wide. Some to consider include:
- GE JAS640RMSS: 24-inch smooth-top electric stove
- Frigidaire FFEF3016US: 20-inch wide freestanding electric range
- Whirlpool W5CE3024XB: 24-inch wide electric stove with ceramic glass cooktop
Weight and Installation Considerations
Don't let their small size fool you--electric stoves still carry considerable heft. Weights range from about 120 to 140 pounds since the units contain ovens, heating elements, and internal components.
When moving into an apartment, take precautions before lugging your electric stove into the kitchen yourself. Appliance hand trucks easily maneuver the weight. Remember to power off the kitchen's electricity before connecting anything as well.
Clearance and Ventilation Requirements
While apartment electric stoves squeeze into tight spaces, some key appliance clearances enable safe operation:
- 40 inches of open counter space in front of the stove
- 24 inches of overhead clearance
- A range hood overhead that's at least as wide as the stove itself
Vented range hoods work best to funnel away grease, smoke, and other cooking byproducts. But converter or recirculating hoods suit spaces where outside ventilation isn't possible.
Performance Capabilities
Just because they're petite doesn't mean apartment stoves skimp on cooking performance. Today's models utilize efficient burners and heating elements that rival larger ranges.
Convection capabilities circulate hot air for accelerated baking times. Broilers or warming drawers keep various dishes piping hot or perfectly melted. Other settings allow precise simmering, sauteing, or boiling.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Convection Settings | Speeds up cooking by circulating hot air |
| Simmer Burners | Allows delicate simmering of sauces or soups |
Temperature and Cook Time Accuracy
Look for apartment stoves promoting advanced heating elements and precise thermostat controls. These features limit temperature fluctuations for expertly cooked dishes.
Digital interfaces clearly display set points and countdown timers. This allows monitoring progress without constantly cracking the oven door open.
Specialized Features and Settings
While meeting spatial constraints, apartment-sized electric stoves still integrate specialized functions to aid all-in-one cooking. Warming drawers keep prepared sides or appetizers ready to enjoy as mains finish up.
Lockout capabilities safely disable controls to avoid unintended activation. Other models automatically power down if temperatures get too high or timers expire.
Control Panel Styles
Electric stoves come with manual knobs or integrated digital interfaces. Digital touchpads enable easier cleaning by eliminating gaps where crumbs or spills collect. They also streamline setting and adjusting temperatures and timers.
Those partial to classic decoration may prefer manual dials and buttons. Just note that these require wiping down after each use to keep oil and grease from building up.
Electric stoves already edge out gas models when it comes to energy efficiency. But focusing on an Energy Star certified apartment appliance ensures optimal cost-savings from the start.