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Learn more about slide-in ranges vs. freestanding ranges to determine what is the best range for your kitchen and household.
Most people picture the typical range as a freestanding model with a cooktop surface above either one or two ovens.
Freestanding ranges use either gas, electric or dual fuel and are designed with one control panel to operate both the cooktop and oven. They have backguards to help protect the wall behind the range from splatters and other messes that tend to occur while cooking. These backguards are also where the controls are located.
Freestanding ranges offer installation flexibility. They have finished sides, giving you the choice as to whether you want to install them between cabinets or on their own.
PRO TIP: Freestanding ranges may not be the best choice for kitchen islands.
Please note that JennAir® does not offer freestanding ranges.
One big differentiator between freestanding and slide-in ranges is installation flexibility. Many slide-in ranges feature finished sides, yet some do not, so it’s important to recognize that this makes less than ideal for standalone installation.
All JennAir® slide-in ranges are designed with finished sides. You can achieve a seamless and crisp look by installing the range between cabinets or you can choose to install these ranges on their own.
Controls for slide-in ranges can usually be found on the front or on top of the unit. One thing to note is that these ranges do not have a backguard. This means that if you don’t have a backsplash, you may have to install one, such as a tile, behind the range to protect the wall.
The stunning and modern appearance of a slide-in range have made them a popular choice for kitchen remodels and/or for installation in kitchen islands. Part of their appeal is their overhanging sides, which work to prevent food and liquids from spilling into the gaps between the cooktop and counter. This helps make cleanup much easier.
Freestanding and slide-in ranges have similar options and performance. Make no mistake, though, these two range types are not interchangeable. The key difference is the backguard on freestanding models and the location of the controls on each type of range.
When deciding between the two, consider the height difference caused by where the controls are placed. Freestanding ranges usually have their controls at the rear whereas the controls on slide-in models are at the front, making freestanding range controls higher than slide-in options. While many slide-in ranges have full depth, some models must sit a few inches away from the wall. This usually leaves a few inches of countertop space that wraps around the back of the cooktop.
If you decide to swap your slide-in range for a freestanding unit, you may need to update your countertop configuration. If you’re going in the other direction and trading in a freestanding range for a slide-in model, you may be required to fill in a two-inch gap (or possibly a larger one). You will also have to update the wall behind your range to ensure that it is protected from cooking by-products like steam, water and stains.
JennAir® slide-in ranges allow owners to perform installation against the wall. Front control slide-in ranges fit standard cabinet depth of 24 inches.
PRO TIP: Before buying either a freestanding or slide-in range, consult with a qualified appliance retailer and/or a remodeling professional to confirm that your new range will fit in your kitchen.
SLIDE IN RANGES
When deciding between a slide-in vs. freestanding range, there are a few things to consider:
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