Are you struggling to think of the types of stoves? You will be surprised to know that there are twenty-one different types of stoves. You might want a simple gas stove with four burners, or a sleek electric stove with digital controls. If you’re having trouble choosing a stove for your home, we will cover the features of all types in extensive detail. Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Types of Stoves by Heat Source
1. Gas
Choosing a gas stove for your kitchen has many benefits. Not only do they heat up fast, but they also provide a good range of temperature due to their strong flames. In addition, you have control over the temperature, and you can adjust it quickly to your liking or needs. You can cook at a temperature of your choice without worrying about burning your food.
These stovetops also cool down quickly after turning off the heat, making them a safer option if you have children at home. You can use any kind of cookware you want without worrying about damaging it. These stoves usually work without electricity, and all you need is a match to light the flame. The only downside to gas stovetops is that you need a well-ventilated kitchen.
2. Electric
Electric stoves are the commonest type of stove and relatively inexpensive compared to gas stoves. They are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a new stove on a budget. Electric stoves are super easy to clean and very durable.
These stoves heat up slower than gas stoves, and it is difficult to adjust the temperature. However, many people still prefer electric stoves due to their safety since there is no open flame. Electric stovetops are efficient and easy to install in your home.
When using an electric stovetop, be careful about the cookware you use. If you use the wrong materials or heavy cookware, you can scratch, damage, or even shatter your stovetop.
3. Induction
If you want a cooktop that heats up fast, an induction stove is the one for you. This type is costly compared to a gas or electric stove but has its benefits. Unlike an electric or gas stove where the entire surface heats up during use, induction stoves transfer heat directly to the cooking vessel. When you remove the pot from the surface, the heating stops instantly. These stovetops heat up and cool down much faster than gas or electric stoves.
The only downside to an induction stovetop is that you need cookware specially designed for this type of stove. Along with the cost of the stove, buying additional cookware can be fairly expensive if you are on a budget.
Types of Stoves by Surface
1. Coil
A coil stovetop is incredibly durable and easy to clean. You won’t have much trouble with this type of stove since you can use any household cleaner and cookware. Even if you use heavy cast iron pans, you won’t damage a coil stovetop.
These stovetops heat up quickly, but they also take a while to cool down. It is difficult to control the temperature when cooking. Although they are very durable, coil stovetops look somewhat old-fashioned, so homeowners might want to upgrade to a smooth stovetop.
2. Ceramic/Smooth
Ceramic stovetops, also called radiant or smooth stovetops, are popular among homeowners because they are easy to clean. Although you need a special cleaner, any spilled or burned food can be wiped off instantly. Since there are no cracks or empty spaces on the stovetop, you don’t have to look for hidden spilled food. The heating elements are located under the top of the stove.
Ceramic stovetops heat up your cookware quickly without making your kitchen too warm. The appeal of this stove lies behind its sleek appearance, which fits nicely in every modern kitchen. They are usually at the same height as the countertop, creating a seamless look.
The only downside to a ceramic stovetop is that you need special cookware. Anything too heavy can damage the surface of the cooktop.
Types of Stoves by Feature
1. Overhead Hood
When cooking in the kitchen, it naturally releases smoke and steam. You need a method to remove the smoke so the air in your kitchen is safe to breathe. Additionally, the smoke may cause your fire alarm to go off and other problems. An overhead hood is a great way to remove excess smoke and steam from your kitchen.
Many people don’t like the look of them but they are highly efficient. You have so many options to choose from that vary in style and size. There are overhead hoods that blend really well in a modern kitchen as well.
If you want to get rid of the smoke in your kitchen, but aren’t too keen on an overhead hood, don’t worry. There are other options such as a downdraft extractor as well.
2. Speed Heat
It’s morning time and your stove is taking an incredibly long time to heat up. You are sure you will be late for work and wish your stovetop would heat up faster. If this is a familiar scenario, you can opt for a stove with speed heat features
When you get a stove with speed heat features, you can get the water boiling in no time. You can use the high heat setting on low to make eggs in the morning if you’re late for work. Or use it on high to get your wok hot enough for stir-fry for a quick dinner.
3. Safety Features
If you have a curious child at home, opt for a stovetop with safety features. There are a number of safety features you will find such as automatic shut-off. Automatic shut-off features ensure your stove turns off by itself when you set a timer. These features are convenient but also ensure your family’s safety.
Another safety feature you’ll come across is a heat indicator. This is usually an LED light that stays on as long as your cooktop is hot. You can teach your child to not touch the stove when the light is on.
4. Digital Touch Controls
If you have a modern home equipped with the latest technology, it only makes sense for your kitchen to be the same. A stovetop with Digital Touch controls is easy and efficient. You can turn it on and change the temperature with a single click. This is great for someone who likes a sleek design with everything in one place. The convenience and ease of use are also a big plus.
While stovetops with knobs can look slightly old-fashioned, digital touch controls are a great combination of modern aesthetics and technology.
5. Wi-Fi Connectivity
If you enjoy cooking but hate standing by the stovetop to wait for your meal to be ready, a stove with Wi-Fi connectivity features is a great choice. Using these stoves is simple because all you need is a simple smartphone app.
The cooktop syncs to the app where you can turn on the stove, set timers, adjust the heat level, get alerts, and keep an eye on your food at all times. You can also ensure your children aren’t using the cooktop without your supervision.
6. Downdraft Extractor
If you want to get rid of the smoke in your kitchen but don’t like the look of an overhead hood or fan, you can opt for a stove with a downdraft extractor. These cooktops feature a ventilation system built into the cooktop to extract any steam and smoke. Unlike a large overhead hood, downdraft extractors are quite small.
A downdraft extractor looks similar to a vent and is either present in the middle or along the back of your stove. This removes the need for a bulky overhead hood and leaves more space for your pots and pans. A downdraft extractor can be used with both gas and electric stoves. Although you do need to have a ventilation system installed.
7. LED Display
If you have trouble cooking on your stove after dark, you can opt for a stovetop with an LED display. The display shows you everything from the time to the temperature the stove is at. It is common for stovetops with an LED display to also have digital controls, but you can also find one with knobs.
You will be able to see your stovetop easily from anywhere in the house. An LED display makes it much easier to check the temperature your stove is at, adjust the temperature, and set timers. These features don’t have an impact on the function of your cooktop in any way.
8. Portable
When you think of a stovetop, can you only imagine a full-sized gas or electric stove with four burners? Although these stoves are the type commonly found in most houses, you can also buy a portable stove. You can take these stoves with you while traveling or camping. They can create extra cooking space in your kitchen, but are also great for outdoor use.
Although it doesn’t make sense to only have a portable stove rather than your own stovetop, they are very convenient for when you need an extra burner. Portable stoves are generally either electric or induction stovetops. As a result, they require the same type of care to prevent any damage. Use special cookware and cleaners as you would for a large induction stovetop.
9. Continuous Grates
Many gas cooktops come with the option to add continuous grates. These have a rustic and professional look, but also offer benefits. When placing cookware on your stovetop, the grates ensure that your pots are placed evenly on the surface. They also provide balance and security, since your pot is on an even surface.
Continuous grates are difficult to clean compared to a smooth stove. You have to remove the heavy grates and then clean your stove. Regardless of this disadvantage, many people opt for a gas stovetop with continuous grates because of the way it looks in their kitchen.
10. Knobs
You can opt for a stovetop with digital touch controls or knobs. Knobs turn easily when you need to adjust the temperature of your stove. Some stovetops also feature removable knobs, so you can clean them easily.
Since knobs are located either at the front or side of the stovetop, they offer safety in emergency situations. You can avoid coming in contact with a hot oil splatter when the controls are at the front. Similarly, if there is a fire, you won’t have to reach through it to turn off the heat.
The only downside to knobs is that they might be difficult to use for someone with arthritis. They can be difficult to grasp or turn if you have such health issues.
11. Automatic Re-Ignition
If you use a gas cooktop, you are probably familiar with the frustration of your stove turning off without you realizing it. If you are preparing a large meal for a gathering, this can be very frustrating. In this case, you even have difficulty judging how much longer your food needs to cook.
If you’ve been in such a situation, you can opt for a stove with automatic re-ignition. These stovetops have built-in features that reignite the flame automatically in case your burner goes off. You can cook with peace of mind, knowing your stove won’t turn off without your knowledge.
12. Built-in Griddle
Some stovetops include a built-in griddle which makes it convenient to fry pancakes and bacon in one place. If you would like a stovetop with a griddle, ensure there is enough space for the burners. Using a removable griddle is better than buying a stovetop with a large griddle and not enough cooking space.
Built-in griddles also have various benefits as compared to removable ones. Since they are part of your cooktop, they heat quickly and evenly unlike removable griddles. If you have an electric or induction stove, a removable griddle might damage your stovetop. If you use a griddle often, opt for an electric stove with a built-in griddle.
Number of Burners
When purchasing a stovetop for your house, you will generally find stovetops with either two, four, five, or six burners. To make the best choice, you need to consider certain factors.
1. Two Burners
If you live alone or are a family of two, a stove with two burners is a great choice. A two-burner stovetop is easy to clean and has enough cooking space for two people. If you host gatherings, you can also keep a portable stove for extra cooking space.
2. Four Burners
Most households have a stovetop with four burners since it provides ample cooking space. A four-burner stove is perfect for those with small families or someone who enjoys making elaborate dishes.
3. Five Burners
If you want some extra cooking space but don’t have enough room for a large cooktop, opt for a stove with five burners. However, keep in mind that only gas and induction stovetops usually have a fifth burner. It is rare to find an electric stove with five burners.
4. Six Burners
If you have a large family or entertain big gatherings often, opt for a stovetop with six burners. This provides you with ample cooking space and a professional cooking experience. Stovetops with six burners are generally pretty large, so ensure your kitchen has enough room for one.