What is a dual fuel range?

Dual fuel ranges bring together a gas stovetop and electric oven, capitalizing on the benefits of both. You may have thought the gas vs. electric debate stopped at the stovetop, but there are also some key differences in how electric and gas heat perform inside an oven. Most ranges stick with one source of heat, so a dual fuel range can be a worthwhile upgrade depending on how you like to cook. Read on to learn more about these unique ranges and find out if they’re right for you.

What does “dual fuel range” mean?

“Dual fuel” refers to two types of heat in one range: gas heat on the stovetop and electric heat in the oven cavity. Dual fuel ranges are designed for those who want the responsive, hands-on experience of an open flame on the stovetop, but also prefer the dry, even heat of an electric oven. So if you love baking just as much as searing and sautéing, you may want to consider a dual fuel range. 

But first, you’ll need to make sure your kitchen is set up with two fuel sources. Most kitchens will have electric power in the form of a wall outlet, but ensure you have a 220/240 rather than a 120 volt outlet. You’ll also need a dedicated gas line, which can always be installed if you don’t already have one. Learn more about gas vs. electric heat.

Why should I consider a dual fuel vs. gas range?

Dual fuel ranges use electric heat in the oven, which tends to be more consistent than gas heat, resulting in evenly cooked finished results. In a gas oven, the flame remains on and off for longer periods of time, so may have more temperature variation. In contrast, heated elements in an electric oven are often designed to cover more area in the cavity and can be cycled more frequently to maintain temperature well, so you won’t need to rotate dishes as often.

Some cooks prefer electric ovens because it creates a drier heat that promotes browning and crisping. On the other hand, more moisture is helpful when cooking meat or any dishes that need to stay juicy, so think about what types of meals you make most often when considering a dual fuel vs. gas range. If you think you might go with gas, browse Whirlpool^® Gas Ranges to learn more about what they have to offer. Find out how many BTUs gas ranges need for sufficient cooking power.

What are the pros and cons of dual fuel ranges?

When it comes to dual fuel vs. gas or electric ranges, all are available in freestanding and slide-in models and come with similar features like convection cooking and self-cleaning cycles. However, there are some pros and cons to be aware of before you make a decision.

Advantages of dual fuel ranges

• Gas cooktops are highly responsive and tend to have easier-to-control heat compared to electric stovetops.
• Even, consistent heat in the oven means you need to rotate dishes less.
• Drier heat in the oven promotes crispy, brown results when broiling, roasting and baking.

 

Disadvantages of dual fuel ranges

• The electric oven may preheat slower than a gas oven.

• Potentially higher purchase and installation costs. Check the manufacturer’s installation requirements. 

• A dedicated gas line will need to be installed if you don’t already have one.

Are dual fuel ranges worth it?

If you want the best attributes of gas stovetops and electric ovens combined into one appliance, a dual fuel range is worth it. Not only will you get more responsive burners when boiling or sautéing, but the oven’s drier heat is ideal for roasting and baking. That said, if you do not currently have a dedicated gas line, you may want to skip a dual fuel range.

Alternatives to dual fuel stoves

Dual fuel ranges are not the only available option when you want to maximize the versatility of your kitchen appliances. There are multiple alternatives to dual fuel stoves when you want to get the most out of your kitchen routine.

Gas cooktop plus electric wall oven

If you want to take advantage of both gas and electric heat in the kitchen, you can also opt for a gas cooktop and separate wall oven. Most wall ovens available today use electric heat and can be found in both single, double and microwave wall oven combo models. This may be a good option if you’re looking for more oven capacity. For example, Whirlpool^® Wall Ovens feature up to 10 cubic feet of interior space. Standalone cooktops also have advantages like placement flexibility and easy installation on kitchen islands. Explore Whirlpool^® Cooktops to learn more. 

Induction cooktop

If you’re looking for a cooktop that’s more responsive than a standard electric, but you don’t have a gas hookup, you may want to consider induction cooking. Induction stovetops are a type of electric cooktop that use electromagnetism to heat cookware. Because energy is transferred directly into cookware, induction elements respond to temperature changes quickly, like a gas flame. Learn more about induction cooking or explore a Whirlpool^® Induction Cooktop.

Shop Whirlpool^® Ranges and Cooktops

When it comes to making meals the whole family will enjoy, there is perhaps no more important kitchen appliance than the right kitchen range. Whirlpool^® Ranges come in a variety of sizes, styles and fuel types that will fit your kitchen and cooking needs. Whirlpool^® Cooktops provide extra flexibility for a kitchen setup that suits your family.