Freestanding cookers are versatile appliances that combine a stovetop and an oven in a single unit. They are designed to be standalone units, allowing you to place them anywhere in your kitchen without the need for built-in cabinetry or countertops.
Freestanding cookers come in various types, each offering unique features and capabilities. Let’s explore some of the common types of freestanding cookers:
1. Electric Freestanding Cookers:
Electric freestanding cookers are popular choices for families that do not want or do not have access to gas but have electric connection. They rely on electricity as their power source and offer aluminium hotplates, enamel hotplates or a smooth ceramic or glass cooktop with heating elements beneath.
The electric stovetop provides consistent heat and precise temperature control. The oven in an electric freestanding cooker is electrically powered, ensuring even baking and roasting. Some models may also feature additional functions such as grilling or convection baking.
2. Gas Freestanding Cookers
Gas freestanding cookers are equipped with a gas-powered stovetop and oven. They use LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) as their fuel source, providing instant heat and excellent temperature control.
Gas burners on the stovetop allow for quick adjustments and are favoured by those who prefer the responsiveness and visual cues of gas cooking. The gas oven in these cookers offers fairly good heat distribution, making them a good choice for baking and roasting.
3. Dual Fuel (Combo) Freestanding Cookers
Dual fuel freestanding cookers combine the best of both gas and electric cooking. They feature a combination of electric hotplates and gas burners and an electric oven, offering the advantages of precise heat control on the cooktop and even heat distribution in the oven.
Dual fuel cookers are a preferred choice for those who desire the versatility and flexibility to cook a wide range of dishes. The combination of gas and electric features caters to different cooking techniques and preferences.
Dual cookers are also helpful if you do not have consistent supply of electricity or gas refill services in your area, so you still have a way to make meals during power cuts and when gas runs out.
4. Induction Freestanding Cookers
Induction freestanding cookers are becoming increasingly popular due to their efficient and precise cooking capabilities.
These cookers utilize electromagnetic fields to heat the cookware directly, offering rapid heat-up times and precise temperature control. Induction cooktops are known for their safety features, as the cooktop surface remains cool to the touch during cooking.
The oven in induction freestanding cookers is typically electric, providing consistent and reliable baking and roasting results.
When choosing a freestanding cooker, consider factors such as the available fuel sources, your cooking preferences, and the size of your kitchen. Take into account the features and functions that align with your cooking style to find the perfect freestanding cooker that meets your needs and enhances your culinary endeavours.
