Best Maytag Ranges for Your Kitchen

Buying Guide for Best Maytag Ranges

From baking to boiling and simmering to broiling, a kitchen range is an essential appliance. Maytag is a well-respected name in household appliances, known for producing durable and reliable products at competitive prices. Established in 1893, Maytag has evolved from its beginnings as a washing machine manufacturer to a comprehensive provider of high-quality kitchen ranges and other home essentials.

Purchasing a new range requires thoughtful consideration since these appliances are built to last, often exceeding a decade with proper care. Key decisions include opting for gas or electric power, determining the number of burners needed, and identifying specific features that could enhance your cooking experience.

This buying guide outlines essential factors to consider during your shopping process, along with tips, answers to common questions, and our top Maytag range recommendations.

Key Considerations

Gas vs. Electric Maytag Ranges

Maytag offers both gas and electric ranges, each with distinct advantages and pricing implications.

Gas Maytag Ranges: Generally, gas ranges are more affordable than their electric counterparts. They provide precise heating with rapid temperature adjustments and feature an open flame that cooks food evenly by heating both the bottom and sides of cookware. All Maytag gas ranges include the Maytag Power Burner, which delivers intense heat for efficient cooking. They cool down quickly once turned off, making them a practical choice.

Gas ovens, like their stovetops, heat up quickly, allowing for faster cooking. However, installation can be complex as it requires a gas line, typically needing professional assistance.

Electric Maytag Ranges: Electric ranges heat up efficiently but take longer to cool down, as heat is retained by the surface. The absence of an open flame can lead to inadvertent burns if caution is not exercised. The flat surfaces of Maytag electric ranges are generally longer-lasting and safer, as pots and pans are less likely to tip over. All electric ranges feature easy-to-clean ceramic glass tops that necessitate regular maintenance with appropriate cleaning solutions to avoid stains.

Electric ovens tend to provide more uniform heating compared to gas ovens and are simple to install, requiring just a suitable power outlet. However, they become inoperative during power outages.

Slide-In vs. Freestanding Maytag Ranges

Choosing between a slide-in and a freestanding Maytag range is another important decision.

Slide-In Maytag Ranges: These models feature a front control panel without a backguard, designed to seamlessly integrate into your kitchen. They fit snugly between cabinets or fixtures and provide a clean, uniform appearance. Since the control panel is at the front, it is advisable to use knob covers if there are small children in the house.

Freestanding Maytag Ranges: Ideal for kitchens where rearrangement may occur, freestanding ranges have finished sides and can be positioned anywhere. Unlike slide-in models, the controls are located on a backguard, which may leave gaps that can collect crumbs and debris.

Maytag Range Sizes

Maytag’s range sizes vary; smaller models are approximately 5.0 to 5.3 cubic feet, medium ranges measure around 5.8 to 6.0 cubic feet, and larger electric options can reach 6.4 to 6.7 cubic feet.

Oven Features

Some larger Maytag ranges come equipped with a double oven, allowing simultaneous cooking of multiple dishes in separate compartments. However, it’s worth noting that these double ovens do not include storage space for cookware beneath, unlike some other brands.

Convection ovens provide even and rapid cooking, but recipes typically do not account for this feature. Adjust cooking temperatures down by 25°F and reduce cooking times by about 20% when using a convection oven.

Features

Colour Options

Maytag ranges are available in three colour choices: black, white, and fingerprint-resistant stainless steel. Consider how each colour fits with your kitchen’s design. White can brighten a space but can show dirt easily, while black can create a sleek look but may make smaller kitchens feel cramped. Stainless steel is durable but may appear cold in some settings.

Third Element

Some models feature an additional heating element for convection cooking, which enhances heat distribution and reduces cooking times with the help of a fan.

Power Preheat

A select range of Maytag ovens boasts a Power Preheat feature that allows for quicker heating to the desired temperature, which can be a significant benefit when time is of the essence.

Max Capacity Rack

Unlike standard flat racks, the Max Capacity rack features a slight cavity to accommodate larger items like roasts, optimising oven space.

Dual Choice Element

Some electric ranges include a Dual Choice element that allows you to adjust the burner size according to the diameter of the pan you are using.

Bridge Element and Oval Burner

Maytag ranges may include a bridge element or oval burner designed to facilitate the heating of unconventional pot shapes, ensuring even cooking.

Accessories

Cookware: A quality cookware set enhances the cooking experience and maximises the potential of your Maytag range.

Oven Mitts: Protect yourself while cooking by using a reliable pair of oven mitts.

Casserole Bakeware Sets: Oven-safe dishes provide versatility for both cooking and baking tasks.

Kitchen Utensil Set: A comprehensive utensil set offers essential tools for all your cooking needs.

Maytag Range Prices

Budget-Friendly Options

Some Maytag ranges are available for under £800, typically smaller to mid-sized models with limited features.

Mid-Range Options

Most Maytag ranges fall between £800 and £1,200, offering additional features but typically lacking double oven configurations.

Premium Options

For over £1,200, you can find larger models that come equipped with numerous features, including the double oven option.

Don’t forget to clean around your oven regularly. Move it out to sweep underneath and wipe down adjacent walls and cabinets to maintain cleanliness.

Tips for Maintenance

• Regular Cleaning: To extend the life and performance of your range, clean it after every use. Wipe away crumbs and stains, especially on ceramic tops.
• Always Preheat: Preheating the oven is essential for optimal cooking results; placing food in before the oven reaches the desired temperature can lead to unsatisfactory outcomes.
• Understand Rack Positions: Positioning is crucial; place large roasts on the bottom or middle racks, while vegetables and thinner cuts should be on the top rack.
• Careful Installation: When installing your own range, ensure that power (and gas if applicable) is turned off. Follow the installation instructions carefully to ensure stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the best way to clean my Maytag range?

A. For the oven, remove the racks and soak them in warm, soapy water for at least two hours before scrubbing, rinsing, and drying. While the racks soak, apply a thick paste of baking soda and water inside the oven, letting it sit for 20 minutes. Afterwards, wipe it down and spray with water and vinegar to eliminate any remaining baking soda.

Keep in mind that stainless steel ranges require specific cleaners for the exterior, as do ceramic stovetops. Using inappropriate cleaners may cause damage. For gas ranges, grates can be soaked in warm, soapy water before scrubbing and rinsing.

Q. Which is safer, a Maytag gas range or an electric range?

A. Caution is essential when using any range, particularly if children or pets are present. Both gas and electric models can become extremely hot, necessitating the use of oven mitts. Ensure cookware is stable on the stovetop, with handles positioned safely over the counter.

Gas ranges use an open flame and tend to heat more quickly, which may be a concern. However, they also cool down faster than electric ranges. Electric burners can remain hot for longer periods, making them less obvious when they are still active.

Gas installation is more complex, as it requires connecting to a gas line, while electric ranges can be set up with basic electrical outlets.

Q. Does Maytag provide any smart home appliances?

A. Yes, Maytag offers smart appliances that can connect via WiFi, though currently this is limited to washers and dryers. As of now, there are no smart ranges or refrigerators, but this may change in the future as the demand for connectivity grows.