I love front control ranges. Let me explain why.
There are basically two types of slide-in ranges. First, is a traditional slide-in, which is installed on top of the countertop, shows no seams (has an overlap) and most importantly is very easy to clean.
The second option is the new front control range, which has finished sides and no overlap. The front control does show the seams. It is a little more difficult to clean, because there is no overlap.
Front Control Range vs. Slide-In Range
However, installation is a key factor in the front control range, as it will install just like the traditional 30” freestanding range, whereas a traditional slide-in typically needs additional customization for installation.
There are several advantages to front control ranges; they are aesthetically pleasing, you will be able to see the back splashes and custom tile work and not the controls and displays of a traditional freestanding range.
So, consider a new front control gas range for a fresh, new look without the added installation expense.
Let’s take a look at front control ranges and two companies that offer them, Frigidaire and LG.
Frigidaire
Frigidaire is an American brand that was founded in the early 1900’s, and is owned by the second largest appliance company in the world, Electrolux, which purchased Frigidaire in 1997. They are well known for the development and the engineering of the first self contained refrigerator in 1916.
Another important point to mention is that Frigidaire is one of our least serviced brands for repairs. Frigidaire was instrumental in the development of stainless steel finish (Smudge Proof), and now is one of the most popular trends in the appliance industry.
LG
LG is a multinational conglomerate in South Korea. They were formed in 1947 as a plastic company and by 1958 established Goldstar. After acquiring companies like Zenith and partnering with Phillips, they are now one of the largest consumer electronics manufacturers in the world.
LG was the first Korean company importing appliances into the United States, and at one time manufactured products for GE. They are known for stylish innovative appliances.
Here is a tip for buying LG: They always promote around holidays; you can usually buy it at a better price during promotional sales on President's Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, July 4th and Black Friday.
Now, let’s compare the 30” front control ranges from Frigidaire Professional versus the LG series.
The Products
Frigidaire Pro 30'' Front Control Freestanding FPGH3077RF - $2,499
Features:
- 5.1 Cu. Ft Capacity oven with 5 gas burners
- Single Fan Convection System
- Power-Plus 2-IN-1 Burner & Griddle
- Powerplus Preheat
- Temperature probe
- Smudge Proof Stainless steel
- Convection Convert
- Dual Timers
- 2 Hour Self Clean
- Power Glide Racks
- Storage Drawer
- Built With American Pride
- Burners – Right Front 18K BTU/ Right Rear 5K BTU/ Left Front 7.5K BTU/ Left Rear 12K BTU/ Center griddle 3K-12K BTU
- Sabbath Mode
LG 30" Front Control Slide In Gas Range LSG4513ST - $1,499
Features:
- 6.3 Cu. Ft Capacity oven
- 5 Burners
- ProBake Convection – The heating element has been moved from the bottom of the oven to the back that allows for faster and more even cooking
- UltraHeat Burner
- Oval Burner
- Slide-In Design
- Easy Clean Self Clean - A very quick 10 minute Easy clean also with standard 2-3 hour clean time
- Griddle
- Warming Drawer
- Sabbath Mode
- Burners – Right Front Dual 18.5k BTU/ Left Front 12K BTU/ Right Rear 5K BTU/ Left Rear 9.1K BTU/ Center Oval 10k BTU
Comparison
When considering the Frigidaire and LG, both are very similar. They are very powerful ranges with 18K and 18.5K power burners for the range top and they both come with a 5th burner. They both offer a convection system, however the LG is better as the heating element is in the back of the range.
Both have self-clean but LG does have a 10 minute self-clean feature, which I really like. LG also offers a very large oven capacity of 6.3 cu. ft. versus the Frigidaire with only a 5.1 cu. ft.
However, Frigidaire offers several great aesthetic points to consider as it offers the cutting edge “smudge proof” stainless steel as well as the professional style handles.
From a features perspective, LG has an edge. Frigidaire has better package opportunities with other appliances if you need a new kitchen.
Reliability
Frigidaire is the most reliable gas range sold at Yale with a little over 4% service in the first year with 11% being average. LG is new to us, so we do not know just yet.
Parts and technical support are way better for Frigidaire, so your repair will be much faster with Frigidaire.
Additional Resources
Want more information on Gas Cooking? Read the Yale Gas Cooking Buying Guide with the latest features, specs and detailed brand profiles. Well over 165,000 people have read a Yale Guide.
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Pricing on this blog is for reference only and may include time sensitive rebates. We make every attempt to provide accurate pricing at time of publishing. Please call the stores for most accurate price.
