The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Professional Range

Start finding answers to your pro range questions

Feeling swamped by the plethora of pro range choices? From traditional models to the latest induction, gas, and electric tech, the search can seem daunting.

Finding the ideal professional kitchen range involves sifting through various fuel types, styles, and high-tech features. It's all about matching the range with your cooking needs and preferences.

That's where our guide, "The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Professional Range," steps in. We're here to be your trusted navigator, offering unbiased, insightful advice based on real-life experiences.

Our hands-on knowledge comes from addressing over 37,000 service calls last year, providing us with a clear view of the challenges and reliability of different ranges.

We value honesty and transparency, aiming to arm you with the crucial info you need to make a confident, informed decision.

This guide cuts through the confusion of mixed reviews and kitchen dilemmas. We'll cover essential considerations and share our top picks for professional kitchen ranges in 2024.

Whether you're drawn to induction, gas, or electric, "The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Professional Range" will light the path to the perfect range for your kitchen, ensuring your choice not only fits your culinary needs but also elevates your cooking experience.

Let's discover the professional range that's right for you.

Understanding Professional Ranges

A professional range is a high-quality stove designed for top performance and durability, often seen in restaurants and culinary institutions.

Unlike standard home ranges, professional ranges offer more power, precision, and features.

They typically come with high BTU burners, robust construction, and options for customization like griddle plates or multiple ovens.

Pros & Cons of Professional Ranges

Pros:

• High Performance: Professional ranges offer high heat output, ensuring quick and even cooking.
• Durability: Built with high-quality materials, they are designed to withstand heavy use.
• Special Features: These ranges often include additional features like griddle plates, multiple ovens, and more burners.
• Precise Control: Enhanced control over cooking temperatures allows for perfect culinary creations.

Cons:

• Cost: They are generally more expensive than standard ranges.
• Size: Professional ranges are often larger, requiring more kitchen space.
• Complexity: The additional features and high power might be unnecessary for some home cooks.
• Installation and Maintenance: They may require professional installation and regular maintenance.

Why Choosing the Right Range Matters

Choosing the right professional range is important. It's not just about having a high-end appliance: it’s about finding a range that works well for the way you cook and meets your kitchen needs.

A well-chosen range can transform your cooking experience. But if it's not right, it can be frustrating and costly.

Think about how you cook, how much space you have, and your budget to find the best stove for you.

Best Pro Ranges for 2024

Now that you understand the importance of selecting a range that aligns with your cooking style, kitchen space, and budget, let's dive into the top professional ranges available.

This next section will guide you through the best options on the market, helping you make an informed decision.

Best 30-Inch Gas Pro Ranges

Thirty-inch professional ranges are ideal for both home use and professional kitchens, offering excellent features in a smaller size.

Below, we'll cover the best qualities of these popular ranges.

La Cornue Château 75 Pro Range

Priced at $27,500 and up, this range offers a total BTU output of 49,000 across 4 burners. It features natural convection with a unique arched top oven design and lacks smart integration.

Customization is a key highlight, offering 48 color options and six trims, but it comes with a higher price tag and lacks modern features like a clock or timer.

BlueStar Platinum Pro Range BSP304B

With a cost of $7,295, this range has the highest heat output among its peers at 71,000 BTUs and includes 4 burners with true convection.

It doesn’t have smart features but features an interchangeable griddle and Charbroiler.

Its POWR convection oven and 1000 custom color finishes add to its appeal, though it has open burners that might require frequent cleaning.

Miele Pro Range HR1124G

This model, priced at $5,699, offers a total BTU output of 69,000 and 4 burners.

It comes with twin convection and the hottest infrared broiler at 23,000 BTU but lacks smart integration.

Its self-cleaning feature and dishwasher-safe grates make it easy to maintain, although it might benefit from an update to include modern smart technology.

Wolf Pro Range GR304

Available for $5,630, it has a 54,200 BTU total output with 4 burners and single fan convection.

It’s known for its excellent simmer capabilities and a powerful 20,000 BTU infrared broiler. Despite its reliability, the range lacks self-cleaning functionality and smart features.

JennAir Rise Pro Range JGRP430HL

This range costs $4,999 and offers 67,000 BTUs with 4 burners and dual fan true convection. It’s Wi-Fi enabled and works with Alexa, featuring a unique Culinary Center interface.

However, its availability might be an issue, and it lacks an infrared broiler.

Thermador Pro Harmony Pro Range PRG304WH

It delivers 66,000 BTUs across 4 burners and has single fan convection.

It’s known for its Star Burners with a unique simmer capability and includes Wi-Fi connectivity through the HomeConnect app.

However, it has average burner output and lacks a self-cleaning oven.

Best 30-Inch Dual Fuel Pro Ranges

Gas ranges are popular for their strong heat and easy-to-control cooking.

Dual fuel ranges offer even more: they have a gas cooktop for precise cooking and an electric oven for evenly baked food.

We'll look at some of the best 30-inch professional dual fuel ranges, known for their flexibility and excellent temperature control in the oven.

La Cornue Château 75 Pro Dual Fuel Range

This exquisite range features a 49,000 BTU total output with 4 burners and natural convection.

Its electric oven maintains even temperatures without fans, and it offers extensive customization with 48 color and 8 trim options.

Despite being the most visually stunning, its high cost sets it apart from others.

Viking 30" Pro Dual Fuel Range VDR5304BSS

Known for its American heritage, this Viking range delivers 63,500 BTUs across 4 burners and includes a single convection fan.

Available in 17 finishes, it offers good aesthetics but has average burner output and older convection technology.

It lacks smart functionality, a feature increasingly important in modern appliances.

Wolf 30" Pro Dual Fuel Range DF304

Wolf's updated range offers 62,200 BTUs with 4 burners, including a 20,000 BTU burner, and features the unique Dual VertiCross convection system.

Its large 5 cubic feet oven and touchscreen controls with Wolf Gourmet for guided cooking are highlights, although it lacks steam functionality.

Miele 30" Pro Dual Fuel Range HR1924DF

This Miele range stands out with its MasterChef controls, offering 100 automatic recipes and steam assist for bread baking.

Its 69,000 BTU total output, twin convection, and self-cleaning features make it highly practical, although it currently lacks Wi-Fi capabilities.

Thermador 30-inch Pro Harmony Dual Fuel Range PRD304WHU

Thermador's recently updated range features a total output of 66,000 BTUs and innovative Star Burners.

Its HomeConnect App integration and low simmer capability add to its appeal, though the lower BTU output and single convection oven could be drawbacks for some.

JennAir 30" Pro Dual Fuel Ranges Rise JDRP430HL & Noir JDRP430HM

JennAir's range offers 67,000 BTUs, dual fan true convection, and robust Wi-Fi capabilities with a comprehensive app.

It allows combination cooking modes and remembers favorite recipes.

However, availability issues and app connectivity problems are notable downsides.

To learn more about the best 30-inch ranges, read our articles: The Best 30-Inch Professional Gas Ranges and The Best 30-Inch Professional Dual Fuel Ranges.

Best 36-Inch Professional Ranges

In this section, we dive into the details of the best 36-inch professional ranges from renowned brands like Wolf, Thermador, Miele, SKS, BlueStar, La Cornue, and Fisher & Paykel.

Each brand offers unique features tailored to different cooking styles and kitchen needs.

Wolf GR366 and DF366

Wolf is known for its high-end appliances and distinctive red knobs.

Their 36-inch ranges, available in both gas (GR366) and dual fuel (DF366) models, are praised for reliability and excellent service.

Key features include high BTU burners, infrared broilers, griddles, grills, and the advanced VertiCross convection system in the dual fuel model.

However, the all-gas model has a slightly lower burner output and lacks the dual fuel's advanced features.

Thermador PRG366WG, PRG366WH, PRD364WIGU, and PRD364WDH

Thermador offers both the Pro Grand and Harmony Series in gas ranges.

Known for their star-shaped burners, they provide better pan coverage and are part of attractive packages with free dishwashers and hoods.

The Pro Grand series includes higher BTU burners and more advanced features compared to the Harmony series. However, some models have limitations like a basic clock and single convection system.

Monogram ZDP364NDTSS

Monogram's professional ranges are high-quality and feature the SmartHQ app with Hestan Cue technology for guided cooking.

They offer high BTU brass burners and powerful griddles, but the range is limited to single convection and lacks color variations.

Fisher & Paykel RGV3-366-N

Known for powerful burner output, Fisher & Paykel's 36-inch range stands out with its high BTU sealed burners.

The dual fuel model includes modern features like a clock and Wi-Fi capabilities. However, it has a smaller oven capacity and lacks grill or griddle options.

Signature Kitchen Suite (SKS) SKSDR360SIS

SKS, the premium division of LG, offers ranges with high BTU burners, sous vide options, and large oven capacities.

The range is make-up air compatible and features an easy-to-clean griddle and a combi steam oven function.

However, it lacks a grill option and may face challenges in fulfilling service claims.

BlueStar BSP366B

BlueStar's 36-inch ranges, especially their new dual fuel model, are known for their powerful sealed burners and customizable options with over 1,000 colors and trims.

While their oven offers pure convection, the range lacks Wi-Fi technology and has a lower BTU broiler compared to competitors.

Miele HR 1134-1 G

Miele's ranges are praised for their advanced control systems and features like Steam Assist and twin convection.

They offer high BTU burners and options for infrared grill and griddle.

The ranges are also known for their ease of cleaning, though some burners are less powerful, and the range lacks color options.

La Cornue Le Château 90

La Cornue ranges are highly customizable with various stovetop configurations and a unique oven that uses natural convection. Known for their aesthetic appeal, these ranges can be quite expensive and lack modern technological features.

For a more detailed breakdown of the best 36-inch professional ranges, you can refer to the full article by clicking here: Best 36-inch Pro Ranges.

Best 48-Inch Professional Ranges

When it comes to 48-inch professional ranges, the market offers a variety of options tailored to different cooking styles and preferences.

Let’s explore some of the top models from well-known brands such as Wolf, Thermador, Monogram, Miele, BlueStar, SKS, Fisher & Paykel, and La Cornue.

Wolf GR486(C/G) and DF48650C/S/P

The GR486 model features an infrared grill and griddle, French top, and convection ovens.

The DF48650C/S/P model, a dual fuel range, offers upgraded burners, the VertiCross blower convection system, an LCD screen, and Wi-Fi capabilities.

However, it lacks some advanced features like steam and induction.

Thermador PRG486WDG

Thermador offers a wide range of 48-inch models with their Pro Grand and Pro Harmony Series.

These ranges feature star burners, with the Pro Grand offering additional capabilities like steam ovens, warming drawers, and induction options.

The Pro Harmony series is popular for its flush cabinet fit and lower price point.

Monogram ZDP484NGTS

Monogram's 48-inch range comes with smart technology, connecting you to recipe sites through the SmartHQ app.

It has brass burners and offers both an infrared grill and griddle. Monogram also provides significant promotions, but its range lineup is more limited compared to other brands.

Fisher & Paykel RHV3-484-N

This range stands out with a combination of powerful burners and four induction burners.

It features a fast-heating griddle, but lacks a grill and French top, and offers fewer options than other brands.

Signature Kitchen Suite (SKS) SKSDR480SIS

SKS's 48-inch range has impressive features such as high BTU burners, chromium griddle, induction options, steam and sous vide cooking, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

However, it lacks a grill option and recipe integration in the Wi-Fi feature.

BlueStar BSDF486G

Known for its commercial-style ranges, BlueStar offers powerful burners, customizable colors, and a pure convection oven.

The range is highly customizable, but the dual fuel model does not include a grill option.

Miele HR 1956-2 G

Miele's range includes an infrared griddle, steam assist, and the MasterChef guided cooking system.

While it offers a great cooking experience, some of its burners are less powerful compared to other brands.

La Cornue 120

La Cornue's Le Château 120 range is the pinnacle of customization, offering various stovetop configurations, gas and electric ovens with natural convection, and a wide array of colors.

However, it comes with a high price tag.

For a more detailed exploration of these models, including videos and further analysis, you can refer to the full article by clicking here: Best 48-Inch Professional Ranges.

Best 60-Inch Professional Ranges

Selecting the right 60-inch professional range can indeed be challenging due to limited brand options and features.

However, brands like Wolf, Thermador, BlueStar, Viking, and La Cornue offer some compelling choices.

Here's a brief overview of the best 60-inch professional ranges:

Wolf DF60650CG/S/P & GR606CG

Wolf is known for its consistent quality, professional look, and precision cooking.

Their 60-inch range, available in both dual fuel and all gas, features powerful burners, infrared grill and griddle, and French Top options.

The dual fuel model has upgraded burners and advanced convection systems.

Thermador PRD606WESG

Thermador offers elegant design and functionality with star-shaped burners for easy cleaning and precise simmering.

The dual-fuel range includes steam ovens and a warming drawer, with options for a grill and griddle.

BlueStar Platinum BSP6010B and RNB Series RNB606GV2

Known for its customization options and powerful performance, BlueStar provides a variety of configurations in its 60-inch range line-up.

The ranges feature high BTU burners and options for double grills, double griddles, and French tops.

Viking VDR5606GQSS

Viking is known for pioneering professional ranges and offers custom color finishes.

Their 60-inch range is available in dual-fuel and all-gas options, featuring high BTU burners and a range of finishes.

La Cornue Château 180

La Cornue stands out for its luxurious, customizable ranges. The Grand Palais 180 offers a choice of cooktops, including French top, grill, induction, and more.

Both gas and electric ovens are available in this model.

Each of these ranges comes with unique features and capabilities.

Your choice should be based on how you cook, your preference for specific features like grilling, baking, or broiling, and your interest in smart functionality or unique colors.

Remember, no single brand dominates every aspect, so it's essential to prioritize the features most important to you.

For a detailed breakdown of the best 60-inch pro ranges, you can read the full article here: Best 60-inch Professional Gas Ranges.

Definition and Features

A professional range is a high-end cooking appliance often seen in restaurants but also available for home kitchens.

Unlike pro-style ranges, they offer stronger performance, with features like higher BTU burners, grills, griddles, and powerful ovens.

Professional vs. Pro-Style Ranges

Professional ranges are pricier but deliver greater performance than pro-style ranges.

Brands like Bertazzoni, AGA, and others make pro-style ranges that are more budget-friendly but offer less power and fewer features.

For more information and visual references, you can refer to the full article: Professional vs. Pro-Style Ranges.

Sizes of Professional Ranges

Sizes of professional ranges vary from 24 to 60 inches.

Features differ by size – for example, 36-inch ranges might include options for a grill or griddle, while 48-inch ranges could have additional elements like steam ovens.

Types of Professional Ranges and Comparisons: Gas, Electric, Dual Fuel, and Induction

Gas Ranges

• Advantages: Offer powerful and moist heat, ideal for roasting and broiling.
• Disadvantages: Require more maintenance due to issues with igniters.
• Best For: Those who prefer traditional cooking methods and have adequate ventilation.

Electric Ranges

• Advantages: Provide precise and drier heat, better for baking.
• Disadvantages: Lack the immediate heat adjustment found in gas ranges.
• Best For: Bakers and those seeking even heat distribution in the oven.

Dual Fuel Ranges

• Advantages: Combine a gas cooktop with an electric oven, offering the best of both worlds.
• Disadvantages: Generally, more expensive and may require more complex installation.
• Best For: Cooks looking for gas cooktop performance with the precision of an electric oven.

Induction Ranges

• Advantages: Offer fast and precise temperature control, energy efficiency, and safety (the cooktop stays cool to the touch). Induction can boil water faster than professional gas ranges, making it a quick and efficient cooking option.
• Disadvantages: Require specific cookware (must be magnetic) and may have a learning curve for those used to gas or electric stoves.
• Best For: Those prioritizing energy efficiency, safety, and speed in cooking.

For more detailed comparisons and insights on the different types of professional ranges, you can refer to these articles: "Induction vs. Professional Gas" and "What's the Difference Between All Gas and Dual Fuel Professional Ranges?".

Features to Consider

Burner Power and Configuration

Professional ranges have high BTU burners for intense heat. Configurations can include various burner arrangements and options like grills or griddles.

Oven Capacity and Functions

The capacity and features of the oven change depending on the range's size. Larger ranges offer more space and functions like steam ovens.

Additional Features

Extra features to think about include self-cleaning abilities, smart technology, and color options. For instance, Miele and Thermador ranges are easy to clean, and BlueStar offers many color choices.

Budgeting and Cost

Professional range prices vary widely based on size, features, and brands.

For example, the cost of a 30-inch professional gas range can range from about $5,000 to over $27,000.

Professional Range Reliability

Understanding Professional Range Reliability and the Importance of Good Service

Features like grills and advanced cooking functions are usually the main focus when looking for a professional range. But it's also important to think about how reliable these appliances are. In this section, we talk about how dependable different pro-range brands are and why it's good to buy from a store with a strong service department.

Reliability Matters in Professional Ranges

Buying a professional range is a big investment in your kitchen. These ranges need more care than regular appliances. For example, last year, our service department logged over 37,000 calls for appliance help, and more than 1,500 were for professional ranges.

A common problem with these ranges, especially those with powerful burners, is issues with gas igniters. Even though these ranges have many burners, they are complex. They have extra features like grills and multiple burners, so they might have more problems than a simple range.

Also, bigger models, like the 60-inch ranges, have more parts that might need fixing. Some brands that make different appliances, not just fridges and ranges, tend to be more reliable. This is because they don't just focus on complex items. But remember, reliability depends on the type of product and brand.

Why a Good Service Department is Key

The service department of a store is really important when you buy something expensive like a professional range. As these appliances get more features, you need better technicians. There's a big need for good service because new models are getting more complex.

Choosing a store with its own service department means you get better and more responsible repair service. This is important because some stores sell warranties but then send you to someone else for repairs, which can cause delays and problems. Look for stores with good reviews on Google and the Better Business Bureau. Check both the complaints and how the stores respond to see how they handle service after you buy something.

Thinking About Extended Warranties

Usually, it's best to skip extended warranties. But if the store does its own repairs, an extended warranty might be a good idea. Make sure you can call the store directly, not a third party if there's a problem. This can make a big difference in how fast and well your appliance gets fixed.

Final Thoughts

When you buy a professional range, how reliable it is and the quality of the service are just as important as its features and looks. Making a smart choice means you'll be happier cooking with your new range and have less to worry about later.

To explore these criteria in more detail and understand how to buy a range effectively, you can refer to the following article: How to Buy a Professional Range.

Choosing the right professional range for your kitchen is a crucial step in upgrading your cooking experience. It’s not just about getting a new appliance; it's about finding the perfect tool that supports your culinary goals.

Professional ranges are designed to enhance your cooking with their superior power and features, such as high-powered burners and steam ovens. However, they also represent a significant investment and require more kitchen space.

As you consider your cooking preferences, the size of your kitchen, and your budget, remember that these decisions are key to selecting a range that fits your lifestyle and aspirations.

Our guide, "The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Professional Range," simplifies this process by giving you the essential information to make an informed choice.

Equipped with this knowledge, you're ready to make a decision that will transform your kitchen into a space where cooking is not only easier but also more enjoyable.

Selecting the right professional range is an opportunity to elevate every meal and make your kitchen a place of creativity and efficiency.

Let's take this step together towards a more fulfilling cooking experience.