Buying guide for Best Maytag ranges
From baking to boiling, simmering to broiling, a kitchen range is a go-to appliance. One of the most trusted names in American-made appliances is Maytag, a company that offers durable and dependable devices at reasonable prices. From a humble start in 1893 as the Maytag Washing Machine Company, the group now offers an array of modern, effective household appliances, including ranges and other kitchen staples.
Choosing a new range takes time and consideration. After all, this is an appliance that, with proper maintenance, should last at least 10 years and likely more than that. Do you want one powered by gas or electricity? How many burners should you opt for? Are there specific Maytag features that would make your life in the kitchen more streamlined and convenient?
This buying guide provides a helpful outline of the factors to keep in mind as you shop. Read on for tips, answers to frequently asked questions, and our Maytag range recommendations.
Key considerations
Gas v. electric Maytag ranges
Maytag offers both gas and electric ranges, which informs the price as well as the features they may possess.
Gas Maytag ranges: Gas ranges tend to cost less than electric ranges. They offer the most precise heating; temperature adjustments are achieved quickly, and the open flame heats the bottom and sides of your pots and pans. All Maytag gas ranges feature a Maytag Power Burner. This is the company’s most potent element, providing fast, high heat and balanced, even cooking. Once turned off, gas burners cool faster than electric burners.
Like the stovetop, gas ovens heat up and cook food rapidly. Gas ranges require a gas line, which makes installation a longer and more complicated process — one best done by a professional.
Electric Maytag ranges: Electric ranges heat up quickly but take time to cool down, as the surface will trap the heat. Because there is no open flame, it can be easy to forget that the top is hot. Still, the flat top of a Maytag electric range typically provides increased longevity to pots and pans as well as more safety, as they won’t teeter or balance precariously. All Maytag electric ranges feature easy-to-clean ceramic glass tops that must be tended to regularly with proper ceramic cleaning solution to avoid stains and scratches.
Typically, electric ovens provide more even heating than gas ovens. Electric ranges are easy to install, requiring a proper outlet and power supply, but they won’t work if the power goes out.
Slide-in vs. freestanding Maytag ranges
You can choose a slide-in or freestanding Maytag range.
Slide-in Maytag ranges: Slide-in Maytag ranges have a front console with no backguard. They are designed to slide right into a spot, most likely between cabinets or other fixtures, appearing flush and uniform with their surroundings. The sides of the appliance are not finished because they won’t be visible. Since the control console is on the front of the range, if you have small children, you may want to use knob covers to prevent them from turning the range on.
Freestanding Maytag ranges: If a side will be exposed or you think you might rearrange your kitchen one day, opt for a freestanding Maytag range. The sides of these appliances are finished and can be positioned anywhere. Unlike a slide-in range, the controls of a freestanding Maytag range reside on a backguard.
Keep in mind that a freestanding range may not appear flush with countertops and cabinets, allowing crumbs and morsels to fall into crevices alongside the range.
Maytag range size
Maytag's smaller ranges have a size of 5.0 or 5.3 cubic feet. Medium ranges are either 5.8 or 6.0 cubic feet in size. Maytag also offers a few larger electric ranges that are 6.4 to 6.7 cubic feet in size.
Oven
Some larger Maytag ranges include a double oven, which allows you to cook two items at once in the two distinct spaces. A smaller oven sits on top, and a regular-size option sits below it. Potential buyers should note that Maytag double ovens do not have storage space at the bottom for pots, pans, and baking sheets like some other ranges do.
Convection ovens cook quickly and evenly, but most recipes don’t assume you’re using one. Lessen the cook temperature by 25°F and the cook time by about 20% to compensate for a convection oven.
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Features
Color
Maytag offers three range color options: black, white, and stainless steel that is resistant to fingerprints. Consider your kitchen décor and how each color choice would complement or accent your existing look. White can brighten a space, but dirt and smudges tend to stand out. Black is a popular choice, but a darker option can make a tight space feel even smaller. Stainless steel is a durable choice, but some people believe it has a cold, utilitarian feel.
Third element
Some Maytag ranges have an oven with a third heating element for convection cooking. A powerful fan circulates the heat for balanced results and shortened baking and broiling times.
Power Preheat
Select Maytag ovens boast quick preheat times using their trademarked Power Preheat system. These powerful ovens can reach your desired temperature faster than a traditional oven, which you may appreciate if you’re in a hurry.
Max Capacity rack
Most oven racks are flat all the way across. The Max Capacity rack from Maytag provides a slight cavity in which you can place items to maximize the space. This can come in handy if you're cooking a larger, taller item, such as a roast.
Dual Choice element
Some electric ranges boast a Dual Choice element that allows you to toggle the size of the burner based on the size of the pan you’re using.
Bridge element and oval burner
Both electric and gas Maytag ranges may offer a specialized burner element that stretches from front to back to assist with the warming and heating of irregularly shaped pots, pans, and sheets. On an electric Maytag range, this feature is the bridge element. Certain gas range models boast an oval burner for this purpose.
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Practicing safe cooking habits will prolong the life of your range. Avoid sliding pots and pans, spilling food, or letting water boil over to keep your stovetop intact.
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Accessories
Cookware: A proper cookware set will help you get the most out of your Maytag range and make cooking fun and easy.
Oven mitts: Stay safe when using your oven with a comfortable and protective pair of mitts.
Casserole bakeware sets: Oven-safe casserole dishes offer a wide range of cooking and baking possibilities.
Kitchen utensil set: A quality kitchen utensil set will provide you with durable, comprehensive tools for all your stovetop and oven cooking needs.
Maytag range prices
Inexpensive
You’ll find a few Maytag ranges for under $800. These are small to mid-size gas or electric ranges that are limited in additional features.
Mid-range
Most Maytag ranges cost between $800 and $1,200. These appliances may boast some additional features, but you won’t find a double oven in this price tier.
Expensive
For over $1,200, you can have your choice of larger gas or electric Maytag ranges that come with plenty of features. If you seek a double oven from Maytag, you’re likely to find it here.
Don’t forget to clean around your oven as well. Carefully pull out your range to sweep and mop underneath, and wipe down the wall and cabinet sides to catch any spilled substances.
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Tips
- Clean frequently. Help maintain the longevity and effectiveness of your range by cleaning it after each use. Once cooled, wipe away crumbs and stains, especially if you have a ceramic stovetop.
- Always preheat. It can be frustrating to wait, but preheating the oven before placing food inside is essential to cooking it properly. If you put the food in before the oven has come to temperature, you likely won’t get the taste results you’re looking for.
- Know your racks. Oven rack position is important. Large roasted meats should go on the bottom or in the middle. Vegetables and thin cuts of meat should go on top.
- Install carefully. If you’re setting up your own range, be sure to cut the power (and gas, if applicable) before installing it. Follow the instructions to a tee, and make sure your range doesn’t move easily within its new space.
FAQ
Q. How should I clean my Maytag range?
A. To clean the oven, remove the racks and soak them in warm water and soap for at least two hours before scrubbing, rinsing, and drying them. While the racks are soaking, clean the oven interior with a thick solution of baking soda and water. Coat the interior and let it sit for 20 minutes. Wipe it down and spray the oven with water and white vinegar until all the baking soda is removed.
Note that stainless steel ranges require specific cleaners for the exterior, as do ceramic stovetops. Using the wrong cleaner could damage the range. For gas ranges, the burner grates can be soaked in a bath of warm water and soap before scrubbing and rinsing.
Q. Which is safer, a Maytag gas range or an electric range?
A. Anytime you’re operating a range, it’s important to exercise caution, especially if you have children or pets around. Both gas and electric ranges feature ovens and burners that can get exceptionally hot, so oven mitts should be used. Make sure your cookware is stable on the stovetop with the handles extending back and over the counter instead of outward.
Gas ranges use an open flame and tend to get hotter faster, which may be a concern. However, gas ranges also cool more quickly than electric ranges. What’s more, it can be harder to tell that an electric burner is still hot.
Concerning installation, connecting the gas line takes time and should be done by a professional. Electric range setup is much simpler.
Q. Does Maytag offer any smart home appliances?
A. Yes, Maytag offers smart appliances that can be connected and controlled via WiFi. However, at the moment this only includes washers and dryers. The company does not currently feature any connected ranges (or refrigerators), though that may change in the coming years as connectivity is an increasingly popular feature.
