Cooking

For your cooking and baking needs there are many different styles of ranges, cooktops, ovens, microwave ovens, warming drawers, and ventilation systems. Sizes vary from small apartment units to residential commercial-style units. There are many new time-saving features that will get you out of the kitchen faster, but keep in mind that you may need to adjust some of your recipes accordingly. An important note: "residential commercial-style is made according to residential codes--it is not a "commercial unit". In the same vein, "professional-style" may not be the same as commercial-style--check to see if it refers to its BTU power or only to its stainless steel appearance.

Your next choice is what type of fuel source you prefer--gas or electric. In fact, you can set up your kitchen to be gas, electric or a combination of both. On average, the cost of an electric appliance and its installation are slightly less than gas. However, according to the Environmental Protection Agency EPA if your gas appliance is equipped with electric ignition (instead of a pilot light) it operates at approximately less than half the cost of its electric counterpart. Gas appliances produce exhaust gases and should be ventilated to the exterior of your home. If your home has direct access to a gas utility company, natural gas can be piped directly into your home otherwise you can use LP gas (liquefied propane which comes from an aboveground storage tank). Contact the appropriate utility company (gas or electric) if you need additional services or outlets.