Software
Houzz Logo Print
hzdeleted_46952933

Induction Range Opinions Please!

5 years ago

Hello all. Our oven is slowly on its way out and we'd really love to replace it with an induction slide in range. Gas is not an option where we live, nor are we ready to take on the expense of having a propane tank installed (it has however been discussed).


Currently our main two contenders are the:


Cafe

https://www.cafeappliances.com/appliances/chs950p4mw2/overview


KitchenAid

https://www.kitchenaid.com/major-appliances/ranges/slide-in-ranges/p.30-inch-4-element-induction-slide-in-convection-range-with-baking-drawer.ksib900ess.html?


Anyone have any thoughts or suggestions?

Comments (10)

  • 5 years ago
    last modified: 5 years ago

    Do you need/want/expect a self-cleaning oven function? The KA model uses Whirlpool's much criticized Aqua-Lift system for self cleaning. If you have not already decided that you like/want Aqualift, have a look at this long-running thread. It started in 2012 and is still getting frequent posts. There also is this thread which has been running for the last three years.and sort of focused on the consumer litigation over Aqualift.

  • 5 years ago

    I am getting a Bosch Induction. Our whirlpool aqua lift is the worst!!!!

  • 5 years ago

    We were shopping for a slide-in just this week and went to a really large store here in our large metro area. They have tons of different models. While we had initially been planning on paying more, after looking at a number of these in person, we decided that we think we will get this highly rated but very inexpensive (in comparison to the others) Frigidaire.


    https://www.reviewed.com/ovens/content/frigidaire-gallery-fgih3047vf-induction-range-review


    I have read lots of reviews and comments here on Houzz of many different induction ranges, and one comment stuck with me. That guy was complaining about the repair costs he had incurred with a more expensive induction range. He said if he had it to do over again he would buy a good-performing less expensive range and then just replace it rather than pay for all the expensive repairs.



  • 5 years ago

    Hmmm. This is all good to know! Thanks everyone.

    We admittedly have never used a self clean in our existing oven. I’m not sure we are making whatever tends to spill? I’ve never had an issue with needing to scrub anything off. It would be nice to have were the situation to arise though.

  • 5 years ago

    Is the only complaint you know of on the KA one just related to the aqua lift troubles? We were kinda leaning towards the cafe with the double oven since only turning on one smaller oven most times is more then enough for us so we can get rid of the toaster oven. We have a super tiny kitchen so it would be great to reclaim that counter space!

  • 5 years ago

    I think they're both good choices. The control methods are pretty different between the two, which is a matter of personal preference. I'm not sure if stores are open in your area to look at these in person. The Cafe has knobs, for more traditional control. With the KitchenAid, you have to press to select which hob, then select the power level you want. Personally, I don't mind touch controls, but prefer individual touch controls per hob (like GE's Profile line). The KitchenAid has that baking drawer which is nice for extra capacity if you're cooking for a crowd. Depending on how quickly you need one, available inventory may make the decision for you.

  • 5 years ago

    We’re being a bit preemptive and looking to order before it actually dies knowing a lot is back ordered right now. I had saw some negative reviews about the touch controls on the KA model that was admittedly hard to tell if some people just tend to spill more water on their cooktop or if these were super sensitive. Which is what causes us to look into the cafe one in the first place. The stores around us are open but don’t have either that we’ve seen in the showroom. We’ll take a look at the profile line as well, thanks!

  • 5 years ago

    I don't like double ovens, but I do like having the look and feel of knobs, so this is the one I went with 3 years ago, and have no complaints: https://www.lg.com/us/cooking-appliances/lg-LSE4617ST-electric-range

  • 5 years ago

    We have never had a double oven before so I’m guessing it would eliminate the occasion need for a toaster over (it’s just the two of us) but haven’t completely decided if it would be a hindrance when baking.

  • 4 years ago

    Not sure if you’re aware, but cafe is majorly backordered on their appliances. We ordered that exact range in April 2021 and it’s currently estimated to arrive at the end of January 2022, but could be longer. There are people on these forums that ordered in 2020 and still haven’t received.

    that said, I did tons of research and I’m very excited about the cafe, when it finally comes!