The Slide-In Range Dilemma

Here’s an example of how one choice can create a cascade of changes in a kitchen project:

We have an old slide-in JennAir range that is no longer working as it should. The problem is that these ranges are not built to a standard configuration. Different models and manufacturers make slide-ins and drop-ins in all kinds of sizes. Here’s where the cascade starts. We have tile counters (from the previous owner- I am not a fan of tile counters for a variety of reasons) so if we buy a new range and the size isn’t the same, the counters have to go. You can’t cut them up in place. If the counters go the tile backsplash which is integral to the counters must go. When you remove a counter you’re almost certainly going to replace the sink and the faucet set. It gets even better: The range has a downdraft vent system built in which is undesirable because it sucks the flame away from the pans when it’s on. So I’m going to need to figure out a way to get a vent system overhead (the range is in a peninsula without overhead cabinets or soffit).

So, in order to replace a crappy old range I need to get new counters, new backsplash, repair walls where tile is removed, buy a new sink and a new faucet set and get a hood and run a vent system across the ceiling to an outside wall. My $1500 range project just became a $12,000 kitchen renovation. Think twice about buying oddly sized built-in appliances- they don’t last forever.

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