Ranges 101

Advantages of a Gas Range
Gas ranges are generally preferred over electric ranges by professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts. A key advantage of a gas range is that it allows for more precise temperature control. Gas ranges are also typically more effective than electric ranges at lower temperatures. And unlike electric ranges, the heat on a gas range can be turned on or off instantly.

Open Burners vs. Sealed Burners
A key advantage of an open burner system is that it generates a more efficient flow of heat. BlueStar’s open burner system allows for more room between the source of the flame and the cooking surface, resulting in more heat making direct contact with the cooking surface. BlueStar’s burner is especially designed to direct all heat upward, with consistent blue flames at every port. Conversely, sealed burners with high burner ratings often release some heat into the kitchen, wasting BTU power. BlueStar’s cooktops lift up for easy cleaning. Drip pans can be lifted off and cleaned in the sink or dishwasher.

Commercial Ranges
While many range manufacturers claim to have “Pro-style” ranges, the kind of technology BlueStar utilizes has actually been used in commercial ranges for many years. The power, heavy construction, durability, and open burner of BlueStar’s ranges are comparable to those used by chefs in top restaurants.

Why BTUs are Important
Considered by many to be the most important feature of a range, a BTU (British thermal units) is the measure of heating power generated by gas cooktops and ovens. In technical terms, a BTU is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 pound of water 1 degree Fahrenheit. The higher the BTU capacity, the hotter the range can get; the hotter the range, typically the shorter the cooking times.

BlueStar ranges generate some of the highest BTUs available to residential users. While most residential burners max out at 12,000 BTUs, and a few offer 15,000 or 18,000, BlueStar’s RNB series provides 22,000 BTUs of power.

Simmering
While high BTUs typically get most of the attention, a range’s ability to generate low heat is equally as important. Some ranges “cycle” heat, which means that they alternate between low heat and turning off. BlueStar ranges produce a consistent 130˚ of heat at the low end, which is ideal for delicate soups and sauces.