What to Do With a Brand New Electric Range Oven?

Cooktop

• Before using cookware on the stovetop, you need to know what is best for the electric range. Flat bottom pans the same diameter as the hob, which is the heating surface of the stovetop, should be used. If you use one that doesn’t cover the cooking area on one burner, you risk catching clothes on fire if they touch the heated surface. Also, this cookware keeps the heat under the pan whereas round bottom cookware allows some of the heat to escape. Do not slide the cookware across the cooktop or you may scratch the surface.

Oven Preparation

• New electric ranges have an oily or burning odor during the first few times of use. Eliminate the odors faster by running the oven for one to three hours, depending on the range type. If you have one with a self-cleaning cycle, run the cycle for three hours. If you have an electric range without the cleaning cycle, run the oven for one hour on bake and 15 minutes on broil.

Safety

• Teach each person in the home about safety around the range. Electric range ovens get hot on the outside. Don't touch the oven door while it is in use. The hobs on the cooktop stay hot for up to 30 minutes after you turn off the heat. Never drop anything heavy or place plastic or paper on the cooktop because it could result in a fire if you have a hob on and you don’t realize it.

Cleaning

• Before using the electric range, clean the cooktop, sides and front to remove grease, dirt and bacteria that could contaminate your food. Unplug the range from the power outlet before cleaning it. Use a soft cloth and a mild detergent with warm water to clean the range's exterior. Do not use harsh abrasive cleaners or scouring pads as they can scratch it.