How much space does your range cooker need?

The space requirements around range cookers in kitchens are one of the most popular conversation topics when going through the design process with our clients. In this blog, we will discuss some kitchen range cooker ideas and tips for those who wish to benefit from a range cooker. 

How much space do I need around my range cooker in the kitchen? Can I put wooden cabinetry right next to it? How high do we need the extractor to be? What sits beneath the range cooker in a kitchen?

Space Requirements for range cookers

The requirements can vary drastically depending on the range cooker in mind.

In terms of position; good lighting, no draft, and an adequate air supply are recommended. Of course, our designers will always take these factors into account when designing your bespoke kitchen.

There is usually around a 2.5mm gap on each side of the range for the cabinetry. Depending on the model and the cabinet makers, some may require a larger gap (up to 10mm) to protect the cabinetry from heat damage. This will require dimensions from range manufacturers to design your cabinetry a safe distance away. The company you choose should project manage all the technical aspects so you don’t have to worry.

There will be compliances that your kitchen will have to meet to adhere to safety standards.

Source of heat

Aga’s Rayburns and Everhots emit heat outwards and produce heat for the home as well as for cooking. They have all developed and now are insulated enough on either side that cabinetry can sit within a few millimetres.

For cooker hoods and extractors, an induction hob can have an extractor closer to proximity than a gas hob. The gap generally sits around 650mm – 750mm.

Each brand will have different guidelines, depending on the elements chosen. All manufacturers will supply your kitchen designer and installer with technical guidelines complete with minimum and maximum distances.

You will be shown this in the design of your kitchen so you will know the depths and what this will look like.

The floor will need to be of adequate strength to hold the ranges.

We will supply cooker ranges with adjustable feet to meet the height of your worktops and usually come with a set-back plinth to hide the feet mechanisms, depending on the design and style you are looking for.

There are some exceptions to the norm, solid fuel cookers (such as the Lincar Ilaria) are designed to be the powerhouse heater of the home. Emitting heat all around the appliance and always on.

The regulations here require that no cabinetry sits closer than 200mm on either side. They are usually a standout feature and look great as a standalone.

When you have chosen the appliances you’d like in your kitchen, let your designer here at Sustainable Kitchens know the model and make the number as soon as possible. This will have a huge impact on the design of your kitchen. We have loads of kitchen with range cooker ideas and examples to share with you. We will ensure this works for your lifestyle, meets regulations and looks stunning to be used day in and day out.

*Please note that the information provided is advice only. We cannot help individuals with their queries unless they are undertaking a full kitchen project with us. We are not responsible for any damage incurred by following the advice*