Freestanding cookers v built in

Your cooker is probably the most important element of your kitchen so when you're looking for a new one you want it to be right. Do you want freestanding or built in? There are some distinct advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs and the look you're trying to achieve.

Cleaning

Built in cookers are easier to keep clean because food and liquids can't drop down the gaps at either side of the appliance. With a free standing electric cooker or gas appliance there will be tiny gaps between the cooker and your work surface so food and liquids can spill down becoming stuck in cracks.

Installation

Free standing cookers are easier to fit into a space. They require hard wiring as part of the installation but little else if you already have a gap. Built in ovens often need builders to put them in place depending on your level of DIY knowledge. This extra level of installation can mean you incur more costs.

Aesthetics

There's no doubt about it built in cookers do look better in a kitchen. Providing your appliance matches your kitchen design it will meld seamlessly into the surroundings creating a professional design and a fully functional area. Freestanding electric cookers don't necessarily look unattractive but the design may not be as sleek.

Repairs

Repairing gas ovens built in can be more difficult than fixing free standing gas cookers simply because it becomes harder to move the appliance. Faults down the back of the built in appliance can be more difficult to spot in the first place so ask your engineer (who should be Corgi registered) before installation whether the appliance can be removed easily.

Replacement

Replacement is easier in the case of freestanding appliances but built in cookers can be replaced. You just have to be extra careful about sizing the appliance and you may need some help from a builder, designer or installation team. However many people will only update their appliances when they replace their entire kitchen - which doesn't usually happen more often than once a decade. Therefore the appliances you install at the same time as your kitchen should still be working until you decide to upgrade.