A heavy duty range is a smart investment for high-volume restaurants that require greater energy output and maximum durability. Although they come at an increased cost compared to conventional restaurant ranges, they can withstand the heavy use of large and busy establishments.

When choosing this type of range for your restaurant, there are several important things to consider. Our buying guide and professional gas cooktop reviews will help you find the perfect range for your restaurant.

What to Look for When Choosing Heavy-Duty Ranges

professional gas range reviews

When comparing heavy-duty ranges, there are several things to consider, including:

Size

One of the first and most important things to consider is the size of the range. Heavy-duty ranges typically come in three widths:

  • 24”
  • 48”
  • 60”

However, you can also find models that are as narrow as 12” and wide as 72.” 

Consider the size of your kitchen and choose a width that will work best for your space. Keep in mind that you will also need to account for hood space. 

Health/safety codes typically require hoods to extend at least 6” beyond the equipment underneath it. So, for example, if you have a hood that is 54” wide, the largest range you could place under it would be 48” wide.

The size of your space and hood (if applicable) will likely narrow down your size options and make it easier to find a range that will meet your needs.

Number and Strength of Burners

Along with the width of the range, you also need to consider how many burners you will need. Commercial kitchens will typically need 6-10 burners, but you can find a number of variations, including single burner models.

Additionally, you’ll want to consider the strength of the burners. If you have menu items that require intense heat, you will need burners with a high BTU. 

Smaller establishments or those with less demanding menu items may only need burners that emit 20,000 BTU.

Gas vs. Electric

Another important thing to consider is how the range is powered. Do you want a gas or electric range? If your kitchen doesn’t have gas lines already, then your decision is already made for you. 

Each type has its advantages and drawbacks.

Gas

  • BTU ranges from 25,000-260,000
  • Dials allow for more precise temperature control
  • Immediate heat and quicker cooking times
  • Efficient and economical
  • Without pre-existing hookups, installation can be costly and difficult

Electric

  • Heats up using tubular elements
  • Temperatures range from 150-500 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Easy and inexpensive to install

Types of Bases

Along with the size, power, and type of range, you also need to consider the base. There are three options here:

Oven

These bases contain either a space-saving or standard oven. Space-saving ovens can only fit full-size sheet pans lengthwise. You can also find options with convection ovens.

Storage

These models have an open cavity underneath the range. They provide space for storing pots, pans, and other kitchen tools. Some have open storage, while others have doors. Widths can range from 12” - 36.”

Refrigerated

Refrigerated bases are becoming more popular, as more kitchens have dedicated combination ovens. 

A refrigerated base provides more space for storing cold ingredients, and it makes them more easily accessible to your kitchen staff. 

Some restaurants find that refrigerated bases streamline operations and make their kitchens more efficient.

high end gas range reviews

Professional Gas Range Reviews

Now that you know what to look for when choosing a range, let’s look at some of the best models. We have a wide range of heavy-duty ranges in our shop. Some of our top models include:

1. Imperial IHR-4

Our list of high-end gas range reviews begins with the Imperial IHR-4.

Imperial’s IHR-4 range features a standard oven base, four burners, and a burner baffle that distributes heat evenly. Stainless steel tubing and solid brass components add to the durability of the range. 

The four cast iron burners can accommodate up to six stock pots or frying pans. 

Features

  • 35,000 BTU/hr output 
  • Safety pilot and manual shut-off valve
  • Heat deflector to direct heat away from the kitchen floor
  • Electric ignition system
  • Porcelainized components for easy cleaning
  • Three-positions switch for cooking and cooling down

Pros

  • High BTU output
  • Standard oven adds versatility
  • Burner baffle for even heat distribution

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2. Atosa CookRite AGR-4B36G

The Atosa CookRite AGR-4B36G is a large, 60” gas range with four burners, two standard ovens, and a 36” griddle.

Cast iron top grates allow for quick and even heating. The griddle plate is made from polished stainless steel that cooks food evenly. The internal oven has a temperature range of 175F to 550F.

Features

  • 4 burners
  • 2 standard ovens
  • 36” griddle
  • Removable cast iron grates
  • 3/4" NPT rear gas connection
  • 60” wide
  • Height-adjustable legs
  • Burners: 25,000 BTUs 
  • Griddle: 27,000 BTUs
  • Oven: 27,000 BTUs

Pros

  • Ideal for high-volume operations and catering companies
  • The griddle, oven, and burner combo is versatile
  • Even quick heating

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3. Sierra SR-10-60

With a 60” width, 10 burners, and two ovens, this heavy-duty gas range is a workhorse. The Sierra SR-10-60 has an impressive total BTU of 360,000. 

Extra features like cast-iron grates, a built-in crumb tray, and a stainless steel exterior help make kitchens more efficient.

professional gas cooktop reviews

Features

  • 10 burners
  • 2 standard ovens
  • 30,000 BTU output for each burner and each oven
  • Removable cast iron grates
  • Porcelainized interior for easy cleaning
  • Cast aluminum knobs with heat protection
  • Built-in top storage ledge

Pros

  • High BTU output
  • Great for high-volume operations
  • Storage ledge can also act as a hot pad

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4. Admiral Craft BDCTSP-1/NG

You can’t have a list of gas range top reviews without including at least one budget option. For smaller operations that need a small heavy-duty range, the Admiral Craft BDCTSP-1/NG is a great option.

This 3-burner range has a total output of 80,000 BTUs, which can handle even the most demanding kitchen environments.

Features

  • 80,000 BTU output
  • 3-ring cast iron burner
  • 18” wide
  • Stainless steel construction

Pros

  • Compact, space-saving design
  • Cast iron allows for even heat distribution
  • Easy to clean and maintain

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Conclusion

These are our gas range reviews for models in every price range. The right heavy-duty range for your kitchen will depend on how much space you have, your volume, and your budget. You’re sure to find the perfect solution for your establishment in our online shop.