Summit Appliance RE203W 20" Electric Range - Compact Cooking for Small Kitchens

Electric coil ranges, sometimes seen as the “old reliable” of kitchen appliances, hold a special place in the history of cooking. While newer technologies like induction and smooth-top electric ranges have gained popularity, the coil range remains a steadfast choice for many, particularly those seeking affordability, durability, and straightforward functionality. They represent a direct link to the early days of electric cooking, embodying a simple yet effective design that has stood the test of time. Before we explore a specific model, let’s appreciate the enduring principles that make these ranges work.

Compact Kitchen, Big Possibilities

In today’s world, where living spaces are often at a premium, efficient use of space is paramount. This is especially true in the kitchen, the heart of many homes. The Summit Appliance RE203W 20” Wide Electric Coil Range is specifically designed for these compact environments. It’s a testament to the idea that you don’t need a sprawling kitchen to create delicious meals. This 20-inch wide range offers a complete cooking solution without dominating the room, making it ideal for apartments, studios, smaller homes, or even as a secondary cooking appliance in a larger kitchen.

Unlocking the Science: How Coil Burners Work

The seemingly simple appearance of a coil burner belies a fascinating bit of physics. At its core, the coil burner is an application of Joule heating, also known as resistive heating. This principle states that when an electric current passes through a conductor (in this case, the metal coil), some of the electrical energy is converted into heat.

The coil itself is typically made of a nichrome alloy – a combination of nickel and chromium. Nichrome is chosen for its high electrical resistance and its ability to withstand high temperatures without oxidizing (rusting) too quickly. The higher the resistance, the more heat is generated for a given current.

Heat Control:

When you turn the control knob on the RE203W, you’re not directly adjusting the current flowing through the coil. Instead, you’re adjusting a switch that cycles the power on and off. A higher setting means the power is on for a longer portion of each cycle, resulting in a higher average temperature. This is why you might hear a clicking sound as the burner heats up – that’s the switch turning on and off.

The Steady Heat Advantage:

One advantage often cited for coil burners is their ability to retain heat. Once heated, the metal coil doesn’t cool down instantly when the power is reduced. This thermal inertia can be beneficial for certain cooking tasks, such as simmering sauces or keeping food warm, where a consistent, gentle heat is desired.

Built for Safety: Beyond the Basics

Safety is paramount in any kitchen appliance, and the Summit RE203W incorporates several features to protect users. It’s not just about preventing burns; it’s about ensuring the overall safe operation of the appliance.

UL Certification Explained:

The RE203W boasts UL certification. UL stands for Underwriters Laboratories, a globally recognized safety certification company. A UL mark on an appliance means it has been rigorously tested to meet specific safety standards. These tests cover a wide range of potential hazards, including electrical shock, fire, and mechanical instability. The UL certification provides assurance that the RE203W has met these stringent requirements.

ADA Compliance: Cooking for Everyone:

The RE203W is also ADA-compliant. ADA stands for the Americans with Disabilities Act. In the context of appliances, ADA compliance means the controls are accessible and usable by people with a wide range of disabilities. This typically involves features like front-mounted controls, easy-to-grasp knobs, and minimal force required to operate them. The RE203W’s design ensures that cooking is accessible to everyone.

Stability and Safety:
The range includes a feature to prevent accidental tipping, a crucial safety consideration, especially in homes with children or pets. Also the RE203W has a built in mechanism to prevent overheating, this is critical to prevent any household accidents.

The Practical Side: Using Your RE203W

Beyond the science and safety features, the RE203W is designed for everyday practicality.

Choosing Cookware:

Coil burners are compatible with virtually any type of cookware, including stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum, and copper. However, for best results, use cookware with a flat bottom that makes full contact with the coil. This ensures even heat distribution and prevents hot spots.

Basic Maintenance and Upkeep:

Keeping your RE203W clean is relatively straightforward. The chrome drip pans beneath the burners are removable and can be easily washed with soap and water. For the range’s metal surface, avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the finish. A mild detergent and a soft cloth are usually sufficient. Spills should be cleaned up promptly to prevent them from baking onto the surface.

Troubleshooting tips:
One common issue with coil burners is uneven heating. This can sometimes be caused by a warped burner or a loose connection. If you notice a burner not heating properly, check that it’s securely plugged into the receptacle. If the problem persists, the burner element may need to be replaced, which is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair.

A Brief History of Electric Cooking

The electric range, including the coil burner type, has a surprisingly long history. Early electric stoves began appearing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but they were initially expensive and unreliable. It wasn’t until the 1930s, with improvements in technology and the expansion of the electrical grid, that electric ranges became more widely adopted. The coil burner design, with its simple and robust construction, quickly became a standard.

Electric vs. Gas and Other Types:

While gas ranges have long been favored by professional chefs for their precise temperature control, electric coil ranges offer several advantages. They are generally more affordable than gas ranges, don’t require a gas line connection, and are often easier to clean. Compared to smooth-top electric ranges, coil burners are typically more durable and less prone to damage from dropped pots or pans. Induction ranges, while highly efficient, are significantly more expensive and require specific cookware. The coil range, therefore, occupies a sweet spot in terms of price, durability, and ease of use.

Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Compact Kitchens

The Summit Appliance RE203W 20” Wide Electric Coil Range is a practical and reliable appliance that embodies the enduring appeal of electric coil cooking. Its compact size, straightforward design, safety features, and ADA compliance make it an excellent choice for small kitchens, apartments, or anyone seeking a dependable and affordable cooking solution. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of high-end ranges, it delivers consistent performance and represents a solid value for the money. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest designs are the most enduring.