Are you in the market for a new range or oven? Here are some of the features you should watch for:

Self-cleaning oven
Self-cleaning ovens can save you a world of rubber-gloved grief. Though powerful chemical oven cleaners are made, these pollute the air in your home and are a hassle to use.

There are two types of self-cleaning ovens. The conventional type can be set to heat up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit so that they nuke all food debris into a dusty gray ash that can then be wiped away. A continuous-cleaning oven has a special interior finish that oxidizes food spills every time you use the oven. This works pretty well but is not effective for large spills.

Broiling features
Most ranges have a broiler at the top. With some, you can vary the temperature of the broiling element; others are either off or on.

Oven racks
Three racks are better than two; they give you more options, including the option to remove one or two of the racks. A half rack is also helpful; it will let you bake something tall along with short items.

Electronic controls
Watch for electronic controls that will enable you to do more than turn the unit off and on and set the temperature. For example, some will allow you to program your cooking or delay the start of it. Be sure the controls are easy to use.

Pilotless Ignition
If you are going with a gas stove or oven, look for a model offering pilotless ignition. This electronic ignition system means you won’t waste money and energy keeping a pilot light burning.

Warming drawer
A stove that has a compartment with a separate temperature control is convenient for keeping some foods warm while cooking others.

Storage drawer
If you buy a freestanding range, it probably will have a storage drawer. Types with a removable liner are easiest to clean.

Child lockout
This childproofing feature prevents small children from opening the oven door. See more about child safety in the kitchen.