Expert Review
Viking 30-Inch Convection Electric Range VESC306-4

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Expert Rating:  4  (what's this?)

Expert Review

Viking 30-Inch Convection Electric Range VESC306-4

Date Published: 9/10/07

Viking's VESC306-4 electric range is in a class by itself. This is the only commercially-styled, all-electric range for the home, so if you're seeking the best in electric cooking for your kitchen, this is the one for you.

True to form, Viking has done everything possible to produce a premium product in this exclusive niche. As expected, the VESC306-4 packs an outstanding convection oven into its 30-inch design, but we didn't anticipate the high-performance collection of electric surface elements. Getting electric elements to perform in the commercial style is a nearly impossible task, but Viking has done a commendable job of coaxing these stubborn elements to perform at their best.

With a full-power heating time of just 3 seconds, the VESC306-4 has the quickest surface-element response time we've seen. You don't get the control of gas or electric induction, but these elements will give you a rolling boil in a flash. If precise element control for simmering and cooling down is among your priorities, you might want to consider a range with another type of fuel, if that is possible.

The VESC306-4's true convection oven can do it all. You have the option of heating with three or two elements, and the oven's three racks let you cook in quantity. Dehydrating, defrosting and broiling with or without convection are all possible. The self-cleaning feature works great, and the look of this electric range is incomparable. You can even get the VESC306-4 in a choice of fourteen colors, running from common stainless steel to unusual options like eggplant.

Be forewarned that $5,000 is a lot to pay for a range, especially one that can't give you the performance of gas.  But if you're limited to electricity and a commercial-style range is a must-have, and cost is no object, Viking's VESC306-4 is the only range for you.


Pros: The one and only solution to an all-electric commercially-styled range, true convection oven, lightning-fast element heating time
Cons: Odd looking electric elements will never perform like gas or induction, very expensive

Warranty
1 year



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Product Specs

Depth
26-1/4 in.
Width
29-7/8 in.
Type of cooking surface
glass ceramic
Oven cleaning
self-cleaning
Cooktop controls
dial knobs
Oven on light
yes
Oven window
yes
Number of racks
3 racks, 6 positions
Broiler drawer
yes
Clock/timer
yes
Height
37-5/8 in.





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brws title: Viking 30-Inch Convection Electric Range VESC306-4 Review: Powered by ConsumerGuide and HowStuffWorks

meta d: The Viking VESC306-4 commercial-style electric range is one-of-a-kind, although it carries a sky-high price. Consumer Guide has all the details.

url: http://shopproducts.howstuffworks.com/Kenmore-4559-Electric-Range/productId=94717154