A freestanding range is one of the easier kitchen pickups once it’s out from the wall. It slides out of its slot on its own feet and rolls across the floor. The difference between gas and electric is in what is behind it, and that part needs sorting before pickup day.
Electric ranges
An electric range plugs into a large 240 volt outlet behind it. Turn the range’s breaker off at the panel first, then slide the range forward far enough to reach the plug and pull it straight out.
Gas ranges
A gas range has a flexible gas line running from a shut off valve in the wall or floor, plus an ordinary plug for the clock and igniters. The gas has to be shut off and the line capped by someone qualified before the range can move. It’s a few minutes’ work for a plumber or gas technician and not something to improvise.
Every appliance needs to be disconnected before pickup, including electrical, gas, and plumbing connections. Your Loaders pick up the unit once it is disconnected and ready to move.
The anti-tip bracket
Most ranges are held by an anti-tip bracket: a small metal bracket screwed to the floor or wall at the back that hooks over one of the rear feet. It stops the range tipping forward if someone leans on an open oven door. When you slide the range forward, lift the front slightly so the rear foot clears it.
Before pulling a range out, lay a sheet of cardboard in front of it. The rear feet drag as the range comes forward and leave long scratches on vinyl and wood.
Lighten it first
Grates and burner caps off. Cast iron grates are heavy and easy to lose under a range that’s being tipped. Set them on the counter.
Racks and drawer. Take out the oven racks and anything stored in the bottom drawer. The drawer usually lifts out of its runners too.
Stove checklist
- Breaker off and range unplugged (electric)
- Gas shut off and line capped by a pro (gas)
- Grates, burner caps and oven racks out
- Storage drawer emptied
- Cardboard down in front of the range
- Range slid out past the anti-tip bracket
A stove starts at $95 on its own, or adds $40 to a pickup that’s already collecting other kitchen appliances.
