Designing your kitchen is not only a thought-provoking process but also involves a lot of planning and caution. Stoves are the most used kitchen appliances and contribute to most of the ambiance and functionality of the kitchen.
Since stoves are the basic kitchen-use components, it is important to determine the right area to place them in. Of the few places where stoves can be placed, people often aim to put them in front of a window. But is it alright to place a stove in front of a window?
You can put a stove under a window, but most building owners require you to maintain a minimum of 12 inches of space from a window. This ensures safety and prevents any potential hazards.
When putting the stove in front of a window…
It can be a good idea to have the stove in front of the stove because it provides you with a number of benefits, like lighting, natural views, and ventilation.
However, wooden stoves are advised to be placed away from the window because they could cause a fire hazard or crack in the window. Wooden stoves are advised to be placed at least 36 inches from the window for safety.
Windows allow natural sunlight and fresh air to enter the kitchen and can also act as a natural exhaust for the stove, which assists in keeping the kitchen ambiance pure and hygienic.
Things to keep in mind when placing a stove in front of a window:
There are a few factors that you should consider when deciding to put a stove in front of a window
- Safety: If the installation doesn’t pose a potential fire hazard, then you are good to go.
- Usability: How accessible the location is.
- Convenience: The placement should make cooking easy and comfortable.
- Damage: The window itself shouldn’t be prone to damage from fire, fumes, or condensation.
- Other appliances: The other appliances that you need while cooking should be easy to access.
You might’ve also wondered whether one can place the stove in the corner of the kitchen. Is it doable?
Pros of putting a stove in front of a window
The idea of placing a stove under the window is compelling to many. Here are some reasons why placing a stove under the window can be useful:
Ventilation
Placing a stove under the window can provide natural ventilation and provide fresh air whenever needed. Some ingredients have a very strong odor, and sometimes food that burns makes the kitchen smell bad for a long time; with a window on top, the kitchen can easily get rid of the smoke as well as the smell.
Lighting
Natural sunlight from the window can be very helpful when it comes to cooking because cooking requires accurate measurements. With natural lighting, you can cook and clean easily.
Views
Placing a stove in front of a window can provide beautiful views. Not only does it create a pleasant working environment, but looking at the sunset, garden, or nature motivates you to cook healthier and tastier meals.
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Cons of putting a stove in front of a window
Fire hazard
The stove should be placed several inches away from the kitchen window. This is because the wind from the window can either stoke the fire, thus making it spread) or it can put out the flames, which could lead to gas leakage.
There should be a distance of about 12 inches between the window and the stove. This way, the kitchen appliances, and other things will be safe from catching fire.
Window damage
Moreover, direct heat from the stove can also cause the window glasses to crack or break. It is important to make sure that the window glass is strong and tempered with enough heat resistance.
The hood minimizes window space
Some stove tops come with a hood. Even though these hoods filter out the smell and fumes, they also decrease the window space and block some parts of the window, which is why you should reconsider placing the stove under a window.
Cleaning the window
The fumes from cooking will definitely leave oil stains and other greasy residues, which are difficult to clean and usually noticeable. Therefore, keep in mind that your windows will get dirty!
Privacy
Having a window also means that it is a direct view into your kitchen. During the day, the bright light from outside makes your kitchen visible to anyone in the garden. During the night, because the kitchen lights are kept on, anyone can have a look into your kitchen.
In order to avoid all the privacy issues, one can install blinds or curtains in their window that will block the outsider’s view. However, installing curtains comes with a high risk of fire; therefore, it is not recommended.
Where else can you place your stove?
You can carefully plan places where you can place your stove. Depending on the kitchen’s layout, there are certain places that are good spots to install your stove.
Near the sink
Installing the stove near a sink is a good idea. However, there should be enough room between the sink and stove to enable you to work easily. The distance between the sink and stove should be enough to keep any dirty utensils and dishes or to dispose of any leftovers.
Part of the kitchen island
Installing your stove as part of the kitchen island is a popular choice, and here is why. This placement of the stoves provides a huge counter space, making it easy for you to work freely and cook easily.
The counter spaces allow you to dispose of any leftover vegetables or provide enough area to chop your ingredients. Moreover, it provides ample space to work rather than in isolation.
Recommended distances from other appliances
Another factor to consider while placing your stove is the distance from other appliances. Your stove should not be placed too close to electrical appliances because heat from the stove can affect certain appliances.
Moreover, the stove should not be placed too close to other necessities like the refrigerator, sink, or dishwasher. Placing the appliances too close can make your kitchen compact, making it difficult to work in such traffic and hindering your cooking efficiency.
Final thoughts
It is safe to install a stove under the window with a distance of 12 inches. However, with every placement, there are certain points you should consider.
You should study your kitchen layout properly and see the pros and cons of each. As ideal as the placement may seem, keeping the hazards in mind before finalizing your kitchen design is important.