Review of Maytag 30" Freestanding Smoothtop Electric Range, Model MER5751BAW (price, reviews)

[reviewer]

Maytag 30" Freestanding Smoothtop Electric Range, Model MER5751BAW

Rating: 4 out of 5

• Currently 4.0/5.0

This Maytag model is a freestanding electric range with four heating elements. The oven is 5.1 cubic feet and self-cleaning. It is very attractive, with a retro design and rounded edges that give it a nice, clean look that would complement the décor of any kitchen. The cooktop is smooth ceramic with a speckled black and white finish to it. The smoothtop is attractive and easy to clean. However, there is some roughness to the cooktop's finish that seems to make it a little more difficult to clean off large amounts of baked on dirt. There are some spills that, once baked on, require a significant amount of time and elbow grease to remove. The range top has what Maytag calls an "upswept" design to it, meaning that there is a raised rim around the cooktop that prevents minor spills from pouring over the edges of the unit. The burners work well and reliably, and respond to changes on the controls reasonably well. The Hot Surface indicator light on the cooktop is helpful.

The oven itself is average. It is of average size and has two heating elements. The window on the front is on the smaller side, the oven light is not very bright, and it is often difficult to get a clear view of what is baking without actually opening the oven door. I have found the oven to be very inconsistent in how it bakes food. Breads and cookies always seem to come out fine, but casseroles and larger cuts of meat always seem to take much longer than what the recipe would indicate, even when taking into account the size of the food item.

This range features practical and easy to use functions. The timer is very easy to set and hear. The self-cleaning option works well and is easy to use without having to consult the manual after the first time. The Hi and Lo Broil works as expected. There are also Sabbath, Delay Bake, and a Keep Warm modes, which are all nice features to have. There have been no problems with the function of this oven in the years that I have owned it; I have never had to call for service. This is a good, stylish freestanding range for the price that will work well for the homeowner who cooks on occasion and wants a simple range that will last.

Review by professional reviewer, Aug. 25, 2011