Drip Pan Sizing: Finding The Right Fit

Drip pans are essential for catching messy drips and spills when cooking, but finding the right size can be tricky. There are many different styles and sizes of drip pans on the market, and the wrong size or shape can cause the stove's burner to sit unevenly. The best way to find the correct size is to consult the owner's manual or the manufacturer's website for specific recommendations. Additionally, examining the burners to determine if they are removable or hinged will help in selecting the appropriate drip pan. It is also important to measure the diameter or length and width of the existing drip pans or the openings to ensure a proper fit. When in doubt, taking the old drip pan to a hardware store or appliance retailer can be helpful in finding a generic replacement that matches.

Drip pans should be replaced when they can't be cleaned

Drip pans are removable and should be cleaned regularly to avoid a fire. Ideally, they should be cleaned after each use, but if you cook daily, a good cleaning once a week or whenever you notice stains is also fine. However, if they become too caked with food and grease and can't be cleaned, it's best to replace them.

There are several methods you can try to clean your drip pans, depending on the severity of the grime. For mild cleaning, you can use dishwashing liquid with a grease-cutting ingredient, or place the pans in the dishwasher. For heavier cleaning, you can use vinegar and baking soda, or ammonia. For extremely dirty pans, you can try using hydrogen peroxide and baking soda, or oven cleaner.

If none of these methods work and your drip pans are beyond cleaning, it's best to replace them. Drip pans are available in a variety of materials and finishes, such as stainless steel, porcelain enamel, and chrome. You can find replacements at home improvement stores, appliance stores, or online retailers like Amazon. When choosing a replacement, make sure to select the correct size and style for your stove, as ill-fitting drip pans can cause the stove's burner to not sit level.

The right size drip pans can be found with a little research

Firstly, you should consult the owner's manual for information on drip pan sizes. If you don't have the manual, you can visit the manufacturer's website for details. If you are unable to find the information you need, you can try to identify the brand and model of your stove, as well as the number of large and small drip pans or burners. This information will be useful when shopping for replacement drip pans.

Next, you should examine the burners on your stove to determine if they are removable or hinged. Drip pans for removable burners have a hole in the side and a complete rim, while those for hinged burners have a small round section cut out of the rim.

Finally, you can measure the diameter or length and width of your existing drip pans or the openings where the new pans will go. It is important to note that the common replacement terms of 6-inch and 8-inch refer to the size of the heating element, not the actual size of the drip pan. Therefore, it is recommended to bring your old drip pan with you when shopping for a replacement to ensure a proper fit.

With this information, you should be able to find the right size and style of drip pans for your stove.

Consult the owner's manual for drip pan size suggestions

If you're unsure about the size of the drip pans you need, the best place to start is by consulting the owner's manual. This will contain information on the specific product, including the correct drip pan size or suggestions for suitable replacements. It will also include the manufacturer's details and the model name or number of the electric range, which can be useful for ordering replacement parts. Some manuals even contain parts catalogues, which can be very helpful for ordering drip pans made specifically for your range.

If you don't have the manual, you can try contacting the manufacturer directly via their website. They will be able to provide information on the correct drip pan size for your product.

Drip pans for removable burners have a hole in the side and a complete rim

Drip pans are essential for preventing spills and drips from reaching the surface of your stove and causing damage. They are typically made from materials like cast iron, aluminium, or stainless steel, and come in various styles and sizes. When it comes to finding the right drip pans for your stove, there are a few key considerations:

Identifying the Correct Style

Firstly, it's important to determine the style of your drip pans. The most common styles are A, B, D, and E, each designed to fit specific stove models. Style A is slightly shallower than Style B, and generally matches electric stovetops made by Whirlpool, Kenmore (2004 and newer), Frigidaire, Maytag, Electrolux, Tappan, Amana, Crosley, and RCA. Style B is suitable for GE, Hotpoint, Kenmore (1995-2003), Roper (1990 and newer), and Monogram electric ranges. Styles D and E are designed for hinged cooking elements and have a separate top outer trim ring. Style D fits GE, Hotpoint, Kenmore (1995-2003), Roper (1990 and newer), and Monogram electric cooktops, while Style E is suitable for Whirlpool, Kenmore (2004 and newer), Frigidaire, Maytag, and other similar stovetops.

Determining the Size

Drip pans typically come in two sizes: large (approximately 8 inches) and small (approximately 6 inches). To ensure a correct fit, it's crucial to measure the diameter of the hole in your range where the drip pans sit. This can be done using a measuring tape or ruler. Take this measurement with you when shopping for replacement drip pans to ensure you find the right size.

Considering the Burner Type

The type of burner you have will also determine the style of drip pan you need. Removable burners typically use drip pans with a hole in the side and a complete rim, while hinged burners use drip pans with a small round section cut out of the rim to accommodate the electrical connections.

Maintaining and Replacing Drip Pans

Drip pans should be cleaned regularly to prevent a buildup of grime and to extend their lifespan. However, over time, they may become worn or difficult to clean, and will need to be replaced. When replacing drip pans, it's important to ensure the new pans have a hole for the electrical plug and that the burner supports fit securely into the pans.

In summary, finding the right drip pans for your stove involves identifying the correct style, measuring the diameter of the hole in your range, and considering the type of burner you have. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure you purchase drip pans that fit correctly, function properly, and protect your stove from spills and damage.

Measure the diameter or length and width of the existing drip pans

If you don't have the user manual, you can measure the diameter of the existing drip pan. You can also get its length and width. Take note of its openings, holes, and design.

The drip pans are measured using the diameter of the hole in the range. There are many different styles, so your best bet is to take the old pan with you to a home store and get a match. Make sure the electrical plug hole is in the right place and that the burner supports will fit into the pan.

The common replacement terms of 6-inch and 8-inch can be misleading, as few dimensions actually match those numbers. It's more of a reference to the size of the heating element that sits on top of the drip bowl or pan.

Make sure to measure the diameter or length and width of the existing drip pans or the openings where the new pans will go. Make a note of how many drip pans you need.

Drip pans for removable burners have a hole in the side and a complete rim, and those for hinged burners have a small round section cut out of the rim.

Frequently asked questions