Drip Pan Style Guide

Drip pans, also known as drip bowls or catch pans, are a critical component of your stove. They are placed underneath the coil element to catch boil-overs and reflect heat back to your pots and pans. Drip pans come in various styles, including Style A, Style B, Style C, Style D, Style E, and Style F, each designed to fit specific stove brands and models. Style A, for example, fits most plug-in electric ranges from brands like Admiral, Amana, Athens, and Bosch. Style B is typically used for stoves from GE, Hotpoint, Moffat, and Monogram. When choosing a drip pan, it's important to consider not only the style but also the size, which is usually indicated by the diameter of the heating element. The most common sizes are 6-inch and 8-inch, with some stoves featuring a mix of large and small burners. Additionally, the quality of the drip pan can be assessed by the number of turns in the heating element, with more turns indicating higher quality.

Drip pans for electric coil stoves

Drip pans are a critical component of your stove, catching boil-overs and reflecting heat back to your pots and pans. They can be easily replaced and should be annually to add to the lifetime of your stove or cooktop.

When looking for a drip pan for your electric coil stove, it is important to first identify the brand and model of your stove. The most common styles of drip pans are A, B, D, and E, and they come in two sizes: large and small. Drip pans can either be chrome-plated or black porcelain, and they have a cutout for the element to plug into.

If you have a GE, Hotpoint, Kenmore (1995 to 2003), Roper (1990+), or Monogram electric range, you will likely need a Style B drip pan. These are one-piece drip bowls with a complete rim and a cutout for the element.

If you have a Whirlpool, Kenmore (2004 and up), Frigidaire, Maytag, Electrolux, Tappan, Amana, Crosley, or RCA electric stovetop, you will likely need a Style E drip pan. These are designed to fit hinged cooking elements and have a separate top outer trim ring and a pan underneath.

It is important to measure the size of your existing drip pans to ensure that you purchase the correct size. The common replacement sizes are 6 inches and 8 inches, which correspond to the size of the heating element.

There are many options available for purchase online, such as the Range Kleen Style B Drip Bowl, the KITCHEN BASICS USA Range Burner Chrome Drip Pans, or the WB31M19 and WB31M20 Drip Pans for Electric Stoves.

Drip pans for gas stoves

Drip pans are a critical component of your stove, catching boil-overs and reflecting heat back to your pots and pans. They are easily replaceable and should be annually maintained to extend the lifetime of your stove or cooktop.

There are a variety of drip pans for gas stoves available on the market, with different materials, sizes, and shapes to choose from.

When selecting a drip pan for your gas stove, it is important to consider the size and shape that will fit your stove properly. Drip pans come in various shapes, including square, rectangular, and round. The size of the drip pan is usually measured in inches, and it is important to ensure that the dimensions match your stove's specifications.

Drip pans are also made from different materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Chrome drip pans, for example, are known for their durability and heat resistance. Porcelain drip pans, on the other hand, offer a sleek and stylish appearance, are easy to clean, and are heat and scratch-resistant. Additionally, disposable aluminium foil drip pans are available, which offer convenience and ease of replacement.

Some specific examples of drip pans for gas stoves include:

• Chrome Square Gas Range Drip Pan: This product is designed to fit specific GE, AP2028207, PS244863, and WB32X90 stove models.
• Range Kleen Gas Range Drip Pans: These drip pans are made in the USA and are available in square and rectangular shapes. They are known for their quality and come in packs of four.
• Kitchen Basics 101 Chrome Square Gas Range Drip Pan: This product is designed to replace specific GE stove models and is made in the USA.
• Stanco Safety Products Gas Stove Porcelain Drip Pans: These drip pans come in a set of four and fit most stoves with a 7-inch size.
• Mainstays Universal Chrome Drip Pans: This product offers a set of four chrome drip pans suitable for various stove types.

It is important to refer to your stove's user manual or seek advice from a professional to ensure that you select the correct drip pan style for your gas stove.

Drip pans for flat-top electric stoves

When looking for a replacement drip pan, it is important to first identify the brand and model of your stove. While there are relatively few stove manufacturers, there is not a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to drip pans. The style of the drip pan will depend on the brand of your stove. For example, Style B drip pans are for stoves from GE or Hotpoint, while Style A is for stoves from Whirlpool, Kenmore, and other manufacturers. Additionally, you will need to determine the size of the drip pan you need. Drip pans typically come in two sizes: large (8 inches) and small (6 inches). Newer stoves usually have two large and two small burners, while older stoves may have one large and three small burners.

When shopping for replacement drip pans, you can find them at various retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Lowe's. It is recommended to look for third-party equivalents that match the manufacturer's direct replacement part, as these can be more cost-effective. When in doubt, refer to your stove's manual or the manufacturer's website for specific recommendations on replacement drip pans.

It is also important to note that there are differences between drip pans and drip bowls. A drip bowl is made from a single piece of metal and is used under heating elements that are easily removable. On the other hand, a drip pan has two pieces: a removable outer ring and a separate bowl underneath. This two-piece construction is used for stoves with hinged burner elements.

How to identify the right drip pan size

Drip pans are essential for catching messy drips and spills when cooking. They can be removed and cleaned regularly to avoid a fire and maintain the stove's appearance. However, with time, they will need to be replaced. To identify the right drip pan size, follow these steps:

Consult the User Manual

The user manual is a valuable resource as it contains specific information about your stove, including assembly instructions, usage guidelines, and cleaning recommendations. It also specifies the stove's parts, including the drip pans, providing measurements and replacement suggestions. Refer to the user manual to identify the correct drip pan size and any relevant model numbers or brand recommendations.

Examine the Burners

Burners come in various designs, but they are typically round. Their drip pans can be either permanently attached or easily removable. To determine the correct drip pan size, observe if the burners are screwed to the drip pan. If you plan to buy a replacement, consider the screw holes and locks to ensure a proper fit. Additionally, examine if the burners are removable or have a hinged design. Removable burners usually have a hole in the side and a complete rim, while hinged burners have a small round section cut out of the rim.

Measure the Drip Pan

If you don't have access to the user manual, you'll need to measure the drip pan yourself. Use a tape measure to determine the diameter, length, and width of the existing drip pan. Take note of its openings, holes, and design. The "6-inch" and "8-inch" labels refer to the approximate outside diameters of the heating element or the recess in the drip pan. The actual dimensions of the drip pans are slightly larger to accommodate the heating element.

Consult Appliance Retailers or Online Shops

Visit an appliance centre, hardware store, or an online shop to find replacement drip pans. Provide the brand and model of your stove to the salesperson or online seller, and they can assist in finding the correct drip pan size. They usually keep stock of specific stove models and brands, making it easier to find a compatible drip pan.

Micro-Size Considerations

While the general sizes of "6-inch" and "8-inch" may seem standard, there are micro-size differences between brands and models that can affect compatibility. These micro-sizes are too small to measure accurately but can significantly impact the fit of the drip pan. In most cases, providing the brand and model number of your stove will be sufficient to determine the correct micro-size.

Additionally, some drip pans are categorised by styles such as Style-A, Style-B, etc. These styles correspond to specific stove brands and can help ensure a proper fit. However, this style system is not always standardised or consistently used, so it's essential to rely primarily on the stove's manufacturer and model number.

How to clean and maintain drip pans

Drip pans are a critical component of your stove, catching boil-overs and reflecting heat back to your pots and pans. They can be easily replaced and properly maintaining your stove by annually replacing your drip pans can add to the lifetime of your stove or cooktop.

Cleaning with Dishwashing Liquid

This method is one of the mildest and works best for fresh spills and splatters that have yet to cake on or dry. Drip pans and removable chrome trim rings that are only lightly soiled can also be cleaned by placing them on the top rack of an automatic dishwasher.

Steps:

• Remove the drip pans and any separate decorative rings as soon as a spill happens.
• Fill your sink with hot water and add a few drops of dishwashing detergent that includes a grease-cutting ingredient.
• Place the drip pans and any other removable components in soapy water. Allow them to soak for at least 10 minutes or longer, depending on the severity of the grime.
• Wipe them down with a sponge or dishcloth. For tough stains, use a sponge or melamine sponge to lightly scrub away the food.
• Rinse the clean drip pan in hot water and dry with a microfiber cloth.
• Replace the drip pans under the burners, ensuring they are fitted smoothly.

Cleaning with Vinegar and Baking Soda

Use this homemade cleaning method when soapy water just won't cut through the food build-up.

Steps:

• When the stovetop is cool, remove the drip pans and shake them over a trash can. Scrape them with a dry paper towel to remove any loose or burned food particles.
• Fill a sink or bucket with enough hot water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid to completely cover the drip pans. Allow them to soak for 15 minutes.
• Drain or empty the hot soapy water. Add enough distilled white vinegar to completely cover the drip pans and allow them to soak for 30 minutes.
• Sprinkle the solution with a generous amount of baking soda. There will be a bit of fizzing as the baking soda reacts with the acid of the vinegar. Let the mixture sit for at least an additional 15 minutes.
• If necessary, use a plastic scrubber to scour the pans, sprinkling additional baking soda onto areas with hard-to-remove stains.
• Rinse the drip pans with hot water and dry with a microfiber cloth. Replace all of the components on the stovetop.

Cleaning with Ammonia

Household ammonia is a very strong cleaner and should always be used in a well-ventilated space. This method takes the longest but is the most effective on greasy drip pans with heavily burned-on food. If you have sensitive skin, wearing rubber gloves throughout this process is highly recommended.

Steps:

• When the drip pans are completely cool, place each drip pan in a separate one-gallon resealable plastic bag.
• Pour 1/4 cup of household ammonia into each bag. The cleaner is powerful enough that the drip pans do not need to be covered completely. The fumes will cut through the grease and grime.
• Seal the bags and allow the ammonia to work for at least 12 hours. When it's time to open the bags, make sure that you open them away from your face, as the fumes will be strong.
• Remove the drip pans and dispose of the ammonia and plastic bags safely. Dispose of the ammonia by pouring it down your drain while running cold water on full blast to dilute it.
• Fill the sink with hot water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Wash the drip pans with a sponge and use a plastic scrubber or melamine sponge on any stubborn spots.
• Rinse well in hot water and dry each drip pan with a microfiber towel. Return to the stovetop.

Cleaning with Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda

Hydrogen peroxide, along with baking soda, has a similar fizzing reaction as vinegar and baking soda. The fizzing lifts gunk and the mess burnt on the drip pans.

Steps:

• Put your drip pans in a sink and liberally coat them with baking soda.
• Pour undiluted hydrogen peroxide over the drip pans on top of the baking soda. You will begin to see fizzing action, lifting gunk off the pans.
• Let the drip pans soak like this for about 30 minutes.
• After soaking, rinse the drip pans under cool water. Use a sponge to scrub away the baking soda residue. Repeat if necessary.

Other Tips:

• Ideally, drip pans should be cleaned after each use of a stovetop burner. By tackling spills and splatters when they are fresh, the drip pans will be easier to clean.
• If you cook daily, give the drip pans a good cleaning weekly or as needed when you see stains. Allowing food particles and grease to build up can cause smoke and even fires.
• Avoid the old method of lining removable pans with aluminum foil to catch spills and splatters. Foil can trap heat or melt and damage the pans and appliance.
• For a quick clean, give pans a spritz of WD-40, let them sit for a few minutes, scrub, and rinse.
• You can also moisten used dryer sheets, scrub off the gunk, and then rinse.

Frequently asked questions