1) Measure the width of your opening

Use a tape measure and check the space where the current range sits:

• Measure cabinet-to-cabinet (or wall-to-cabinet) at countertop level.
• Confirm the true opening — don’t assume the old range size is correct.
• Most common residential sizes are 30 inches, but some kitchens use 24", 36", or specialty widths.

Tip: Measure in a few spots (front, middle, and back). Cabinets aren’t always perfectly square, especially in older homes.

2) Measure depth and check door clearance

Next, confirm depth and how the door behaves in your space:

• Measure from the back wall to the front of the cabinets.
• Check how far the current oven door swings out and whether it blocks drawers, walkways, or an island.

Many modern ranges are designed to sit nearly flush with countertops, but the door and handle often extend beyond the cabinet line. Make sure there’s room to open the door fully without hitting an island or opposite cabinet.

3) Measure height and confirm countertop level

Ranges typically have adjustable legs, but it’s still smart to confirm height:

• Measure from the floor to the top of your countertop.
• Check that the new range’s height range can meet that level.
• If your floor was replaced after the original range was installed, verify there’s enough adjustability to sit level and align with the counter.

Why this matters: If the range sits too low or too high, it can leave gaps, affect slide-in fit, or create issues with anti-tip bracket alignment.

4) Freestanding vs. slide-in fit

Freestanding and slide-in ranges are both commonly “30-inch,” but they sit in the space differently:

• Freestanding: finished sides and a backguard on many models; they tolerate small gaps more easily.
• Slide-in: designed for a built-in look, often with the cooktop overlapping the countertop edges; fit needs to be more precise.

If you’re switching from freestanding to slide-in, your cabinetry, countertop cutout, and side clearance may need to be exact. We compare these styles in “Freestanding vs. Slide-In Range: Which Is Better?”.

5) Oven capacity vs. exterior size

Two ranges can both be “30-inch” but have different oven capacities. When comparing models, also look at:

• Oven capacity (cubic feet) — helpful if you bake large turkeys or multiple dishes at once.
• Rack layout and usable space — do your favorite pans and baking sheets fit comfortably?
• Convection design — some convection setups are more useful than others depending on how you cook.

6) Electrical requirements for electric and induction ranges

Before choosing a new electric or induction range, confirm:

• You have the correct dedicated circuit and the right outlet/receptacle type for the new unit.
• The outlet location allows the range to push back properly without pinching the cord.
• The cord length and strain relief are appropriate once the range is in place.

Beacon can help you confirm electrical requirements for the models you’re considering, especially if you’re changing from standard electric to induction.

Need help confirming your range size?

If you’re unsure about measurements, Beacon’s friendly technicians in yellow and in-store appliance experts can help you choose a range that fits your current cutout and talk through any adjustments that might be needed for a clean install.

You can also explore more range and oven questions in the Range & Oven Buying Guide Help Center, including:

• What should I look for when buying a new range or oven?
• Freestanding vs. slide-in range: which is better?