Beware of confusing a modern range cooker with traditional cast-iron range cookers of Victorian times. Rangemaster and the iconic Swedish brand Aga, who now belong to the same organisation, began manufacturing range cookers in the 1800s. These cookers were designed for Victorian houses, which had poor thermal retention. They would continuously burn fuel at a low intensity, to help heat these homes. The heavy iron frame would absorb this heat and radiate it throughout the house, whilst also providing simple cooking functions. As a result, the average fuel use of traditional ranges is considerably greater than modern range cookers that are today used solely for cooking. Purchasing a traditional range cooker, otherwise known as a storage range cooker, is more of a lifestyle choice. Instead of just factoring in cooking times, you would need to think about how you would add this into the mix of radiators and water heating within your home. We wouldn’t recommend a traditional range cooker if your house is less than 50-60 years old though. It would simply be too hot to justify the cost! This is where the growing popularity of modern range cookers comes in. They offer all the stunning style and traditional appearance craved, with all the latest technology thrown in – a perfect combination!