# Range Cooker Installation: What You Need to Know Before You Buy

**By Jaini Patel** · 2026-07-29

Installation is the part of buying a range cooker that's easiest to overlook until it's time to actually fit the thing. Here's what to plan for before it arrives.

**Does a range cooker need special wiring?**

It depends on the model. Fully electric and induction range cookers typically need a dedicated electrical circuit, given the power they draw — this is usually a job for a qualified electrician, and it's worth checking your kitchen's existing supply before you buy rather than after. Gas and dual fuel models still need an electrical connection for the oven electronics and ignition, but the load is lower.

**Do you need a Gas Safe engineer?**

Yes — any gas or dual fuel range cooker must be installed and connected by a Gas Safe registered engineer by law. This isn't optional, and it protects both your safety and your warranty. All Lofra cookers are LPG compatible as well as mains gas, which is worth knowing if you're off the gas grid.

**Space and clearance**

Manufacturers specify minimum clearances around a range cooker for both safety and performance — typically a gap either side and behind the unit, and clearance above for heat dissipation. Cramming a range cooker tightly between cabinetry without the specified clearance can affect both safety and how evenly it cooks.

**Do you need an extractor hood?**

Building regulations generally require adequate ventilation above a cooking appliance, and in practice a proper extractor hood, sized to match the width of the range cooker, is standard practice. It's worth budgeting for as part of the overall installation rather than treating it as a separate, optional purchase.

**Replacing an existing cooker**

If you're replacing a standard built-in cooker with a range cooker, be aware the footprint is usually larger, which may mean adjusting cabinetry either side. This is far more straightforward to plan for before ordering than to discover on delivery day.

See also: [already decided on a model? Our buying guide](https://lofrarangecookers.co.uk/blogs/range-cookers/the-lofra-buying-guide-matching-a-range-cooker-to-your-budget-kitchen-and-lifestyle) covers checking stock and lead times before you order.

**Quick Answers**

**Q: Do I need a Gas Safe engineer to install a range cooker?**

A: Yes, for any gas or dual fuel model, by law. Electric and induction models still need a qualified electrician for the dedicated circuit.

**Q: Can a dual fuel cooker run on LPG?**

A: Yes — all Lofra range cookers are LPG compatible as well as suitable for mains gas.

_We offer installation in certain postcode areas —_ [_contact us_](https://lofrarangecookers.co.uk/pages/contact) _to check availability for your area before you order._

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> Source: [Lofra Cookers](https://lofrarangecookers.co.uk/blogs/range-cookers/range-cooker-installation-what-you-need-to-know-before-you-buy)