Drip pans catch anything the overflows from the pan when you cook. This is for the burner not to get damaged or worn out easily and prevent the kitchen from being messy when cooking. Without the drip pan, it will be hard for you to clean your stove every after use. That is why when it gets dirty, and cleaning it is not possible anymore; you have to get a replacement. You should know how to measure drip pans to make sure you get the right size.
Different Drip Pan Sizes
The electric stove drip pan sizes differ in model or brand. If you go to the hardware store and check for the available drip pans. You can find something that you think looks the same. When you arrive home and install the drip pan you bought, you will be surprised that it is not the right one. Either it has a bigger circle, or the holes of the pan does not fit.
Ways to Determine the Right Drip Pans
You need to familiarize how to measure drip pans when you need to replace them. You need to have the right measurement or right item to make sure you buy the one that fits the existing burner.
Here are some of the ways to determine the right drip pans:
- Check the User Manual
The user manual has all the information you need for the specific product. You will find on the user manual the guide on how to assemble your stove, how to use, and the proper way of cleaning. The user manual also specifies the parts of the stove. You don’t have to learn how to measure drip pans. It actually has the measurement of every piece. This is for users to easily look for a new one when it calls for a replacement. - Check the Burners
Burners come in different designs, but they are all round in shape. Its drip pans can either be permanently attached or can be pulled out easily. You need to know if they are screwed to the burner or not. When you need to buy a replacement, the screw holes and locks need to be considered. - Measuring the Drip Pan
If you don’t have the user manual, you should know how to measure drip pans. Using the ordinary tape measure, you can measure the diameter of the existing drip pan. You can also get its length and width. Take note of its openings, the holes, and also its design. - Visit an appliance center or online shop
You can visit an appliance center or a hardware store. You can ask for a drip pan for the brand and model of the stove you have. They usually keep stock of its parts, including the drip pan. You can consult a salesperson and discuss to him the specification of the drip pan you need. If you prefer to get one online, you can communicate with the sellers. They usually keep a record of the parts of specific stove models and brands.
Steps in Cleaning Drip Pans
When you have finally replaced your drip pan with a new one, you need to have a regular cleaning routine to make sure it lasts long. If you have an easy to remove drip pan, you can clean it every day or after use. If it is attached with a screw, you can have it cleaned once or twice a week.
Here is a step by step guide in cleaning drip pans:
- Remove the drip pan and place it in the sink.
- Pour hot water to it and let it soak for 10 minutes.
- Drain the water and pour white vinegar to soften the baked-food and grease. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Add baking soda over the vinegar. Sprinkle it and rub on the grease. Then let it be for another 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, you will notice that the residue will start to flakes.
- Rinse the drip pan with warm water and apply more baking soda to the remaining stain.
- Rinse again and air dry.
How to know when it is time to replace the drip pan?
If you are cleaning the drip pans regularly, you can expect it to last up to 5 years or more depending on its thickness. You have to use your personal judgment on this exercise. If the stains on the drip pan can no longer be removed and it already looks rusty, then you have to decide on changing it. Know more about Kitchen Security.
Conclusion
Your stove is one of the kitchen equipment that you have to take care of. Whether you have the electric or the gas-powered stove, you have to clean it regularly to maintain its elegance. However, over time or after a few years of using it, you have to change it. So, learning how to measure drip pans is necessary to make sure you get the right one that fits your existing stove.