Rangemaster Nexus Steam Dual Fuel Range Cooker Guide

Table of Contents

If you cook a lot, a big, versatile range cooker can completely change the way your kitchen works. The Rangemaster Nexus Steam NEX110SODFFIV/C 110cm Dual Fuel Range Cooker with Gas Hob in Ivory and Chrome is designed for people who love the idea of a statement appliance that also handles everything from weeknight pasta to big-batch baking and Sunday roasts. In this guide, we’ll look at what makes a dual fuel, steam-enabled range like this so appealing, how it fits into everyday UK homes, and which similar models are worth considering if you’re still weighing up your options.

Why consider a 110cm dual fuel range cooker with steam?

A 110cm range cooker is all about capacity and flexibility. You get generous oven space, multiple cavities and a wide gas hob that can hold several pans at once. Add in steam cooking and you’ve got an appliance that can take on almost any recipe you throw at it, while still being practical for everyday meals.

The Rangemaster Nexus Steam NEX110SODFFIV/C sits right in this sweet spot. It pairs a traditional gas hob with electric ovens and a dedicated steam capability, which means you can sear on the hob, bake in a fan oven and steam vegetables or fish all at once. If you’d like to dive into the fine details, you can always read our full review of the Rangemaster Nexus Steam NEX110SODFFIV/C once you’ve got a feel for whether this type of cooker is right for you.

Understanding dual fuel: how it changes everyday cooking

Dual fuel means gas on top and electric ovens below. For many keen cooks, it’s the best of both worlds.

  • Gas hob control: The gas hob on the Nexus Steam gives you instant visual feedback and responsive heat control. Turn the knob and the flame changes immediately, making it ideal for stir-fries, sauces and delicate simmering.
  • Electric oven consistency: Electric ovens are known for even, predictable heat. That’s a big advantage for baking cakes, bread and pastry, or when you’re cooking several trays at once.
  • Multi-tasking power: With 110cm of width to play with, you can have multiple pans boiling or frying on the hob while using different ovens for different temperatures.

If you like the idea of a large, traditional-style appliance but prefer a fully electric setup, it’s worth looking at induction-based models such as the Rangemaster Classic Deluxe CDL110EIOG/C or the Rangemaster Classic Deluxe CDL110EICY/C, which keep the 110cm format but swap gas burners for a modern induction surface.

What steam cooking adds to a range cooker

The standout feature in the Rangemaster Nexus Steam NEX110SODFFIV/C is its ability to cook with steam. That opens up options you simply don’t get on a standard range:

  • Healthier meals: Steam keeps food moist without needing much added fat. It’s brilliant for vegetables, fish and chicken breasts when you want a lighter meal.
  • Bread and baking: Steam helps bread rise better and develop a glossy, crackly crust without drying out the inside. It can also improve pastries and some desserts.
  • Batch cooking: Steam is a great ally when you’re cooking ahead. You can gently reheat dishes without them drying out, and cook large amounts of sides in one go.

Because the Nexus Steam combines steam with the wide format and extra cavities, you can steam in one section while roasting or baking in another. If you’re curious how the steam cavity is laid out and what real users think, you can read our full review of the Nexus Steam NEX110SODFFIV/C dual fuel range cooker for hands-on impressions.

Design and finish: fitting a 110cm range into your kitchen

Choosing a range cooker isn’t just about performance; it has to look right in your kitchen too. The Nexus Steam NEX110SODFFIV/C comes in an ivory and chrome finish, which gives a softer, classic feel that works especially well in lighter or more traditional schemes. The broad, professional-style design also looks at home in an open-plan space where the cooker is on show.

If you prefer something darker and more contemporary, the same basic design is available in other colours. The Rangemaster Nexus Steam NEX110SODFFSL/C in Slate swaps ivory for a graphite-toned finish that suits modern, industrial or handleless kitchens. For a bolder, glossy look, the Rangemaster Nexus Steam NEX110SODFFBL/C in Black is worth a look, especially if you want the range to stand out against paler cabinets.

Planning the space: measurements, services and ventilation

A 110cm range cooker will be one of the biggest pieces of equipment in your kitchen, so planning ahead is essential.

  • Width and clearance: Measure the available gap carefully and allow for any recommended side clearances from the manufacturer. You’ll also want some usable worktop on both sides for setting down hot trays and pans.
  • Gas supply: Dual fuel means you’ll need a suitable gas supply and a Gas Safe registered engineer for installation. Check the route for the pipework and whether any adjustments are needed.
  • Electrical connection: Large ranges usually require a dedicated electrical circuit. Confirm the required rating with your installer before committing.
  • Ventilation: A powerful extractor hood above a 110cm cooker is highly recommended. Ideally, choose a hood at least as wide as the cooker and check the extraction rate is adequate for your room size.

If you like the idea of a big range but are limited by ducting or layout, an all-electric induction model such as the Classic Deluxe induction versions mentioned above can simplify the installation slightly, as you won’t need a gas line.

How to decide between different styles and technologies

Within the 110cm range cooker world, there are several key decisions to make: fuel type, styling and feature set. The Nexus Steam series sits at the modern, feature-rich end of the scale, while other models aim for a more traditional look.

Modern Nexus Steam vs classic-style alternatives

The Nexus Steam models (including the ivory, slate and black versions) lean towards a sleek, contemporary design with straight lines and an emphasis on technology like steam cooking. By contrast, the Classic Deluxe series focuses on a more heritage aesthetic with rounded doors and traditional styling.

If you’d like the modern convenience of induction instead of gas, the Classic Deluxe CDL110EIOG/C in Olive Green and the Classic Deluxe CDL110EICY/C in Cranberry are strong candidates. They keep the generous oven capacity and multi-cavity layout but give you an easy-to-clean, fast-heating induction hob instead of gas burners.

Colour and character

Finish has a bigger impact than many people expect. The ivory Nexus Steam works brilliantly in light, neutral kitchens where you want warmth without too much contrast. Slate and black alternatives introduce more drama and pair nicely with darker worktops or metallic accents.

Meanwhile, the green and red Classic Deluxe induction models bring a splash of colour and a more classic feel, which can really lift a Shaker or country-style kitchen. Thinking about how the cooker will look against your cabinets, flooring and splashback is just as important as checking the spec sheet.

Everyday usability: living with a large dual fuel range

Once the cooker is installed, the way you use it day to day matters more than any headline feature. A big part of the appeal of the Nexus Steam NEX110SODFFIV/C is that it’s designed for both everyday family life and special occasions.

  • Weeknight dinners: You don’t have to fire up every oven every night. Use a single cavity for smaller meals to keep things efficient.
  • Entertaining: Multiple ovens and a wide hob make big meals less stressful. You can roast in one oven, bake sides in another and keep plates warm separately.
  • Diverse diets: With steam cooking available, it’s easier to cater for guests who prefer lighter or specific types of cooking without compromising on flavour.

The slate and black Nexus Steam models offer the same core layout and functionality, so if you like the idea of this setup but prefer a different finish, the NEX110SODFFSL/C in Slate or NEX110SODFFBL/C in Black are well worth exploring.

Cleaning and maintenance tips for long-term reliability

Any large cooker can be a handful to clean if you let mess build up. A few simple habits make a big difference over the years.

  • Wipe as you go: Once the hob is cool, a quick wipe with a soft cloth and mild cleaner stops splatters turning into baked-on stains.
  • Use liners and trays: Place roasting tins under foods that might drip and use oven-safe liners where appropriate to catch spills.
  • Remove parts for deep cleans: Shelves, oven trays and hob pan supports are easier to clean thoroughly in the sink.
  • Check seals and burners: Inspect door seals occasionally and make sure gas burners are clear of debris so they light evenly.

Steam ovens, in particular, benefit from following the manufacturer’s guidance on draining water, descaling and airing the cavity. This helps keep performance high and reduces odours.

When to choose induction instead of gas

While the Nexus Steam models all feature a gas hob, induction is increasingly popular on 110cm ranges. The Classic Deluxe induction ranges show how this technology can work in a traditional-looking appliance.

  • Speed and efficiency: Induction heats pans directly, so water can boil very quickly and less energy is wasted.
  • Safety and comfort: The glass doesn’t get as hot as with gas or traditional electric, and it cools faster once the pan is removed. The kitchen also tends to feel cooler.
  • Cleaning: With a flat glass surface, spills can be wiped away more easily, and there are no pan supports to scrub.

If you already own compatible pans and like a smooth, modern hob surface, the Classic Deluxe CDL110EIOG/C and Classic Deluxe CDL110EICY/C are strong alternatives to a gas-topped dual fuel range, particularly if you want a traditional look with modern tech under the surface.

How to choose between the Nexus Steam colour options

Once you’ve decided that a dual fuel steam range is right for you, the final choice often comes down to colour and how it fits your home.

  • Ivory / Chrome: The Nexus Steam NEX110SODFFIV/C offers a softer appearance that can blend with cream, stone or wooden cabinets. It’s a good option if you want a statement piece that still feels warm and inviting.
  • Slate: The NEX110SODFFSL/C in Slate creates a subtle contrast and suits mid-tone greys, concrete effects and darker worktops. It’s versatile without being too stark.
  • Black: The NEX110SODFFBL/C in Black delivers maximum drama and stands out particularly well against white or pale cabinetry.

Think about lighting as well. Darker finishes can look stunning under good lighting but may dominate a small or dimly lit room, whereas the ivory finish tends to feel lighter and more forgiving in compact spaces.

Bringing it all together

A 110cm dual fuel range cooker with steam is a serious investment, but it can make cooking for your household easier, more enjoyable and more flexible. The Rangemaster Nexus Steam NEX110SODFFIV/C in Ivory and Chrome is ideal if you want a modern, feature-packed appliance that still feels at home in a warm, welcoming kitchen, while the slate and black versions give you the same cooking muscle in a bolder look.

If you’re leaning towards this style of cooker, taking a closer look at real-world performance and user feedback will help you feel confident in your choice. You can read our full review of the Rangemaster Nexus Steam NEX110SODFFIV/C for a deeper dive into how it behaves in everyday use, and compare it with the slate, black and induction-based alternatives linked above. Whichever finish or hob type you choose, a well-chosen 110cm range can become the real heart of your home kitchen for years to come.

FAQs

Is a dual fuel range cooker better than gas or electric only?

Dual fuel combines a gas hob with an electric oven, giving you the fast response and visible flame of gas on top, and the even, consistent heat of electric ovens below. Many keen cooks prefer this balance, especially when they bake often but still want the control of gas for pan work.
Steam cooking is not essential, but it adds versatility and healthier options. It helps keep meat juicy, bread crusty yet soft inside, and vegetables vibrant, while usually needing little or no added fat. If you love baking, batch cooking or experimenting with new recipes, it can be a big upgrade.
A 110cm range cooker is wider than a standard 60cm cooker, but it still fits comfortably in many UK kitchens as long as you plan the layout carefully. You’ll need enough clear worktop either side, good ventilation and suitable gas and electrical connections. Measuring up properly and checking cabinet clearances is crucial before you buy.
A powerful range cooker benefits from a decent extractor hood that matches or exceeds its width, plus enough extraction rate for the size of your kitchen. Gas hobs in particular need good ventilation to clear moisture and combustion products. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance and, if in doubt, ask a qualified installer.
Running costs depend on how often you use the cooker, the fuel prices in your area and the efficiency rating of each oven. A large range offers multiple cavities, so you can just heat a smaller oven for everyday meals rather than the whole appliance. Choosing an A-rated model and using features like timers and fan cooking smartly can help keep bills sensible.
Look for a good spread of burner sizes, including at least one powerful burner for searing and boiling, and smaller ones for gentle simmering. Stable pan supports, clear controls and easy-clean surfaces make daily use much easier. Some models also include wok burners or dedicated zones designed for larger pans.
Wiping spills as soon as the surfaces are cool helps prevent burnt-on mess. Removable pan supports, oven shelves and door glass make deeper cleans easier, and many ovens have liners or assisted cleaning functions. Using baking trays, roasting tins and oven-safe dishes to catch drips will also reduce the amount of scrubbing needed.
Induction hobs are faster and more efficient than gas, with very precise control and a cooler kitchen because the glass doesn’t get as hot. They’re a great option if you prefer a sleek look and easy cleaning, and don’t mind using magnetic pans. Gas still appeals if you like a visible flame and regularly cook with rounded-bottom woks or very large pans.