Viking 60" Ultra Premium 6 Burner, and 24" Griddle Gas Range - VGRC605-6GD

Don't blame Viking for dealer/your/installer's fault

By Yahoo! Shopping User  Oct 28, 2009

Pros: Fast and hot, require 1/2" gas pipe, yummy steaks

Cons: No lights to warn you something is on

I bought my 60" (6 burner and a griddle) floor sample (great discount), and got the extended warranty. Never once used it in 4-5 years of ownership. Instead of hiring someone to install I installed myself (but had them deliver because it is so h...eavy). I had originally run a 3/4" gas pipe, because most pro ranges require larger pipes for high heat (thermador, dcs, bluestar, etc.) but Viking can output the same heat using just 1/2" gas pipe. So if you are looking to replace an existing range without pipe change, Viking may be your best bet. Anyhow, I did what the manual suggested (for installation, balance, support, electrical, surrounding, vent, etc..), and in 4-5 years never gave me any problems. From time to time, when I spilled into the ignitor/element, the next time I ignite the ignitor will keep going even after the fire is lit, but will stop after a couple of minutes (probably burning off the gunk). Cleaning is a breeze because just about everything is removable on it (except the griddle plate). I often forget to turn off the convection fan (light hum) so wish there is a warning light to remind me. Also wish there is a clock or timer but not that important. Performance wise it is as good as it can get without burning the nearby walls. I have had 3-4 burners going (often) and never felt like I was losing heat. And the oven/boiler works wonders with steaks, turkey, baked goods, etc... Mine does not have much bells and whistles (no electronics, no sensors, etc...) but it is a cooking workhorse. I can see why people are disappointed with this range, because it's $$$ (I think when I got mine it was listed at $7000 but has since gone up). For same money one can buy 10 regular 30" ranges. But having gone through the installation myself (and doing all the underfloor support, piping, stainless steel surround, the hood, etc..) I must say the installer(s) make a big difference. You need to realize, this is a 600 or 800 lbs range, thus you need to brace your floor for it. This is a gas hog so you need to pipe for it. And with the heat you need to insulate your surrounding with fireproof materials. And you need to have direct access to outside to vent this amazing amount of heat/smoke. I go to many houses with pro kitchens and never seen one with adequate ventilation or heat insulation for such range. Too many people buy these just for the looks (and stores gladly sell them), but never get full use out of them, and those who try to get full use really did not prepare their house adequately for it. Anyhow, if you insist on the pro-look and need to stay with 1/2" gas pipe, Viking is probably the best way to go. For the money Viking is not the best buy, I think Bluestar may be. But Viking is not a badly built product; it is just often sold by people who don't know or don't care about customers, to customers who don't care/know how ranges work, and installed by people who care/know even less. For my next house I probably will get a Bluestar (cheaper) but I would not hesitate to buy another Viking if well discounted. Read more Less