Types Of Electric Ovens And Cooking Functions
Electric ovens come in several configurations to suit different kitchen layouts and cooking needs. Freestanding ovens combine an oven cavity with a cooktop in a single unit, whilst built in ovens install directly into cabinetry for a sleeker appearance. Wall ovens and wall mounted ovens sit at eye level, reducing the need to bend down when checking on food.
Convection And Fan-Forced Cooking
Most modern electric ovens include convection settings that use a fan and exhaust system to circulate heat throughout the cavity. The fan moves hot air around the oven, allowing for quicker and more even cooking at reduced temperatures with shorter cooking times. This dryer heat makes convection particularly effective for browning, crisping and roasting.
Convection benefits include:
More energy-efficient operation through reduced cooking duration
Even heat distribution across multiple racks
Better results for breads, pizzas and roasted vegetables
Reduced temperature requirements compared to conventional settings
Traditional static heating without fan assistance remains useful for recipes requiring rising, such as cakes and soufflés, which cook too quickly under convection and don't achieve proper texture.
Specialised Electric Oven Types
Pyrolytic ovens feature self-cleaning cycles that reach temperatures up to 500°C, burning off grease and grime until only ash remains. Steam ovens inject moisture during cooking to retain nutrients and prevent food from drying out, whilst combi ovens combine steam and conventional heating in one appliance.
Electric Ovens Size And Capacity Options
Built in ovens typically measure 60cm wide as a standard dimension, though 90cm models suit larger households or those who frequently entertain. Cavity capacity generally ranges from 60 litres for compact models up to 80 litres for larger units. Smaller under-bench ovens at 45cm width work well in compact kitchens or as a second oven for additional cooking space. Here are the common sizes to choose from:
60-65 litres: Suitable for households of 1-3 people
65-75 litres: Accommodates families of 4-5 people
75+ litres: Handles large gatherings and batch cooking
Height specifications matter particularly for wall mounted oven installations, where you'll want the controls and viewing window at a comfortable level for regular use.
Key Features To Consider In Electric Ovens
Temperature accuracy determines cooking results, with quality electric ovens maintaining consistent heat throughout the cooking cycle. Digital displays show current temperature and remaining cooking time, whilst programmable timers allow you to set start and finish times for delayed cooking. Multi-function controls provide access to various cooking modes including conventional heating, fan-forced, grill settings and specific programmes for particular dishes.
Door Design And Insulation
Triple-glazed oven doors retain heat more effectively than double-glazed alternatives, keeping the external surface cooler whilst maintaining internal temperature. Soft-close hinges prevent slamming and extend door longevity. Some models feature removable inner glass panels that make cleaning easier, particularly after cooking fatty or splattering dishes.
Interior lighting variations:
Halogen bulbs: Bright illumination with long lifespan
LED lighting: Energy-efficient with excellent visibility
Side-mounted lights: Reduce shadows for better viewing
Touch controls with child locks prevent accidental activation, an important safety feature in households with young children.
Cooking Modes And Programming
Electric ovens typically offer between 5 and 15 different cooking functions depending on the model. Basic settings include top and bottom heat, fan-forced, grill and fan grill. More advanced units add pizza settings, defrost modes, proving functions for bread dough, and slow cooking options. Some incorporate moisture-retention systems or steam injection for particular recipes.
Electric Ovens Vs Gas Ovens Comparison
Electric ovens create dryer, more stable heat compared to gas ovens, making them particularly effective for foods like breads and pizzas that benefit from consistent temperature. Gas retains more moisture during cooking, which suits roast meats and cakes. The most significant practical difference lies in installation requirements and ongoing running costs.
Installation And Connection Requirements
Most electric ovens require installation by a licensed electrician due to their power demands. Even 10 amp plug models need wiring checked and certified before use. Gas ovens necessitate connection to mains gas supply and require both an electrician for the electrical components and a gas fitter for the fuel line, typically making initial setup more complex.
Running cost comparison:
Electric ovens: Higher per-use energy costs but lower purchase price
Gas ovens: Lower ongoing running costs if connected to mains gas
Cooking function variety: Electric models offer more specialised settings
Heat moisture levels: Gas produces more humid cooking environment
Electric ovens provide greater variety in cooking functions, with pyrolytic, steam and combi variants all relying on electrical heating elements. If your home isn't connected to mains gas, an electrical oven becomes the practical choice by default.
What Are The Energy Efficiency Ratings For Electric Ovens?
Energy efficiency ratings for electric ovens follow a star system ranging from 1 to 6 stars, with higher ratings indicating lower electricity consumption per cooking cycle. A 4-star rated oven uses approximately 20-30% less energy than a 2-star model when performing the same cooking tasks. Ratings consider factors including insulation quality, door seal effectiveness, and the efficiency of heating elements.
Cavity size affects energy consumption regardless of star rating, as larger ovens require more power to heat and maintain temperature. Fan-forced settings generally use less energy than conventional heating for equivalent cooking results. Checking the energy label before purchase helps estimate annual running costs based on typical household usage patterns.
