How to buy an oven

Electricity vs gas: oven

Electric ovens are no–longer the slow–starters they were. Most are multifunction and so, accommodate different cooking needs. In this respect electric ovens are more versatile than gas. But gas ovens don’t dry out food in the same way electric ones do. So, if you are into baking cakes, cooking casseroles and roasts, gas is the one for you. Choose fan–assisted to circulate the heat and create an even temperature throughout the oven. For the ultimate in versatility, look out for microwave ovens with built–in oven function like the Framtid built–in (£449) from IKEA which is neat and contemporary.

Electricity vs gas: hob

Traditionally, chefs have opted for gas over electric hobs for their ‘controllability’ but halogen burners’ accelerated response times is shifting attitudes. Additional electrical features include touch controls, timers and heat sensors, and their wipeable glass top means easier cleaning than clumsy gas–burners. Halogen has been hailed by some as electricity’s answer to gas, but it still can’t match it for speed and control.

Getting set up

Opting for gas? Check which fuel is supplied to your home – you’ll need either natural gas, (supplied by pipe to most UK homes) or liquid propane gas usually stored in an outside tank. Note to self: gas appliances MUST be fitted by a registered CORGI engineer. Electric cookers are best connected to a separate 30 or 45 amp cooking circuit from a standard 240v AC supply. To find a CORGI engineer look on www.britishgas.co.uk. Don’t forget the environment. Joan Fraser of SMEG UK recommends to 'look for an oven that is ‘A’ rated for energy efficiency – we all need to do our bit'.

Many mouths to feed?

What are your cooking needs? Do you tend to cook for two or regularly find yourself feeding the five thousand? Standard oven capacity is around 55 litres but if you regularly entertain large parties, you may wish to consider a double oven like the Hotpoint BU82 (£579.98) from Electrical Discount UK. Double ovens provide increased capacity and also allows you to cook at different heats simultaneously. The double–oven usually consists of a smaller conventional oven with grill and larger multi–function one.

A clean sweep

Scrubbing the oven may soon be a thing of the past. SMEG’s Joan Fraser says, 'Invest in a pyrolitic oven and not only save time on cleaning but also help the environment by avoiding buying expensive, un–green cleaning products.' Pyrolitic ovens lock themselves and heat to 500°c, turning dirt to ash which can be swept out. Less expensive but also effective, catalytic oven–liners absorb grease and when heated to 200°c the dirt just burns off. Wave goodbye to scrubbing.

Aga heaven

Although the best–known is Aga, ‘range’ refers to any wide slot–in cooker and these will cater for the most discerning cook. According to Holly Sleight, Marketing Manager at Rangemaster, 'ranges aren’t just for the farmhouse. Sleek stainless–steel designs are perfect for contemporary kitchens and the wide range of colours (ice–blue is a favourite) makes a great focal point for a room'. Holly continues, 'fuelled by gas, electricity or oil, ranges incorporate up to six ovens plus hob options like griddle, warmer and wok burner so combine increased cooking space with versatility'.

Steamed up

Relatively new to the market, steam ovens like the Neff Compact Steam Oven (£989) from John Lewis, are increasing in popularity due to the health benefits of gentle cooking. SMEG UK’s Joan Fraser says, 'steam ovens are ideal for thawing and heating food without drying'. But steam doesn’t brown food, so consider a combination of steam and electricity. Joan continues, 'combined with conventional cooking modes you get outstanding versatility with savings in electricity and cooking time, preserving the food’s nutrients, taste and aroma.'

Cook under the stars

Cooking al fresco is increasingly popular so consider investing in a Mediterranean–inspired outdoor oven. Rural Italian houses have external brick–ovens – perfect for pizzas, bread and slow–cook stews. If you're on a budget, opt for a portable clay ‘chimney’ oven which also doubles as an environmentally–friendly patio heater like this Squat cast iron chiminea (£44.98) from B&Q. Roll on summer evenings.

Extra touches

Nowadays there’s no excuse for not wowing everyone Jamie Oliver–style. Rotisseries and pizza plates, wok burners and griddles help you create professional meals from your own home. With the help of auto–timers which switch on the oven at a designated time, you can even start the cooking when you’re not yet home. What could be easier?

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Gas or electricity, fan or steam, what oven tickles your fancy? Let us know by leaving a comment below.